HK USP controls question

[socalbeachbum]

I understand HK's explanation about V1, V2, V3, etc., the many changeable safety//decock options, but I do not understand how it is done.

Can we do it ourselves? Does it require optional parts?

I'm interested in a UPS in 9mm but wish to have it as a decocker, no on-off safety. And I'm in California, where V1, V9, and LEM are on our approved list.

 

[Double_J]

I own a USP annd i asked my gunsmith about that. His response was it is a job best left to an expert as it involves lots of small parts and lots of patience. H&K used to do the change for a small sum, you might want to contact them about the change.

 

[socalbeachbum]

thanks.

I had one dealer steer me away from buying an HK simply because he said there were many small parts, intricate mechanism, etc.

 

[alexcue]

I've owned one since they came out... USP 40. Never have had an issue, with small parts etc... Mine has been bombproof!

It was my understanding as well, that sending it back to them was the easiest way to change the variant.

 

[Chuck R.]

I understand HK's explanation about V1, V2, V3, etc., the many changeable safety//decock options, but I do not understand how it is done.

Can we do it ourselves? Does it require optional parts?

I'm interested in a UPS in 9mm but wish to have it as a decocker, no on-off safety. And I'm in California, where V1, V9, and LEM are on our approved list.

It sounds like you just want to change out a detent plate to eliminate the safety function, real easy....and about a 15 minute job and an $16.95 part:

https://www.hkparts.net/shop/pc/Detent-Plate-For-USP-HK45-HK45C-Variant-3-4-198p1172.htm

You can also change out the safety lever to a plain black one IF the S & F bothers you.

Here's a video:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BzbpplC92zE

Here's a thread on HKPRO:

http://www.hkpro.com/forum/hk-handgun-talk/142924-variant-1-variant-3-a.html

I've converted 3 on my own (P2000, HK45T and a P30L). My HK45T started as a V1 DA/SA, then went to a V9 SA, no decock, the I changed it to a LEM. It's "relatively" simple and takes about 1 hr the first time.

There are a couple tools that make working on HKs easier, but you won't need for this job:
1. Roll Pin Punch Set
2. Trigger Return Spring "pliers" (simply needle nose pliers with a gap ground in. You can get them from HK Parts Net.
3. Little magnetic parts bin/holder (you'll thank me later)

Parts I always try to get directly from HK. Contrary to the "HK, because you suck and we hate you" chit, the CS guys are extremely helpful and the parts are much cheaper going direct. HK Parts nets is usually quicker though.

Spend some time on the HK Pro forum, there are tutorials available for about every conversion possible. Also search Youtube, there's some very good videos on conversions. My 1st one I literally did while watching a video and pausing periodically.

Honestly IF it were me, I'd go with a full LEM conversion and skip the DA to SA all together. I've really learned to love the LEM trigger.

Good luck,

Chuck

 

[socalbeachbum]

Chuck, thanks much, sounds pretty easy.

 

[Chuck R.]

Chuck, thanks much, sounds pretty easy.

Yup!

The 1st time I changed a detent plate I was shocked at how simple it was.

Although the HKs do have some small parts (honestly I don't think much smaller than other guns), I actually find them easier to work on than some other pistols, and once you've done it a couple times, they're pretty intuitive.

Chuck

 

[socalbeachbum]

a little side story, I was studying the HK's yesterday at a new local gun store (turners) and I asked about making the conversion to decock only. the sales guy said it was not advised, that that kind of modification would require paperwork.

I asked what kind of paperwork? He said anytime you modify any gun, federal paperwork must be filed. I explained that I modify my Glock once a week, and he looked shocked.

 

[RainDodger]

If it's a change you'd rather have a gunsmith do, The HK 'smith is very approachable and will talk to you on the phone. I asked nicely and he even provided me with a postage paid address sticker for my USP when I sent it to him. Very easy.