The HK45C (Compact) is a subcompact variant of the HK45, chambered in .45 ACP with an 8-round standard magazine capacity (10-round extended magazines available). It features a 3.9" cold hammer-forged barrel with polygonal rifling, overall length of 7.24", height of 5.51", width of 1.54", and an unloaded weight of 28.48 oz. The pistol incorporates HK's proven O-ring barrel system for enhanced accuracy and barrel-to-slide lockup. The modular grip backstrap system allows customization for different hand sizes, while the ambidextrous controls include dual slide releases and a reversible magazine release. The MIL-STD-1913 Picatinny rail accommodates lights and lasers, while the high-profile three-dot sights provide quick target acquisition. The HK45C comes in multiple variants with different trigger/safety configurations, including DA/SA and LEM (Law Enforcement Modification) options. Notable features include HK's proprietary mechanical recoil reduction system that reduces felt recoil and improves shooting comfort, hostile environment finish for superior corrosion resistance, and multiple internal safeties including a firing pin block. The pistol's ergonomic design features aggressive grip texturing, extended beavertail for high grip, and rounded edges for comfortable carry. The compact size makes it suitable for concealed carry while maintaining the robust reliability and accuracy characteristics of the full-size HK45. Additional features include a loaded chamber indicator, extended slide release lever, and compatibility with sound suppressors when equipped with a threaded barrel option.