While it may be one of the most recognized guns on the planet, there are few people who have actually used and reviewed an HK MP5 submachine gun. They are commonly found in many tv shows, films, and video games as well as being common among military and law enforcement in several countries.
But how good is the HK MP5? We are here to give you an honest review and tell you why this gun is so highly used by thousands around the world. As a historic weapon, the MP5 quickly became one of the most circulated firearms in its class before beginning to be phased out by the UMP.
As a lightweight and versatile personal defense weapon, the MP5 was quick to become popular and has continued to be a hit since the 1960s. The change of the times to more close quarters combat also helped the MP5 rise in the market ranks. While the submachine gun has gone through many updates and models that include semi-auto and larger caliber options, the basics and fundamentals remain the same.
Build
The MP5 is a 9mm caliber submachine gun with a barrel length of 8.9”. An unloaded weight of 6.8 lbs lives up to it’s claim of being lightweight and with a matte black finish it has a sleek elegance to it.
As an upgrade to the popular G3, the MP5 sports cold hammer forged and free floating barrels as well as modern polymers. However, the MP5 is not the ergonomic gun on the market. It is small in size which is very convienient for overall handling in performance.
Plus, the MP5 design is very easy to accommodate tactical adjustments quickly which is imperative in law enforcement and military settings. The controls are natural and user friendly as well including the selective-fire switch. This, plus it’s collapsible stock and easily concealable size were some of the main reasons the MP5 became so popular.
Performance
The performance quality of an MP5 is legendary and well-known around the world. Much of this is thanks to HK’s decision to maintain the delayed blowback action in the gun. Despite the debate that blowback action firearms are more sensitive to ammo, the MP5 is easy to control and stays clean to it’s air-cooled build. Within 1000 rounds of shooting, the MP5 showed little failure to function.
Magazines and Accessories
Aftermarket options with the HK MP5 is most likely one of the best parts of this firearm. HK did not hold back with compatability and options for magazines and accessories. Beginning with magazines, you have your choice of 15, 30, or 40 rounds, with some models even being able to have 100 round drum mags. The magazines are detachable box mags, and HK also has options for magazine unloading and loading devices plus clamps.
For tactical excellence many owners of the MP5 choose to add attachmenets like lasers, flashlights, and optics. In reality, this firearm is compatible with many options on the aftermarket so really it’s dealer’s choice on which one is best for you.
