Disclaimer: I love my P30L. For me, the most comfortable grip configuration is with large sides and a medium back strap. This configuration also happens to JUST keep my support hand thumb off the slide stop. The sights are some type of conspiracy. A lot of sights made are 0.160 in wide rear notch paired with a .140-.145 front sight. It's only 0.020 difference but it seems to be noticeable to me when shooting groups at 20m and beyond. All that aside I think LEM is the way to go for an HK hammer fired pistol. The DA takeup is there but it's very light, and in the context that you are presenting from the holster and prepping the trigger, it gives a very distinct wall to pull to when engaging a target. So it has a more crisp break than most striker guns, is easier to prep especially when shooting support hand only than DA/SA, and still gives you a hammer to pin when reholstering. Probably the best configuration would be an LEM with the Gray Guns short reset disconnector and trijicon FO sights since they are a wee bit narrower. As for reliability, it has been reliable for ~5k rounds of USPSA and is apparently competitive with regard to the factory trigger and it's long reset.
Murphy82nd Amy carry gun is a P2000 LEM. If you had the V2 heavy LEM variant with the 7.5-8 8lb trigger it’s not any more crisp. The V1 LEM is a 4.5-5 lb break. To get the different weights it’s a different trigger return spring AND firing pin block spring. The firing pin block spring is so much heavier it almost feels like a false wall. Once you change it out it’s a very crisp trigger.
Agree on all points. I have the LEM with the GG Kit, I have mine configured with large sides, med back. I trimmed the left side slide release in half, HK makes a shorter one but I couldn’t find it in stock, solved the issue. Exceedingly accurate and easy to shoot once you train the flinch out.
@@radekkawi1631 I recently bought the "short" slide release for left and right of midwest gui works (PN: 227722 / 23). They are the same slide release levers that are on the p30s/p30ls models with the manual safety. For me they solved the issue with accidently pressing that lever, but I also don't have the biggest hands.
I carry the P30 V6 as my service pistol and I think its great. Havent had a choice, since the german customs authority issue you those. Got different sights than you, got the one with 3 glow in the dark dots, which work just fine. Also mine has double action only. The problem with the slide lock is because you dont have your thumps down, but I guess that happens, when you are used to other pistols than HKs, that can be held differently. I learned shooting on HK pistols in the german army, so I never had that problem.
Some years ago my wife was getting here concealed carry. I took my her to Cabelas and had here handle every gun that looked interesting to her. After a few hours she chose the H&K P30. BTW, she's German so no surprise there. I'll also say that at the time, it was almost a thousand bucks at Cabelas so I bought it from CDNN for $750. I tend to prefer the 1911 but I have to say that the P30 fits my hands better than any pistol I've ever shot. I tend to carry it quite a bit and sometimes an XDS.
I had that problem with the slide lock at first but its easy to work around if you fold your right thumb over your left and keeping your left thumb at the end of the slide lock its worked for me. Its the best pistol I have by far in my own opinion.
I have P30L V1 LEM, It would never lock back for me, but glocks don't lock back for me either. I have large hands and a lot of guns don't lock back for me; I was able to change out the slide release with the smaller one that comes on the S models that did the tick for me, don't get it from HK parts they are twice the price from HK's OME site. Grey Guns short reset kits, with springs takes the trigger to whole new level. Thanks for all the great content.
Can't believe I just found this video. You are absolutely not alone on the slide lock issue. I thought I had magazine issues at first until I realized it was because of how I changed my grip (trying a new arrangement for my thumbs). Drove me nuts. Saw comments from several people in HK forums about the same thing.
I have the HK P30SK with the very light DA only trigger. I took it to a one day beginners shooting course where we shot 5-600 rounds in one day. I did not experience ANY malfunctions, including failure of slide to lock back on last round. I love the gun.
I first ran into the issue with the slide not locking back with a Sig 2022, which had had a long, prominent slide release, like the PPQ and the P30. It’s a German thing. I just learned to shoot with my thumb under or beside, as opposed to on top of, that release with those pistols. I’ve had no issues ever since. Their size makes up for it when it comes time to drop the slide.
Well, I've own my P30L for about 7 years now, and my slide has always locked back on an empty chamber. I just recently had a trigger job done to it and it's a REALLY good DA/SA trigger pull, now. The trigger isn't as good as my WC Beretta Brigadier Tactical but it's A LOT better than what it was stock.
I have the exact same problem with the slide lock. Also the trigger is not as nice as my CZ DA/SA pistols. I can’t shoot it as well either. That said I have literally put over 4000 rounds through mine and have NEVER had a malfunction whether it was run wet, dry, dirty, or clean. Also have the P30sk which I actually shoot as well. I can’t see myself ever selling the p30 or p30sk. It’s one of those guns I can’t seem to part with. It’s kind of like a battle axe, not the prettiest but utterly reliable.
I've never had an issue with the slide not locking back on my P30. I bought mine earlier this year and they now come with flush-fit 17 round magazines. The HK P30 is a good gun and the gun that I usually carry. However my favorite gun of all time is the Beretta 92FS!
There is a shorter slide stop lever. It is designed for the P30S S - for safety. It will drop right in on that P30. It is currently sold out on HK Parts
Agreed though IMO the HK trigger feels smoother in DA. My P07 OEM trigger stacks all the way through the DA pull while my P30L and P2000 have a long but easy take up and then a bit of stacking just before the break.
Bought my P30 when the local Gander Mountain was going out of business. Was filling out paperwork for a Sig M11a1 and the computer was by their H&K case. Saw they had a HK45, P30, and VP40 left. Paid around the same price I paid for my Glock. Feels great in hand, like it was tailor-made for it. Best impulse buy lol
Regarding your complaint about the slide not locking back, H&K offers different length left side slide releases in order to accommodate owner needs. I'd recommend you check out a shorter variant. Swapping your sights for Dawson Precision, who make narrow variants of both tritium from and rear, fiber optic front and rear, black front and rear or any combination there of.
I've always owned anH&K pistol and was super pumped when they came out. Purchased a 40 p30. the sights were disappointing,the trigger was nowhere near as good as my USP's in 45.but they were used and I thoroughly broke em in turning the triggers into butter.didnt have any problems with the slide locking back.but the finish on my p30 wore off really fast riding in a horse hide galco.save your money buy a used L.E. USP that will already have the night sights.get the adapter to run all the lights other than H&K'$ proprietary bs,your good to go!
Easy fix for the slide lock issue....get the levers for the safety model. They are shorter and require more pressure to manipulate. Direct replacement from what i understand.
HK also offers a law enforcement modified lite DAO trigger . Stock sites on P30 and vp9 are luminescent. Tritium sites are an option. I have had to train my grip as to not interfere with the slide lock. Not an issue now . HK VP has slimmer slide locks . No problem with those. I love the paddle mag release. Good job with the review !
