Because Don (Sootch) is one of the best. Added to that, he's a no-compromise American patriot, humble and driven to defend the Republic. Truly, for as close as you can get to an informed, objective opinion, he's the guy to go to!
This is the one I landed on as my first pistol for both recreational shooting and carry. I wanted one to check off all the boxes, and this one did... easily. Fits like an absolute glove in my hand and you can easily feel the high quality the moment you pick it up. Great video that helped me solidify my decision!
Very good review!! The P30's bigger brother the H&K45 has sat at my bedside for several years. My H&K P30 takes up its own shelf in my safe. Great gun and well worth the money!!
You're spot on regarding the ergonomics. For me it was love at first (grip?) sight. All I had to do was pick it up and I knew I had to have it. It's my favorite gun.
I liked how you checked if the gun was loaded and demonstrated the loaded chamber indicator with a dummy round later on. Very professional. The camera/filming was superb. Thanks alot sootch00!
I picked one of these up from PSA yesterday. Paid for it, walked straight to the range and put 200 rounds through it. It was a bit impulsive as I had not done any research on the gun. After 1 magazine of surplus 9mm out on the range I realized that this is perhaps the best purchase I've ever made.
As an update, in 2018 HK lowered the price of the P30 to match the VP9, so retail price for them with standard sights and two magazines are $715, and $815 with night sights and a third magazine. So you're only looking at about $100 premium for a significant boost in value over a glock. I also approve of your choice on the LEM, its another unsung hero of the firearms world. I have the P30L V1 with the light LEM trigger, put some Trijicon HD orange sights on it, and its perfect. Excellent review per the usual.
Love my P30 & HK45. Every now and then I wonder if I should have gotten the P30L. I have a hard time deciding between the P30 and my Sig P226 Extreme. My only complaint was the long reset on the P30, but after a little shooting I got over it quickly. Pricy, but worth it.
Ha! I'm looking at this combo too. I first wanted the P30L. Now, I'm going with the P30. I think it will be an easier CCW than then the long slide. I'm looking at the tactical HK45 for home defense.
For those watching this video and wondering about the DA/SA version, I have a P30S V3 which is the DA/SA version of this gun with the safety and decocker, and a HK P2000 V3, which is the exact same in terms of operation, even down the poundage of the trigger pull, despite being a different gun (it's a little more compact, easier to conceal-carry, and cheaper too, I paid about $650 for the P2000 new, versus $919 on the P30). Basically, like sootch00 has said, the DA pull is just that, a long, double action pull of roughly 11.5lbs, once that first double action pull is done though, it's a sweet, crisp breaking 4.5lbs pull in single action. Despite my P30 V3 having a safety, I don't carry it "cocked and locked". Many people might disagree, but I just believe it's much easier to practice with that long, hard trigger pull, than to practice turning off the safety first, then execute good trigger finger discipline, and implement it in a bad situation, because that 4.5lbs trigger pull is really really light... It surprises me even sometimes. If God forbid you have a situation that ends in you drawing your gun on a perp, your adrenaline will be going, and to have only 4.5lbs of force separating the perp from life and death is way too small in my opinion. So I carry mine chambered, safety off, with the gun in DA mode for the first shot, the hard DA pull being my quote un quote "safety". To practice the DA pull at the range I will shoot a round, then decock, shoot a round, then decock, over and over. The decock button is in an easy spot to reach with your on-hand thumb, and It's good to practice that first DA trigger pull, not only because it helps you get used to it, but if you can keep your sights on target throughout that long/hard DA pull, it translates into good accuracy with the SA pull or really anything else. The P30 was my first hammer fired gun, I was previously a Glock man, and while I still have a soft spot for Glocks, HK is now my favorite brand, and the P30 had a lot to do with that change. Mad kudos to Sootch for being spot on with this review!
watched this video so many times, and i con paired with the other trigger models and to me the lem trigger is the best. It's hard to find a handgun to fit you when you are left handed, and this is the one that works for me . Thanks for the review on the h&k p-30 with the lem trigger.
I have the P30 V3 ! Because of this pistol I am trading my PPQ for a VP9 !!! HK knew what they cere doing in making the P30 and this pistol is hard to beat!! Great job on the shooting review of the P30!!
I just purchased the USP 45ACP and put Tru Dot Meprolight night sights on it. After 100 rounds I am shooting it really well. One tried and proven very well made handgun.
Hello to you Sootch, I am becoming a H and K fan by the hour. After watching your P 30 I am over the top on quality, looks, grips ect. Just a beautiful looking firearm and yes they are costly but it is worth it. My lord the VP9 in blue wow , the USP Model, and of course the P30 holy cow. Take care
Love my HK P30 .40 LEM V1. It is one of my carry pistols. I've put over 7k rounds through it with only 1 FTF. Pros: Ease of use, ergonomics, reliability, and fast acquisition of site picture Cons: Trigger reset is long I picked mine up from Top Gun Supply 4 years ago for $850.00
I was stoked to see sootchs review of the walther ppq but thought no way hed review the p30... alas i was wrong. And now i have a thorough review of both. If only i could choose one. Best review all around of firearms on the tube. Everything tested and actual fieldstrips showing internals. No nonsense but detailed. Thank you
Sootch is the man. Reminds me of sandbox contractors...ex-military mid life crisis ones who are there for the adrenaline rush. I really like those dudes btw...usually nice to have around in a firefight.
