HK handgun variants question

[tl]

After an opporunity to try various HK's at a recent 'HK' day at a local range, I'm thinking about purchasing a USP either full size or compact (yes, good marketing ideas work on those of us with minimal willpower when it comes to firearms).

However, I'm a bit confused about the HK variants. Are the variants available on both the full size and compact? Is variant 3 roughly equivalent to the the standard SIG classic configuration? It doesn't need to be identical, but I'm trying to get a sense of the function (I own a SIG 229). And, no, I wasn't paying close enough attention when I shot them at the range day; too much fun shooting, and the rep was kept pretty busy.

One last question; is one variant more prevalent than others? I'm not talking any sort of a statistical answer, but a sense from those of you who have a a broader experience of this than I do (also not considering left or right hand options, but more the funtional differences).

Thanks in advance.

 

[brouhaha]

Yes, the variants are available on both the full size and compact. There is a variant list on both www.hkpro.com and www.hecklerkoch-usa.com I can't remember off hand what variant 3 is, but it doesn't matter since I'm not familiar with Sig pistols. The most common variant you'll find is 1. SA/DA w/decocker.
HTH! Now you just need to figure out which caliber. As you can see below, I think you've made a good choice...

 

[tl]

I think I've decided on the 9 for caliber. I believe variant 1 has both decocker and a 'safe' position, while variant 3 has only the decocker; which is similar to my SIG. I've looked at the sites you've referenced, but the pictures are so small, and the text would be easier to understand if I had a USP in front of me (which I don't). Glad to see you like the USP's. The range day confirmed in practice the excellent fit to my hand that I'd noticed when handling guns in shops and at gun shows.

 

[Cawdor]

You are correct. V3 is the same as a Sig, i.e., DA/SA with a decocker; V1 is DA/SA with a decocker and a safety for cocked and locked. V1 is the most common. See the chart below for the HK Compact.