H&K VP9sk Review [2024 Hands-On Tested!] By: Dave Chesson

After having the HK VP9 for a while now, and having put enough rounds at the range, I decided to finally write my HK VP9sk review. The fact is, it isn’t cheap. However, is it worth the extra price? Does it have enough benefits to it to justify the price?

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[Update] Also, I originally wrote this review back in 2022, and have since updated it to reflect how it has operated over the years, and update it with new things I’ve discovered as further wear and tear.

HK VP9SK Background

Before I get into my thoughts on the VP9sk, I want to take a second to get into its history and why it was made. This will help with the context of the review.

In 1970 H&K created the first-ever striker-fired pistol, called the HK VP70 (yes, way before Glock did).  This addition to HK pistols was an 18+1 double stack, polymer frame, striker-fired, compact pistol. However, it didn’t do so hot and was plagued with problems like the 20-pound double-action trigger pull. Then later, they tried again with the P7 and it still failed. 

So, it wasn’t until 2014, that they finally got it right.  It was then that H&K introduced the VP9 and VP9-B models, marking their entry into the modern striker-fired pistol market. Due to its reliability, great capacity, and lighter weight than its predecessor, it has become very popular.

Now, with my background as a former Navy officer, I was particularly interested in how the VP9sk stacks up as a subcompact option for an effective CCW gun. H&K aimed to create a more concealable version of the VP9, making it suitable for everyday carry. For those curious, the SK in the name stands for “subkompakt,” which is German for subcompact.

Creating a lighter, thinner, and shorter version of the VP9 surely made this a subcompact firearm.  However, this brings up the question:  With the reduction in weight and size, did the VP9 SK lose any of the capabilities that made the VP9 so popular?  Well, that’s something I look forward to dissecting in this VP9sk review.

HK VP9

Full Size

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H&K VP9-B

Button Mag Release

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HK VP9sk

Paddle Mag Release

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I’ll cut to the chase on this.  Since testing this firearm, it has become my favorite CCW pistol, replacing my Sig p365XL.  Some may argue with me on this, and I get it.  But hear me out. 

One of the things I love most about this firearm is that it comes with different sets of interchangeable grip panels.

Because of this, I was able to select the right grip style for my hand.  This means that I have a much better/tighter grip which I think is very important for these smaller compact guns. Therefore, I think this has some of the best ergonomics for a CCW pistol because anyone can dial in the perfect grip for their hand. 

The trigger guard is another highlight for me. It gives my trigger finger plenty of room for quick and precise shots. The positioning feels just right, allowing me to place my finger on the trigger naturally and comfortably.

Keeping on the subject of CCW guns, I’ll admit it’s a little thicker than the p365XL, or Glock 43x. However, it’s a bit like the Hellcat in size.  Therefore, it is not as small as you can get and doesn’t ride as comfortably as an appendix carry.  However, I still don’t feel as though the size of the VP9sk is that much of a deal-breaker and is still comfortable.  Therefore, I think the size is just right and coupled with the grips, I personally handle this model better than I do other smaller-sized CCW firearms. 

One thing I will strongly recommend though is that you get the extended floor plate for your magazine (if yours doesn’t come with it).  

It allows your pinky to wrap around the pistol so as to give you a more firm grip.  It doesn’t add much to the gun and gives you that much more control.   Without this, I probably wouldn’t give as high of a grade on the ergonomics since I’d only be able to wrap four fingers in total around the firearm.  When trying to fire without this, it was not nearly as reliable or controllable.

Also, as you can see in the pictures, I got the HK VP9sk version which has the paddle for the mag release.  

I personally like this, but Ryan Cleckner, one of our other writers, isn’t a fan.  The good news is that if you don’t like the paddle, you can always get the HK VP9sk-B which has the release button that we’re all used to in the US.  

As for reliability, I’ve fired at least 3000 rounds (updated this number over the years to keep the article up-to-date) and have had no issues.  I’ve used different types of 9mm and still no problem or any malfunctions.  I’ve also found that I have better accuracy with this firearm, although that could be because I have a better grip and don’t pull or yank.  

The slide of the VP9 SK was unique when it first came out in that it has front and rear cocking serrations.  To me, the serrations are just right.  They aren’t too rough, nor too smooth and allow me to get a good enough grip. 

Another thing that is unique about the slide is that the HK VP9 has a set of plastic wings at the back of the slide that fit underneath the rear sights.  This allows you to get a better grip on the slide when racking it.  I personally like this feature, however, I can see how some might not like this.  But the good news is that if you’re one of those that don’t like them, then you can remove them. 

What I don’t like about the HK VP9sk

While the gun feels good and seems reliable, it must be noted that this isn’t exactly a cheap option.  The VP9sk can range between $700-900 which isn’t exactly cheap for a handgun.  But then again, it’s an HK – you sort of need to expect a higher price with them. But with all that being said, it doesn’t feel like a cheap gun and they really didn’t cut any corners.  It’s got a solid 5.1-pound pull with a crisp break and a short reset making it one of the better triggers right out of the box. So, all in all, the features are there and so the price isn’t too far off from the value of the pistol.  

Final Verdict

In the end, it has an impressive list of features, backed by the HK reputation, and through multiple uses in many conditions, it has not let me down.  Is it worth the ~$800 price tag?  To me, absolutely.  To you, that depends on where you’re at.  But I will have no problem recommending this and I don’t think you’d regret having it as well.  

I’m very happy with my HK VP9sk and thanks it is being my daily carry, I think it is well worth the price.

Also, of note, I and my co-writers liked this CCW gun so much that it not only was listed in our best 9mm pistol, but it was also listed as one of the top CCW guns.

VP9sk Pros and Cons

Report Card
Shootability	Excellent for a CCW pistol	A+
Reliability	No problem in over 1000 rounds	A+
Ergonomics	Best fit for my hand	A+
Accuracy	Very accurate and no issues	A
Value	A little pricey, but it’s an HK	B+

HK VP9sk

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Our Grade

A

Reviewed by Dave Chesson

Reader’s Grade

A

Based on 81 Reviews

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There are a bunch of different options available to accessorize the HK VP9sk. However, if we had to choose only a few options… Here are our picks.

HK VP9sk Accessories

1. Streamlight TLR-7 Weapon Light		White LED produces 500 lumens IPX7 Waterproof Low Profile	Check Amazon
2. HK VP9SK Holster IWB		Lightweight, sturdy, durable Customize the CANT Adjustable Retention Pressure	Check Amazon
3. HK Extended Floor Plate		Quality Machined Polymer Construction Provides comfortable rest for pinky finger Direct OEM Swap for Standard Flush Floor plate	Check Price
4. Pineworld Biometric Gun Safe		Reliable Biometric Scanner Sturdy and Well Built Cheaper Than Most Biometrics	Check Amazon
5. Decibullz Custom Molded Earplugs		Great In-Ear option Custom molded – super easy and comfortable NRR: 31	Check Amazon

Not only do you need to keep your firearms safe and secure, but you’re also going to need to know how to take care of them. While scouring the internet, we came across this excellent video;.

For more info regarding the HK VP9sk, check out the following resources:

• H&K VP9 Manuals
• VP9SK Official Site
• Heckler & Koch Documents and Manuals