Little fixes you can do, theres the slide locks for the safety models that are a bit shorter. you can switch out the longer normal ones if you really need too. personally i just point my thumb out and away but apply pressure around the first join of my thumb and it seems to get more or less the same support. the biggest "upgrade" i've done is the greyguns reset kit. really helps a lot with the longer trigger reset. overall its a great little shooter and i enjoy the hell out of it so much so that i bough another with the LEM trigger to get rid of the DA pull. i may be a bit bias
There is a simple fix to the Achilles heel. Dremel the strong-side slide lock. I cut a little bit off to shorten it and then polished it. You cannot tell that it was a home job. Now the lever is easily within reach but I cannot ride it when shooting.
I got rid of my P30 last year. Two reasons; DA was not to my liking without modification (too long pull and reset) and it rarely locked back on last round). I really wanted to love that pistol. I still have VP9's and have the same lock back problem. I am a lefty and run into this lock back problem with PPQ and P320 as well as other ambi slide stop pistols..
My P30sk is my carry, my P30L is my backpack gun. Love them both. Over 4000 rounds through them, and haven't ever had the slide lock issue, but I have big palms and shorter fingers. Trijicon sights with tritium vials are outstanding.
I've been having the slide stop issue with my VP9. Shot allot of M&P and Glocks, but when I bought the HK, my natural grip is regularly interfering with the slide stop. Very disappointed, because I love the thing.
Semper fi man, great content. I had one for about six months with several thousand rounds. The long reset was an issue if I shot something else for a bit I had a tendency to short stroke the trigger. Tried to love the lem but found I had to work alot harder to get the accuracy out of it than other options. Moved to the vp9 and like it better in almost every way.
I get consistent lock back on my P30 and P30Sk. I have read many reports of thumbs getting in the way, though so I spent a little but of money and put the shorter slide stop on the right side (I’m a lefty) just for additional peace of mind.
I've shot nearly 7,000 rounds through mine and have never had the slide issue. I do use proper grip. However, my thumb rests in the concave shelf just under the the slide release. Perhaps try to change out the backstraps to a larger size. As always, love your content. They do make a DA only with a 7lb pull.
I was surprised to see it didn't lock back. I never had any issue at all with mine. I don't typically hold my off hand up that high so maybe that has something to do with it.
@@mechag9488 Yeah. Either the slide catch is being tripped by a high thumb or the mag spring is weak and needs increased tension. If the mag spring is weak it can't push the follower up with enough force to push the slide catch up after the last round.
RB M for me, it’s definitely contact. The thing works perfectly otherwise. After taking the Runenation pistol class with my P30 plus lots of drills on my own where I’m expecting slide lock after a specific number of shot, I’ve gotten into the habit of feeling for the contact being made. 12/10 times it’s the part of my palm near my thumb.
I've taken to using the SIG style grip where the dominant thumb is slightly curved around the outside of the weak thumb. Misses the slide release on these pistols with large slide releases.
I own and shoot the VP9 SK which of course is striker fire, I have never had an issue ever with it kicking back. A friend of mine conceal carries and shoots a P30 for the last few years. He said it happens every once in a while and has happened sometimes with certain new mags. The VP9 SK shoots super great and straight. Solid ergonomics and the trigger although not the most amazing in the whole world, still feels better than the glock trigger by far! 👍🏼
I carry a P30L converted to LEM and with the gray guns kit. Much better than the base DA/SA P30. I also had the problem of not locking back when I first started trying it out.
@@KitBadger It does. I'm using a Crossbreed OWB strongside, and a mag carrier support side, all on a Kore gun dress belt, since I usually carry in a suit. For IWB I use a Brave Response, since usually it'll be in athleticwear. For some context I was carrying a fullsize USP-40, and the P30L is about the same size but with better ergonomics. If you are interested in the P30/P30L I would recommend looking at an LEM, no-safety version, preferably with the GG kit. I came from a DA/SA so I basically treat the LEM trigger as a longer takeup SA trigger from a DA/SA, if that makes sense
The P30S, which has the manual safety, has much smaller slide releases. With both my P30S and P30L, always have consistent lockback. On my P30SK LEM, have the large slide releases so every now and then, I have issues. I carry the larger guns everyday. I occasionally have lockback issues on SIGs. I'm 6'6" tall with extra long E.T. fingers.
You can get replacement HK factory short/flash slide stop levers for P30 line. Also, ANY sights for VP9 will work on P30 -- so LOTS of good sight options.
I happened to stumble onto the P30 in December 2014 during the HK Day Rebates ($200). Essentially this made the P30 similar to a Glock 19/17 in a small shop and I purchased a P30 V3 as my first HK. I attribute the P30 most to helping me grow as a shooter, the DA and even SA initially are a little stiff, but definitely improve after cycling and become overall really "shootable" once you put in the time (many others have said too). I can shoot any trigger now lol. It's funny the P30 you have is nearly identical how I have set up my original P30 except mine has a 300UB - 600. I also have a P30L (X300UB -1000) which is my current EDC, and recently acquired another P30 - both V3's. Mine have been reliable and I opted not to run the 10-8 rear sight on these 2 as I found the same "issues" with the U-Notch. Also these guns with the stock front sight, which is my experiencing still retain the European Sight Picture (dot is POI) until about 25 meters or yds and then it is edge to the targer. I too experience with a modern grip the slide not locking back but I just run it immediate action or just change mags if it's about time as it's reliable. Some people install the (S) lever, but I have not. I've also considered the Gray Guns kit and their work, but I still enjoy the setups as is.
Just bought the P30 as my first handgun! Took it to the range, fired 100 rounds and had the same issue with the slide not locking back. I'll adjust my grip and see what happens. The other problem I had was the shells ejecting at my face! I'll experiment with different brands of ammo and different weights and try to figure it out. Maybe it just needs to break in some more?
I actually like the 10-8 Performance sights because of the fairly quick acquisition. I have them on my Glock 19 and my 1911. I also like the rear sight design for one handed slide rack. But you are right, the trade off is precision for more distant targets.
I have the same issues with my thumb hitting the slide release on the last shot but I've just gotten used to it. I usually adjust my grip a little bit and it seems to work although when I'm firing under stress I tend hit the release. But I've shot my P30 so much it doesn't really bother me anymore. It also does the "kinetic release" when you slap the mag in hard it releases the slide. That kind of annoys me too but I still keep shooting the thing and it eats everything I feed it. I switched to the P30 from a Walther PPQ so getting used to the trigger was definitely a thing. Now I very much prefer a DA/SA trigger for defensive purposes. Despite it's peculiarities I still love the P30, it's just a fun gun to shoot being accurate, reliable, and a dead sexy pistol.
