H&K VP-70M: Polymer Framed Cutting Edge Machine Pistol from 1973

Published on November 30, 2018
Duration: 16:41

The H&K VP-70M, released in 1973, was a groundbreaking polymer-framed pistol featuring a unique 3-round burst capability via an attachable shoulder stock. It boasted an 18-round magazine and a high rate of fire, predating the Glock by a decade. Designed by Alex Seidel, it was inspired by the Mauser Volkspistole and intended as a 'stay-behind' weapon.

Quick Summary

The H&K VP-70M, released in 1973, was the first polymer-framed service pistol, predating the Glock by over a decade. It featured an 18-round magazine and a unique 3-round burst capability enabled by its detachable shoulder stock.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to the H&K VP-70 Series
  2. 01:18Key Features and Rate of Fire
  3. 02:21Historical Significance and Polymer Frame Design
  4. 03:14Origins and Production Details
  5. 05:20VP-70M vs. VP-70Z Model Differences
  6. 06:27The Stock and Burst Fire Mechanism
  7. 07:48Disassembly and Striker System Explained
  8. 08:51Internal Mechanics of Burst Fire
  9. 15:31Unique Sights and Conclusion

Frequently Asked Questions

What made the H&K VP-70M significant in firearms history?

The H&K VP-70M, released in 1973, was revolutionary as the first polymer-framed service pistol, predating the Glock by a decade. It also featured a unique 3-round burst capability via an attachable shoulder stock.

How does the H&K VP-70M achieve its 3-round burst fire?

The 3-round burst fire on the VP-70M is not part of the pistol itself but is housed within the detachable shoulder stock. When attached, the stock's mechanism interacts with the pistol's sear to enable automatic three-round bursts.

What are the key differences between the VP-70M and VP-70Z models?

The VP-70M is the military version, often featuring a shoulder stock for burst fire and a heavier DAO trigger. The VP-70Z is the civilian variant, typically lacking the burst capability and sometimes including a cross-bolt safety.

What caliber does the H&K VP-70M fire, and what was its capacity?

The H&K VP-70M primarily fires the 9x19mm Parabellum cartridge. It was notable for its 18-round magazine capacity, which was exceptionally high for a pistol in 1973.

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