Just picked one up. Your vid was spot on. Spend the money... lifetime companion... Your vids ROCK. Thank you for your time you spend doing these outstanding overviews. Excellent. 👍
I always thought the paddle release was awkward until I bought a P99.....i have to admit that it feels very natural and took very little time to get used to it.
@@kamuelalee Check out the M9A3. I'm typically a HK/Sig guy as well, so was "Meh" about Beretta 92 for a long time. One of my first was a 92F I got 30 years ago, so just kinda got bored with it and Beretta in general, nothing really wrong with it. However, I watched a few reviews on the M9A3, so picked one up and think it's amazing to shoot. It just feels right in the hand and the trigger is awesome (better than factory Sig or HK).
Well, I won't call myself an expert, though I am german, but I would operate the magazine release with my middle finger instead of using the thumb. That works percetly fine with my USP 9. That way, one hasn't to do any grip adjustments, period. My hands are medium, if not small sized.
Jonas Ricken Tridium ins't allowed in Germany, cause it's radioactive. I guess thats one of the reasons it was replaced by that paint. Even the Trijicon ACOGs can't be sold here, unless the Tridium has been removed.
great review. the p30 is the duty weapon of choice for the police forces of most "countys" of germany as well as for the customs agency. great gun which replaced the all famous sig sauer p226
I like the paddle mag release because I have small hands and can't reach the button releases on any double-stack gun without modifying my grip. What the paddle mag releases allow me to do is hit them with the thumb of the supporting hand or release the mag with the middle finger of my firing hand, both without having to change my grip.
The LEM Bobtailed Hammer version of the P30 has a lot of trigger take up and when you hit the wall, there is a more longer delayed creepness until the sear breaks away and the gun fires. This is unlike the better exposed hammer DA/SA P30(L) versions, which have no creep and a very crisper trigger pull in SA. There is no delayed spongy creep, after going beyond wall, like that from the law enforcement trigger version. To me, the LEM version was a continuous Double Action process. IMO.
I own quite a few handguns, and my HKs are by far my favorite, even over my 1911s. I know, I know, say it isn't so. haha. They're my top pick due to their incredible ergonomics. I have the HK 45, HK P30 in 9mm and my personal favorite of the bunch, my P30L in 40. They're super slender and just absolutely comfortable in the hand. Because of the design of the paddle magazine release I have gotten used to using the opposite side paddle with my trigger finger. Sounds strange but try it. It allows me to not even have to move my strong hand's grip when releasing the magazine. Making it more efficient for me which makes me faster. Plus they just don't malfunction. At least not for me, not once. If anyone is in the market for a polymer handgun...an HK is very hard to beat. Thanks for giving us such great reviews Sootch.
I found that I had the same problem with the Magazine release. While shooting my buddy's p30 I ended up using my trigger finger to actuate the ambi release. Doing so solved the issue about changing my grip on the gun when dropping a mag.
I was very interested in purchasing this pistol but I heard a lot of negativity about the trigger, glad to see your video clears that up a little for me.
Had mine since 2009....17000 rounds no FTF's. Love the way when you insert the mag it automatically racks the slide. Ergonomics and all its absolutely worth twice the price of a ugly glock. Guess by the cheap "posters logic" here that they would rather buy a used Yugo than a Ford Escort cause its half the price!!!
Im sure its been said but this isn't a double action only. It's a pre cocked double action then subsequent shots are in single action as long as you don't let the trigger reset all the way. It doesnt have a decocker, the decock is kinda in the trigger. If you were to have a light primer strike and went for a second strike the trigger woukf feel like a traditional double action. After firing and the action is in single action, to return to half cock double action simply release the trigger. With the bobbed hammer and smoother controls than traditional DA/SA this is the perfect concealed carry hammer fired gun
Exactly.. I bought the p30 sk v3 LEM model w 3 mags & Tritium NS for 6 bills. It's my preferred edc. All HK weapons are test fired and sighted in at the German factory. Their quality and reliability is second to none!!!
The p30L v1 is the first pistol I bought and that was a week ago. Technically it’s my 2nd I guess considering I bought a 9mm p85 ruger off a friend like 15 years ago(wasn’t a fan). I gotta say I’ve fired a few different guns here and there over the years and this pistol grip and the LEM trigger have me spoiled. Idk how others feel about the Lem trigger but I’ve grown to have a lot of respect for it. I love the distinct wall. Now I gotta say I enjoyed shooting the sig 320 quite a bit as well but the added safety of the Lem trigger and the god damn ergonomics on the HK bring a tear to my eye. It’s so good a close friend of mine shot it two days ago and texted me today saying he’ll be owning one by the end of next week.
This was a timely review, I've been trying to decide on a larger pistol for taking training classes and carrying in the winter. I'm a little worried about that trigger, but I do have an HK USP Compact .45 and love it...so it might be worth checking out.
I own multiple H&K's, including the P30L, and everyone has been worth every penny. They are a dream to shoot, you will go through more ammo than you realize, and wish you'd brought more. Reliability is a non-issue, I have not had one failure of any sort among the thousands of rounds I've put through them. The way I see it, you can shoot a VW(glock) or you can shoot a BMW(H&K). I'll pick the H&K every day, every time.
Isn't the paddle style magazine release meant to be used by your middle or index finger, rather than your thumb? Cause the point is to adjust your grip as little as possible.