I don't have an hk at all, but I have a few walther ppq's (the slide release is basically the same) and I do not have that problem personally. I do keep my thumbs forward, but I don't rest them on the slide release. I do have some canik tp9 magazines that I use in my walthers, those are 100% just for the range. they will jam and occasionally not lock the slide back. The springs in those mags are very weak
I saw Colion noir do the same thing in his review on the p30sk. Hk parts .net has rebated slide lock levers for those that hold the pistol really high.
I have noticed a lot of people shoot with the thumbs pointing straight forward. I guess somewhere someone started teaching this. I was taught to put my off had over my strong had like I was gripping it and to bend my off hand thumb down to me index finger and to push it down (not so much pressure it hurts) with my strong thumb and I have never and any issue like you and the owner of the gun have. The grip on the weapon can change how it shoot in a lot of ways and a lot of people do not realize this.
If that works for you, that is solid Roy. But changing peoples grip because of a manufacturers design, isn't a solid course in my opinion. Fortunately there are a lot of guns to choose from in the market, people can find something that consistently works for themselves. By the way, I used to shoot like that. I found for me that it was harder to manage recoil on longer strings.
I can't tell you how many guns that give me the no lock back problem. I too have a very high grip on the gun so with every gun I shoot, I very slightly alter my offhand placement so that I do get slide lock.
Sights... yeah probably aftermarket, I have P30 and P30L and both came with factory 3 dot sights. So not a new gun? Slide lock - I honestly don't remember not locking after last round. Both mine are incredible reliable guns, zero failures so far, eats everything. If you don't know if these sights are aftermarket god know what other parts are aftermarket or what changes previous owner made. That extended magazine is definitely not HK original. And the slide lock after last round rely on magazine.
In regards to the slide stop problem, hkparts.net has a "slim and short" replacement slide stop that I found works perfectly. Now it always locks back.
I had both in hands when purchasing, picked a P30 for slightly better concealment so I think you made a good choice. But after few years I bought P30L too, just because I really liked the P30, very reliable gun 😁
I had a P30S and still own a P30SKs and have no issues with the slide locking back. I have been taught to employ the higher, thumbs forward grip. The magazine you're using is not 100% stock - it has a Taylor Freelance baseplate. Are you and the owner of the P30 sure that's not the issue? I've installed TF and Taran Tactical baseplates on my Walther, and now I consistently have issues with the firearm locking back. Not an armorer or anything, but I wonder if the spring tension is the culprit.
@@KitBadger Well that's unfortunate. Haven't watched all your videos so not sure if you've tried the HK VP9, but you may prefer it since it has a short slide stop on the left side of the slide.
It's because of the magazine, if you purchased that extended mag extension or altogether extended 20rd mag, it will not lock back due to the spring made for 15rds and not 20rds, essentially the spring is to weak to push the follower up all the way to lock back the slide when empty. I purchased the 18rd jet funnel magazine spring and replaced it, all of sudden no more issue. If you purchased the extended magazine as a whole, hk parts shouldve replaced the regular 15rd mag spring with the 18rd jet funnel mag spring. But like the manufacturer they make parts for, HK parts doesnt really care.
Love my P30L. Increased sight radius definitely helps. The double action is not good, but single action is just fine. For the life of me, I always seem to ride the slide release preventing lock back on empty.
@@KitBadger the slide stop that comes on the P30S, safety model, is shorter and is supposed to remedy the situation. For me, it's not a big deal. My P30L is just a fun range toy.
Coming from a P30 owner and carrier, you pretty much nailed it. Good (not amazing) trigger, learning curve with the DA-SA, well built, crazy comfortable, factory sights aren’t wildly different from your after market ones, and that damn slide release... For me, it’s the meat thermometer on my support hand that obstructs it. I’m glad to know it’s not just my technique. I do a lot of tap-rack reps by the end of a practice day. Being able to hit the mag release with my index finger and barely adjusting my grip is almost worth it. Almost. *Edited to add: I joke, but I like everything else about the P30 too much to let the slide release bother me as much as it bothers some people. If I’m somehow ever in a real life shoot out, I’m expecting to have 13 rounds. If I make my 1 single mag change (not sure how many people EDC more than one spare), I’m not going to be standing in the open relying on my super-speed like a Wild West duel.
As long as the double action is smooth throughout the pull I can stage the trigger if I want or just pull it through but I can't do that if the pull is not smooth. If the trigger catches or has pauses during the pull then there is no way to reliably stage the trigger. So I make sure if I buy a DA/SA hammer pistol including revolvers the DA pull must be smooth or I don't buy it because if I did I would be forced to replace the trigger. I like the innovative decocker on that pistol at the rear of the slide. I will say folks need to change their grip if its causing user induced malfunctions. User induced malfunctions can get you killed in a gunfight. Learn to shoot with thumbs down on the frame away from the slide and controls just like you would for revolvers. Just grip the pistol tighter for control. Old school hand grips down on the frame were like they were for a reason. Instructors used to prohibit high forward thumbs for that reason. Its not the pistol. Its the shooter. Thanks for sharing.
The slide stop lever on the P30 is sensitive like that. Even more so that the VP9. Any sling pressure on it will release the slide. This is great for reloads as a firm insertion of the magazine will send the slide home. I'm a left-handed shooter and initially had the same problem as my grip tends to make contact with the lever. It can be challenging NOT to "ride the slide" with the P30 series. But once I adjusted my grip to push up and apply slight upward pressure on the lever(s) while holding this seems to eliminate the issue. The is a combat pistol and it performs like a tank! Accuracy and groupings can be tightened but this pistol was built for precision shooting. It's a combat pistol and is still good enough for competition once you get used to its "wonkiness". This is my range gun and training gun as if you can master if trigger (which is kind of awful by design) EVERYTHING you use after this is a cake walk. I love the P30 but folks forget that this granddaddy pistol debuted in 2006 and is a relic of that time and its a grade evolution of the HK USP.
Dee-Bee Kooper over priced joke? You don’t even believe that BS yourself. I just bought one brand new for $575 which is around the same price as the CZs...HK is a proven design! And I LOVE CZs
Are you sure it’s not that extended mag? Mine locked back just fine. I really liked the pistol but hated the double/ single of the HK after owning a sig with the SRT kit, so I ended up selling it. Because of an injury, the first time I actually shot mine was when I qualified to use it for work lol. It was a rough learning curve after only dry firing it for months.
Bringing up the DA trigger pull, I preemptively press down on the trigger a fair bit so the “real” amount of finger travel is shortened. Not sure if this is super tactical or safe, but it’s worked for me and my CZs, HK (USP), and Berettas.
I Don't Own A P30. But I Do Own A P2000. I Haven't Had Any Issues With The Slide Locking Back After The Last Round. I Also Use A Thumbs Forward Grip While Shooting
Personally I feel like the DA trigger on my P30 feels like a staple gun. Other than that, I love it. I do have to shoot it a lot more, but since it has a manual safety, I don't have the same problem with locking open after last shot. I just ride the safety and slide lock levers are shorter so a thumbs forward grip doesn't seem to interfere with locking open. But, like I said, I gotta shoot it more.
sharpie the dot. i prefer black sights and a light if it’s dark. i like a wide rear notch. for me it’s quicker to pick up and those longer shots are easy without the dot muddying up the sight picture.
