Hello,
I am fairly new to the pistol world and currently considering an HK USP or USP compact in .40  Since whatever I get could be a ccw piece in the future, I'm debating the differences between the models.

-Both feel good in my hand
-Both have identical sets of features that matter to me

-The compact had a modified recoil system.


But, the compact has a .75 shorter barrel.  What impact will this have on velocity, accuracy, durability?

Thanks guys!

Quoted: Hello, I am fairly new to the pistol world and currently considering an HK USP or USP compact in .40  Since whatever I get could be a ccw piece in the future, I'm debating the differences between the models. -Both feel good in my hand -Both have identical sets of features that matter to me -The compact had a modified recoil system. But, the compact has a .75 shorter barrel.  What impact will this have on velocity, accuracy, durability? Thanks guys!

I've shot both the USP and USP compact in .40S&W.  I own the USP compact and can tell you that it's a little easier to conceal than the USP.  Muzzle velocity will always be a little lower with a shorter barrel. (If I recall correctly about 100fps/in.) Accuracy with both will be excellent. At 15 yards my USPC will shoot one ragged hole in paper with little difference in felt recoil from the USP. Both weapons are extremely rugged and will last many years. If you can, shoot both and determine which one would be better for your intended purpose.

Cheers
Joe

Quoted: Quoted: Hello, I am fairly new to the pistol world and currently considering an HK USP or USP compact in .40  Since whatever I get could be a ccw piece in the future, I'm debating the differences between the models. -Both feel good in my hand -Both have identical sets of features that matter to me -The compact had a modified recoil system. But, the compact has a .75 shorter barrel.  What impact will this have on velocity, accuracy, durability? Thanks guys! I've shot both the USP and USP compact in .40S&W.  I own the USP compact and can tell you that it's a little easier to conceal than the USP.  Muzzle velocity will always be a little lower with a shorter barrel. (If I recall correctly about 100fps/in.) Accuracy with both will be excellent. At 15 yards my USPC will shoot one ragged hole in paper with little difference in felt recoil from the USP. Both weapons are extremely rugged and will last many years. If you can, shoot both and determine which one would be better for your intended purpose. Cheers Joe

Joe - Thanks for the good info!  Based on 100fps/in, it looks like velocity would be reduced by approx. 75FPS with the compact.  

Is that enought to worry about?

Thanks!

75 f/p/s is not noticeable in either accuracy nor performance, IMO. I doubt it would even that much. Most specs say a loss of of 50 f/p/s for every inch of barrel length loss below 4", IIRC.

Obviously, you should be both but in .45acp!!!!    

The USP40C has a snappy recoil. You might want to rent one at the range before deciding. I find the USP45F to be more of a "push."

I do plan on renting before buying...  I really like the USP and USP compact, but there's something about the springfield XD that fits my hand even better.

I still haven't completely decided between 9 or .40 so I've got a bunch of things to decide.  I knew you guys would have a good answer on the barrel length!

Thanks so much!