Pre-Ban H&K Heckler & Koch SP89 9mm 4.52" Semi-Auto Pistol, MFD 1993

Pre-Ban H&K Heckler & Koch SP89 9mm 4.52″ Semi-Auto Pistol, MFD 1993

More Sold Fine European Arms

SOLD FOR: $3,604.00

LSB#: LSB250809BK005

Make: Heckler & Koch

Model: SP89

Serial Number: 21-26809

Year of Manufacture: 1993 / Modern

Caliber: 9mm Luger

Action Type: Semi-Auto, roller delayed blowback operated, fed by detachable HK MP5 pattern magazines.   

Markings: The top of the receiver is marked, “HK SP89 / 21-26809” with an Ulm and “KD” date code. The right side of the magwell is marked, “Made In Germany / HK Inc. Sterling VA”. The left side is marked, “Cal. 9mmX19”. The trigger housing is marked, “0 / 1”. The barrel is marked, “9W IR” with a Nitro proof. The handguard is marked “IR”. The 30rd mag is marked with an “II” date code and the 15rd mag is marked with an “IJ” date code.

Barrel Length: 4.52″ 

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a hooded post integral to the triple frame. The rear is a 4-position castle style rotating diopter drum. 

Stock Configuration & Condition: This pistol has a two piece polymer furniture set with a round SP89 forend/hand stop, and pistol grip with thumb shelf and finger grooves. The back of the pistol has a folding SB tactical brace. There are light handling marks and some carbon buildup on the inside of the forend. The pistol grip and forend rate in Very Good overall condition.

Magazine Quantity & Condition: This pistol includes one 30rd 9mm HK magazine and one 15rd magazine in Excellent overall condition.

Type of Finish: Black Enamel

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no visible erosion in the bore but there is some light fouling. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 9.5/10. 

Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 99% of its metal finish. There are light handling marks throughout. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are crisp. Overall, this handgun rates in about Excellent condition.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this pistol. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements. The bolt gap is .018 Thousandths / 0.45mm.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: 2x Magazines, original receiver endcap.

Our Assessment: This 1993 Heckler & Koch SP89 is a rare and exceptionally preserved example of one of the most desirable pre-ban semi-automatic pistols ever imported into the United States. Based on the legendary MP5K platform, the SP89 was designed as a civilian-legal, semi-automatic-only variant with the same roller-delayed blowback system, forged steel receiver, and ultra-reliable MP5 lineage. With only a brief window of importation before the 1994 Assault Weapons Ban, factory-original SP89s have become highly sought after for both collectors and shooters looking to own an authentic piece of Cold War–era German engineering. The “KD” date code confirms 1993 production—placing this example squarely in the final year before the federal import restrictions took effect. Chambered in 9mm Luger and featuring a 4.52” barrel, diopter drum rear sight, and hooded front post, this pistol is all business—built to the same standards that made the MP5 the gold standard in submachine gun performance. The roller-delayed action is renowned for its smooth cycling and soft recoil, and the included brace and forend give this SP89 a stable, intuitive feel in the hands. This example shows minimal use, retaining 99% of its factory black enamel finish, with a bore that’s bright, sharply rifled, and rates a solid 9.5/10. The bolt gap checks in at a healthy 0.45mm, confirming excellent mechanical condition. The pistol ships with one 30-round and one 15-round HK factory magazine, plus the original receiver endcap for easy reconfiguration.

As a true pre-ban firearm with original German markings, matched date-coded parts, and clean overall condition, this SP89 offers more than just collector value—it’s a gateway into one of the most iconic firearm systems ever made. Whether added to a Cold War-era collection, used as the foundation for an SBR clone, or simply appreciated for its exceptional build quality and operational smoothness, this pistol represents a rare and historically important piece from the twilight of HK’s golden age of importation. -R.E.

Pre-Ban H&K Heckler & Koch SP89 9mm 4.52" Semi-Auto Pistol, MFD 1993
Pre-Ban H&K Heckler & Koch SP89 9mm 4.52″ Semi-Auto Pistol, MFD 1993