I will have to take a look at this tool. I have a CZP01. I am a very big fan of double action Firearms but not a fan of how low the slide sits for slide manipulation
I loved my p30. I’d like to get another with the long slide and the barrel that has the accuracy enhancing ring on the end, forget what HK calls it but it looks like a rubber washer.
the washer isn't needed. If you get bored there is an older website called pistol-training.com. Todd Green used to run it and when he shot his P30 with the non O-ring barrel it turned in ~1.5 inch groups at 25 yards if memory serves.
Most of my guns don't lock back for me on last round. I have big hands and a very high grip and it's just something I train around. As a civilian slide lock reloads are only a concern to me in competition or maybe an FoF class.
In light of you not liking the DA/SA figure, I will be interested to see you check out an LEM variant (either a P30 or P2000) when you get the chance. It's kind of a uniquely HK thing, and I have a feeling you might like it.
Good review, and once you get used to DA/SA triggers, the trigger transition that people make such a big deal about is really no big deal at all. However I find that most DA/SA pistols come way over-sprung out of the box (probably because most of them are spec'd for NATO ammo) and one of the first things I usually do is swap in a lighter hammer spring. There's really no need for a DA trigger that is upwards of 10lbs - most of mine are more in the 7-9 lb range which makes a big difference.
@@KitBadger That's a smart decision. You shouldn't change your grip to fit a pistol, especially if it isn't going to be your primary gun. However, complaining that a certain weapon doesn't accommodate your grip is as asinine as complaining that doesn't take Glock mags (or whatever else floats your boat).
You should check out the HK USP, I picked one up used for crazy cheap (considering what it is). I swapped out the non threaded barrel with a threaded one from Jarvis Custom, Shoots 1inch groups at 25 yards from a rest.
@@KitBadger I credit the Jarvis barrel. Worth it's weight in gold if accuracy is what you need. I always get Odin Works AR barrels and Jarvis pistol barrels if I'm putting together a high end gun
I’ve had a P30 since 2010, back when they costed about $850. I never had a problem with the slide failing to lock back, some guns like the P226 I’ve had that problem with consistently. I do like the fact that you kinda call out hk for having less than great customer service though
Solid gun, I had the same “issue” of not locking back, the only thing I don’t agree with is, the trigger is ass, I MUCH prefer my P10F. Actually sold mine to my cousin to save him from a Ruger or Taurus.
I love the P30’s, but I can’t seem to find sights that work for me. Trijicon HD’s on the p30 I shook High with. Hienie straight eights on this, I can’t pick up quickly and shoot high left. It’s probably just me, but what sights are you guys running on your p30’s?
I’ve never had an issue with riding the slide stop personally but I see how it could happen. Maybe I missed it but I don’t think you mentioned the slam feature which is probably my favorite thing about the P30.
Adapt. Modify your grip. Don't ride the slide stop. Never had that problem with mine.
Disclaimer: I love my P30L. For me, the most comfortable grip configuration is with large sides and a medium back strap. This configuration also happens to JUST keep my support hand thumb off the slide stop. The sights are some type of conspiracy. A lot of sights made are 0.160 in wide rear notch paired with a .140-.145 front sight. It's only 0.020 difference but it seems to be noticeable to me when shooting groups at 20m and beyond. All that aside I think LEM is the way to go for an HK hammer fired pistol. The DA takeup is there but it's very light, and in the context that you are presenting from the holster and prepping the trigger, it gives a very distinct wall to pull to when engaging a target. So it has a more crisp break than most striker guns, is easier to prep especially when shooting support hand only than DA/SA, and still gives you a hammer to pin when reholstering. Probably the best configuration would be an LEM with the Gray Guns short reset disconnector and trijicon FO sights since they are a wee bit narrower. As for reliability, it has been reliable for ~5k rounds of USPSA and is apparently competitive with regard to the factory trigger and it's long reset.
Nice call on the backstrap, may have to try that.
I’ve had P2000s with LEM. Just never cared for it. I wouldn’t call the break more crisp than most striker fired pistols.
Murphy82nd Amy carry gun is a P2000 LEM. If you had the V2 heavy LEM variant with the 7.5-8 8lb trigger it’s not any more crisp. The V1 LEM is a 4.5-5 lb break. To get the different weights it’s a different trigger return spring AND firing pin block spring. The firing pin block spring is so much heavier it almost feels like a false wall. Once you change it out it’s a very crisp trigger.
Agree on all points. I have the LEM with the GG Kit, I have mine configured with large sides, med back. I trimmed the left side slide release in half, HK makes a shorter one but I couldn’t find it in stock, solved the issue. Exceedingly accurate and easy to shoot once you train the flinch out.
@@radekkawi1631 I recently bought the "short" slide release for left and right of midwest gui works (PN: 227722 / 23). They are the same slide release levers that are on the p30s/p30ls models with the manual safety. For me they solved the issue with accidently pressing that lever, but I also don't have the biggest hands.
Just purchased one! Stoked to see you back man!
I carry the P30 V6 as my service pistol and I think its great. Havent had a choice, since the german customs authority issue you those. Got different sights than you, got the one with 3 glow in the dark dots, which work just fine. Also mine has double action only. The problem with the slide lock is because you dont have your thumps down, but I guess that happens, when you are used to other pistols than HKs, that can be held differently. I learned shooting on HK pistols in the german army, so I never had that problem.
V6???
@@kleec7879 Trigger Variant. Its a Heavy DAO.
@@noThing-wd6py ah gotcha... thanks
Some years ago my wife was getting here concealed carry. I took my her to Cabelas and had here handle every gun that looked interesting to her. After a few hours she chose the H&K P30. BTW, she's German so no surprise there. I'll also say that at the time, it was almost a thousand bucks at Cabelas so I bought it from CDNN for $750.
I tend to prefer the 1911 but I have to say that the P30 fits my hands better than any pistol I've ever shot. I tend to carry it quite a bit and sometimes an XDS.
I had that problem with the slide lock at first but its easy to work around if you fold your right thumb over your left and keeping your left thumb at the end of the slide lock its worked for me. Its the best pistol I have by far in my own opinion.
I have P30L V1 LEM, It would never lock back for me, but glocks don't lock back for me either. I have large hands and a lot of guns don't lock back for me; I was able to change out the slide release with the smaller one that comes on the S models that did the tick for me, don't get it from HK parts they are twice the price from HK's OME site. Grey Guns short reset kits, with springs takes the trigger to whole new level. Thanks for all the great content.
Nice work around for that!
Can't believe I just found this video. You are absolutely not alone on the slide lock issue. I thought I had magazine issues at first until I realized it was because of how I changed my grip (trying a new arrangement for my thumbs). Drove me nuts. Saw comments from several people in HK forums about the same thing.
It’s a thing. :)
I have the HK P30SK with the very light DA only trigger. I took it to a one day beginners shooting course where we shot 5-600 rounds in one day.
I did not experience ANY malfunctions, including failure of slide to lock back on last round. I love the gun.
That is great, I'm glad to hear it works for you. It just doesn't seem to work with my grip. :)
I first ran into the issue with the slide not locking back with a Sig 2022, which had had a long, prominent slide release, like the PPQ and the P30. It’s a German thing. I just learned to shoot with my thumb under or beside, as opposed to on top of, that release with those pistols. I’ve had no issues ever since. Their size makes up for it when it comes time to drop the slide.
Yeah, I try and shoot with my right thumb up
Well, I've own my P30L for about 7 years now, and my slide has always locked back on an empty chamber. I just recently had a trigger job done to it and it's a REALLY good DA/SA trigger pull, now. The trigger isn't as good as my WC Beretta Brigadier Tactical but it's A LOT better than what it was stock.
Right on, I’ve heard those triggers clean up well.
I have the exact same problem with the slide lock. Also the trigger is not as nice as my CZ DA/SA pistols. I can’t shoot it as well either. That said I have literally put over 4000 rounds through mine and have NEVER had a malfunction whether it was run wet, dry, dirty, or clean. Also have the P30sk which I actually shoot as well. I can’t see myself ever selling the p30 or p30sk. It’s one of those guns I can’t seem to part with. It’s kind of like a battle axe, not the prettiest but utterly reliable.
Reliability > Looks :)
I've never had an issue with the slide not locking back on my P30. I bought mine earlier this year and they now come with flush-fit 17 round magazines. The HK P30 is a good gun and the gun that I usually carry. However my favorite gun of all time is the Beretta 92FS!
The LEM trigger is the master race when it comes to HK handguns. Gotta give it a try.
I'll have to one of these days.
There is a shorter slide stop lever. It is designed for the P30S S - for safety. It will drop right in on that P30. It is currently sold out on HK Parts
Nice.
Man I love some of the locations you shoot your videos in. Favourite is the one where your next to a running stream with the snow all around.
Cz p07 puts in good work with no issues .... but no John Wick cool factor lol
Agreed though IMO the HK trigger feels smoother in DA. My P07 OEM trigger stacks all the way through the DA pull while my P30L and P2000 have a long but easy take up and then a bit of stacking just before the break.
CZ just makes better pistols in every respect then HK... and they're not HK with all the arrogance and BS the company is legendary for.
Bought my P30 when the local Gander Mountain was going out of business. Was filling out paperwork for a Sig M11a1 and the computer was by their H&K case. Saw they had a HK45, P30, and VP40 left. Paid around the same price I paid for my Glock. Feels great in hand, like it was tailor-made for it. Best impulse buy lol
Nice!
Regarding your complaint about the slide not locking back, H&K offers different length left side slide releases in order to accommodate owner needs. I'd recommend you check out a shorter variant.
Swapping your sights for Dawson Precision, who make narrow variants of both tritium from and rear, fiber optic front and rear, black front and rear or any combination there of.
Thanks for the review. I really love my VP 9
Ivan I've got the H&K P30L in a 40 cal with tritium sights! It's really been one of my favorite pistols. Thanks for your videos!! 👍🇺🇸
Right on man, they are pretty cool pistols. :)
I think you're a REALLY fair and wise evaluator of this firearm. Really enjoyed listening. Lyle Stephenson
Thanks for watching Lyle.
I ccw a P30 or P30SK. I love them! Thanks for the vid.
Right on Louie, thanks for watching.
I've always owned anH&K pistol and was super pumped when they came out. Purchased a 40 p30. the sights were disappointing,the trigger was nowhere near as good as my USP's in 45.but they were used and I thoroughly broke em in turning the triggers into butter.didnt have any problems with the slide locking back.but the finish on my p30 wore off really fast riding in a horse hide galco.save your money buy a used L.E. USP that will already have the night sights.get the adapter to run all the lights other than H&K'$ proprietary bs,your good to go!
Easy fix for the slide lock issue....get the levers for the safety model. They are shorter and require more pressure to manipulate. Direct replacement from what i understand.
I'm freezing by just watching you, brother!
Stay warm, from San Antonio!
Semper Warm!
Haha, some days are colder than others. :)
@@KitBadger Yeah, we had a cold day here once.
HK also offers a law enforcement modified lite DAO trigger . Stock sites on P30 and vp9 are luminescent. Tritium sites are an option. I have had to train my grip as to not interfere with the slide lock. Not an issue now . HK VP has slimmer slide locks . No problem with those. I love the paddle mag release. Good job with the review !
Thanks for watching Timothy.
Little fixes you can do, theres the slide locks for the safety models that are a bit shorter. you can switch out the longer normal ones if you really need too. personally i just point my thumb out and away but apply pressure around the first join of my thumb and it seems to get more or less the same support. the biggest "upgrade" i've done is the greyguns reset kit. really helps a lot with the longer trigger reset. overall its a great little shooter and i enjoy the hell out of it so much so that i bough another with the LEM trigger to get rid of the DA pull. i may be a bit bias
Nice!
Had the same problem with the slide locking back on my Gen5 Glock 34. Swapped out the extended slide release and luckily it wasnt an issue anymore.
Right on, glad you found a fix. I know Kagwerks makes a slide release too that may help.
There is a simple fix to the Achilles heel. Dremel the strong-side slide lock. I cut a little bit off to shorten it and then polished it. You cannot tell that it was a home job. Now the lever is easily within reach but I cannot ride it when shooting.
It wasn't my gun to do that to. :)
I got rid of my P30 last year. Two reasons; DA was not to my liking without modification (too long pull and reset) and it rarely locked back on last round). I really wanted to love that pistol. I still have VP9's and have the same lock back problem. I am a lefty and run into this lock back problem with PPQ and P320 as well as other ambi slide stop pistols..
The struggle is real... :(
shorter slide stop
My P30sk is my carry, my P30L is my backpack gun. Love them both.
Over 4000 rounds through them, and haven't ever had the slide lock issue, but I have big palms and shorter fingers. Trijicon sights with tritium vials are outstanding.
Nice, glad those work for you!
I have the firefly light on my p30 . It is a combo with strobe . Has magnet charger. Fits the p30 great and looks sick as f***!
I've been having the slide stop issue with my VP9. Shot allot of M&P and Glocks, but when I bought the HK, my natural grip is regularly interfering with the slide stop. Very disappointed, because I love the thing.
Maybe try the reduced slide stops, I think a few places offer them.