How would you compare it to the traditional old school USP? I feel the USP is a 1911'esque pistol that works right out of the box, no worry about any failures and no need to do the 1911 dance (test it with different mags, ammo, shooters, break in, etc...) An armored car guy here on YT told me his duty weapon was the P30 in 9mm but he had recently traded it in for the USP 9 as he felt the USP 9 for "duty" was a much better weapon. I would assume its just personal pref. He did say that because he put the panel on wrong on the P30 the mag would not drop free. He didn't like the modular panels on the grip. Enjoyed the vid!
I'm a fan of the USP and have a USP Tactical 45 review up next week, but I would choose the P30 LEM model hands down. The Ergonomics is unparalleled and it's much more trim lined than USP. Of course each person has preferences and needs that the USP might fit better, but for me, the P30 is close to perfect... and it should be considering the cost.
Thanks for the response. I personally like the USP but I've recently been checking out the p30 and a LEO's duty P2000. I agree the ergos are there. My buddy was very interested in the P30 9mm and he just watched your vid and said "tonight I'm buying one!" Look what ya did! I thought the vid was well done.
I'm a big fan of HK products. Owner of 20 y/o USP 9mm, even older "squeeze cock" P7 and a SP89. My biggest gripe about owning HK products is finding magazines and accessories ...that doesn't cost a fortune. I will put this pistol on my wish list. As always, great review.
Amazing gun. When shopping for a polymer 9mm I had everything laid out in front of me from G19s, M&PS, XDMs and then there was the H&K. I opted for the highest price one, being the P30L with the longer barrel also the SA\DA with the ambi safety . I can not recommend the HK more, I frekin LOVE mine. Shoots smooth and I have put cheap reloads to the highest grade off the shelf ammo and it has shot it all with no jams, stove pipes, or miss fires. Put about 2000 rounds through mime so far since I got it for my Christmas present from me to me!!. Also idk if the LEM does this or not but mine will automatically close the slide if its open and I put a loaded mag in with a little authority..... Epic for tactical handgun classes... Makes me a faster shooter not having to worry about reaching for the slide release.
After shooting DA/SA so long the LEM is a God sent. I was spoiled after the third shot. The first shot I was not sure what to expect. The second shot I was a little confused and still processing what was going on. The third shot clenched it. I started laughing, and kind of yelled out "I'm changing it all." USP 9, 9C, 45, 45C, P30, P30L, 45, 45C, USP 9 Expert, USP 45 Expert and $2800 later with parts and labor. I'm very happy. My guy at the store told me the other day he just got in everything in the tactical models. I told him, bro I just got done spending $2800 on upgrades. Now you are springing 7 guns on me, your an ass hole.
I love this sidearm! I think I like it better than the Glock 19 stock. The German have invested a lot in its engineering, which shows in the aesthetics and ergonomics on the firearm. It seems the hammer in the newer models, I may be wrong, is a little sucked onto the frame compared to the earlier model, I'd say, in a way that makes it look as a striker fired side-piece. The price is a little prohibitive though, I think I saw it retail upwards of R20k apiece - could get to as high as R30k too. Very nice to have.
this was wicked helpful i've realized recently my 380 just doesn't hold enough rounds and am researching a new gun and this could be my last pistol ill ever need to buy so i think it will be worth the money thanks for the video
@sootch00 Not that I'd ever use it, but one thing I. Notice in HK reviews is that nobody ever touches on the mag-wel built in gun lock feature. I have a .45 usp and a V3 p30L! Expensive, but well worth it! Great Reviews man!
I'm old. Because I'm old I am confused about the LEM trigger. In the heat of actually having to use this pistol to defend myself, I'm thinking that I might just let the trigger move forward enough to eliminate the benefit of this trigger; I mean that I would, effectively, end up with a double action trigger for every shot.
awesome vid. I've been seriously considering to get my first gun. I was dead set about the glock 19, but then I saw this at a shop and they allowed be to try it out. Love it (and dem batman grips). I know it's almost rudely expensive, but I'd like my first gun to be something "special", if you will. Kinda like your first car or something.
Try using your trigger finger or middle finger for the mag release. It feels much more comfortable on my HK45C than my Glock 19 in terms of magazine extraction. While the P-series have a slightly mushier trigger compared to the others (USP and HK45) it is still an incredibly accurate firearm. Bruce Grey does incredible trigger work on HK pistols if you ever want a night and day difference Gotta love that Batman grip!
Thanks a lot for this review. I've never used a firearm myself, but I'm very fascinated by them. And I always seem to come back to H&K when admiring and studying firearms.
Love my P30..also was smart enough to go with the LEM trigger system. For DA/SA I just couldnt sweet talk myself into one over a Sig SRT. LEM truly seems like its an ideal CCW choice. Walther PPX..tho not as purdy as the P30 has a pre-cocked hammer system much like this LEM and I think it feels better, breaks crisper, resets shorter only it doesnt have 2nd strike capability BUT cost $400 instead of $900. Unfortunately its more the size of a G21 than a G19. Some complain about the prices of the magazines but I dunno..I have a dozen or so and none cost more than $35.. slightly more than some but seems right in line with most, certainly cheaper than my Sig magazines.. As always great review. Love my P30 and gonna keep it forever!
its not half cocked, its entirely cocked. its a single action pull with a long takeup. the ONLY time this gun is truly double action is if you have a failure to fire and double strike instead of tap rack. the hammer is split into two parts, internal and external. the only force acting on the external hammer is the trigger return spring. the hammer spring is attached to the internal hammer and it is locked in place by the sear. once the sear breaks by pulling the trigger, it then lets the internal part of the hammer go and it grabs the external part, slamming it into the firing pin.
