HK-72 has developed a predatory nature similar to those often associated with assassin droids. As a result, HK-72 will often approach a situation with the mind set of a hunter, and convey their findings as such. This can be disconcerting to others who are unaccustomed to HK-72.

This HK "Forty Seven Edition" Gladiator Droid has been upgraded with an experimental electrical defense grid that allows HK-72 to operate at normal capacity when hit with ionized electricity, and prevents any permanent damage or loss of functionality.

A retractable blade just over a foot in length has been installed inside this HK "Forty Seven Edition" Gladiator Droid, allowing it to defend itself and perform close quarters melee attacks without the need for an additional weapon.

HK-72 has been fitted with a built-in comlink that has been encrypted, allowing it to access and communicate securely and safely over various communications networks without additional gear.

HK-72 has had every external component painted a dark shade of matte gunmetal gray, in an attempt to minimize the brightness of external lights and features to better blend into the darkness and shadows in a multitude of environments. The specific color also aids in that HK-72's outer shell is non-reflective.

However, this coating has taken a beating from countless battles and incursions, showing the natural shade of the metal in the form of dents, dings and scratches. Additionally, the tint over HK-72's photoreceptors has faded from numerous cleanings — Especially when having to scrub off the carbon scoring due to blaster-fire — to allow the ultraviolet blue shade to shine through.