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Heckler & Koch MP5
Heckler & Koch MP5
Heckler & Koch MP5
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The Heckler & Koch MP5 (German: Maschinenpistole 5, lit. 'Submachine gun 5') is a submachine gun developed in the 1960s by German firearms manufacturer Heckler & Koch. It uses a similar modular design to the Heckler & Koch G3, and has over 100 variants and clones,[14] including selective fire, semi-automatic, suppressed, compact, and even marksman variants.[15] The MP5 is one of the most widely used submachine guns in the world, having been adopted by over forty nations and numerous militaries, police forces, intelligence agencies, security organizations, paramilitaries, and non-state actors.[16][17]

Key Information

Attempts at replacing the MP5 by Heckler & Koch began in the 1980s, but despite functional prototype weapons having promising performance, a formal successor did not enter commercial production until 1999, when Heckler & Koch developed the UMP.[18] However, despite being more expensive, the MP5 remained the more successful of the two designs, because of its preexisting widespread use, design familiarity, and lower recoil due to its roller-delayed action as opposed to the UMP's straight blowback action.[19]

History

[edit]

Heckler & Koch, encouraged by the success of the G3 battle rifle in 1959, developed a family of small arms consisting of four types of firearms all based on a common G3 design layout and operating principle. The first type was chambered for 7.62×51mm NATO, the second for 7.62×39mm M43, the third for 5.56×45mm NATO, and the fourth for 9×19mm Parabellum. The MP5 was created for the fourth type as the HK54; under the HK naming system, this categorizes it as a selective fire carbine chambered in a handgun cartridge.[20]

Development began in 1964, and in 1966 the HK54 was adopted by the Bundesgrenzschutz and by Bundeswehr special forces, initially as the MP64, before being redesignated as the MP5.[20] The MP5A1 was introduced in the late 1960s and was the first model to feature the front ring sight and "Slimline" handguard. In 1970, the MP5 and MP5A1 were superseded by the MP5A2 and MP5A3, improvements to the MP5A1 with a fixed stock and retracting stock respectively. In 1974, the MP5SD, an integrally-suppressed variant, was introduced, and in 1976, the MP5K, a redesigned compact variant, was developed per a request for a variant that suited close-quarters combat in South America. In 1977, the original straight magazines were replaced by curved steel magazines. In 1978, the "Tropical" handguard was introduced for the MP5.

In 1980, the MP5 achieved an iconic status during the Iranian Embassy siege, when British Army Special Air Service operatives used MP5s with top-mounted flashlights to assault the embassy and rescue the hostages held inside. Photos of the operation featuring MP5s were widely disseminated in the press and popular media, and drove other military and police units to purchase MP5s as well, quickly making the MP5 widely recognizable and associated with elite counterterrorist units.[21] The MP5 has since become a mainstay in militaries, special forces, and police tactical units across the world, but has gradually been replaced since the late 1990s by rifles, carbines, and personal defense weapons due to changes in armament trends, including growing access to body armor that can stop handgun projectiles.[22]

The MP5 is manufactured under license in several nations including Greece (formerly Hellenic Arms Industry, currently Hellenic Defence Systems), Iran (Defense Industries Organization), Mexico (SEDENA), Pakistan (Pakistan Ordnance Factories), Saudi Arabia, Sudan (Military Industry Corporation), Turkey (MKEK), and the United Kingdom (formerly Royal Ordnance, later moved to Heckler & Koch Great Britain).[23]

Design

[edit]
HK MP5 markings on the firearm

The primary version of the MP5 family is the MP5A2, which is a selective fire delayed blowback-operated 9×19mm Parabellum weapon. It fires from a closed bolt (bolt forward) position.[24]

The fixed, free-floating, cold hammer-forged barrel has six right-hand grooves with a 1 in 250 mm (1:10 in) rifling twist rate and is pressed and pinned into the receiver.[25]

Features

[edit]
A view through the MP5's iron sights

The first MP5 models used a double-column straight box magazine, but since 1977, slightly curved steel magazines have been used with a 15-round capacity (weighing 0.12 kg) or a 30-round capacity (0.17 kg empty).[25]

The adjustable iron sights (closed type) consist of a rotating rear diopter drum and a front post installed in a hooded ring. The rear sight is mechanically adjustable for both windage and elevation with the use of a special tool, being adjusted at the factory for firing at 25 metres (27 yd) with standard 8 grams (123 gr) FMJ 9×19mm NATO ammunition. The rear sight drum provides four apertures of varying diameters used to adjust the diopter system, according to the user's preference and tactical situation.[26] Changing between apertures does not change the point of impact down range.

