Like the title says, at my job a large number of trade in USPs in 40 came in. Just for shits and giggles I put a few rounds through it and was kind of amazed by it, granted this is the only USP I have ever fired, but I am now toying with the idea of picking one or two up especially for the price.

I understand the datecodes, and the guns we have range from 2000 and up with 08 being the newest I've seen. Other than finish wear and crappy trigger pull (one of the USPs had a weird trigger pull which leads me to believe something is wrong with it), what should I look for? Sorry if this is asked frequently.

TLDR: what should I look for in a used USP?

If you buy a 40 the cool kids in GD will roundly mock you.

40istoosnappyfuddmeme

There was a firing pin recall about 2004, the firing pin, firing pin block and spring were modified so I would be looking for a post recall gun if that is a choice.  I prefer the LEM trigger system myself and they can all be converted with the kit.  Some of the early guns (mid 1990's) had the different rifling system but if yours are all post 2000 it is not likely.  The heavy hammer spring plus heavy trigger return spring can make the gun nearly unbearable in DA and it is possible somebody changed one on the gun you found awful, but those springs can be replaced.  When I get a used USP I change the trigger return spring, hammer spring and recoil spring since the life of those is unknown, but the recoil springs are almost always fine in police trades since they don't shoot much.  I upgrade the firing pin and firing pin block if it is pre-recall, but that is all.  Not much else breaks.

I consider the USP 40 to be in a tie with the Sig P229 for the best .40 cal pistols ever made in terms of both accuracy and managing the recoil of that cartridge.  Own both, love them.  The full size .40 has become my woods companion.

This! Probably one of the most accurate statements I have ever read on here, except I disagree with one part.

The op will be happy regardless I think. The usp is a great shooter and built like a tank. I would replace the recoil spring for sure. Even of they are mostly carried and rarely shot I like to know that its fresh and newer.

@billbotts

Where do you order the replacement parts from? Hkparts?

I’m going to change out the trigger return spring, hammer spring, recoil spring, firing pin and firing pin block on 3 pistols.

First check the HK webstore, they have reasonable prices for most things.  Having it in stock is hit and miss.

I buy everything else from Brownells, they are out of stock on things frequently, but always fill my back orders.  HK Specialist or HK Parts are options, but usually higher prices and not necessarily any better at keeping things in stock, I am sorta scared of the HK Parts guys current reputation.

Midwest gun works is also a good option, they are priced closer to Brownells than some of the other places.  I have had good luck with buying parts from them.

Alright cool. Thanks for taking the time to type that out for me.

The only .40 I own is a police trade in USP.  Nice pistol. I got it from AIM a few years back but they haven't had any in a while as far as I know.

I bought a .40 USP compact DAO with the LEM trigger years ago, still enjoy shooting it.  For home use, general target shooting or winter carry, I'd go with the bigger model

Who has good prices on trade-in USPs right now? I've see a bunch on Gunbroker in the $300-350 range but they're mostly mid '90s guns.

Everyone’s sold out, the only ones with stock still are selling for $450+

If you can get one in that price range, do it. Don’t be surprised in the auctions reach over $400+ though

I have 2 police trade in USP 40s. Only .40 Cal guns I have and desire to get. They were dirt cheap and I figure I should at least have something that will shoot .40 just in case. Might as well get a pistol designed to run it from the beginning. Can't complain.

Think I got 6 from ArmsUnlimited, the other 4 went to family and friends. Ended up being $425 each after FFL fees.

I like my compact.  It's a tank.

DSC_1055 by FredMan, on Flickr

DSC_1059 by FredMan, on Flickr

Just bought one for $299.98 off Gunborker with two mags and a case. It's a 2000 production model that someone painted the frame green on, but this'll give me a good entry into the USP thing.

USP40 is the best .40 I've ever shot...and I'm a die hard striker fired pistol guy. I typically see them on Armslist for $500 or less.

The beagle has landed. All said and done, $344.98 out the door, plus $100 for the original UTL that started this.

Been over a month... Did OP get his USP 40?

Hope so!  I really like my 1994 model.  Got the grey hard case and 94 dated mags.  Nice silver inlay in serial/markings, too.  Probably 2,500-3,000 through this one.  Just got an Hk MkII light and threw it on it for now.  Also have the usp40c and an extra factory threaded barrel for that compact.  In fact got that compact pkg from a nice member here.  Rather smooth shooters in 40.  However, the only thing I have to compare them to when out plinking is my dad's Glock 23C compensated. 40

I like all three but started with the 94 usp and haven't regretted it.  I have noticed older K_ serial USPS have some polished barrel hood tops like mine.  Not sure why, but I believe my USPT45 does, also and it is B_.  Anyways...pics!  Btw, my buddy always teases me and says my rear sight is on backwards like the backwards loaded mag....so, I bought an MGW and looking for some good NS next, ha!

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Iv been thinking about a usp 40. I just noticed a vendor has usp40 trade ins on gun broker for $339 shipped. Ordered one.

Completely normal for the "KE" to have polished barrel hoods. My "KE" 22-251xxx .40 has it.