Hey. I'd like to know why at 0:20 when he fires the first round, the hammer doesn't stay fully cocked after each fire but it seems to stay decocked. In other videos I've seen on youtube, the P30 after the first round seems to be fully cocked. Is there any firing mode for this pistol, or he adjusts his pressure on the trigger? Thank in advance.
I do love this pistol and almost bought one once but just couldn't bring myself to spend the better part of $1000 for polymer pistol. If hk could somehow put this pistol at about a $600 price point I think it would dominate, but then it wouldn't be a hk. Another thing interesting about this pistol was the endurance test I seen with the p30/glock 17/m&p9. If memory serves me well I think the m&p ran into the 60,000's, glock into the 70,000's and the p30 into the 90,000's before parts breakage. So the MIM argument just is not valid with this pistol. By the way I ended up with a PPQ and love it.
I was finally able to try the new LEM system on an P30 and understand what you mean. It is the best DAO system out there. It is even better than the DAK system by Sig. I can't wait to get my P30LS with the LEM.
best polymer framed pistol on the planet. all you crying about the price, 'oh its twice as much as this gun, that gun....' IT IS TWICE THE GUN!!! the trigger is excellent once you get used to it. there is so many quality and ergonomic features about these guns that put them head and shoulders above any other pistol out there. German engineering at its best. I have yet to find a German product that is not better than most, if not all that is out there...and that is no different on this pistol. I will buy another one before I buy a Block...I mean, Glock. I would not take a Glock for free if I had to keep it and shoot it after owning and shooting H&K pistols....and this one is their best. once you own one of these...nothing else will make you happy! I think the Smith M&P pistols are better than Glock, I don't care for Glock at all...you guys can keep them.
I bought the P30L in .40 S&W. DA/SA version 3. Got it during the promotion HK had going on, on sale for $699, got 4 free magazines mailed to me within 4 weeks of purchase :)
Enjoyed this review. The HK has several features which l like such as the ambi mag and slide release, the sights. The back strap feature seems to be really nice also. I thought it was going to much larger than the Glock 19 but it is so close in size.The only thing is the price for me. Like you said you could buy two Glocks for the price one of HK. Cool video.
Every time I do research on a handgun this guy pops up. No matter which handgun.
Dude is one of the best for sure, that's for sure.
Because Don (Sootch) is one of the best. Added to that, he's a no-compromise American patriot, humble and driven to defend the Republic. Truly, for as close as you can get to an informed, objective opinion, he's the guy to go to!
The reason he pops up a lot, because he's one of the best gun reviewer on YT...
*mp443 grach*
Be of good courage...and open that wallet for an HK P30. Great video!!
This is the one I landed on as my first pistol for both recreational shooting and carry. I wanted one to check off all the boxes, and this one did... easily. Fits like an absolute glove in my hand and you can easily feel the high quality the moment you pick it up. Great video that helped me solidify my decision!
I own one myself and got it on a recommendation. Great pistol for everyday home use or conceal carry. H&K P30 worth the money!
Everyday home use ? 😂 who are u
Concealed carry...
This is the greatest pistol ever created in my opinion.
I'm a big HK fan, have the USP45 and the P2000 in 40S&W with the P2000 being my EDC. Just a great gun
MPGunther1 I agree sir. I own a USP40, USP45 and a P2000 40S&W. My P2000 is my EDC. I don’t leave my house without it.
the German art of engineering.... wonderful
Wunderbar
held this gun a few weeks ago. felt better than any other handgun I've held
Very good review!! The P30's bigger brother the H&K45 has sat at my bedside for several years. My H&K P30 takes up its own shelf in my safe. Great gun and well worth the money!!
You're spot on regarding the ergonomics. For me it was love at first (grip?) sight. All I had to do was pick it up and I knew I had to have it. It's my favorite gun.
This is one of the few guns I own where I would consider buying a second one to own at the same time.
I own the p30L and I’m very likely gonna buy the p30sk for edc. This fucking gun has me obsessed.
I liked how you checked if the gun was loaded and demonstrated the loaded chamber indicator with a dummy round later on. Very professional. The camera/filming was superb. Thanks alot sootch00!
Just picked up my P30 V1 (da/sa no decocker) for 450€ used. Love it. Great video. Greets from Lithuania!
GOD BLESS H&K FOR CREATING THAT PIECE OF ART .. :)
I love the Euro style magazine release. It's just so unique.
Love HK! I have an HK45 and love it dearly.
I picked one of these up from PSA yesterday. Paid for it, walked straight to the range and put 200 rounds through it.
It was a bit impulsive as I had not done any research on the gun.
After 1 magazine of surplus 9mm out on the range I realized that this is perhaps the best purchase I've ever made.
Ok ok! Stop torturing me, I'm convinced! So its ramen noodles for a while, I can deal.
It's worth it Brother! Lol!
buy a 50 lbs bag of rice at Sam's Club.. it will last you at least 2 months. Lolz. save money for the H&K.
When I started buying H&K pistols I began eating a lot of tomato soup, Heinz Ketchup packets from Burger King (no charge) and Boiling Water Das Good!
NewHampshire Bound
Funny shit, but very true! top ramen for a while, ha hs ha!!
haha college student life, just got me exactly this gun.... so far i love it.... highly recommend, leftovers and ramen for 2 years for me :D
Great review as always. I'm thinking about getting a P30L myself…. :D
just picked one up myself and absolutely love it had to get used to the double single but it is a sweet shooter
The P30 is my service pistol!
***** longer sight radius and longer barrel for a hair more muzzle velocity. those are the main reasons
Yes! p30l is my new competition gun. Love it in the LEM configuration
@@mmgoodwings3981 The P30 is a combat pistol, plain and simple. You’re not doing yourself any favors by using that in competition
Just picked one of these up in .40 S&W, they only ran 500 in 40 that year and it's the longslide version so I'm very excited to see what it will do.
As an update, in 2018 HK lowered the price of the P30 to match the VP9, so retail price for them with standard sights and two magazines are $715, and $815 with night sights and a third magazine. So you're only looking at about $100 premium for a significant boost in value over a glock. I also approve of your choice on the LEM, its another unsung hero of the firearms world. I have the P30L V1 with the light LEM trigger, put some Trijicon HD orange sights on it, and its perfect. Excellent review per the usual.
Love my P30 & HK45. Every now and then I wonder if I should have gotten the P30L. I have a hard time deciding between the P30 and my Sig P226 Extreme. My only complaint was the long reset on the P30, but after a little shooting I got over it quickly. Pricy, but worth it.
Ha! I'm looking at this combo too. I first wanted the P30L. Now, I'm going with the P30. I think it will be an easier CCW than then the long slide. I'm looking at the tactical HK45 for home defense.
I have a P30L with the LEM trigger in 40 S&W and it's flawless. Yeah, H&K is really proud of their weapons but they are worth every penny.
Another great review!
For those watching this video and wondering about the DA/SA version, I have a P30S V3 which is the DA/SA version of this gun with the safety and decocker, and a HK P2000 V3, which is the exact same in terms of operation, even down the poundage of the trigger pull, despite being a different gun (it's a little more compact, easier to conceal-carry, and cheaper too, I paid about $650 for the P2000 new, versus $919 on the P30). Basically, like sootch00 has said, the DA pull is just that, a long, double action pull of roughly 11.5lbs, once that first double action pull is done though, it's a sweet, crisp breaking 4.5lbs pull in single action. Despite my P30 V3 having a safety, I don't carry it "cocked and locked". Many people might disagree, but I just believe it's much easier to practice with that long, hard trigger pull, than to practice turning off the safety first, then execute good trigger finger discipline, and implement it in a bad situation, because that 4.5lbs trigger pull is really really light... It surprises me even sometimes. If God forbid you have a situation that ends in you drawing your gun on a perp, your adrenaline will be going, and to have only 4.5lbs of force separating the perp from life and death is way too small in my opinion. So I carry mine chambered, safety off, with the gun in DA mode for the first shot, the hard DA pull being my quote un quote "safety". To practice the DA pull at the range I will shoot a round, then decock, shoot a round, then decock, over and over. The decock button is in an easy spot to reach with your on-hand thumb, and It's good to practice that first DA trigger pull, not only because it helps you get used to it, but if you can keep your sights on target throughout that long/hard DA pull, it translates into good accuracy with the SA pull or really anything else. The P30 was my first hammer fired gun, I was previously a Glock man, and while I still have a soft spot for Glocks, HK is now my favorite brand, and the P30 had a lot to do with that change. Mad kudos to Sootch for being spot on with this review!
I have had my P30 for a year now and love it! Great video!
watched this video so many times, and i con paired with the other trigger models and to me the lem trigger is the best. It's hard to find a handgun to fit you when you are left handed, and this is the one that works for me . Thanks for the review on the h&k p-30 with the lem trigger.
It's great for lefties! Recently bought one P30 and two P30SKs. Too bad I couldn't find a second full size one to make it a foursome.
I have the P30 V3 ! Because of this pistol I am trading my PPQ for a VP9 !!! HK knew what they cere doing in making the P30 and this pistol is hard to beat!! Great job on the shooting review of the P30!!
I just purchased the USP 45ACP and put Tru Dot Meprolight night sights on it. After 100 rounds I am shooting it really well. One tried and proven very well made handgun.
Hello to you Sootch,
I am becoming a H and K fan by the hour. After watching your P 30 I am over the top on quality, looks, grips ect. Just a beautiful looking firearm and yes they are costly but it is worth it. My lord the VP9 in blue wow , the USP Model, and of course the P30 holy cow.
Take care
Love my HK P30 .40 LEM V1. It is one of my carry pistols. I've put over 7k rounds through it with only 1 FTF.
Pros: Ease of use, ergonomics, reliability, and fast acquisition of site picture
Cons: Trigger reset is long
I picked mine up from Top Gun Supply 4 years ago for $850.00
I was stoked to see sootchs review of the walther ppq but thought no way hed review the p30... alas i was wrong. And now i have a thorough review of both. If only i could choose one. Best review all around of firearms on the tube. Everything tested and actual fieldstrips showing internals. No nonsense but detailed. Thank you
Sootch is the man. Reminds me of sandbox contractors...ex-military mid life crisis ones who are there for the adrenaline rush. I really like those dudes btw...usually nice to have around in a firefight.
Just picked one up. Your vid was spot on.
Spend the money... lifetime companion...
Your vids ROCK. Thank you for your time you spend doing these outstanding overviews. Excellent. 👍
I always thought the paddle release was awkward until I bought a P99.....i have to admit that it feels very natural and took very little time to get used to it.
H&K's and Sigs are amazing firearms but very costly. I still want one! lol!
@Chris Manser How about Beretta 92?
@@kamuelalee Check out the M9A3. I'm typically a HK/Sig guy as well, so was "Meh" about Beretta 92 for a long time. One of my first was a 92F I got 30 years ago, so just kinda got bored with it and Beretta in general, nothing really wrong with it. However, I watched a few reviews on the M9A3, so picked one up and think it's amazing to shoot. It just feels right in the hand and the trigger is awesome (better than factory Sig or HK).
BEAUTIFUL GUN. I HOPE TO PURCHASE ONE DAY. EXPENSIVE!
Great review and of course the P30 is a fantastic firearm
"Of course you could buy two glock 19s for the same price, and I have two glock 19s. And I still bought the h&k." Hahaha
H&k shoots way better. I have a couple of Glocks myself
@han0509 jump?no bro it shoots smooth,I have some h&k's, wonderful firearms
Hk quality 👍
H&K , SIG, BERETTA IS VERY HARD TO BEAT. ALL 3 ARE TOP HANDGUNS PICKS IN MY BOOK,AND WORTH EVERY CENT.
Well, I won't call myself an expert, though I am german, but I would operate the magazine release with my middle finger instead of using the thumb. That works percetly fine with my USP 9.
That way, one hasn't to do any grip adjustments, period.
My hands are medium, if not small sized.
Jonas Ricken
Tridium ins't allowed in Germany, cause it's radioactive. I guess thats one of the reasons it was replaced by that paint.
Even the Trijicon ACOGs can't be sold here, unless the Tridium has been removed.
+Jonas Ricken I as well use my middle finger for mag release. I love the mag release on HKs.
Jonas Ricken I actually use my trigger finger lessens how much I have to change grip
great review.
the p30 is the duty weapon of choice for the police forces of most "countys" of germany as well as for the customs agency. great gun which replaced the all famous sig sauer p226
counties
Yours have the coolest intros
I agree with this assessment. HK pistols are amazing.
Good job on the LEM explanation.
As usual, another well done vid.
I like the paddle mag release because I have small hands and can't reach the button releases on any double-stack gun without modifying my grip. What the paddle mag releases allow me to do is hit them with the thumb of the supporting hand or release the mag with the middle finger of my firing hand, both without having to change my grip.
One of my favorite guns I love the crisp and smooth single action of it omg
I have to admit that is one of the best looking polymer pistols I've ever seen. (I.W.B Sig P229 right now) Like yourself I admire quality.
The LEM Bobtailed Hammer version of the P30 has a lot of trigger take up and when you hit the wall, there is a more longer delayed creepness until the sear breaks away and the gun fires. This is unlike the better exposed hammer DA/SA P30(L) versions, which have no creep and a very crisper trigger pull in SA. There is no delayed spongy creep, after going beyond wall, like that from the law enforcement trigger version. To me, the LEM version was a continuous Double Action process. IMO.
I own quite a few handguns, and my HKs are by far my favorite, even over my 1911s. I know, I know, say it isn't so. haha. They're my top pick due to their incredible ergonomics. I have the HK 45, HK P30 in 9mm and my personal favorite of the bunch, my P30L in 40. They're super slender and just absolutely comfortable in the hand. Because of the design of the paddle magazine release I have gotten used to using the opposite side paddle with my trigger finger. Sounds strange but try it. It allows me to not even have to move my strong hand's grip when releasing the magazine. Making it more efficient for me which makes me faster. Plus they just don't malfunction. At least not for me, not once. If anyone is in the market for a polymer handgun...an HK is very hard to beat. Thanks for giving us such great reviews Sootch.
I found that I had the same problem with the Magazine release. While shooting my buddy's p30 I ended up using my trigger finger to actuate the ambi release. Doing so solved the issue about changing my grip on the gun when dropping a mag.
Sootch I just picked up a P30 L LEM .40SW V1 with the safety I can't wait to hit the range with it....Great video!!
HK p30 sk
The compact version was recently announced.
Great back up for our p30's!
I was very interested in purchasing this pistol but I heard a lot of negativity about the trigger, glad to see your video clears that up a little for me.
love youre vids.u are a great inspiration for future sport shooters.Thank u for your great uploads and updates.
Had mine since 2009....17000 rounds no FTF's. Love the way when you insert the mag it automatically racks the slide. Ergonomics and all its absolutely worth twice the price of a ugly glock. Guess by the cheap "posters logic" here that they would rather buy a used Yugo than a Ford Escort cause its half the price!!!
Im sure its been said but this isn't a double action only. It's a pre cocked double action then subsequent shots are in single action as long as you don't let the trigger reset all the way. It doesnt have a decocker, the decock is kinda in the trigger. If you were to have a light primer strike and went for a second strike the trigger woukf feel like a traditional double action. After firing and the action is in single action, to return to half cock double action simply release the trigger.
With the bobbed hammer and smoother controls than traditional DA/SA this is the perfect concealed carry hammer fired gun
Exactly.. I bought the p30 sk v3 LEM model w 3 mags & Tritium NS for 6 bills. It's my preferred edc. All HK weapons are test fired and sighted in at the German factory. Their quality and reliability is second to none!!!
The p30L v1 is the first pistol I bought and that was a week ago. Technically it’s my 2nd I guess considering I bought a 9mm p85 ruger off a friend like 15 years ago(wasn’t a fan). I gotta say I’ve fired a few different guns here and there over the years and this pistol grip and the LEM trigger have me spoiled. Idk how others feel about the Lem trigger but I’ve grown to have a lot of respect for it. I love the distinct wall. Now I gotta say I enjoyed shooting the sig 320 quite a bit as well but the added safety of the Lem trigger and the god damn ergonomics on the HK bring a tear to my eye. It’s so good a close friend of mine shot it two days ago and texted me today saying he’ll be owning one by the end of next week.
