Hi-cap 45 ACP Pistol [Archive] - Colorado AR-15 Shooters Club Discussion Forums

Marine24

05-29-2012, 15:24

I'm in the market for a high capacity 45 ACP pistol and would welcome member's comments that have either owned one or has experience with them.

Here is what I've put together on my wish list:

45 ACP
Hi cap - 12 rounds or more
1911 style grip angle
SA or DA/SA
4.5 to 5" barrel length

The pistol will primarily be a range/competition/home defense pistol. No plans for conceal carry but will likely spend time in a Evil Roy holster rig from Mernickle Holsters.

Obvious candidates that come to mind are STI 2011 double stack pistol, Para-Ordnance P14, HK USP 45 and FNX/FNP 45.

STI's success in IPSC...etc speaks for itself but $1800+ price tag is a negative.

No experience with Para's P14. Most reasonable from a cost perspective but not sure how much I'd be investing to tune the trigger, improve slide to frame fit, reliability improvements...etc

No experience with HK's USP 45, but hear good things about them.

FNX doesn't work for me, but ironically the FNP 45 Competition does. Particularly like the FO front sight and ability to mount a Fastfire/Deltapoint like red dot.

I'll make a trip to the area gun shops to see if I can get my hands on these particular pistols.

Am I missing any other potential candidates?

Any comments? Good, bad and ugly of the four listed above.

gcrookston

05-29-2012, 15:40

I do like the STI and currently own one of their Spartans and my brother has one of their hi-caps he's owned for over 15 years and loves it. I believe they put a lot of quality into an affordable package.

I owned a Para about 15 years ago for a short time. There was nothing wrong with it, but it never kept my interest.

I quite like the USP .45 line and have owned a number of different ones over the years, although I've kept guns #2 and #3 since 1998-9 (#1 was a Mk23 and quickly discarded).

Of the .45 acp line up, the USP fits my needs and wants to a T. Ambi safety and mag release, well balanced and a full throttle performer and other than initial cost I can't think of anything remotely negative to say about them.

#2 and #3 Expert and Tactical

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj19/gcrookston/DSC00202.jpg

pickenup

05-29-2012, 15:44

I am an HK fan. And I will echo good things about them. Put one in your hand, to see if it fits you. They are too large for some. See if you like the mag release, it is different. I like it, it is quicker for me.

Fromk

05-29-2012, 16:04

If you go the Para or STI route you'll also be spending a fortune on mags and then getting them tuned and have nothing but problems until you do.

You can also go with an M&P if you want a crazy long mag to get 14 rounds. I have a feeling that's not what you're looking for, though.

The XD's and Glock 21 will get you 13 rounds and could be a good choice. The Glock doesn't have a 1911 grip angle but you can give it a try. HK is also a good option.

stevelkinevil

05-29-2012, 16:31

Love my FN FNP tactical, 15+1 rounds of .45 goodness!

Marine24

05-30-2012, 07:58

HK USP Expert and Tactical look like a sweet setup but have heard of some folks having issues with the size of the grip and ability to engage the magazine release with their thumb. Just need to get my hands on one to see if that is a problem or not.

Fromk: Can you elaborate on the magazine issues with the STI and Para? I recall Para owners having magazine issues, but not about STI. Point noted on the price of magazines.

spyder

05-30-2012, 23:56

I've owned all the guns on your list... that's actually quite sad from my point of view...

Anyway, of all, the Hk is what I would call the best. The Para is big, and a heavy bitch. It's a 1911, same problems, but added weight. More people have had problems with them, than not. I've played with mine quite a bit, it works like a charm now. The FNP is an awesome gun, you can get it all decked out and pretty easily enough, the only draw back is the price. It shoots nice, and mine never had any problems. The STI is a fantastic product, love em. The problem; price. Then you have the G21, but, it's a Glock... Where it beats the rest, and the only place it beats the rest, is the price. They have had problems. Both of mine did, my brothers did, actually, everyone I know that has owned one has had problems with theirs... Last but not least, my favorite, the USP 45. Hands down the best double stack 45 there is. For what you get, you can't beat the price. They are less than the FNP and STI, shoot just as well if not better, has tons of safeties that are built in, well, more than most, and is just, well, bad ass. If you want an even better shooter, go with the USP Expert, at that point, there isn't much that can touch that gun.
http://i1108.photobucket.com/albums/h403/asrspyder/DSCN1528.jpg

Marine24

05-31-2012, 06:08

spyder

05-31-2012, 09:11

Spyder: Appreciate the assist. I'll have to look at the HK USP harder. Only thing odd is the thumb safety. Flip it up and you are ready to fire, flip down for safe. The configuration actually make sense but just different from the 1911 I'm accustomed to.