Semper fi man, great content. I had one for about six months with several thousand rounds. The long reset was an issue if I shot something else for a bit I had a tendency to short stroke the trigger. Tried to love the lem but found I had to work alot harder to get the accuracy out of it than other options. Moved to the vp9 and like it better in almost every way.
I haven't shot the VP9, but heard good thing about it.
I'm fan of both my P30L and P2000 LEM. I think the light LEM trigger is a fantastic trigger though it takes some getting use to.
Gotta get the 11lb hammer spring and the gray guns trigger kit in there
That is exactly what I did with my P30. The trigger definitely has a lot of great potential with a little bit of work.
My P30SK was GTG out of the box, no fuss. But it will never have as good a trigger DA or SA as my 1988 Sig P226.
Old school craftsmanship. :)
I get consistent lock back on my P30 and P30Sk. I have read many reports of thumbs getting in the way, though so I spent a little but of money and put the shorter slide stop on the right side (I’m a lefty) just for additional peace of mind.
Nice.
I've shot nearly 7,000 rounds through mine and have never had the slide issue. I do use proper grip. However, my thumb rests in the concave shelf just under the the slide release. Perhaps try to change out the backstraps to a larger size. As always, love your content. They do make a DA only with a 7lb pull.
I hadn't thought about a larger backstrap, I may try that. Thanks.
Love me some German space magic!
P.S. Neither my HKs or Walthers would lock back for me either, so you're not alone.
I was surprised to see it didn't lock back. I never had any issue at all with mine. I don't typically hold my off hand up that high so maybe that has something to do with it.
@@mechag9488 Yeah. Either the slide catch is being tripped by a high thumb or the mag spring is weak and needs increased tension. If the mag spring is weak it can't push the follower up with enough force to push the slide catch up after the last round.
RB M for me, it’s definitely contact. The thing works perfectly otherwise. After taking the Runenation pistol class with my P30 plus lots of drills on my own where I’m expecting slide lock after a specific number of shot, I’ve gotten into the habit of feeling for the contact being made. 12/10 times it’s the part of my palm near my thumb.
I've taken to using the SIG style grip where the dominant thumb is slightly curved around the outside of the weak thumb. Misses the slide release on these pistols with large slide releases.
90thReenactor same issue with vp9
I own and shoot the VP9 SK which of course is striker fire, I have never had an issue ever with it kicking back. A friend of mine conceal carries and shoots a P30 for the last few years. He said it happens every once in a while and has happened sometimes with certain new mags.
The VP9 SK shoots super great and straight. Solid ergonomics and the trigger although not the most amazing in the whole world, still feels better than the glock trigger by far! 👍🏼
I cut about 1/4" off the slide stop lever on mine, not one single issue with my thumbs forward grip since.
Nice work around.
I carry a P30L converted to LEM and with the gray guns kit. Much better than the base DA/SA P30. I also had the problem of not locking back when I first started trying it out.
Nice, does it carry well for you?
@@KitBadger It does. I'm using a Crossbreed OWB strongside, and a mag carrier support side, all on a Kore gun dress belt, since I usually carry in a suit. For IWB I use a Brave Response, since usually it'll be in athleticwear.
For some context I was carrying a fullsize USP-40, and the P30L is about the same size but with better ergonomics.
If you are interested in the P30/P30L I would recommend looking at an LEM, no-safety version, preferably with the GG kit. I came from a DA/SA so I basically treat the LEM trigger as a longer takeup SA trigger from a DA/SA, if that makes sense
The P30S, which has the manual safety, has much smaller slide releases. With both my P30S and P30L, always have consistent lockback. On my P30SK LEM, have the large slide releases so every now and then, I have issues. I carry the larger guns everyday. I occasionally have lockback issues on SIGs. I'm 6'6" tall with extra long E.T. fingers.
You can get replacement HK factory short/flash slide stop levers for P30 line. Also, ANY sights for VP9 will work on P30 -- so LOTS of good sight options.
Nice!
I happened to stumble onto the P30 in December 2014 during the HK Day Rebates ($200). Essentially this made the P30 similar to a Glock 19/17 in a small shop and I purchased a P30 V3 as my first HK. I attribute the P30 most to helping me grow as a shooter, the DA and even SA initially are a little stiff, but definitely improve after cycling and become overall really "shootable" once you put in the time (many others have said too). I can shoot any trigger now lol. It's funny the P30 you have is nearly identical how I have set up my original P30 except mine has a 300UB - 600. I also have a P30L (X300UB -1000) which is my current EDC, and recently acquired another P30 - both V3's. Mine have been reliable and I opted not to run the 10-8 rear sight on these 2 as I found the same "issues" with the U-Notch. Also these guns with the stock front sight, which is my experiencing still retain the European Sight Picture (dot is POI) until about 25 meters or yds and then it is edge to the targer. I too experience with a modern grip the slide not locking back but I just run it immediate action or just change mags if it's about time as it's reliable. Some people install the (S) lever, but I have not. I've also considered the Gray Guns kit and their work, but I still enjoy the setups as is.
Score on that gun!
Just bought the P30 as my first handgun! Took it to the range, fired 100 rounds and had the same issue with the slide not locking back. I'll adjust my grip and see what happens. The other problem I had was the shells ejecting at my face! I'll experiment with different brands of ammo and different weights and try to figure it out. Maybe it just needs to break in some more?
Not sure, but the lock back can be fixed with a shorter slide lever.
HK sells a low-profile slide release that mitigates the slide stop issue fairly well - 80 bucks though.
I haven't seen that, and of course it is $80... :(
Slide not locking back happens when i shoot my P239 too. Pros and cons of the location of the slide release
My wife says "you're doing it wrong" all the time.. I just drive on and complete the mission.
Funny. She doesn't say that to me.
@@johngalt234 she lies a lot, don't think you're special
I don't have a problem with slide lock on the LEM model
The VP9 has a similar issue with the Slide Release, but you can easily train around it. Just change your thumb position slightly.
I actually like the 10-8 Performance sights because of the fairly quick acquisition. I have them on my Glock 19 and my 1911. I also like the rear sight design for one handed slide rack. But you are right, the trade off is precision for more distant targets.
Which front and rear sight widths did you go with? I'm ordering them soon, was going with a .115 Front but not sure which rear notch to get.
I have the same issues with my thumb hitting the slide release on the last shot but I've just gotten used to it. I usually adjust my grip a little bit and it seems to work although when I'm firing under stress I tend hit the release. But I've shot my P30 so much it doesn't really bother me anymore. It also does the "kinetic release" when you slap the mag in hard it releases the slide. That kind of annoys me too but I still keep shooting the thing and it eats everything I feed it. I switched to the P30 from a Walther PPQ so getting used to the trigger was definitely a thing. Now I very much prefer a DA/SA trigger for defensive purposes. Despite it's peculiarities I still love the P30, it's just a fun gun to shoot being accurate, reliable, and a dead sexy pistol.