This was a timely review, I've been trying to decide on a larger pistol for taking training classes and carrying in the winter. I'm a little worried about that trigger, but I do have an HK USP Compact .45 and love it...so it might be worth checking out.
I own multiple H&K's, including the P30L, and everyone has been worth every penny. They are a dream to shoot, you will go through more ammo than you realize, and wish you'd brought more. Reliability is a non-issue, I have not had one failure of any sort among the thousands of rounds I've put through them.
The way I see it, you can shoot a VW(glock) or you can shoot a BMW(H&K). I'll pick the H&K every day, every time.
subdermal13
I'll take the Lancia CZ personally. :)
Isn't the paddle style magazine release meant to be used by your middle or index finger, rather than your thumb?
Cause the point is to adjust your grip as little as possible.
I love my P30, traded a Kimber Gold Match II for it straight up and didn't hesitate one bit in doing so
pick mine up tomorrow.
How would you compare it to the traditional old school USP? I feel the USP is a 1911'esque pistol that works right out of the box, no worry about any failures and no need to do the 1911 dance (test it with different mags, ammo, shooters, break in, etc...) An armored car guy here on YT told me his duty weapon was the P30 in 9mm but he had recently traded it in for the USP 9 as he felt the USP 9 for "duty" was a much better weapon. I would assume its just personal pref. He did say that because he put the panel on wrong on the P30 the mag would not drop free. He didn't like the modular panels on the grip. Enjoyed the vid!
I'm a fan of the USP and have a USP Tactical 45 review up next week, but I would choose the P30 LEM model hands down. The Ergonomics is unparalleled and it's much more trim lined than USP. Of course each person has preferences and needs that the USP might fit better, but for me, the P30 is close to perfect... and it should be considering the cost.
Thanks for the response. I personally like the USP but I've recently been checking out the p30 and a LEO's duty P2000. I agree the ergos are there. My buddy was very interested in the P30 9mm and he just watched your vid and said "tonight I'm buying one!" Look what ya did! I thought the vid was well done.
***** Mission accomplished! Thanks
I'm a big fan of HK products. Owner of 20 y/o USP 9mm, even older "squeeze cock" P7 and a SP89. My biggest gripe about owning HK products is finding magazines and accessories ...that doesn't cost a fortune. I will put this pistol on my wish list. As always, great review.
Great review! I love my P30S. I'd like to fire the LE trigger system after seeing this version.
That's an awesome pistol you got there Mr Sootch00.
Amazing gun. When shopping for a polymer 9mm I had everything laid out in front of me from G19s, M&PS, XDMs and then there was the H&K. I opted for the highest price one, being the P30L with the longer barrel also the SA\DA with the ambi safety . I can not recommend the HK more, I frekin LOVE mine. Shoots smooth and I have put cheap reloads to the highest grade off the shelf ammo and it has shot it all with no jams, stove pipes, or miss fires. Put about 2000 rounds through mime so far since I got it for my Christmas present from me to me!!.
Also idk if the LEM does this or not but mine will automatically close the slide if its open and I put a loaded mag in with a little authority..... Epic for tactical handgun classes... Makes me a faster shooter not having to worry about reaching for the slide release.
The slide closing is a slide stop malfunction, not a design feature.
Just purchased an HK45 and this guy will be next
After shooting DA/SA so long the LEM is a God sent. I was spoiled after the third shot. The first shot I was not sure what to expect. The second shot I was a little confused and still processing what was going on. The third shot clenched it. I started laughing, and kind of yelled out "I'm changing it all." USP 9, 9C, 45, 45C, P30, P30L, 45, 45C, USP 9 Expert, USP 45 Expert and $2800 later with parts and labor. I'm very happy. My guy at the store told me the other day he just got in everything in the tactical models. I told him, bro I just got done spending $2800 on upgrades. Now you are springing 7 guns on me, your an ass hole.
Awesome gun, and a great review, thank you for the time and effort you put into your superb roundups of fire arms. Thank you once again :-)
Your good at defining the gun I also like how you shoot the gun to show a physical presentation, and how you tell witch hand it's for!
👍🔫
I love this sidearm! I think I like it better than the Glock 19 stock. The German have invested a lot in its engineering, which shows in the aesthetics and ergonomics on the firearm. It seems the hammer in the newer models, I may be wrong, is a little sucked onto the frame compared to the earlier model, I'd say, in a way that makes it look as a striker fired side-piece. The price is a little prohibitive though, I think I saw it retail upwards of R20k apiece - could get to as high as R30k too. Very nice to have.
nice but id prefer the slide to be an inch longer
Look up p30l. Is longer. Also recently made famous in john wick
P30: best pistol made. Period.
After seeing this I had to get one and I love it. Thank you for such a great video and review.
this was wicked helpful i've realized recently my 380 just doesn't hold enough rounds and am researching a new gun and this could be my last pistol ill ever need to buy so i think it will be worth the money thanks for the video
@sootch00 Not that I'd ever use it, but one thing I. Notice in HK reviews is that nobody ever touches on the mag-wel built in gun lock feature. I have a .45 usp and a V3 p30L! Expensive, but well worth it! Great Reviews man!
I'm old. Because I'm old I am confused about the LEM trigger. In the heat of actually having to use this pistol to defend myself, I'm thinking that I might just let the trigger move forward enough to eliminate the benefit of this trigger; I mean that I would, effectively, end up with a double action trigger for every shot.