I'm making a trip to Douglas County Firearms to take a look at the Para P14. Point noted on weight. I think they are 40 ozs with an empty mag, which is about a pound more that the USP 45.

I had a Glock 21 before, but couldn't connect with it. Reliable pistols just not for me.
You've got the safety wrong on the USP.
http://i1108.photobucket.com/albums/h403/asrspyder/DSCN1753.jpg
^ You push up for safe
http://i1108.photobucket.com/albums/h403/asrspyder/DSCN1751.jpg
^ Pull down for fire. It's the same as a 1911

Pull down harder on a V1 or V2 (depending on if you're a righty ro lefty), and you decock the gun. That's how carry mine, chambered and decocked.

Marine24

05-31-2012, 09:17

Thanks. Closeup pics help on where the pivot point is.

Good, makes it easier for me not to have to learn new tricks.

BPTactical

05-31-2012, 09:19

Spyder: Appreciate the assist. I'll have to look at the HK USP harder. Only thing odd is the thumb safety. Flip it up and you are ready to fire, flip down for safe. The configuration actually make sense but just different from the 1911 I'm accustomed to.

I'm making a trip to Douglas County Firearms to take a look at the Para P14. Point noted on weight. I think they are 40 ozs with an empty mag, which is about a pound more that the USP 45.

I had a Glock 21 before, but couldn't connect with it. Reliable pistols just not for me.

One nice thing about HK, the fire control system can be changed to suit the shooters taste.
Known as "variants" there are about 6 or 7 different configurations.
1 and 2- DA,SA decock and safety lever (2 is right side lever)
3 and 4- DA, SA decock but no safety (4 is lever on right)
5 and 6- DA only with safety lever (6 is lever on right)
7- DA only no lever
8- not produced
9 and 10- DA,SA safety lever but no decock (10 is lever on right)
LEM-DA only - shorter reset, stronger hammer spring.

So you see you can tailor the HK to your application.
I am sold on HK. I feel they are the polymer framed sidearm perfected.
Shoot an XD then shoot a HK. You will feel and see the difference.

Marine24

05-31-2012, 09:27

BP: Thanks. Saw previous for sale listing that listed the variants, but never really sure what it referred to. Appreciate the intel.

In a previous hunt for a range/competition 9mm, I compared the XDM Competition with the M&P Pro 9mm. M&P fit better and had a 1911 feel to it. XDM was close but didn't care for the higher bore axis.

If S&W had a M&P Pro in 45 ACP with 12+ capacity, it would be part of the short list.

spyder

05-31-2012, 11:05

You can raise the bar if you want with Hk line and go with the little more expensive Hk45 and not the USP. You will be getting in a little under the FNP price, but you get all the match quality parts in your Hk45 including the barrel O ring, hammer, sear, and a nice upgrade to the grip since you can change out the back strap on it to make it fit better. The internals are the same as the USP, all parts are interchangable other than the trigger and trigger bar. If the USP fits you though, no need to spend the extra money on the Hk45 as you can change out all of the parts on the USP slowly as you go if you want.

Hoser

05-31-2012, 11:30

You can find used STI 2011s in 45 for well under $1500. Usually closer to $1200.

Fromk

05-31-2012, 11:40

Fromk: Can you elaborate on the magazine issues with the STI and Para? I recall Para owners having magazine issues, but not about STI. Point noted on the price of magazines.

I believe the STI situation is pretty much the same as Para. The difference is that you can straight up order tuned mags that will run rather than buying expensive mags then an expensive service. http://www.dawsonprecision.com is the place to go. Not cheap but...better...I guess. Now if you can find someone selling off a complete STI set then I would consider it. Let someone else do all the hard work. Still wouldn't get a Para, though.

I'd still go for one of the other options (like a nice HK) unless you're going to get in to serious competition and/or you're getting bored with what you have and are looking for the next step up.

spyder

05-31-2012, 11:44

...
I'd still go for one of the other options (like a nice HK) unless you're going to get in to serious competition and/or you're getting bored with what you have and are looking for the next step up.
Then you go for the expert, elite, or match. [Beer] You can play with an Hk just as much as any of the others, well, almost just as much...