The MP5 has a hammer firing mechanism. The trigger group is housed inside an interchangeable polymer trigger module (with an integrated pistol grip) and equipped with a three-position fire mode selector that serves as the manual safety toggle. Per HK trigger group standards, most MP5 variants have the option of "SEF" or "Navy" trigger groups, with further alterations based on the availability and type of burst fire; the "SE" and "0-1" trigger groups are only available for semi-automatic and civilian variants. While the "SEF" trigger group's fire selector lever is located on the left-hand side of the trigger, the SEF symbols themselves appear on both sides of the trigger grouping; the "Navy" trigger group, among others, are ambidextrous. The safety/selector is rotated into the various firing settings or safety position by depressing the tail end of the lever. Tactile clicks (stops) are present at each position to provide a positive stop and prevent inadvertent rotation. The "safe" setting disables the trigger by blocking the hammer release with a solid section of the safety axle located inside the trigger housing.[25]

The non-reciprocating cocking handle is located above the handguard and protrudes from the cocking handle tube at approximately a 45° angle. This rigid control is attached to a tubular piece within the cocking lever housing called the cocking lever support, which in turn makes contact with the forward extension of the bolt group. It is not however connected to the bolt carrier and therefore cannot be used as a forward assist to fully seat the bolt group. The cocking handle is held in a forward position by a spring detent located in the front end of the cocking lever support which engages in the cocking lever housing. The lever is locked back by pulling it fully to the rear and rotating it slightly clockwise where it can be hooked into an indent in the cocking lever tube.[25]

Operating mechanism

[edit]
The roller-delayed blowback mechanism, seen here in a 1966 U.S. patent, originated from the aborted StG 45(M) assault rifle prototypes developed in Nazi Germany at the end of World War II.

The bolt rigidly engages the barrel extension—a cylindrical component welded to the receiver into which the barrel is pinned. The delay mechanism is of the same design as that used in the G3 rifle. The two-part bolt consists of a bolt head with rollers and a bolt carrier. The heavier bolt carrier lies up against the bolt head when the weapon is ready to fire and inclined planes on the front locking piece lie between the rollers and force them out into recesses in the barrel extension.[27]

When fired, expanding propellant gases produced from the burning powder in the cartridge exert rearward pressure on the bolt head transferred through the base of the cartridge case as it is propelled out of the chamber. A portion of this force is transmitted through the rollers projecting from the bolt head, which are cammed inward against the inclined flanks of the locking recesses in the barrel extension and to the angled shoulders of the locking piece. The selected angles of the recesses and the incline on the locking piece produce a velocity ratio of about 4:1 between the bolt carrier and the bolt head. This results in a calculated delay, allowing the projectile to exit the barrel and gas pressure to drop to a safe level before the case is extracted from the chamber.[27]

The delay results from the amount of time it takes for enough recoil energy to be transferred through to the bolt carrier in a sufficient quantity for it to be driven to the rear against the force of inertia of the bolt carrier and the forward pressure exerted against the bolt by the recoil spring. As the rollers are forced inward they displace the locking piece and propel the bolt carrier to the rear. The bolt carrier's rearward velocity is four times that of the bolt head since the cartridge remains in the chamber for a short period of time during the initial recoil impulse. After the bolt carrier has travelled rearward 4 mm, the locking piece is withdrawn fully from the bolt head and the rollers are compressed into the bolt head. Only once the locking rollers are fully cammed into the bolt head can the entire bolt group continue its rearward movement in the receiver, breaking the seal in the chamber and continuing the feeding cycle.[27]

Since the 9×19mm Parabellum cartridge is relatively low powered, the bolt does not have an anti-bounce device like the G3, but instead the bolt carrier contains 32.5 g (1.15 oz) of tungsten granules that prevent the bolt group from bouncing back after impacting the barrel extension. The weapon has a fluted chamber that enhances extraction reliability by bleeding gases backwards into the shallow flutes running along the length of the chamber to prevent the cartridge case from expanding and sticking to the chamber walls (since the bolt is opened under relatively high barrel pressure). A spring extractor is installed inside the bolt head and holds the case securely until it strikes the ejector arm and is thrown out of the ejection port to the right of the receiver. The lever-type ejector is located inside the trigger housing (activated by the movement of the recoiling bolt).[27]

