Hecker & Koch (HK) has introduced the VP9, their first striker-fired pistol since the P7-series was introduced in the 1980s.

In development for four years, the HK VP9 is built from a polymer frame with similar functionalities and ergonomics we’ve become familiar with in the HK P30. Some of those features include interchangeable grip panels, Picatinny rails and completely ambidextrous controls—the magazine release and slide lever are accessible from both sides of the frame. It also accepts the same 10- and 15-round steel magazines as the P30.

Weighing 26.56-ounces unloaded, the VP9 has a 4.09-inch cold hammer-forged barrel with a polygonal bore profile. A 6.38-inch sight radius separates three-dot luminescent sights that are also available with tritium upgrades. The VP9’s carbon-nitride finished steel slide includes charging supports near the slide serrations for useful manipulation.

The 5.4-pound trigger pull was designed with a single-action style break that HK has engineered to reduce pre-travel. Similar to many striker-fired pistols, a trigger safety latch must be engaged before pulling the trigger.

Additional safety features include a firing pin block, a heavy-duty extractor that also functions as a loaded chamber indicator, and a cocking indicator on the rear of the slide.

The VP9 is expected to be available in July 2014 for an MSRP of $719. For more information, check out the specs and photos below.

Specifications:

Caliber: 9mm Luger
Operating Principle: Recoil-Operated
Action Type: Browning type, modified linkless locking system
Trigger System: Striker Fired
Magazine: 10- or 15-round steel P30
Length: 7.34 inches
Width: 1.32 inches
Height: 5.41 inches
Barrel Length: 4.09 inches
Weight (unloaded): 26.56 ounces
Trigger Weight: 5.4 pounds
Trigger Travel: .24 inches
Return Travel: .12 inches
Barrel Profile: Polygonal, 6-groove, 1-in-9.8 RH

A 6.38-inch sight radius separates three-dot luminescent sights that are also available with tritium upgrades.

The VP9 has a 4.09-inch cold hammer-forged barrel with a polygonal bore profile.

The pistol is completely ambidextrous, with the slide lever and magazine release located on both sides of the frame. A heavy-duty extractor also functions as a loaded chamber indicator.

The VP9 uses striker-fired ignition and a modified Browning operating system. It is in essence an HK P30 frame mated to a striker fired slide design.

The HK VP9 is intended for many types of shooters, including military and law enforcement operators who will find the Picatinny rail useful for weapon-mounted accessories.