Any activity using a firearm has the potential to be harmful and can lead to death, serious injury, permanent disability, or property damage. Only general educational and informational purposes are served by the advice, graphics, photographs, videos, and information found on Ballachy firearm reviews. The knowledge provided about guns, gun handling, tactics, training, legal issues, and marksmanship skills on this page is the author’s opinion based on his experience and education. This knowledge, which includes advice and training methods, is applicable only in a given set of conditions that the reader cannot precisely recreate. The author disclaims any liability for improper use or incorrect interpretation of the information on this website. Use of this website as a replacement for training or any information found on this website is not legal advice of any kind.
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The HK VP9 is the latest service handgun introduced by Heckler & Koch. It was designed to address some USP lineup shortfalls, including weight, size, and ergonomics. The Glock 19 has been around for longer than the HK VP9, but it is still widely popular amongst police departments, military, and law enforcement agencies. This review will be focusing on the HK VP9 vs Glock 19 side by side comparison to find out which one is better in terms of ergonomics and performance.
Table of Contents
Features of HK VP9 Vs Glock 19
Grip and Textures
The HK VP9 features a uniquely designed trigger guard that is squared off at the bottom. In addition, it has three different interchangeable grip panels to adjust the feel of the firearm in your hand. The texture on the grip is very aggressive and feels natural when you hold it. The polymer frame will withstand various types of abuse, including harsh environments and sub-freezing temperatures. On the other hand, Glock takes a more simplistic approach with the 19 by giving you only one type of grip texture to deal with.
However, it is not as sharp as the VP9, so the chances of slipping are minimized. The polymer frame on this gun can also withstand all kinds of harsh conditions, including rain, snow, dirt, and dust. Judging from the grip alone, it seems like the VP9 is ahead of the 19 when it comes to ergonomics. However, some people still think that Glock has better grips because it doesn’t have any uncomfortable angles or sharp edges. This is purely subjective, so you will have to try both out on your own to see which one feels more comfortable in your hand.
Weight and Balance
One of the main selling factors of the VP9 is its light polymer construction. It weighs around 25.56 ounces unloaded, so it will be easy to carry this gun all day long. The 19 weighs around 23.63 ounces with an empty magazine, making it slightly lighter than the VP9. The center of gravity on both guns is located near the middle and will allow for a more stable shooting platform. People who like to carry their firearms in their strong hands will find this easier since the center of gravity allows you to support heavy weapons much better.
The HK VP9 also has a neutral balance, so transitioning between targets will be faster and more efficient – perfect for competitive shooting matches like 3-gun. The Glock 19 is known as a small frame combat handgun, and as such, it balances towards the front of the gun. This will make shooting more challenging because you will have to contend with its greater felt recoil than other handguns like Berettas or Smith & Wessons.
Sights and Optics Mounting
HK VP9 has a set of polymer sights that are fully adjustable such as rear (windage and elevation) and front (windage). The 19, on the other hand, only has a fixed plastic sight, which makes it more difficult to position your shots accurately at longer distances. Glock does sell different aftermarket sights that you can install yourself into the 19, but they are expensive. Not only that, the polymer frame on this gun is not compatible with most accessories, so it has limited potential in terms of aftermarket gear.
The HK VP9 uses the same Picatinny rail system as the other pistols, so you can easily mount lights or laser sights onto it. The 19, however, will need some modification to be able to use this type of platform. It will require you to drill holes into the polymer frame to put on an accessory rail system. This is where the 19 falls short compared to its competitor. Since it doesn’t have a Picatinny rail, people looking for out-of-the-box tactical gear will have limited options to choose from.
Size and Dimensions
The HK VP9 has a length of 7.34″ with a 4.09″ barrel, making it slightly longer than the 19, which has a length of 7.36″ with its 4.02″ barrel. You won’t notice much difference between these two firearms when concealed carrying because they are relatively small. But there is more to the dimensions of a handgun than just the length and width. You will also have to consider the height, which plays a role when holstering your gun inside your waistband or in an external holster rig.
The VP9 is pocket-friendly because its height is 5.41″ compared to the 5.04″ of the 19. It will be easier to conceal the VP9 with your strong hand without having to worry about its barrel digging into your hip bones. On top of that, the length of the VP9’s grip is slightly longer than the 19, so you can get a better hold of it. The width also feels comfortable when holding both handguns one-handed, whether you have small or big hands.