Accessories

[edit]

Barrel accessories

[edit]

Threading is provided at the muzzle to work with certain muzzle devices made by Heckler & Koch, including a slotted flash suppressor, a blank-firing adapter (marked with a red-painted band denoting use with blank ammunition only), a rifle grenade adapter (for use with rifle-style grenades with an inside diameter of 22 mm using a special grenade launching cartridge), and cup-type tear gas rifle grenade adapter. An optional "3-Lug" barrel is also available on some variants for mounting a quick-detachable suppressor.

MP5SD suppressor
[edit]
Cross-section diagram of an early MP5SD suppressor from 1971 patent, detailing its vented barrel surrounded by metal mesh packing in the expansion chambers, followed by conical baffles in the forward chambers

The MP5SD's 146 mm (5.7 in) barrel has 30 2.5 mm (0.1 in) ports drilled forward of the chamber through which escaping gases are diverted to the surrounding sealed tubular casing that is screwed onto threading on the barrel's external surface just prior to the ported segment. The MP5SD's integral suppressor itself is divided into two stages: the initial segment surrounding the ported barrel serves as an expansion chamber for the propellant gases, reducing gas pressure to slow down the acceleration of the projectile. The second decompression stage occupies the remaining length of the suppressor tube and contains a stamped metal helix separator with several compartments which increase the gas volume and decrease its temperature, deflecting the gases as they exit the muzzle, so muffling the exit report. The bullet leaves the muzzle at subsonic velocity, so it does not generate a sonic shock wave in flight. As a result of reducing the barrel's length and venting propellant gases into the suppressor, the bullet's muzzle velocity was lowered anywhere from 16% to 26% (depending on the ammunition used) while maintaining the weapon's automation and reliability.[25]

Receiver

[edit]

The receiver housing has a proprietary claw-rail mounting system that permits the attachment of a standard Heckler & Koch quick-detachable scope mount (also used with the G3, HK33, and G3SG/1). It can be used to mount daytime optical sights (telescopic 4×24), night sights, reflex sights, and laser sights. The mount features two spring-actuated bolts, positioned along the base of the mount, which exert pressure on the receiver to hold the mount in the same position at all times assuring zero retention. All versions of the quick-detachable scope mount provide a sighting tunnel through the mount so that the shooter can continue to use the fixed iron sights with the scope mount attached to the top of the receiver.

A Picatinny rail adapter can be placed on top that locks into the claw rails. This allows the mounting of STANAG scopes and has a lower profile than the claw-rail system.

Handguard

[edit]
An MP5A2 with an aftermarket "dedicated forend" tactical light-equipped handguard. Also note the fixed stock and jungle style magazines.

Standard MP5 variants have the option of two handguards: "Slimline", the original slim checkered metal handguard; and "Tropical", a wider and smoother polymer handguard introduced in 1978.

The MP5SD, MP5K, and SP89 have unique handguards owing to their design differences: the MP5SD handguard is similar to Slimline but larger to fit the integrated suppressor, the MP5K handguard has a built-in foregrip and handstop, and the SP89 handguard is similar to the MP5K's but extended and without the foregrip.

Aftermarket handguards also exist, including newer vented handguards based on the "Tropical" handguard, "dedicated forend" handguards featuring a built-in underbarrel tactical light, and rail integration system-equipped handguards to fit attachments.[28]

Variants

[edit]

