Heckler & Koch VP70Mk9
The H&K VP70 is an unusual weapon, in several respects. One is its longevity. The original design was introduced at the end of the twentieth century, and its variants persist to this day, with few changes. Another is the optional shoulder stock. When attached, the weapon may fire three round automatic bursts. Finally, the composition of the gun itself is unusual, since most of it is made from hard plastics, and the firing mechanism only has four moving parts. The simplicity of the VP70's firing mechanism is one of its most notable features, resulting in an extremely reliable, accurate weapon in the harshest conditions. When carried as a conventional weapon, the VP70 fires with a standard blowback mechanism linked to a unique trigger configuration.

The trigger is a double action mechanism that requires substantial pressure when first pulled back. If this pressure is continued, the trigger bar slips from a spring-loaded firing pin to fire the chambered round. This safety-in-trigger design negates the need for any additional safety catch. The optional shoulder stock latches into grooves on the back of the pistol's receiver and butt. Single and burst fire is available when this unit is attached.

Since the VP70 uses the inherently accurate, low powered 9mm Parabellum round, it proves to be an easily controlled pistol when fired. Range is increased by the accuracy of the round, and even in three round burst mode the pistol provides surprisingly accurate, directable fire.
In the years since the introduction of the original design, the VP70 has undergone little in the way of substantive change. More commonly, new, lighter, stronger plastics and alloys have gone into the pistol's parts, providing an even more reliable and more compact sidearm.

Written by Adam Fuller (adamf@engin.umich.edu)