Marine24

05-31-2012, 13:47

Hoser

05-31-2012, 13:52

I believe the STI situation is pretty much the same as Para.

Maybe. But STIs do not need $1500 worth of work to make them run 100%.

I only have a few tuned mags. All of mine run just fine without it. Half are SV tubes and the other half are STI tubes. All have Grams guts with Grams and Dawson pads.

Marine24

05-31-2012, 14:50

But STIs do not need $1500 worth of work to make them run 100%.

Ouch there is an indictment, although can easily apply to just about any production 1911 on the market. I've owned a number of Kimbers and Springfields, which all had issues at one time or another due to magazine issues, ammo used, feed ramp, extractor, the knucklehead behind the pistol...etc.

Only two 1911s that have met the 100% reliability mark have been my WC CQB Elite and Volkmann Combatant Carry.

Besides the magazines, anything else with the Para's that is unique to them that you wouldn't see in other production 1911s?

pickenup

05-31-2012, 15:30

I can't hit the mag release on either model without rotating my grip, but don't see that as a major issue.

If you end up using this in competition, it may turn into an issue. One of the reasons I mentioned it before. When a part of a second counts......

Speaking of competition, I do want to throw out one other thing about the HK's. Since the Expert model has been mentioned a few times now. You should know that model is not allowed in "production" class in IPSC/USPSA. The regular USP is, but not the Expert. Don't know if that means anything to you. Don't know what kind of competition you shoot. Just an FYI.

Marine24

05-31-2012, 16:01

True point. Guess I should have said "not a new issue" for me. Problem I have with just about any double stack pistol. The rotation isn't significant but your point is valid. Still slower. May have to look at ambi mag release or resign myself to being timed by a sun dial.

I was thinking IDPA in the ESP or CDP Division but seem to recall that round count is limited to 10+1 in ESP and 8+1 in CDP (been awhile). 14 round magazines won't help or hurt, but understand there are some 3 gun competition where the extra capacity will help.

stevelkinevil

05-31-2012, 16:03

Actually had a chance to handle a Para P14 and FNP Tactical. The P14 was one of their mid-level models, but still nicely set up. Slide to frame fit was reasonable for a production pistol but trigger needed some work.

Really liked the FNP but have little use for the threaded barrel, but ability to mount fast fire...etc is a nice addition for old eyes.

I can't hit the mag release on either model without rotating my grip, but don't see that as a major issue.

I'll give a call to Blucore, Firing Line or Speciality Sports to see if they have a USP 45 that I can touch.

Considered the HK 45, but 10 round limit didn't meet the 12 round bar. Worth a look though.

Marine, check out the FNP 45 competition model, same as the tactical but without the threaded barrel and a little less money (around $800is if memory serves). I love my FNP but also agree the HK is a sweet piece, only the capacity and the pre-machined for a red dot slide put the FN over the top for me.

Marine24

05-31-2012, 16:16

check out the FNP 45 competition model,

I'm with you. I saw their competition model at Blucore a few weeks back and FO sight plus ability to mount a red dot are positive points.

They were asking a little over $1K for the one they have, but have seen where you can get them for around $950 out the door on Gunbroker (including shipping/transfer fee).

I think I'm down to the HK USP and FNP 45 comp model. Para was okay but as Hoser indicated, I'd end up spending almost the cost of the P-14 trying to tune it. Not because it needed it, but because it is fat 1911 and I would expect it to perform like my other ones.

SideShow Bob

05-31-2012, 18:16

Didn't read all the posts, so if has already been mentioned........sorry,
I've got a Springfield Armory 1911 "Hi Cap" everything is almost identical to the Para P-14. It takes some getting used to the wide body, but otherwise it is great. Also it is heavy as sin being all steel.

spyder

05-31-2012, 19:24

Ok, well if you're diving into the reality of an FNP price wise, go to an Hk Expert, it will have the FNP beat in every way, number wise. Like I said, I liked my FNP 45 tac. but for the price, if I had that and the Hk to choose from, it would be the Expert, or, even the Tactical. However I will say that when I'm done with one of my normal USP's, I'd put it up against either of the three listed above... You can get a USP, a nice USP for $6-650. Add a Jarvis barrel (match length) for $210, a match trigger for $110, and a (if you know someone), Match weight for $200... hehehe.... The only problem with the Match series was the 3/4 lb weight. The thing was nose heavy. I have a friend who made me a copy of one from a chunck of aluminum on a CNC from one of the old originals that I had of the weight's. It is perfect... Anyway tons to go off of. The FNH does have the cut out on the top of it though for a mini red dot. That noted, the Hk Expert and Tactical have better stock rear sights.

stevelkinevil

05-31-2012, 22:14

I'm with you. I saw their competition model at Blucore a few weeks back and FO sight plus ability to mount a red dot are positive points.