That is awesome man, I'm glad that pistol works for you. I think with most things, it comes down to getting those reps in.
I don't have an hk at all, but I have a few walther ppq's (the slide release is basically the same) and I do not have that problem personally. I do keep my thumbs forward, but I don't rest them on the slide release. I do have some canik tp9 magazines that I use in my walthers, those are 100% just for the range. they will jam and occasionally not lock the slide back. The springs in those mags are very weak
I saw Colion noir do the same thing in his review on the p30sk.
Hk parts .net has rebated slide lock levers for those that hold the pistol really high.
I love my p30sk. You have to be mindful of where your grip is.
I have noticed a lot of people shoot with the thumbs pointing straight forward. I guess somewhere someone started teaching this. I was taught to put my off had over my strong had like I was gripping it and to bend my off hand thumb down to me index finger and to push it down (not so much pressure it hurts) with my strong thumb and I have never and any issue like you and the owner of the gun have. The grip on the weapon can change how it shoot in a lot of ways and a lot of people do not realize this.
If that works for you, that is solid Roy. But changing peoples grip because of a manufacturers design, isn't a solid course in my opinion. Fortunately there are a lot of guns to choose from in the market, people can find something that consistently works for themselves.
By the way, I used to shoot like that. I found for me that it was harder to manage recoil on longer strings.
I can't tell you how many guns that give me the no lock back problem. I too have a very high grip on the gun so with every gun I shoot, I very slightly alter my offhand placement so that I do get slide lock.
Sights... yeah probably aftermarket, I have P30 and P30L and both came with factory 3 dot sights. So not a new gun? Slide lock - I honestly don't remember not locking after last round. Both mine are incredible reliable guns, zero failures so far, eats everything. If you don't know if these sights are aftermarket god know what other parts are aftermarket or what changes previous owner made. That extended magazine is definitely not HK original. And the slide lock after last round rely on magazine.
In regards to the slide stop problem, hkparts.net has a "slim and short" replacement slide stop that I found works perfectly. Now it always locks back.
Nice!
As much as i want the p30L, I definitely have no regrets on purchasing this gun. Best hkp30 review I've seen thus far...
I had both in hands when purchasing, picked a P30 for slightly better concealment so I think you made a good choice. But after few years I bought P30L too, just because I really liked the P30, very reliable gun 😁
I had a P30S and still own a P30SKs and have no issues with the slide locking back. I have been taught to employ the higher, thumbs forward grip.
The magazine you're using is not 100% stock - it has a Taylor Freelance baseplate. Are you and the owner of the P30 sure that's not the issue? I've installed TF and Taran Tactical baseplates on my Walther, and now I consistently have issues with the firearm locking back. Not an armorer or anything, but I wonder if the spring tension is the culprit.
No, same issues with factory stock mags as well.
@@KitBadger Well that's unfortunate. Haven't watched all your videos so not sure if you've tried the HK VP9, but you may prefer it since it has a short slide stop on the left side of the slide.
It's because of the magazine, if you purchased that extended mag extension or altogether extended 20rd mag, it will not lock back due to the spring made for 15rds and not 20rds, essentially the spring is to weak to push the follower up all the way to lock back the slide when empty. I purchased the 18rd jet funnel magazine spring and replaced it, all of sudden no more issue. If you purchased the extended magazine as a whole, hk parts shouldve replaced the regular 15rd mag spring with the 18rd jet funnel mag spring. But like the manufacturer they make parts for, HK parts doesnt really care.
I have the same issue with my P30, in which the slide will not lock back on an empty magazine. Yes, it’s very annoying!
Agreed. :)
Love my P30L. Increased sight radius definitely helps. The double action is not good, but single action is just fine. For the life of me, I always seem to ride the slide release preventing lock back on empty.
Someone mentioned after market low profile ones, might be worth looking into.
@@KitBadger the slide stop that comes on the P30S, safety model, is shorter and is supposed to remedy the situation. For me, it's not a big deal. My P30L is just a fun range toy.
Love my P30SK. HK makes some of the best pistols by far
My P7M8 is still one of my favorites. :)
Kit Badger one of the unicorn guns that I want one day for sure!
Coming from a P30 owner and carrier, you pretty much nailed it. Good (not amazing) trigger, learning curve with the DA-SA, well built, crazy comfortable, factory sights aren’t wildly different from your after market ones, and that damn slide release...
For me, it’s the meat thermometer on my support hand that obstructs it. I’m glad to know it’s not just my technique. I do a lot of tap-rack reps by the end of a practice day. Being able to hit the mag release with my index finger and barely adjusting my grip is almost worth it. Almost.
*Edited to add: I joke, but I like everything else about the P30 too much to let the slide release bother me as much as it bothers some people. If I’m somehow ever in a real life shoot out, I’m expecting to have 13 rounds. If I make my 1 single mag change (not sure how many people EDC more than one spare), I’m not going to be standing in the open relying on my super-speed like a Wild West duel.
I do like that paddle release, same as on my P7. :)
As long as the double action is smooth throughout the pull I can stage the trigger if I want or just pull it through but I can't do that if the pull is not smooth. If the trigger catches or has pauses during the pull then there is no way to reliably stage the trigger. So I make sure if I buy a DA/SA hammer pistol including revolvers the DA pull must be smooth or I don't buy it because if I did I would be forced to replace the trigger. I like the innovative decocker on that pistol at the rear of the slide. I will say folks need to change their grip if its causing user induced malfunctions. User induced malfunctions can get you killed in a gunfight. Learn to shoot with thumbs down on the frame away from the slide and controls just like you would for revolvers. Just grip the pistol tighter for control. Old school hand grips down on the frame were like they were for a reason. Instructors used to prohibit high forward thumbs for that reason. Its not the pistol. Its the shooter. Thanks for sharing.
I disagree on grip, but that's okay, because America. :)
@@KitBadger Hope it doesn't get you killed in a gunfight. My point is made I will say no more.
The slide stop lever on the P30 is sensitive like that. Even more so that the VP9. Any sling pressure on it will release the slide. This is great for reloads as a firm insertion of the magazine will send the slide home. I'm a left-handed shooter and initially had the same problem as my grip tends to make contact with the lever. It can be challenging NOT to "ride the slide" with the P30 series. But once I adjusted my grip to push up and apply slight upward pressure on the lever(s) while holding this seems to eliminate the issue. The is a combat pistol and it performs like a tank! Accuracy and groupings can be tightened but this pistol was built for precision shooting. It's a combat pistol and is still good enough for competition once you get used to its "wonkiness". This is my range gun and training gun as if you can master if trigger (which is kind of awful by design) EVERYTHING you use after this is a cake walk. I love the P30 but folks forget that this granddaddy pistol debuted in 2006 and is a relic of that time and its a grade evolution of the HK USP.
