USP 40 to 45 conversion

[william_munny]

I've wanted to pick up a .45 auto for a little while now, but after hearing about other handguns being converted to different calibers, I started getting the idea that maybe I could convert my USP 40 to a 45. What would be involved in doing this? Do I just need to buy a new slide and barrel, or are there other parts (springs and such) that must be replaced as well?

 

[Len-2A Training]

I have both in USP Compact models. I can tell you that the guns have different sized frames and the mags have different external dimensions.

One might assume the same for the USP itself.

First step would be to go to HKPRO.com and look up physical dimensions of the two guns. If they aren't the same, you already know that this idea won't work.

Most conversions are from .40 to 9mm as most parts are the same size. I've never heard of anyone converting a .40 to .45 successfully . . . which does not mean that it can't be done.

 

[PaulD]

From what I've seen, caliber conversions are often possible on the same frame from .40SW down to 9mm and, in some cases, vice versa. However, the .45ACP version of a particular gun almost always has the frame scaled up in some way. I'd ask over on HKPRO.com but somehow I doubt this will work. Also, for the cost of a new slide, it's probably not worth it vs. just buying another gun.

 

[Woop-woop]

There are no conversion kits for any H&K USP models!

 

[howitzer11]

All which model do you prefer? The USP compact .40 or the .45? I have been told the .45 is noticably larger. Also is the ammo that much more expensive. I am assuming quality is top notch as I have not yet owned an HK. I know from shot the glock .45 it is much larger and heavier compared to its .40 brother.

 

[MassMark]

No way to convert - frame size is different. I had thought about buying a USP40c and converting it to .357Sig, but apparently no such conversion exists...

 

[Len-2A Training]

No way to convert - frame size is different. I had thought about buying a USP40c and converting it to .357Sig, but apparently no such conversion exists...

Mark, do some checking here. I think that 3rd-party barrels may be available for that caliber. I think that the mags are the same. HKPro.com forums would probably give you a definitive answer on this.

 

[william_munny]

Thank you everyone for your input, and thank you LenS and PaulD for recommending HKPro... some good stuff on there!