They were asking a little over $1K for the one they have, but have seen where you can get them for around $950 out the door on Gunbroker (including shipping/transfer fee).

I think I'm down to the HK USP and FNP 45 comp model. Para was okay but as Hoser indicated, I'd end up spending almost the cost of the P-14 trying to tune it. Not because it needed it, but because it is fat 1911 and I would expect it to perform like my other ones.

Check this out, $884, and Rapid Fire Bunker is doing transfers for $15. Another nice thing is a really nice soft case, and 3 mags standard.
http://grabagun.com/fn-fnp-comp-45acp-15rd-blk-3mags.html
Again though as spyder has said, you cant go wrong with HK either.

Irving

05-31-2012, 23:34

Do people use CZ's in competition in .45, or mostly just 9mm and 40?

spyder

06-01-2012, 01:01

Check this out, $884, and Rapid Fire Bunker is doing transfers for $15. Another nice thing is a really nice soft case, and 3 mags standard.
http://grabagun.com/fn-fnp-comp-45acp-15rd-blk-3mags.html
Again though as spyder has said, you cant go wrong with HK either.
Your link is broken. For the OP, I'm an Hk fanatic all the way, my view will be kinda slanted, I'll be the first one to admit it. Honestly between the two, I never had a problem with any of my Hk's, or my FNP. The one thing about a gun, above any other thing, is it better work all the time, every time. Those are the only two guns (brand in Hk's instance) that I haven't had a problem with at one point or another. I've had my FNP in pieces and worked on the trigger and such, but not nearly as much as my USP's (and I've had quite a few of them, getting a compact delivered in a few days to add to the family also...). I know Hk's in and out, and the FNP decently. Best thing to do is to see about the fit, and if you are going to try everything, try the Hk45 like I said, it's the new revision to the USP basically. Go to a gun store that has all three, and pick em up.

Marine24

06-01-2012, 06:00

Marine24

06-01-2012, 06:03

Go to a gun store that has all three, and pick em up.

Spyder: Thanks. I like FNP competition but it is a still a big pistol. I'll track down a USP today and be more educated on at least how the USP or Expert feel in the hand.

gcrookston

06-01-2012, 07:14

Experts are a tough find but ones I did find were in the $1000 range with HK bag. There is one on AR15.com going for $975.

Doesn't look like HK is making these any more. Doesn't show up in their latest US catalog but like the lines and 1/2" longer barrel.

Last I heard the Expert was discontinued. The only differences between the Expert and the Tactical are the front sight, threaded barrel (same barrel, though), and the slide length. Both have the match trigger and are otherwise identical.

When they first came out, the Tacticals came in a grey case, the Elite and Experts came in Black cases and the Mk23 came in a camo case. I believe HK discontinued this practice about 10 years ago.

Gravy Sandwich

06-01-2012, 08:03

My vote goes to the USP due to reliability, durability and the ability to swap out trigger variants. I'd strongly suggest fondling before buying since the grip is best suited to folks with large hands. I like the USP ergos, but chose an HK45 because of all the subtle improvements over the USP line. Both are winners, IMO.

The USP Variant 1 is DA/SA with a manual safety, and can be carried either DA/SA or cocked and locked. The DA trigger on these pistols is 10lbs+, and I've not had any luck getting mine below 9lbs without light strikes. The SA trigger is decent, though. I just installed a light LEM trigger in my P30L, which breaks at 3.8 lbs. My take on light LEM is that it is a SA trigger disguised as DAO. I ran my DA/SA P30 in IDPA and Steel Challenge with decent results, but the 10lb first pull made it harder to be competitive against Glocks and Apexed M&Ps. So far, light LEM appears to be a game changer for me.

BPTactical

06-01-2012, 08:08

When they first came out, the Tacticals came in a grey case, the Elite and Experts came in Black cases and the Mk23 came in a camo case. I believe HK discontinued this practice about 10 years ago.