Most of my shooting with HKs has been my P7M8, which is awesome. :)
@@KitBadger Now I'm jealous! But not surprised.
Finest pistol made. DA/SA: "Roll, press."
I'll take my P7M8 all day long over that one. :)
Kit Badger And I the P7M13, yet it is not currently in production (save, perhaps, for manufacture under license in Mexico and elsewhere).
LOL yeah no... CZ makes a MUCH better DA/SA (and every other type) pistol. HK is an overpriced joke.
Dee-Bee Kooper over priced joke? You don’t even believe that BS yourself. I just bought one brand new for $575 which is around the same price as the CZs...HK is a proven design! And I LOVE CZs
@@DB.KOOPER I bought a brand new p30 no safety for $575 last summer. Hardly overpriced.
I have a VP9SK and I have the same issue with the thumbs forward grip. Any pressure on that slide bar will cause it not to lock back.
I think HK offers shorter slide lock levers, the ones from the S safety model are shorter. If you swapped likely would solve issue.
I would likely try that, but I returned the pistol to my buddy. :(
The Forrest in the background looks pretty awesome 👍😎
Are you sure it’s not that extended mag? Mine locked back just fine. I really liked the pistol but hated the double/ single of the HK after owning a sig with the SRT kit, so I ended up selling it. Because of an injury, the first time I actually shot mine was when I qualified to use it for work lol. It was a rough learning curve after only dry firing it for months.
Don't you know you can get HK's version of Sig's SRT kit?
@@johngalt234 from Hk or Bruce Gray?
@@K-bob_45 I only bought my stuff from HKparts.
No, same issues with the factory mags.
John Galt buy direct from Hk’s webshop. Hk parts is robbery.
Bringing up the DA trigger pull, I preemptively press down on the trigger a fair bit so the “real” amount of finger travel is shortened. Not sure if this is super tactical or safe, but it’s worked for me and my CZs, HK (USP), and Berettas.
I cut off my slide release and it’s no longer a problem.
I Don't Own A P30. But I Do Own A P2000. I Haven't Had Any Issues With The Slide Locking Back After The Last Round. I Also Use A Thumbs Forward Grip While Shooting
Personally I feel like the DA trigger on my P30 feels like a staple gun. Other than that, I love it. I do have to shoot it a lot more, but since it has a manual safety, I don't have the same problem with locking open after last shot. I just ride the safety and slide lock levers are shorter so a thumbs forward grip doesn't seem to interfere with locking open. But, like I said, I gotta shoot it more.
My buddy has p30L and I personally have put few hundred rounds through it and have never had that issue
sharpie the dot. i prefer black sights and a light if it’s dark. i like a wide rear notch. for me it’s quicker to pick up and those longer shots are easy without the dot muddying up the sight picture.
I would, but it wasn't my pistol. :)
I will have to take a look at this tool. I have a CZP01. I am a very big fan of double action Firearms but not a fan of how low the slide sits for slide manipulation
You need to get the LEM Trigger upgrade
I loved my p30. I’d like to get another with the long slide and the barrel that has the accuracy enhancing ring on the end, forget what HK calls it but it looks like a rubber washer.
the washer isn't needed. If you get bored there is an older website called pistol-training.com. Todd Green used to run it and when he shot his P30 with the non O-ring barrel it turned in ~1.5 inch groups at 25 yards if memory serves.
Most of my guns don't lock back for me on last round. I have big hands and a very high grip and it's just something I train around. As a civilian slide lock reloads are only a concern to me in competition or maybe an FoF class.
Check out the slide stop from Kag Werks for Glocks.
@@KitBadger if I owned a Glock I would give them a try.
The only hand gun I’ve never had is HK and I am really wanting to get one.
Great review! Love my P30’s.
Dude, I can never get HK pistols to lock back. I have a .40 p2000 and absolutely hate it now after shooting a Glock 19 for the last couple years
Hahaha, yep. What works, works and what doesn't, doesn't. :)
In light of you not liking the DA/SA figure, I will be interested to see you check out an LEM variant (either a P30 or P2000) when you get the chance. It's kind of a uniquely HK thing, and I have a feeling you might like it.
I've never had the chance to check one out, I would be interested to.
Good review, and once you get used to DA/SA triggers, the trigger transition that people make such a big deal about is really no big deal at all. However I find that most DA/SA pistols come way over-sprung out of the box (probably because most of them are spec'd for NATO ammo) and one of the first things I usually do is swap in a lighter hammer spring. There's really no need for a DA trigger that is upwards of 10lbs - most of mine are more in the 7-9 lb range which makes a big difference.
Nice, solid upgrade on those springs.
Excellent review!
Thanks James.
@@KitBadger Yes Sir!
The slide not locking back is a user error. You can change that with more training and practice using this particular firearm.
No. Not changing my grip for a pistol. :)
@@KitBadger That's a smart decision. You shouldn't change your grip to fit a pistol, especially if it isn't going to be your primary gun. However, complaining that a certain weapon doesn't accommodate your grip is as asinine as complaining that doesn't take Glock mags (or whatever else floats your boat).
You should check out the HK USP, I picked one up used for crazy cheap (considering what it is). I swapped out the non threaded barrel with a threaded one from Jarvis Custom, Shoots 1inch groups at 25 yards from a rest.
Nice shooting!
@@KitBadger I credit the Jarvis barrel. Worth it's weight in gold if accuracy is what you need. I always get Odin Works AR barrels and Jarvis pistol barrels if I'm putting together a high end gun
I’ve had a P30 since 2010, back when they costed about $850. I never had a problem with the slide failing to lock back, some guns like the P226 I’ve had that problem with consistently. I do like the fact that you kinda call out hk for having less than great customer service though
Hahaha, they are renowned for it. :)
Kit Badger I know first hand and they will attack you if you bring it up on their social media accounts
P30 is an awesome pistol!
But not as cool as the P7... :)
Solid gun, I had the same “issue” of not locking back, the only thing I don’t agree with is, the trigger is ass, I MUCH prefer my P10F.
Actually sold mine to my cousin to save him from a Ruger or Taurus.
have him throw a greyguns trigger kit in it. put one in my p30 and its like night and day
I love the P30’s, but I can’t seem to find sights that work for me. Trijicon HD’s on the p30 I shook High with. Hienie straight eights on this, I can’t pick up quickly and shoot high left. It’s probably just me, but what sights are you guys running on your p30’s?
vp 9 can be the same way with the slide lock also
I don't think I've ever shot one.
@@KitBadger yeah had to train-myself ... keeping my grip from touching the slide lock
My next Handgun ! I own USP , USP compact and HK 45
Nice lineup!
I’ve never had an issue with riding the slide stop personally but I see how it could happen. Maybe I missed it but I don’t think you mentioned the slam feature which is probably my favorite thing about the P30.