Gen 4 G21, HK USP… Decisions

[Kilroy]

Originally Posted by TheGhostRider

HK USP .45....
Considered by most HSLD types to be “the” go-to gun for reliable no compromise accurate work.
Mags are UN-reasonably priced (compared to similar capacity mags of other brands) and availability is more limited but they are available at 12 rounds. Has a bastard size rail that needs an extra part to mount my flux capacitor.
Carry options are out there but are more limited. Sights... not sure of the options.
Otherwise a damn fine pistol.
But the price.... my lord.

Could you reference those HSLD types? Your initial description is damning by itself. Factory support by HK has been hit and miss, when it is at it's best.

I tested the early HK USP .45 pistols and did not care fo the night sights visible at both ends, the de-cock when coming out of Condition 1 and the magazine release levers that did not care for some holster configurations as they dumped the magazine on the draw.

You've identified some other quirks of the USP and perhaps have already made the choice.

[Rohardi]

I've had a HK45, USP Tactical in 45, and a USP compact in 40. All were AMAZING guns, but I am switching to Glock. I have nothing bad to say about HK, but I am switching to 9mm and I can sell 1 HK, and buy 2 NEW Glocks. HK mags are ridiculously priced. You could almost buy 3 Glock mags for every 1 HK mag. Both are going to be far more accurate than you're going to be on your best day. IMHO both will be equally reliable. I just no longer see the need to spend the extra money to drink the HK coolaid...

[Kevin P]

Originally Posted by TheGhostRider

.

I have to have a RELIABLE .45... my life depends on it... but I'm not rich either.
With this said... I WILL spend the money on a good pistol so long as I'm getting the appropriate return for my investment.

If reliability is your main concern get the HK 45. Not saying the gen4 g21 is not by any means.

If I were you I would get an HK 45 convert it to LEM, put some Heinie straight eights, some extra mags and be done with it.

A USP would be second choice. I have Glocks and HKs both are great.

[awmp]

Have you thought about an M&P 45? Compact, Mid Size or Full Size?
I have two mid size M&Ps, 10 round mags, shoots great, easy to carry, rail that fits X300 surefire easily, just a thought

[Psalms144.1]

Originally Posted by Rohardi

I've had a HK45, USP Tactical in 45, and a USP compact in 40. All were AMAZING guns, but I am switching to Glock. I have nothing bad to say about HK, but I am switching to 9mm and I can sell 1 HK, and buy 2 NEW Glocks. HK mags are ridiculously priced. You could almost buy 3 Glock mags for every 1 HK mag. Both are going to be far more accurate than you're going to be on your best day. IMHO both will be equally reliable. I just no longer see the need to spend the extra money to drink the HK coolaid...

Best of luck to you brother. A lot of us are switching away from Glocks PRECISELY because a lot of their recent manufacture 9mms are exhibiting significant reliability issues. You might have noted an epic thread, or four, about this on this very forum...

WRT accuracy, I can say that, for me, the HK 9mms I own are noticeably more accurate than my Glocks ever were - to the tune of 6-18 points (out of 300) more accurate on my agency's qualification.

But, "to each his own" said the woman as she kissed the cow...

Regards,

Kevin

[R0CKETMAN]

Originally Posted by TheGhostRider

Gen 4 G21... Holds 13 rounds, has swap able back straps to adjust fit, comes with three mags, and has a rail. It's a familiar platform for me. I shoot G's well and know that I will hit what I'm aiming for. Parts are easily sourced, after market sights are plentiful, mags are reasonably priced and available and carry ware is all over the place.



I lean towards the Glock but...........
I'm leery of Glock quality control issues.
I would like to send Grant at G&R some more of my money and order one of his Gen 4 G21s, but I'm a little concerned about the reliability of the Glock.

I know that most of the problems are with the 9mm G's.

How about the G21's?

I have to have a RELIABLE .45... my life depends on it... but I'm not rich either.

Remember... lives will depend on this decision.

DocGKR, who's opinion I respect, among others have stated gen4 21 is gtg. Mine has been as flawless as my gen 2 Glocks and I shoot it well. Familiar territory for you so it does make sense. The grip is certainly an improvement.

[TheGhostRider]

I do appreciate all replies. Many different points of view for sure.
I've continued to read and do more research... talked to those who shoot the G21 and HK pistols for work and fun as well.
I've shot both pistols, I like both pistols. Both pistols performed without issue.

Based on parts and magazine availability and admittedly cost, I decided to invest in the G21 and the prerequisite 10 spare mags.
As I expected... I was more accurate with the G21 than the HK USP. I know I can get up to speed with the HK and practice but after having used Glocks for so long the transition to the larger caliber was cake. You know that muscle memory thing... Go with what you know.

I fingered a G21SF today at one of my LGS's....
OTD for 599.
Grip feels good but I want the reversible mag catch;
Pull the booger hook off the bang switch... push the mag button, insert new mag and carry on.

[TheGhostRider]

Originally Posted by newyork

Wondering why the need for .45 in a "True "Combat" life defender. You have a 17 and 19. Not confident in 9mm or just wanting variety? Just curious. I'm tempted by the Gen 4 G21 too.

Excellent question.

9mm is my everyday caliber and I have no problem carrying it. It will do the job quit nicely.