Like this?
http://i165.photobucket.com/albums/u69/hockeysew/IMG-20120601-00029.jpg
[Muaha][Muaha][Muaha]
But this item is only about 3 yrs old.

spyder

06-01-2012, 08:35

Experts are a tough find but ones I did find were in the $1000 range with HK bag. There is one on AR15.com going for $975.

Doesn't look like HK is making these any more. Doesn't show up in their latest US catalog but like the lines and 1/2" longer barrel.
I will tell you right now that, that is a great price for an Expert. Yes they were discontinued a couple years ago. No one was buying them for competition use as everyone and their mothers were stuck on the main staple guns ran in competition's already.

Spyder: Thanks. I like FNP competition but it is a still a big pistol. I'll track down a USP today and be more educated on at least how the USP or Expert feel in the hand.
The USP line, even the longer Expert is lighter than the FNP. Just a little fun fact.... Get ahold of the USP, it is the exact same frame as the Expert, and also hold a HK45, like I said, you can customise the backstrap of those.

Last I heard the Expert was discontinued. The only differences between the Expert and the Tactical are the front sight, threaded barrel (same barrel, though), and the slide length. Both have the match trigger and are otherwise....
The slide on the Expert is longer, and the barrels are the same length, you are correct on that, and both share the same trigger components. The rear sight of the Expert is also milled down into the slide, where the sight just sits on top of the Tactical.

My vote goes to the USP due to reliability, durability and the ability to swap out trigger variants. I'd strongly suggest fondling before buying since the grip is best suited to folks with large hands. I like the USP ergos, but chose an HK45 because of all the subtle improvements over the USP line. Both are winners, IMO.

The USP Variant 1 is DA/SA with a manual safety, and can be carried either DA/SA or cocked and locked. The DA trigger on these pistols is 10lbs+, and I've not had any luck getting mine below 9lbs without light strikes. The SA trigger is decent, though. I just installed a light LEM trigger in my P30L, which breaks at 3.8 lbs. My take on light LEM is that it is a SA trigger disguised as DAO. I ran my DA/SA P30 in IDPA and Steel Challenge with decent results, but the 10lb first pull made it harder to be competitive against Glocks and Apexed M&Ps. So far, light LEM appears to be a game changer for me.
You can do a ton to a USP, and even more if you know how to do your own trigger work. You should grab the match trigger with the overstop, and the match hammer and throw it in your gun also. [Tooth]

That's a very nice shooter you have there BP.

Marine24

06-01-2012, 09:22

You've got me convinced. Saw a used USP 45 on GB for $600, but want to get my hands on one. Hopefully I'll be successful today.

Maybe I'll just trade in my Wilson Combat Stealth and buy one of each.

spyder

06-01-2012, 12:51

You've got me convinced. Saw a used USP 45 on GB for $600, but want to get my hands on one. Hopefully I'll be successful today.

Maybe I'll just trade in my Wilson Combat Stealth and buy one of each.
My instructor has an RIA 1911 that he did himself that has put every 1911 I've ever owned or held to shame, including my Wilson, Nighthawk, and STI. Just goes to show that brand on the 1911's means squat. It's a neat thing to see, feel, in person. That's just my little tid bit on 1911's for now...

spyder

06-01-2012, 12:54

You should become a member of HKpro, especially if you get an Hk. I just mean for the sale forum right now. Damn there are some screamin deals going through...

gcrookston

06-01-2012, 14:52

Like this?
http://i165.photobucket.com/albums/u69/hockeysew/IMG-20120601-00029.jpg
[Muaha][Muaha][Muaha]
But this item is only about 3 yrs old.

1o+ years ago ... like this:

http://img690.imageshack.us/img690/1690/dsc07098i.jpg

Marine24

06-01-2012, 14:55

I'm with you on the 1911. I have a "customized/tuned" COArms 1911 that is almost on par with my Wilson Combat CQB Elite as far as reliability and accuracy.

Despite the time and expense, unlikely I'll ever get that investment back, unless I sold it to someone who appreciates and understands the work done. For most folks, it will always be a COArms or RIA.

Marine24

06-01-2012, 15:43

You should become a member of HKpro, especially if you get an Hk. I just mean for the sale forum right now. Damn there are some screamin deals going through...

Been camped out there and other sites to learn more about them, as well as the P14 and FNP.

Got a chance to handle the USP 45 and FNP Competition side by side at BluCore. Experience did little to identify a clear winner. Both fit in my hand nicely, although the USP is a hair smaller.

Both pointed very naturally. I'm rotating the FNP to get to the mag release or using my off hand. USP has the mag release integrated in to the trigger guard and that is a change for me.

12+1 on USP, 15+1 on FNP. Night sights on USP, FO with ability to mount red dot on FNP.

USP is cheaper than FNP.

Heck with it, I'm buying both. Shoot them until I pick the winner.

pickenup

06-01-2012, 22:51

Heck with it, I'm buying both. Shoot them until I pick the winner.
That's the way to go. [LOL]

spyder

06-01-2012, 23:42

^ Can't argue with his logic either...

Marine24

06-07-2012, 11:13

Picked up a '09 HK USP 45 ACP Variant 1 yesterday that came with a 12 and 10 round magazines. Condition is excellent and the more I play with it, the more convinced I made the right decision. Maybe its just me rationalizing since I own one now (never call your own baby ugly) but after going through a few gun drills (play with my gun according to my wife), I am liking it more and more.

Mag release is still odd for me but getting used to it. Sights are standard white dot, so those will be replaced soon with tritium/FO combo. Trigger isn't bad but need some range time to decide whether a match trigger is in its future or not.

Still looking hard at the FNP Competiton or STI Tactical, but unless something unexpected happens with the USP, it will be a keeper.

spyder

06-08-2012, 07:44

The USP is a sweet gun. You can upgrade it also as you go like I said. You can add adjustable sights ( http://www.ebay.com/itm/290576253223?ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1438.l2649 ), you can get a match trigger kit for it (highly worth it), but they're usually sold out... You can get the tactical threaded barrel for it, match weight and extended barrel for that... You have options. [Beer]

Marine24

06-10-2012, 07:48

Spyder: Thanks. Thinking real hard about the match trigger kit and noticed that they seem to be out of stock at most places like hkparts.net. Noticed Bill Springfield of Trigger Work in COS has a few trigger packages as well. Never worked with him before, but lobbed an e-mail to him.

Got a good deal on a set of TruGlo TFO sights and they'll get mounted soon.

Still working on some leather. This pistol is not petite, but Rob Leahy at Simply Rugged has a couple of options.

spyder

06-10-2012, 12:22

As far as the holster you want, do you want an OWB, or IWB? There are great choices out there, these are what I am currently using:
http://i1108.photobucket.com/albums/h403/asrspyder/DSCN1779small.jpg
I made the OWB with that fits my USP with the light.

BPTactical

06-10-2012, 18:37

Marine24

06-10-2012, 21:43

[quote=spyder;495168]As far as the holster you want, do you want an OWB, or IWB?/quote]

I prefer OWB, particulary for a pistol as large as the USP. I'm a fan of Milt Sparks for my 1911, but not of the wait. Simply Rugged is a very simple holster, but with the versatility of wearing it strong side, crossdraw or as a shoulder holster with their Chesty Puller straps.

Saw Comp Tac's Gladiator, which caught my attention plus Wilson Combat has a paddle holster, but never used a paddle.

spyder

06-10-2012, 22:47

Is that what you brewed up when you were asking about sewing leather? Nice work Spidey.

I just picked up a bone stock standard USP .45 with only about 100 rds down the pipe for a song. Trigger work coming up soon, I have the Wolff RP mainspring and lite firing pin block spring on the way. As hard as it is to find a match trigger I may just drill and tap it for a Glock front sight screw for the overtravel stop. (at least I am keeping it German/Austrian)
Yep, that's the holster I needed to know about stitching for! Finally got my dye and sealer in so I could finish it.

Hkparts usually has the match triggers in stock, I know they had them last week anyway (I looked). Now that I'm back at the campus and have free use of all the machines, I think I'm gona drill, tap, and put in a screw of sorts also. You should also get the match, or nickel plated, same thing, flat sear spring. Also the match hammer spring, which is the same one used ont he stock HK45.

As far as the holster you want, do you want an OWB, or IWB?

I prefer OWB, particulary for a pistol as large as the USP. I'm a fan of Milt Sparks for my 1911, but not of the wait. Simply Rugged is a very simple holster, but with the versatility of wearing it strong side, crossdraw or as a shoulder holster with their Chesty Puller straps.

Saw Comp Tac's Gladiator, which caught my attention plus Wilson Combat has a paddle holster, but never used a paddle.
Paddle's suck. If you want to try one out, I have one for a 1911 I'll send your way for the cost of shipping so you can see what I mean... They just suck.