[Roger G23]

My new HK USP Compact .40 has some pretty aggressive checkering on the grip. The front checkering especially digs in sharply to the finger creases.
I know it's a combat pistol and they're there for a reason, but has anybody (or would you recommend?) lightly and carefully sanding the sharp checkering down a little to make it a bit more comfortable?
I know I can just put on a rubber inner tube or Hogue grip, but for carry I don't want to snag clothing with the rubber or add dimension to the grip circumference as I really like it the way it is. Got a better grip (for me) than the G23.
What would you say? Sanding or filing down sharp edged grip checkering on the front grip a good idea?

 

[G26S239]

I don't know. Mine doesn't bother me at all.

 

[dnuggett]

My new HK USP Compact .40 has some pretty aggressive checkering on the grip. The front checkering especially digs in sharply to the finger creases.
I know it's a combat pistol and they're there for a reason, but has anybody (or would you recommend?) lightly and carefully sanding the sharp checkering down a little to make it a bit more comfortable?
I know I can just put on a rubber inner tube or Hogue grip, but for carry I don't want to snag clothing with the rubber or add dimension to the grip circumference as I really like it the way it is. Got a better grip (for me) than the G23.
What would you say? Sanding or filing down sharp edged grip checkering on the front grip a good idea?

It depends. Do you plan on keeping the long term value of the gun as high as possible (understanding you shoot it)? If so, don't sand it.

If what you care about most if comfort for use/carry... make that gun yours.

 

[WoodenPlank]

Before I got rid of mine, the checkering seemed to either wear in over time, or my hands just got used to it. Either way, I pretty much stopped noticing it.

 

[american lockpicker]

I don't like the new stippling.

 

[Roger G23]

Actually, I understand the current model stippling is nowhere near as sharp as years ago. I remember back in '94, my friend's USP Full sized .40 checkering being really aggressive. My new HK is not like that.

 

[Larry V]

My new HK USP Compact .40 has some pretty aggressive checkering on the grip. The front checkering especially digs in sharply to the finger creases.
I know it's a combat pistol and they're there for a reason, but has anybody (or would you recommend?) lightly and carefully sanding the sharp checkering down a little to make it a bit more comfortable?
I know I can just put on a rubber inner tube or Hogue grip, but for carry I don't want to snag clothing with the rubber or add dimension to the grip circumference as I really like it the way it is. Got a better grip (for me) than the G23.
What would you say? Sanding or filing down sharp edged grip checkering on the front grip a good idea?

Why would you buy and HK and then sand or file the grip ?

 

[H&K 4 LIFE]

The USP series was designed with using gloves in mind.

The over sized trigger guard accommodates heavy gloves. The "hump" in the trigger guard prevents the glove being stuck under the trigger and the aggressive grip texture aids in positively gripping the pistol.

That being said, I have carried/shot the USP and USPc quite a bit without gloves. In my personal experience, I don't think that this is an issue.

 

[ranburr1]

I just took a Dremel to mine. I also got rid of the annoying trigger guard hump.

 

[zackwatt]

Just hit 'em with a few swipes of high grit sandpaper if its an issue...

 

[omega48038]

I agree, the texture of the USP grips is a little aggressive. On mine, I left the front and rear alone. I slightly burnished the sides with a stainless rod, just enough to flatten those razor sharp tips. Much more comfortable, both in the hand and in a holster.

 

[DEADEYEGUY]

Get a Houge rubber grip for it. It solves the checkering problem and lets you keep the gun untouched for resale value. Also gives you a better gripping surface also.

 

[Roger G23]

I've just been handling my new USP ALOT! I'm still amazed I got an HK and couldn't put it down for a while there!
I think with a more normal amount of handling at the range it won't be an issue.
I have a feeling this may very well become my favorite pistol.
We'll find out in the "truth tube" here soon.
Thanks for everyone's input, I think I'll leave it as is...I'll just get tough skin. :supergrin: