As a professional shooter, I’ve tested a wide array of firearms, constantly searching for that perfect blend of precision, reliability, and comfort.
Today, I’m taking a closer look at two exceptional models: the Beretta APX Vs HK VP9. These two pistols, hailing from renowned manufacturers, have stirred quite the debate in shooting circles.
Let’s dive in and see if we can crown a winner or perhaps appreciate each for its unique strengths.
| Feature | Beretta APX | HK VP9 |
| Type | Striker-fired, semi-automatic | Striker-fired, semi-automatic |
| Cartridge | 9mm | 9x19mm |
| Capacity Options | 10+1, 15+1, 17+1 rounds | 15+1 rounds |
| Barrel Length | 4.25 inches | 4.09 inches |
| Overall Length | 7.55 inches | 7.34 inches |
| Width | 1.3 inches | 1.32 inches |
| Height | 5.6 inches | 5.41 inches |
| Weight | 1 lb., 13 oz. | 25.56 oz. (empty maga |
Overview of Beretta APX
Introduced as Beretta’s first foray into the striker-fired market, the APX combines Italian craftsmanship with modern tactical efficiency. It’s a pistol that has garnered attention for its distinct design and robust performance.
Specs
- Type: Striker fired, semiautomatic
- Cartridge: 9mm
- Capacity Options: 10+1 rds., 15+1 rds., 17+1 rds.
- Barrel Length: 4.25 inches
- Overall Length: 7.55 inches
- Width: 1.3 inches
- Height: 5.6 inches
- Weight: 1 lb., 13 oz.
- Sights: Steel, serrated, black (rear); tritium dot (front)
- Trigger Pull: 6 lbs. (tested)
Overview of HK VP9
The HK VP9, a product of German engineering excellence, was HK’s re-entry into the striker-fired arena. It’s a pistol renowned for its ergonomic design and user-friendly features.
Specs
- Chambering: 9x19mm
- Overall Length: 7.34 inches
- Height: 5.41 inches
- Width: 1.32 inches
- Barrel Length: 4.09 inches
- Sight Radius: 6.38 inches
- Sights: 3-dot luminous
- Trigger Pull: 5.4 lbs.
- Weight: 25.56 oz. (with an empty magazine)
- Finish: Black frame / black oxide slide
- Capacity: 15+1
Features Comparison: Beretta APX VS HK VP9
1. Slide Design and Functionality
Beretta APX
The Beretta APX’s slide is a true hallmark of design and functionality. Its deep, aggressive serrations are not just aesthetically pleasing but highly practical.
These serrations offer an excellent grip, making slide manipulation easy under various conditions, whether you’re wearing gloves or dealing with wet hands.
This blend of form and function is a testament to Beretta’s commitment to providing shooters with not just a tool but a piece of art that’s efficient and reliable.
HK VP9
The HK VP9’s slide, while featuring less pronounced serrations, doesn’t compromise on effectiveness. The front and rear serrations are adequately designed for reliable use. What sets the VP9 apart are the unique charging supports at the rear of the slide.
These small but significant additions provide an extra level of convenience, aiding shooters who need additional leverage, particularly in high-stress or rapid-response scenarios. This thoughtful design element underscores HK’s dedication to user-friendly functionality.
Winner
The HK VP9 narrowly surpasses the Beretta APX in slide functionality. Its innovative charging supports offer a practical advantage that can be crucial in challenging situations.
The VP9’s design demonstrates an understanding of diverse operational needs, making it slightly more versatile than the APX in this aspect.
2. Ergonomics and Grip
Beretta APX
The Beretta APX’s grip and ergonomics are designed with a focus on versatility and comfort. The pistol features interchangeable backstraps, which cater to various hand sizes, ensuring that every shooter can find a comfortable and secure grip.
The textured grip surface provides a reliable hold, which is crucial during high-stress scenarios or in adverse weather conditions. Moreover, the APX’s modular design allows for further customization, reflecting Beretta’s commitment to accommodating the individual shooter’s needs.
HK VP9
The HK VP9 excels in ergonomics, offering a level of customization that is hard to match. It features interchangeable side and back panels, which can be mixed and matched to create the perfect fit for any hand size.
This level of customization ensures an ideal grip, leading to better control and a more comfortable shooting experience. The VP9’s ergonomic superiority is a clear reflection of HK’s dedication to shooter comfort and control.
