Vintage Heckler & Koch H&K VP70Z 9mm DAO Pistol 4.6” MFD 1981 Volkspistole
SOLD FOR; $805
WOA#: WY230927RM010
Make: Heckler & Koch, H&K
Model: CP70Z
Serial Number: 81830
Year of Manufacture: 1981 (IB Date Code)
Caliber: 9mm
Action Type: Double Action Only, Semi-Automatic, Striker Fired pistol with Detachable Magazine and Frame-Mounted Cross Bolt Safety
Markings: The left side of the slide is marked “HECKLER & KOCH GMBH / OBERNDORF/N MADE IN GERMANY”, “9mmx19 81830” with a Nitro Eagle Proof. The right side of the slide is marked “HK INC ARL, VA 22201”. The left side of the grip is marked “HK / XP 70 Z”. The chamber is marked “86442 / IB” with an Ulm Proof.
Barrel Length: 4.6” (116 millimetres).
Sights / Optics: The front sight is made up of two polished ramps with a dark sight in between them. The rear sight is a rectangular notch dovetailed to the slide.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are integral to the black polymer frame and are smooth. The grips show faint handling wear. Overall, the grips still rate in Excellent condition.
Type of Finish: Black
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore. There is some minor fouling in the grooves.
Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 97% of its metal finish. The markings are clear. There are some light scratches and scuffs on the slide as well as some thinning on the leading edges. Overall, this handgun rates in about Excellent condition for a vintage HK pistol.
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 requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This pistol comes with a total of two original 18rd magazines.
Our Assessment: The Heckler & Koch VP70Z is a historically significant firearm, notable for being one of the first polymer-framed handguns and the first to use a striker-firing mechanism, predating even the famous Glock pistols in these innovations. Introduced in the 1970s by the German manufacturer Heckler & Koch, the VP70 (Volks-Pistole 70, or “People’s Pistol 70”) was designed as a cost-effective, reliable handgun suitable for military and civilian use.
The VP70Z is the civilian semi-automatic version of the VP70, with the “Z” denoting “Zivil,” the German word for “civil.” One of its most distinctive features is its high-capacity magazine, which holds 18 rounds of 9mm ammunition, a significant capacity at the time of its introduction and still respectable today.
While it may not have achieved the commercial success of some later polymer pistols, the VP70Z remains a noteworthy piece of firearms history. Its innovative design elements influenced the development of future handguns and cemented Heckler & Koch’s reputation as a forward-thinking firearms manufacturer. Please see our photos and good luck on your bid! – L.S.