Very thorough and as always, a great video job!! Thank you.
It baffles me how almost every single gun channel I see use their thumbs for HK and Walther mag releases.
awesome vid.
I've been seriously considering to get my first gun. I was dead set about the glock 19, but then I saw this at a shop and they allowed be to try it out. Love it (and dem batman grips). I know it's almost rudely expensive, but I'd like my first gun to be something "special", if you will. Kinda like your first car or something.
Try using your trigger finger or middle finger for the mag release.
It feels much more comfortable on my HK45C than my Glock 19 in terms of magazine extraction.
While the P-series have a slightly mushier trigger compared to the others (USP and HK45) it is still an incredibly accurate firearm.
Bruce Grey does incredible trigger work on HK pistols if you ever want a night and day difference
Gotta love that Batman grip!
Totally the way to do it!! Middle finger of trigger hand for an easy drop of the magazine….. peace!!
Good Video 👍 greetings from germany
Thanks a lot for this review. I've never used a firearm myself, but I'm very fascinated by them. And I always seem to come back to H&K when admiring and studying firearms.
My favorite handgun and working on getting a P30L.
Did you get the p30L? They are great guns.
Not yet waiting on it to come in... HK is my favorite
Love my P30..also was smart enough to go with the LEM trigger system. For DA/SA I just couldnt sweet talk myself into one over a Sig SRT. LEM truly seems like its an ideal CCW choice.
Walther PPX..tho not as purdy as the P30 has a pre-cocked hammer system much like this LEM and I think it feels better, breaks crisper, resets shorter only it doesnt have 2nd strike capability BUT cost $400 instead of $900. Unfortunately its more the size of a G21 than a G19.
Some complain about the prices of the magazines but I dunno..I have a dozen or so and none cost more than $35.. slightly more than some but seems right in line with most, certainly cheaper than my Sig magazines..
As always great review. Love my P30 and gonna keep it forever!
its not half cocked, its entirely cocked. its a single action pull with a long takeup. the ONLY time this gun is truly double action is if you have a failure to fire and double strike instead of tap rack. the hammer is split into two parts, internal and external. the only force acting on the external hammer is the trigger return spring. the hammer spring is attached to the internal hammer and it is locked in place by the sear. once the sear breaks by pulling the trigger, it then lets the internal part of the hammer go and it grabs the external part, slamming it into the firing pin.
I don't know what I like better your videos or your introduction lol...Great Review Bro... God bless the republic
I love my HK VP9 carry for duty and edc... great video... as always
Great review. Excellent weapon, Very happy with. Just have exactly same one, 9mm V1 LEM.
Hey. I'd like to know why at 0:20 when he fires the first round, the hammer doesn't stay fully cocked after each fire but it seems to stay decocked. In other videos I've seen on youtube, the P30 after the first round seems to be fully cocked. Is there any firing mode for this pistol, or he adjusts his pressure on the trigger? Thank in advance.
I do love this pistol and almost bought one once but just couldn't bring myself to spend the better part of $1000 for polymer pistol. If hk could somehow put this pistol at about a $600 price point I think it would dominate, but then it wouldn't be a hk. Another thing interesting about this pistol was the endurance test I seen with the p30/glock 17/m&p9. If memory serves me well I think the m&p ran into the 60,000's, glock into the 70,000's and the p30 into the 90,000's before parts breakage. So the MIM argument just is not valid with this pistol. By the way I ended up with a PPQ and love it.
well their 600 bucks now.
PROTECTIVE RAILROAD DAD it is now!
Always enjoy your videos. Thanks.
Be Strong, Be of Good Courage! God Bless America, Long Live the Republic!
These Words are so important more than ever…
I was finally able to try the new LEM system on an P30 and understand what you mean. It is the best DAO system out there. It is even better than the DAK system by Sig. I can't wait to get my P30LS with the LEM.
best polymer framed pistol on the planet. all you crying about the price, 'oh its twice as much as this gun, that gun....' IT IS TWICE THE GUN!!! the trigger is excellent once you get used to it. there is so many quality and ergonomic features about these guns that put them head and shoulders above any other pistol out there. German engineering at its best. I have yet to find a German product that is not better than most, if not all that is out there...and that is no different on this pistol. I will buy another one before I buy a Block...I mean, Glock. I would not take a Glock for free if I had to keep it and shoot it after owning and shooting H&K pistols....and this one is their best. once you own one of these...nothing else will make you happy! I think the Smith M&P pistols are better than Glock, I don't care for Glock at all...you guys can keep them.
Rick M
I agree, HKs and CZs are the buzzball Wonder 9s.
Sweet gun. Great presentation. Thank you.
Great review as always, have you done a review on the Sig p290 yet? If not would love to see one. Thx
Great review! I would have to try it to see if I could get used to the double action only. Great ergo's.
I bought the P30L in .40 S&W. DA/SA version 3. Got it during the promotion HK had going on, on sale for $699, got 4 free magazines mailed to me within 4 weeks of purchase :)
Jason McCarthy when was that .. i want one
I bought mine the first week of September, 2017. They had the promo going on from Aug 1 - the last day of september.
thank you so much
Enjoyed this review. The HK has several features which l like such as the ambi mag and slide release, the sights. The back strap feature seems to be really nice also. I thought it was going to much larger than the Glock 19 but it is so close in size.The only thing is the price for me. Like you said you could buy two Glocks for the price one of HK. Cool video.