First Look: HK VP40 Pistol

Heckler & Koch has announced that it is adding a .40-caliber model to its new VP striker-fired pistol line.

The new pistol, designated the VP40, follows last year's introduction of the VP9 pistol to commercial and law enforcement markets. The VP9 met with a lot of success after its launch, and Guns & Ammo even recognized it as the 2014 Handgun of the Year in the December 2014 issue of G&A.

"Just a year after launching the VP series pistol with the 9 mm VP9, we are thrilled to have a .40 caliber model join the line-up," said Michael Holley, HK-USA Vice President for Commercial and Law Enforcement Sales. "Last year the VP9 took the market by storm and the VP40 promises to live up to its birthright. For civilian shooters and law enforcement agencies looking for a little more power to go with the VP's well-recognized superior quality - this is it. Once again it shows Heckler & Koch's commitment to the U.S. market and American shooters."

In development for more than four years, the introduction of the VP9 — and now the VP40 — represented HK's return to producing striker-fired pistols, something the company hadn't done for more than 35 years, back when it was the first manufacturer of polymer frame pistols. The VP9 has been very successful for HK, and the company expects the VP40 to follow on the VP9's success.

Wayne Weber, president of HK-USA said:

"Like the 9 mm VP9, the VP40 has been through just about every test and challenge possible. Heckler & Koch's strict company testing program put the VP40 through just about every trial imaginable; NATO and U.S. NIJ drop tests, water, dust, mud, and sand tests worst that the most extreme environmental conditions in the world."

Similar to the VP9, the VP40 endured function and abuse tests that included firing thousands of rounds of varied ammunition. Also like the VP9, the VP40 incorporates the same precise trigger and customizable grip that features three interchangeable backstraps and six grip panels. The VP40 utilizes charging supports similar to those found on the VP9, which make manipulating the slide and pistol less difficult, and is disassembled in the same quick and easy fashion.

The new HK VP40 is available now for $719 and comes with Heckler & Koch's limited lifetime warranty. A law enforcement model of the VP40 featuring tritium night sights and three magazines will also be available for $819.