To P7, or not to P7? Need advice

[wojownik]

I'm very intrigued by the H&K P7, and have handled a few, but have not had the opportunity to shoot one. I have a question about the cocking mechanism. I have a touch of osteoarthritis in my little fingers, so I'm wondering if the P7 might not be the pistol for me.

Not sure if there are any other P7 shooters out there with weak hands, or joint problems, and can share their thoughts.

 

[usp9]

If you have some pain or weakness in your fingers, then the HK P7 may not be the pistol for you, both from the grip effort and the recoil. There are softer shooting pistols available. Whereas the cocking effort isn't all that hard to do it is an effort other guns don't require.

If really interested in this pistol, then I'd advise you borrow one to shoot prior to buying.

 

[benderx4]

Takes about 10-12 pounds of force to initially squeeze the cocker, but then only about 1 pound to keep it cocked.

 

[bob.a]

It takes about 12 pounds, distributed over three fingers, to cock.
A double action revolver requires about the same force, on only one finger, to fire.
Any auto will require a fair amount of hand strength to grasp and rack the slide.
Best advice is to try one, see how it goes.

 

[zhyla]

I don't think your pinky really applies much force in the cocking, from what I remember. But if that action is painful I would avoid it.