HK433

Heckler & Koch · Assault Rifle · In Production · 2017

Also known as: G39

Overview

The HK433 is a select-fire assault rifle chambered in 5.56x45mm NATO, produced by Heckler & Koch GmbH since 2017.

Specifications

Weight (empty)3500 g (123.5 oz)
Weight (loaded)3850 g (135.8 oz)
Overall Length989 mm (38.94")
Folded Length705 mm (27.76")
Barrel Length421 mm (16.57")
Action TypeGas Operated
Trigger TypeSingle Stage
Trigger Pull35 N (7.9 lbf)
Magazine Capacity30 rounds
Magazine TypeDetachable Box
Muzzle Velocity800 m/s (2625 fps)
Muzzle Energy1275 J (940 ft·lbf)
Effective Range400 m (437 yd)
Maximum Range3600 m (3937 yd)
Rate of Fire700 rpm
Barrel RiflingRight Hand
Rifling Twist178 mm (7.01")
Number of Grooves6
Frame MaterialPolymer
Slide MaterialAluminum Alloy
Barrel MaterialSteel
Stock MaterialPolymer
FinishMatte Black

Calibers

Features

Variants

Service history

Operators

Conflicts

Production

Production years: 2017-present

Limited production primarily for German special forces (988 HK437 rifles) and law enforcement contracts. Did not win the main Bundeswehr contract.

Origin

Country of origin: Germany

Designer: Heckler & Koch

Notes

The HK433 features interchangeable barrel lengths (280mm, 318mm, 368mm, 421mm, 480mm, 503mm) and can accommodate multiple calibers including 5.56x45mm NATO, .300 Blackout, and 7.62x51mm NATO through interchangeable lower receivers. The rifle offers two control configurations: push-button magazine release for AR-15-trained users or paddle-style for G36-trained users.

Background

The HK433 was developed as Heckler & Koch's ambitious attempt to create a truly modular rifle platform that could unify different operator preferences and replace the controversial G36. Despite being technically advanced and featuring innovative dual-control modes, it lost the German military's System Sturmgewehr competition in 2020 to the smaller German manufacturer C.G. Haenel, marking a rare competitive setback for the iconic firearms company.