Heckler & Koch H&K HK VP70Z VP-70-Z 9mm Semi-Automatic Pistol, 1981
SOLD FOR: $1300
LSB#: 220113JM042
Make: Heckler & Koch
Model: VP70Z
Serial Number: 80180
Year of Manufacture: 1981 (IB date code)
Caliber: 9x19mm (9mm Luger)
Action Type: Blowback Operated, Striker-Fired, Semi-Automatic, Detachable Magazine Fed
Markings: The left of the slide is marked “HECKLER & KOCH GMBH / OBERNDORF/N MADE IN GERMANY”, “9mmx19” and “80180”. There is what appears to be a hardness-test punch mark at the “E” in “MADE”. The right of the slide is import-marked “HK INC ARL VA 22201”. The right of the barrel at the chamber is marked “80180”, eagle over “N”, “IB” date code and with an Ulm antler proof. The left of the grip has an HK logo over “VP 70 Z”.
Barrel Length: 4 1/2″
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a slotted ramp fixed to the front of the slide. The rear sight is a square notch dovetailed to the rear of the slide. The top of the slide has a raised rib which is textured for glare reduction.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grip is integral to the black polymer frame. The grip has no notable wear or damage, only light handling marks. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grip is in Excellent condition.
Type of Finish: Black
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright. The rifling is sharp and quite deep. There is no erosion in the bore.
Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 99% of its metal finish. There is no notable wear or damage, only light handling marks. The markings are clear. Overall, this pistol is in Excellent condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this handgun. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This pistol comes in a two-piece cardboard HK box with metal-reinforced corners, black exterior, green interior, an assortment of factory paperwork including manual and test target, and a single 18-round magazine. The box has scattered light storage wear with tears along on edge each of the lid and tray portions. The magazine has faint operational wear with intact feed lips and a strong spring. Please note, no magazine will be included for purchasers who reside where it cannot be legally transferred.
Our Assessment: Today, polymer-frame handguns are quite common. From newer names like Glock and FMK to much older names like Smith & Wesson, it seems like nearly every handgun manufacturer has a “plastic fantastic”. While Glock may make some claim to helping to popularize the idea, the first mass-produced polymer handgun actually came from Heckler & Koch in 1970.
The original design was developed in the context of the Cold War, while the Berlin Wall still divided Germany’s capital city. H&K was trying to develop a new version of the “Volkspistole”, a handgun which could be produced quickly, in large numbers, and at minimal cost to provide to German civilians to help oppose an invasion. The original development was capable of burst-fire also included a detachable shoulder-stock which would convert the pistol into a submachine gun/PDW. The design was quite simple, a straight blowback, striker-fired gun fed by a double-stack, double-feed 18-round magazine.
The VP70Z, or “Zivil”, is the civilian variant which has no provision for a stock nor for burst-fire. This example is in Excellent condition, appearing to have seen limited and responsible use. This is a perfect addition to a collection of H&K pistols, early polymer-frame guns, or just innovative, milestone designs. It should also make for a fun shooter at the range. Please see our pictures and good luck!