HK VP9 vs Glock 19: How do They Compare?
The Glock 19 is one of the most popular handguns on the market. And while Heckler & Koch has traditionally been known for their DA/SA pistols, they entered the striker-fired market when they released the HK VP9.
When looking at the specifications of these two striker-fired pistols, you will see they are very close in size. The true differences come into play when comparing their triggers, frames, and capacity, among other things.
Plenty of people say there is no comparison between the Glock 19 vs VP9, but we are here to prove them wrong. Let’s dive into the specifics.
Products Mentioned In This Article
HK VP9
While the HK VP9 pistol might be newer to the handgun market, don’t let that fool you. It has become well known for its state-of-the-art trigger and ergonomics since its release in 2014.
This striker-fired pistol is chambered in 9mm Luger and is built with a polymer frame. This newly popular firearm features an extended Picatinny rail, ergonomic grip, and ambidextrous controls. The HK VP9 comes standard with a 17- or 15-round magazine, depending on the version, and is also available in a 10-round state-compliant model.
The unique HK “light pull” trigger is short and light, and that, combined with its adaptable grip frame, has made the popularity of this firearm soar.
Looking for an HK VP9 holster? Check out our Holsters by Gun Model page for custom Kydex holsters.
Glock 19
Compact and versatile, the Glock 19 is known for its everyday use as a service pistol. The same qualities that make it an ideal backup weapon for law enforcement also make it an excellent option for concealed carry.
Like most Glock guns, this Safe ActionⓇ pistol is built with a high-strength nylon-based polymer. The 19 is chambered in 9mm Luger and comes standard with a 15-round magazine but is also available with an extended 33-round magazine.
The G19 earned popularity as a concealed carry firearm and backup gun due to its small size, accuracy, and impressive capacity options.
To check out our Kydex and hybrid holster options for the Glock 19, click here.
Specifications: HK VP9 vs Glock 19
Size and Capacity
When looking at the specs of the Glock 19 vs VP9, you can see they are a mere fraction of an inch different in some areas. The biggest difference between the two pistols is their height and weight.
The Glock stands 5.04” tall, 7.36” long, and 1.26” wide and weighs only 23.63 ounces with a barrel length of 4.02”. The HK VP9 pistol is 5.41” tall, 7.34” long, and 1.32” wide. Weighing 25.56 ounces, almost 2 ounces more than the Glock 19, the HK VP9 has a barrel length of 4.09”.
When it comes to capacity, the HK VP9 comes standard with a 15- or 17-round magazine. If you are in a state with capacity restrictions, the HK VP9 is also available with a smaller 10-round magazine.
The Glock, on the other hand, comes standard with a 15-round magazine. Both guns can be fitted with extended magazines to increase their capacity to over 30-rounds.
When it comes to size and capacity, these two firearms are nearly identical unless you live in a state with capacity restrictions, in which case the HK VP9 pistol is the clear winner.
Ergonomics
Frame
Both of these striker-fired pistols are built with polymer frames but have some differences when it comes to grip.
While the Glock 19 comes standard with a modular backstrap allowing shooters to change the grip to fit their hand, the VP9 allows you to customize the grip and backstrap into 27 unique combinations. This allows for a consistent grip each time you pick up the gun.
Slide and Barrel
When comparing the barrel of the VP9 vs Glock 19, you will see a few key differences.
The HK VP9 pistol has a machined steel slide with front and rear serration and a cold hammer forged barrel. The firearm is also complete with an extended Picatinny rail for easy mounting of lights and accessories.
Many of the newer Gen 5 Glocks, including the 19, have slides finished with a durable nDLC coating designed to protect the pistol from scratches and corrosion. They also come equipped with the Glock Marksman Barrel, which is designed with enhanced barrel rifling for better accuracy.
Both of these popular gun models will provide you with a great deal of precision and smooth shooting. But if you are looking to add accessories like a light or laser to your pistol, the HK VP9 is the better choice.
Sights and Optics
When it comes to sights, you won’t find much difference in the HK VP9 vs Glock 19. Both of these gun models feature a low-profile 3-dot sight system. Of course, if you would like to upgrade to sights of your choice, both pistols are designed so you can do so.
In the newest variation of the HK VP9, you’ll find an optional optics-ready cut with a cap. Though the base-model Glock 19 does not come optics-ready, it is available in an optics-ready variation (Glock 19 Gen5 MOS).
Controls
Safety
When comparing the HK VP9 vs Glock 19 in terms of safety features, you’ll find that while neither gun comes standard with a manual safety, both have robust safety systems to ensure peace of mind.
The G19 features the Safe Action System comprised of three independent mechanical safeties that disengage as the trigger is pulled and re-engage as it is released. The Safe Action System does provide protection if the firearm is dropped.
The HK VP9, on the other hand, uses a unique side-mounted drop safety for its firing pin. Its frame has a trigger-mounted safety designed to prevent accidental discharge if the gun is dropped.
Trigger
The Glock 19 is designed with a 2.80” trigger distance and an approximate 5.6-pound trigger pull, while the HK VP9 pistol features a short, light, striker-fired trigger pull weight of 5.4 pounds.
The HK VP9 trigger is very popular in the striker-fired world and is known to outperform the competition, even being labeled “best-in-class.”
Which is Right for Me?
While both of these popular gun models make an excellent choice for concealed carry, home defense, or whatever you need, you’ll likely find that one suits your needs better than the other.
The Glock 19 is lighter than the HK VP9 while still featuring a robust safety mechanism and high capacity. The HK VP9 is larger but has a Picatinny Rail for adding accessories, has a highly customizable grip, and features the enhanced HK ”light-pull” trigger.
So, think about what you need out of a concealed carry gun. Now that you have a better understanding of the differences, strengths, and weaknesses of the HK VP9 vs Glock 19, you can make the choice that’s right for you.
If you’re looking for belts or holsters for the HK VP9 or Glock 19, we recommend visiting our Holsters by Gun Model page. For all of our belt and holster options and for more information to help you choose the carry system that works best for you, visit our Vedder Holsters website.
Looking for items beyond holsters and belts? Check out our Resources Page for popular product links like lights, lasers, first aid, maintenance, and more.