Ignoring weight and size differences and how they may affect concealed carry or shootability, I would like to ask whether there would be any difference in the reliability of the HK45 as compared to the HK45c. The reason for this question may be ill-founded, but nonetheless I ask it because in the past I experienced less reliability with a short version of the 1911 compared to the full sized government model.
Thanks for your response.
I think they’re both close enough to 100% that you shouldn’t worry about it.
I know it’s but a drop in the bucket compaired to some of you guys here but I’ve put 1,075 rounds through my 45c without a hiccup.
True say I don’t own a full size yet but I’m sure the difference in size is not a factor. Maybe the reason there is a difference in the reliability of a full size 1911 and a compact is due to the design of the 1911.
Pure speculation on my part as I am still trying to understand the technical aspect of firearms…
They are both just enhancements of the old USP 45 Compact. Very, very, very reliable. Basically as reliable as 45s can be. The HK45C was recently adopted by the SEALS, which is a sign they are pretty dang reliable.
They’re both equally reliable. They’re nothing like 1911’s.
I recently purchased a 45C myself. Would have opted for the full size, but I really prefer the original frame and triggerguard design over the Spiderman/Wundergrip that now comes on the full sized model.
Does anyone know if the service life of the full size and compact models are comparable? How about things like spring life?
Good info. Any idea why the SEALs went with the compact and not the regular size?
FWIW I’ve “heard” size was the issue. There isn’t much advantage to a larger .45 war pistol, while you can conceal the C more effectively. One gun, two roles.
There may have been other considerations involved.
They are essentially the same gun, sans size and grip texture. These aren’t 1911’s so the smaller variant’s do not suffer the same issues as JMB’s design.
I own both and prefer the handling characteristics and overall feel of the HK45 Compact. The HK45 is nice, but HUGE for all practical purposes (aside from HD and open carry).
Because they are carrying it in a holster with a suppressor attached to the end of it…which makes the OAL of the weapon somewhat important.
I don’t think anyone has any evidence of a reliability deficit between the HK45 and HK45C. The NSWG has put the 45C through some seriously demanding use and the guns are performing quite well from what I understand.
You may need to clean the thing every 10,000 rounds or so to keep it from choking on carbon buildup, but other than that…
Who makes the suppressor in that pic?
John Wayne do you know if they’re used with the KAC USP-T suppressor?
From what I have heard, they are using a “shorty” AAC can on the HK45CT’s.
I had a 45C and got rid of it… stupid choice, I miss it. I thought about getting another or possibly the full size but both are equally reliable. I have shot both quite a bit and never had a failure of any kind.
Both seem to be fairly equal when it comes to durability and reliability based on independent testing. The full sized “might” be a little more durable in the long run based on its heavier slide…but that’ll probably be post 50k rounds and isn’t necessarily pulling teeth.
Pick the model that best fufills your needs. Unless you carry your pistol as an open carry service weapon, you might be best getting the 45c as it is a much more versatile size.
Well, we already know they’ll go North of 50,000 rounds with minimal maintenance. At least one particular sample did.
I’ve had them both. Like the 45C more, sold the HK45. It’s a bit large for concealed carry. The HK45 has a groove in the trigger guard that, depending in your hand size, can cause a blister on the trigger finger. Happened to me at a five day training class.
The HK45 mags fit the 45C so I use carry the 45C. with HK 45 mags as spare mags. Gives the same round count as the HK45.
The little extra barrel doesn’t seem to matter. Nor does the sight radius.
From my read of the Todd Green’s interview of Ken Hackathorn and Larry Vickers about the development of these guns, I’d tilt to the 45C. Seems to have a few minor qualities closer to what they were after. Grip and the 45C’s trigger guard lock of grove.
I have a 45C and I love it and it has never failed.It went through a class at USTC with flying colors.Only 2 things need to be delt with,it needs a a good trigger job.Also the night sights are useless.
I didn’t know the compact tacticals were out yet. Are you sure the aren’t carrying USP’s? Or maybe they get their toys before the civilian market.
They’re not USP’s. They are HK45C’s with a threaded barrel and raised sights.