H&K VP70 - Trash Tier Pistol

Published on May 14, 2022
Duration: 7:14

This review of the H&K VP70, presented by InRangeTV, offers a highly critical yet technically detailed assessment. The hosts, demonstrating high expertise, highlight its historical significance as the first polymer-framed pistol and its iconic status from the movie 'Aliens.' However, they thoroughly dissect its practical shortcomings, including poor ergonomics, a difficult trigger pull, ineffective sights, and a direct blowback system that significantly reduces 9mm velocity to near .380 ACP levels, deeming it 'trash tier' for practical use.

Quick Summary

The H&K VP70, while historically significant as the first polymer-framed pistol and iconic from 'Aliens,' is critically assessed as 'trash tier' for practical use. Experts highlight its poor ergonomics, difficult trigger, ineffective trough sights, and a direct blowback system that reduces 9mm velocity to .380 ACP levels due to gas blow-by.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction and History
  2. 00:4315-Yard Shooting Test
  3. 01:21Sight Critique
  4. 03:35Technical Design Flaws
  5. 06:33Final Verdict

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main criticisms of the H&K VP70?

The H&K VP70 is criticized for its poor ergonomics, a heavy and long trigger pull compared to a staple gun, and 'French-inspired' trough-style sights that are difficult to use. Its direct blowback 9mm system also reduces velocity to near .380 ACP levels.

Why is the H&K VP70 considered historically significant?

The H&K VP70 holds historical significance as it was the first mass-produced pistol to feature a polymer frame, a groundbreaking innovation at the time of its release. It also gained pop culture fame from its appearance in the movie 'Aliens'.

How does the H&K VP70's direct blowback system affect its performance?

The direct blowback system in the 9mm VP70 requires deep grooves in the barrel to manage pressure. This causes significant gas blow-by, which reduces the bullet's velocity to levels comparable to .380 ACP ammunition, diminishing its effective energy on target.

What are the practical shooting challenges with the H&K VP70?

Shooters face significant challenges due to the VP70's 'horrendous' sights and heavy trigger pull. Maintaining a consistent sight picture during the long trigger travel is difficult, making accurate shooting, especially under pressure or in timed challenges, a considerable struggle.

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