Heckler&Koch HK45 COMPACT TACTICAL - Manual (Page 8)

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HK45 & HK45 Compact
Optional ambidextrous controls are available.
This unique design allows the HK45 Pistol to be configured for a variety
of purposes depending on the requirements of the user, without having to
purchase a new pistol.
Magazine Release
In addition to a wide selection of trigger/firing modes, the HK45 has an
extended ambidextrous magazine release lever which is shielded from
inadvertent actuation by the design of the trigger guard. It is possible to
depress the magazine release lever with the thumb or index finger of the firing
hand, in most cases without adjusting the firing grip.
The use of the trigger finger to depress the magazine release is recommended
as it allows the firing grip to remain unchanged and removes the trigger finger
from the vicinity of the trigger during reloads.
Magazines
The metal magazine will drop free of the frame when the magazine release
is actuated. By using metal magazines in the HK45, grip size is kept to a
minimum. Magazines have a series of viewing holes on the back side for
counting the cartridges remaining inside. Magazine floor plates can be easily
removed without tools during disassembly.
Slide Release
The ambidextrous extended slide release is positioned to allow easy actuation
without adjustment of the grip of the shooting hand.
Magazine Disconnect
Another feature of the HK45 is the absence of a magazine disconnect device
(exceptions being certain special order models).
WARNING: Except on special order models supplied with a magazine
disconnect feature, the HK45 will fire if the magazine is removed, a cartridge
is in the chamber, and the trigger is pressed. Insure the chamber is always
empty during the clearing procedure.
Recoil Reduction/Buffer System
One of the most important unique design features of the HK45 is the
mechanical recoil reduction system. This system is incorporated into the recoil/
buffer spring assembly located below the barrel. Not only does this system
reduce the felt recoil to the shooter but it also buffers the recoil forces to the
components of the pistol, thus greatly extending the life expectancy of the
pistol.
This recoil reduction system buffers the impact of the slide on the frame as
the barrel unlocks and when the slide travels rearward. Its buffering effect
plays a major role in extending the service life of the HK45, especially when
considering the punishment inflicted on any pistol when firing powerful +P or
+P+ cartridges.
The recoil reduction system employed in the HK45 is insensitive to ammunition
types and requires no special adjustment or maintenance. It functions effectively
in all models of the pistol.
Two metal inserts are molded into the polymer frame on which the slide recoils.
These inserts are not subjected to the full recoil forces of the cartridge due to
the buffering action of the recoil reduction system.
The HK45 is an extremely safe firearm, with no less than four safety features,
some passive and some active in nature. Simple to field strip and maintain, the
pistol is both reliable and trouble-free.
Barrel with O-ring
The barrel of the HK45 is cold hammer forged for strength and durability,
and has HK's unique polygonal bore profile. Polygonal bores increase muzzle
velocity, reduces barrel wear and eases cleaning. The high temperature rubber
O-ring, located near the muzzle, holds the barrel consistently within the slide
during firing and enhances accuracy. Barrels of the HK45 “Tactical” models
are extended in length and are threaded for use with screw-on sound/flash
suppressors.
Accessory Rail
Finally, a MIL-STD-1913 “Picatinny” accessory rail is incorporated into the dust
cover on the polymer frame. This rail allows accessories such as tactical lights
and laser aimers to be mounted quickly and without tools on the HK45 and
HK45 Compact without modification to the pistol.
NOTE: Improperly designed or installed accessories may result in damage
to the MIL-STD-1913 rail and/or the pistol. Such damage is not covered
under the limited lifetime warranty. Be certain to use only HK authorized
accessories and follow installation and precautions carefully.
WARNING: Always "clear" the HK45 before installing or removing accessories
on the frame mounting rails.
SECTION 2