Make: Made by Franchi for Heckler & Koch, imported by Kiesler Police Supply

Model: 512

Serial Number: S94001

Year of Manufacture: 1988 / ATF Classification: Modern

Caliber/Gauge: 12 Gauge, 2.75" Chamber

Action Type: Semi-auto, gas piston

Barrel Length: 18"

Choke: Factory vertically oriented Diverter choke installed.

Sights/Optics: The front sight is a raised beaded blade fixed to the barrel. The rear sight is a folding u-notch adjustable for windage and elevation. It is dovetailed into a base fixed to the barrel.

Grip/Stock Configuration & Condition: The furniture is a two-piece wood stock set, with a checkered semi-pistol grip, straight comb, checkered synthetic buttplate, and a checkered forend. The LOP measures 14.25" from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The furniture shows minimal wear. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the furniture rates in Excellent condition.

Type of Finish: Matte black

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is bright. There is no erosion in the bore. In this writer's opinion, the bore rates 10/10.

Overall Condition: This shotgun retains about 99% of its original metal finish. The finish shows minimal wear with only light operational marks on the diverter. The markings are clear and complete. Overall, this shotgun rates in Excellent condition.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this firearm. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: Manual

Our Assessment: This exceptionally scarce Heckler & Koch Model 512, serial number S94001, was manufactured in 1988 and stands as one of the most distinctive and limited-production combat shotguns of the late Cold War period. The HK 512 was developed as a purpose-built entry and breaching shotgun, most notably associated with Germany's elite counterterrorism unit, GSG-9. The shotgun's design emphasized rapid deployment, close-quarters effectiveness, and modular capability, reflecting the tactical evolution of European police and special operations forces in the post-1970s era.

Chambered in 12 gauge with a 2.75" chamber, this example retains its iconic muzzle-mounted diverter device, oriented vertically to pattern more similar to a human torso and reduce the chances of hitting bystanders or hostages. The bore rates a perfect 10 out of 10, and the action functions correctly, demonstrating excellent mechanical condition. The HK 512's association with GSG-9 and other specialized European units cemented its reputation as a highly specialized tool rather than a conventional sporting shotgun.

Approximately 99% of the original finish remains, presenting in near-new condition. The HK 512 is widely regarded as very rare on the commercial market, though exact import numbers vary by source. Some references suggest approximately 300 were imported, others cite 350, and some cite specific figures such as 358 or 343, underscoring its limited distribution and collector desirability. As a high-condition example retaining its distinctive diverter and documented connection to elite German counterterror units, this HK 512 represents a rare opportunity to own a purpose-built tactical shotgun with direct ties to modern European special operations history.