The Keefe Report: HK's VP70M—The Coolest Gun I've Shot In Years

by
posted on October 25, 2017
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **

This is a gun that I have coveted since I first became aware of its existence. It is the first polymer-frame handgun of all time. Conveniently, it also happens to be a selective-fire machine gun. The gun is the Heckler & Koch VP70M. By today’s standards, this gun big and heavy for a semi-automatic pistol, but back in its day it was the ultimate in dignitary protection. There was also a semi-automatic-only version named the VP70Z.

                          
                                         

For the next season of American Rifleman TV, we asked our friends at HK to pop open the Gray Room. That is the room that contains not only all of HK's current products, but also just about everything they have brought into the United States. In there you will find guns like the MP5, the MP5SD (as used by Navy SEALs), and the failed XM8. There's even a G11

When attached to the shoulder stock this gun can be semi-automatic as depicted by the “1” on the stock, or you can throw the lever to “3” and it becomes selective fire. That "3" is a three-round burst, which exits the muzzle at about 2,000 rounds per minute. This week we were filming with the guys from Heckler & Koch, and they believe this is the first time this particular VP70M has been fired in 20 years. You can see the full episode next season on American Rifleman Television. In the meantime, here's an advance look at some of the fun we had yesterday on the range.


Latest

High Desert Cartridge Company Ammo
High Desert Cartridge Company Ammo

Review: High Desert Cartridge Company Ammunition

Ammunition brands like High Desert Cartridge may not be as well-known as larger makers, but they can still offer excellent bang for your buck.

Beretta Introduces Shotgun-Based Turret System for Drone Defense

Beretta Defense Technologies has introduced the LIVET Remote Controlled Weapon Station, an AI-driven turret system that can bring eight Benelli M4 Drone Guardian shotguns accurately to bear on incoming unfriendly drones.

Competition Ready: Winchester's New Super Match Ammunition

Winchester Ammunition has answered the call of competitive shooters with its new Super Match lineup, comprised of cartridges tailored to perform in a variety of events.

A Brief Beginner's Guide to Buying a Defensive Handgun

After running a gun shop and an indoor range for more than a few years, one American Rifleman contributor has a few tips for those looking to buy their first handgun.

Gun of the Week: Wilson Combat Bulwark

Wilson Combat has long been known for its custom work on 1911-style designs, but the company also develops its own firearms, and one of its latest in-house creations is the new Bulwark.

The Armed Citizen® Sept. 4, 2026

Read today's "The Armed Citizen" entry for real stories of law-abiding citizens, past and present, who used their firearms to save lives.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.