FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: (703) 450-1900
February 10, 2000
HECKLER & KOCH, INC. (HK) ANNOUNCES RECALL
OF UMP AND USC
Sterling, VA -- Heckler and Koch, Inc. (HK) is voluntarily recalling a
quantity of Universal Machine Pistol’s (UMP) and Universal
Sporting Carbine’s (USC) shipped since the last quarter of 1999,
effective immediately.
This recall was prompted by recent reports of approximately
twenty instances of breakage of the operating handle. The
operating handle, manufactured of a polymer composite, is used
to retract the bolt, allowing the user to load or unload the
weapon. If the operating handle breaks, the firearm is then
rendered inoperable.
HK is recalling UMP’s with serial numbers 163-001001 through
163-001200. USC’s with serial numbers 47-000102 through
47-002600 are also being recalled.
"While there is no possibility of harm to the user as a direct
result of operating handle breakage, HK is initiating this recall,
effective immediately, in the interest of the safety of our
customers," said Eoin Stafford, HK President. "This action only
serves to underscore HK’s commitment to providing the highest
quality product and best service possible. Most importantly, we
thank our customers for their patience and understanding as we
move to resolve this as quickly as possible."
All of the recalled firearms will be fitted with a newly-designed
operating handle by HK’s technical department at no charge.
Current UMP and USC product on order will be refitted prior to
shipment. The new operating handle is currently in production and
HK expects to commence installation within the next six to eight
weeks.
HK is recommending that USC and UMP owners not use their
firearms until the new handle is installed. Owners are requested
to please contact HK at (703) 450-1900, ext. 226 to confirm
shipment and installation procedure.