The VP Series is Heckler & Koch's first striker-fired HK since the P7 series pistols introduced in the 1980s. It is well-suited for civilian sport shooting security military and law enforcement use. The VP Series integrates a striker firing system with an enhanced HK light pull trigger. HK's cold hammer-forged barrel made from cannon grade steel ensures long service life as does the polygonal bore profile which also provides a slight increase in muzzle velocity. Slide releases are present on both sides of the frame and the paddle-style magazine release can be easily activated by left- or right-handed shooters. A unique VP feature is HK's patented rear-mounted charging supports on each side of the slide provide better gripping leverage for racking the slide rearward. The machined steel slide is protected from corrosion and wear by HK's hostile environment finish and all metal components including springs and pins have superior metallurgy. VP SK subcompact models feature a more concealable design with a shorter barrel abbreviated Picatinny MIL-STD-1913 rail and a compact grip frame which retains the adjustable VP grip feature of interchangeable backstraps and lateral grip panels.