HK USP Compact Variant 1 .45 ACP DA/SA Pistol – 1998 German-Proofed Production
This early-run USP Compact in .45 ACP combines Heckler & Koch’s renowned reliability with a compact, carry-friendly profile. German proof marks with 1998 KI date code, a cold-hammer-forged polygonal barrel, and the sought-after Variant 1 safety/decocker make this pistol a standout example for shooters and HK enthusiasts alike.
Condition
Overall Condition: Excellent – showing only faint signs of prior use or handling.
Bore Condition: Excellent – clean, mirror finish with sharp lands and grooves.
Specific Condition Notes: Minimal handling marks are visible under close inspection; no notable wear is present.
What’s Included
- HK factory gray hard case with molded logo
- One 8-round factory HK steel magazine with flush floorplate
Introduced in the late 1990s, the USP Compact .45 served as the testbed for features later refined in the HK45C. This example retains the original proprietary single-groove accessory rail and bobbed spur hammer that define early production guns.
The Variant 1 configuration places a frame-mounted safety/decocker on the left side, giving shooters familiar 1911-style thumb control along with safe hammer-down carry. An ambidextrous paddle magazine release complements the control layout.
HK’s 3.78-inch carbon-steel barrel is cold-hammer-forged, polygonally rifled, and nitro-carburized for long service life and easier cleaning. Paired with the captive recoil spring and short-recoil DA/SA action, the pistol manages .45 ACP recoil effectively while maintaining reliable cycling.
A glass-fiber-reinforced polymer frame keeps weight down without sacrificing durability. Stippled grip panels, wide rear slide serrations, and high-visibility 3-dot sights round out a package built for practical defensive use and smooth concealed carry.