Ergonomics and Shootability
The ergonomic design of both handguns makes them comfortable to hold and easy to aim. They both have a three-point takedown activated by locking back the slide and verifying an unloaded chamber. The placement of the magazine release buttons is very easy to reach and operate, even when in a firing stance. The VP9 also has an enlarged trigger guard, making it easier to fire faster with your strong hand. The differences in the placement of their levers are noticeable but not enough to affect your combat performance.
The 19’s slide release is above the trigger, while the VP9’s is located below the trigger guard. If you are shooting for longer periods, the slide release of the VP9 will be more beneficial. Since they are both polymer handguns, you will have to learn to manage recoil when shooting the VP9 or 19. They are both low recoiling firearms, so you won’t feel much kickback after firing, even in rapid succession. But since they aren’t designed for heavier recoiling cartridges, they will start to feel more violent with the increased use of hot 9mm loads.
Price and Availability
The Glock 19 is one of the most widely available handguns in the market today; it’s nearly everywhere. You can find them at your local gun store or even invest in a used model online. It’s also affordable when compared to its competitors like the VP9 and P30SK. A new Glock 19 can cost you around $500-600. On the other hand, a factory-new VP9 will set you back an additional hundred dollars because of its superior materials and arsenal of features. But keep in mind that reputable manufacturers make both handguns, so your investment is certainly safe with either one. They are both affordable options for shooters who want a reliable handgun without spending over $700. But what matters the most is how comfortable and accurate you can shoot with your gun of choice.
Reliability and Durability
Both handguns are manufactured with high-quality materials that make them last for years. The Glock 19 has a stainless steel barrel that will withstand corrosion and prolonged use, making it reliable enough to be used as your service gun. The VP9 is made out of an aluminum alloy frame and polymer grip panels if you want something more lightweight. Heckler and Koch are known for their durability, so this handgun will surely handle your daily load of rounds without worrying about wearing them down. On the other hand, the VP9’s polymer frame makes it lighter than the 19. With its sleek design and reduced weight, you can carry your VP9 all day at work or on weekends.
Accuracy and Ease of Use
The Glock 19 has a standard trigger pull, while the VP9’s is lighter due to its striker-fired system. The difference in their triggers can make a more pleasing experience for some shooters, while others might find it cumbersome with the additional weight of the VP9’s trigger while firing. You might have a hard time getting used to the VP9’s trigger, so it will take some time before you can become familiar with it. It has a spongy feel that makes your shots inaccurate because of its heavier pull. But since the Glock 19 has a consistent trigger pull from shot to shot, your accuracy will improve over time with enough practice. You can get a feel of your trigger press by dry-firing with both guns, which will give you an idea of how much pressure you need to exert when firing.
But aside from the VP9’s heavier trigger pull and standard Glock 19 trigger, the latter has a shorter reset, making it easier for fast follow-up shots or multiple shots in quick succession. On top of that, the Glock 19’s interchangeable backstraps allow you to adjust their grip according to your preference. You can put on a small or large backstrap, depending on how you grip your handgun. This will give you more control over your weapon when firing multiple rounds inside the range. Both handguns are reliable and accurate, but the Glock 19 might require more time and effort to master.
Aftermarket Accessories - HK VP9 Vs Glock 19
Regardless of which handgun you will choose, both the Glock 19 and VP9 have a lot of aftermarket accessories to improve your shooting experience. You can find Sights, holsters, magazines, and other goodies in the market to help you with your gun.
Sights
The Glock 19 has a standard dovetail sight cut to mount your favorite sights on it. It already comes with three-dot combat sights, but aftermarket options are now available for this handgun. On the other hand, there is no need to buy an additional sight because the VP9 already has the necessary tools to adjust its rear sight. You can adjust the VP9’s rear sight for windage and elevation, which is a plus if you want to customize your shots at the range.
Magazines
Both magazines are compatible with their respective handguns, but they both have different capacities. The Glock 19 can carry 15 rounds, while the VP9’s magazine has a capacity of 10 rounds. Usually, the Glock 19 comes with two magazines, while you can buy additional VP9 mags to carry extra rounds. The difference in their magazines can be advantageous if you are looking for more rounds to carry with your gun. But most people will choose the Glock 19 over the VP9 because it has a better track record for ruggedness and performance consistency. When it comes to everyday situations, most people will prefer the reliability of the Glock over the VP9.