Winner
In the arena of ergonomics and grip, the HK VP9 stands out as the clear winner. Its extensive customization options make it an exceptionally user-friendly firearm, capable of accommodating a wide range of hand sizes and preferences.
This level of customization gives it a significant edge over the Beretta APX.
3. Trigger Quality
Beretta APX
The Beretta APX features a trigger system that strikes a balance between a firm pull and a crisp break. The slightly heavier pull adds to the predictability of the trigger, a key factor in precision shooting.
The trigger also offers a short uptake and a clear, tactile reset, contributing to a shooting experience that is both reliable and consistent.
HK VP9
The trigger of the HK VP9 is a defining feature of the pistol. It offers a smooth uptake and an exceptionally crisp break, which is noticeably lighter than the APX.
The clear, audible reset of the VP9’s trigger aids in quick follow-up shots, enhancing the shooter’s ability to maintain rhythm and accuracy. The refined nature of the trigger adds significantly to the overall shooting experience, making the VP9 a preferred choice for those who value precision and ease of use.
Winner
When comparing trigger systems, the HK VP9 emerges as the superior choice. Its light and smooth pull, combined with a crisp break, offers a more refined shooting experience, especially in situations requiring rapid and precise shots.
The VP9’s trigger system is a standout feature, highly appreciated by shooters for its balance of precision and comfort.
4. Ambidextrous Use
Beretta APX
The Beretta APX caters to ambidextrous use with its slide lock/release accessible on both sides.
This feature is handy for left-handed shooters, making it more versatile.
However, it doesn’t extend this ambidexterity to the magazine release, which is a notable limitation, though it can be switched to the other side.
HK VP9
The HK VP9 takes ambidextrous features a notch higher. It not only includes a similarly accessible slide release but also boasts a paddle magazine release within the trigger guard. This design allows for truly ambidextrous operation, making magazine changes effortless for both left and right-handed shooters.
Winner
HK VP9 excels in this feature compared to the Beretta APX. Its ambidextrous paddle magazine release gives it an edge in terms of ease of use and convenience for a wider range of shooters.
Pros & Cons: Beretta APX
Pros
- Unique, aggressive slide serrations
- Modular design with interchangeable parts
- Solid grip and ergonomics
Cons
- Slightly heavier trigger pull
Pros & Cons: HK VP9
Pros
- Superior ergonomics with customizable grip
- Truly ambidextrous controls
- Light and crisp trigger pull
Cons
- Higher price point
- Magazines are more expensive
Similarities Between Beretta APX & HK VP9
- Both are striker-fired, semiautomatic pistols
- Chambered in 9mm
- Equipped with Picatinny rails for attachments
- Feature trigger safety mechanisms
- Offered by reputable, well-established manufacturers
Differences Between Beretta APX & HK VP9
- APX has a modular frame design; VP9 does not
- VP9 features a paddle magazine release; APX’s magazine release is button-based
- APX known for its distinct slide design; VP9 has a more classic slide design with added charging supports
- VP9 is generally more expensive compared to APX
Final Verdict
Having spent considerable time with both the Beretta APX and the HK VP9, I’ve been impressed by their performance, reliability, and unique features.
However, in most of my comparisons, the HK VP9 has emerged as the winner. Its superior ergonomics, customizable grip, and truly ambidextrous controls offer an enhanced shooting experience that caters to a broad range of users.
Additionally, its light and crisp trigger pull is a significant advantage, especially in scenarios that demand rapid and precise shooting.
FAQ’s
Does the Beretta APX have a safety?
Yes, the Beretta APX has a safety mechanism on the trigger to prevent unintended firing, even if dropped, and an internal firing pin deactivation device.
What gun compares to HK VP9?
The HK VP9 can be compared to the Glock 19. Both are military-grade, reliable, and accurate pistols suitable for personal protection, with the VP9 having a better trigger and different magazine release.
Does VP9 have a safety?
Yes, the VP9 has multiple safety features, including a side-mounted drop safety for the firing pin, a trigger-mounted safety to prevent accidental discharge, and a disconnector ensuring firing only when the slide is in battery.
Is the HK VP9 tactical?
The HK VP9 Tactical is a variant with a hammer-forged barrel with a threaded muzzle, suppressor-height adjustable tritium sights, and is optimized for use with a red-dot sight.
