The Heckler & Koch HK4, introduced in 1967, is a prime example of German engineering and represents a significant development in the history of firearms. Originally produced for German authorities, 12,000 pistols in .32 ACP caliber were issued to them under the designation P11, underscoring their importance and reliability.
The HK4 is a direct evolution of the Mauser self-loading pistol HSc and honors the professional beginnings of the company's founders at the Mauser works. With its unlocked recoil loader and a combination of safety and decocking device, the HK4 demonstrates how traditional designs can be combined with modern techniques.
A standout feature of the HK4 is its ability to easily switch between four different calibers – including .22 lfB, 6.35 mm Browning, 7.65 mm Browning, and 9 × 17 mm short – by simply changing the barrel, recoil spring, and magazine. This makes the HK4 particularly versatile and ideal for various applications, from hunting to self-defense.
The HK4 features a grip made of duralumin and a partially stamped steel slide, making the weapon lightweight yet robust. Despite some challenges with the long-term stability of the grip, the HK4 remains successful in the market due to its excellent manufacturing quality and easy caliber change.
Especially in the civilian sector, it is valued, among other things, as a finishing shot weapon for hunters and for construction and trapping. The HK4 also paved the way for its significantly more successful successor, the HK P9 (S), leaving a lasting legacy in the world of firearms.
Discover the Heckler & Koch HK4 and find out for yourself why this versatile pistol remains a staple in the world of firearms.