Grips
Another difference between the two guns is that the VP9 comes with three different grip panels to choose from, while you can add a large or small backstrap on its grip. This feature is one of the things we love about this handgun because it allows us to customize our shooting experience and find what suits our hand size better. The Glock 19 only has one grip size, but it already comes with its unique design that will work for most people’s hand sizes.
Magazine Loader
You’ll probably need to buy a magazine loader to make the process of reloading your handgun easier. The VP-9 comes with its magazine loader, so you can save money if you choose this gun over Glock 19.
Holsters
Since both handguns are in demand, finding a reliable holster might be difficult since too many manufacturers offer their versions of holsters. The only way to find the best holster for your handgun is to look through customer reviews, and you are sure to find what you are looking for.
FAQs
Any activity using a firearm has the potential to be harmful and can lead to death, serious injury, permanent disability, or property damage. Only general educational and informational purposes are served by the advice, graphics, photographs, videos, and information found on Ballachy firearm reviews. The knowledge provided about guns, gun handling, tactics, training, legal issues, and marksmanship skills on this page is the author’s opinion based on his experience and education. This knowledge, which includes advice and training methods, is applicable only in a given set of conditions that the reader cannot precisely recreate. The author disclaims any liability for improper use or incorrect interpretation of the information on this website. Use of this website as a replacement for training or any information found on this website is not legal advice of any kind.
Yes, the HK VP9 is on the smaller side, and you can conceal carry this handgun if you wear a jacket or a shirt that will cover your gun.
Any activity using a firearm has the potential to be harmful and can lead to death, serious injury, permanent disability, or property damage. Only general educational and informational purposes are served by the advice, graphics, photographs, videos, and information found on Ballachy firearm reviews. The knowledge provided about guns, gun handling, tactics, training, legal issues, and marksmanship skills on this page is the author’s opinion based on his experience and education. This knowledge, which includes advice and training methods, is applicable only in a given set of conditions that the reader cannot precisely recreate. The author disclaims any liability for improper use or incorrect interpretation of the information on this website. Use of this website as a replacement for training or any information found on this website is not legal advice of any kind.
Yes, if you want a handgun with better features. The HK VP9 has better sights and magazines when compared to the Glock 19.
Any activity using a firearm has the potential to be harmful and can lead to death, serious injury, permanent disability, or property damage. Only general educational and informational purposes are served by the advice, graphics, photographs, videos, and information found on Ballachy firearm reviews. The knowledge provided about guns, gun handling, tactics, training, legal issues, and marksmanship skills on this page is the author’s opinion based on his experience and education. This knowledge, which includes advice and training methods, is applicable only in a given set of conditions that the reader cannot precisely recreate. The author disclaims any liability for improper use or incorrect interpretation of the information on this website. Use of this website as a replacement for training or any information found on this website is not legal advice of any kind.
They’re both good handguns, but the Glock 19 is more popular because it’s cheaper and easier to use. The VP9 is still in demand and will probably gain more popularity in the next few years.
Any activity using a firearm has the potential to be harmful and can lead to death, serious injury, permanent disability, or property damage. Only general educational and informational purposes are served by the advice, graphics, photographs, videos, and information found on Ballachy firearm reviews. The knowledge provided about guns, gun handling, tactics, training, legal issues, and marksmanship skills on this page is the author’s opinion based on his experience and education. This knowledge, which includes advice and training methods, is applicable only in a given set of conditions that the reader cannot precisely recreate. The author disclaims any liability for improper use or incorrect interpretation of the information on this website. Use of this website as a replacement for training or any information found on this website is not legal advice of any kind.
HK VP9 is a good handgun, but you can’t go wrong with Glock 19 because it’s also a reliable and accurate weapon. The Glock has been around for decades, and its quality speaks for itself.
Conclusion
Choosing between the HK VP9 vs Glock 19 can be difficult since both handguns have pros and cons. The Glock 19 is cheaper, but it’s not as customizable as the VP9. You can pick which one suits your needs better depending on your lifestyle, what you need to use the handgun for and how much you’re willing to spend. Above all, it will be your personal preference that will determine which handgun you should choose. But if we had to pick, then the HK VP9 is better because it has a lower price point and better features than its Glock counterpart.
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Author Profile
- Gabriel Tackett
- Gabriel Tackett is an experienced shooter and hunter for over 15 years with a degree in Engineering from the University of Minnesota. He is also a certified National Rifle Association (NRA) officer for 10 years And his passion lies in teaching others how to safely enjoy the hobby by recommending the best practices & products in the gun industry.