Help me out friends!

P

PatrickBateman

New member
So, I get paid on Thursday which means I will be making my first handgun purchase! (woo! :cool:). I've decided to go with .45ACP as my caliber of choice. I've narrowed it down to two options: Glock 21, and the H&K USP. I would like your guys' help in deciding! What are the merits/downfalls of each? If you have experience, with either or both of these weapons I'd greatly appreciate your input. This would be used as a Bed side/home defense gun. (I'm not 21 so Concealed carry isn't an option/nor concern for me at this point). I'm looking for the gun that has great reliability, and I know both of these do. By reliability, I mean it will never/rarely malfunction, even if i'm shooting dollar store ammo, (lol). I've read that Glocks are pretty good in this area, but I'm not too sure about the USP. However, I know both are built like a tank, and super reliable weapons. What would you guys suggest as my first Handgun? Glock 21, or the H&K USP .45? Thank you!
 
I can't address the Glock. Don't own one, have never fired one. But, I have three USP H&Ks, a .45 Tactical, a .45 Expert and a 9mm Expert. I also own a Mark 23. They're all outstanding handguns. I'm a fan of SIGs MasterShop Series guns and have a feel for superior guns. Can't see how one could go wrong with any of the USP models.
 
A good choice for a "bedside" 45 might be a Hi Point 45. Their around $145 at Cheaper Than Dirt and very reliable. Very ugly too, but a good first gun. Think about it.;)
 
I own 2 glocks but not in .45. My .45 is a 1911. That said, between glock and hk to me it comes down to feel particularly in the triggers. I don't feel that one is far and away better than the other just that the hk is a bit "nicer". The thing that kept me away from hk was price of course and then parts/serviceability. Everyone I know who has the hk is very happy with it and I'm happy with my glocks. You did say bedside gun though, and the hk's rail might be better for mounting a light. I don't like glocks rails personally but that's me.
 
pb,

I own a USP-compact .45 and a couple of Glocks (not in .45acp) as well as a number of other pistols from CZ, Sig, SW-3rd gen, Beretta.

My USP-c is light, accurate and reliable. It also has the worst double-action trigger of any of my pistols- heavy and severely stacks before breaking. The single action trigger is average. Mags are expensive- often over $50 each. I had a real problem finding some aftermarket parts despite a lot of internet search and emails/phone calls to a number of dealers.

My Glocks have been as reliable as the HK over many thousands of rounds. It has a better trigger and cheaper mags and aftermarket parts. It does have an odd grip-angle which is different from all my other pistols. I feel that the Glocks are priced reasonably and the HK's overpriced.

From your two choices I'd get the Glock. If I was looking at other full-sized pistols I'd get a Sig 220. Good luck.

best wishes- oldandslow

PS- www.summitgunbroker.com has used Sig 220's for $495. I've bought several guns from him and have no complaints.
 
In spite of the fact that my USP Elite .45 has had rather serious reliability issues, I would still go with the USP. Everyone screws up now and then, and I'm sure HK CS will be able to address my problem once I send it in. In general, the USP platform is regarded as very reliable. Keep in mind that Glocks have not been without complaints, especially lately. On average, though, either one will serve you well. My choice is based purely on personal preference. I simply shoot the USP better than I shoot the Glock. (I do hate the stock HK triggers, though. Someone who knows more about the HK poly pistol lineup can tell you whether or not it's possible to get the "Match" trigger on the regular USP.)

By the way, not to state the obvious, but make sure you at least handle these guns a bit before deciding. Finding a way to shoot them would be much better. Double-stack .45 grips are by their nature quite thick, and some might feel distinctly better than others.
 
Both are good guns. The biggest question is which feel best to you, not us. Have you shot either?
Other than old fools like me that buy guns on a whim, and learn to adapt, the best advise is try before you buy. I'm not sure how possible that is for you, and where you live. But if you can find a range that rents guns so you can try them that would be a good start. Even if you have to find someone over 21 to accompany you.
(I'm not 21 so Concealed carry isn't an option/nor concern for me at this point).
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But neither is purchase from a licensed dealer.
6. Hand Gun Acquired From FFL (Licensed Gun Dealer)

a. Purchase in State of Residency - A person 21 years of age or older may purchase a hand gun from a:

1) FFL located in the buyer’s State of residence, § 922 (b)(1), or

2) FFL at a gun show which is located in a State where the FFL is licensed and the buyer is a resident, § 923 (j), or

3) FFL via U.S. Mail in a State where the FFL is licensed and the buyer is a resident, § 922(c), only if the transaction also complies with § 1715 (only certain persons are qualified to send or receive HGs in the U.S. Mail).
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A person over the age of 18 may purchase a handgun from an individual, or receive one as a gift. As per Federal law. Your state laws may be even more restrictive.
 
Go to the range and shoot them both if it is at all possible. Glocks are reliable as a tank. Buddy has a 45 HK and loves it. Both are great guns; I'd probably buy the glock so i could spend more money on ammo and accessories. That's just me.
 
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