MP5

[edit]
An MP5A3 with the "SEF" trigger group, a retractable stock, and the "Slimline" handguard
HK54
Original pre-designation model, introduced in 1964. It has a charcoal-gray phosphated finish rather than the matte-black lacquered finish used on later models. The handguard resembles the "Slimline" handguard but is narrower and has slots along it. Its bolt carrier is longer and heavier than that of the final MP5, and it uses a flip-up "ladder" rear sight similar to that used on early G3 models. It uses straight steel magazines with plastic followers and distinctive "waffle" rib imprints for reinforcement.[29]
MP5
The basic MP5, based on a modified and improved HK54, introduced in 1966. When first released, it had a gray phosphated finish, "Slimline" handguard, 8.9-inch barrel with "3-Lug" muzzle, and straight waffle magazines. Modernized improvements were introduced in the 1970s: proprietary "claw mount" rails for scope, laser, and flashlight attachments were introduced in 1973; un-ribbed curved magazines with chrome followers were introduced in 1977; the matte-black lacquered finish was introduced for export models also in 1977; and the polymer "Tropical" handguard was introduced in 1978.[29]
MP5A1
Standard MP5 with no stock and the "SEF" or "Navy" trigger group.[29][30]
MP5A2
Standard MP5 with a fixed stock and the "SEF" or "Navy" trigger group.[29]
MP5A3
Standard MP5 with a retractable stock and the "SEF" or "Navy" trigger group.[29]
MP5A4
Standard MP5 with a fixed stock, the "Navy 3-Round Burst" trigger group, and a straight pistol grip.[29]
MP5A5
Standard MP5 with a retractable stock, the "Navy 3-Round Burst" trigger group, and a straight pistol grip.[29]
MP5SF
Semi-automatic variant of the MP5 intended for the law enforcement and military markets, introduced in 1986 to meet a Federal Bureau of Investigation request for a "9mm semi-automatic carbine". Unlike the HK94, the semi-automatic MP5 variant for the civilian market, the MP5SF retains its standard 8.9-inch barrel. It has two variants: the MP5SFA2 with a fixed stock, and the MP5SFA3 with a retractable stock. It uses the "0-1" trigger group, but since 1991, it has been delivered with select-fire bolt carriers that make it capable of automatic fire if paired with an appropriate trigger group.[31]
MP5PT
Training variants of the MP5A4 and MP5A5. They are designed to use a plastic 9×19mm round developed by Dynamit Nobel.[32]
MP5N
Naval variant of the MP5, introduced in 1986 to meet a United States Navy request for a submachine gun effective aboard ships and in low-light conditions. It is essentially an MP5A3 with a retractable stock, "Navy 2-Round Burst" trigger group, tritium illuminated sights, and a custom "3-Lug" muzzle derivative for mounting a stainless steel suppressor produced by Knight's Armament Company (KAC).[26]
MP5F
Improved French variant of the MP5, introduced in 1999 to meet a French National Gendarmerie request for a suitable standard-issue submachine gun. It is essentially a modified and improved MP5A3, featuring a padded retractable stock, "Navy" trigger group, ambidextrous sling mounts, and internal improvements to handle high-pressure ammunition.[26]
MP5 Mid Life Improvement (MLI)
Modernized refresh of the MP5, introduced in 2015. It is based on the MP5A5 and features the MP5F's padded retractable stock, triple-rail "Slimline" handguard, "Navy 3-Round Burst" trigger group, quick-release sight mount or sight rail, and a RAL 8000 finish. Compatible components of the MP5 MLI can be switched out and retrofitted with other compatible MP5 variants.[33]

MP5SD

[edit]
An MP5SD3 with the "SEF" trigger group, a retractable stock, and the MP5SD suppressor and handguard

The MP5SD ("SD" meaning Schalldämpfer, German for "sound suppressor") is a variant of the MP5 with an integral suppressor, introduced in 1974.[34] The integral suppressor, built around its 5.7-inch barrel, uses a unique two-stage design that allows it to operate silently in most environments, including when wet, while still remaining reliable.[35] The distinctive size of the integral suppressor gives it a unique handguard design, with a modified charging handle to account for it. The MP5SD has a rate of fire of approximately 800 rounds per minute, and is intended for use with both standard and subsonic ammunition.[36]

Standard MP5SD with no stock and the "SEF" or "Navy" trigger group.[34]
MP5SD2
Standard MP5SD with a fixed stock and the "SEF" or "Navy" trigger group.[34]
MP5SD3
Standard MP5SD with a retractable stock and the "SEF" or "Navy" trigger group.[34]
MP5SD4
Standard MP5SD with no stock and the "SEF" or "Navy" trigger group. It is largely similar to the MP5SD1.[34]
MP5SD5
Standard MP5SD with a fixed stock and the "Navy 3-Round Burst" trigger group.[37]
MP5SD6
Standard MP5SD with a retractable stock and the "Navy 3-Round Burst" trigger group.[37]
MP5SDN-1
Naval variant of the MP5SD, with a retractable stock, the "Navy 2-Round Burst" trigger group, and the MP5N's KAC stainless steel suppressor.[37]
MP5SDN-2
Naval variant of the MP5SD, with a fixed stock, the "Navy 2-Round Burst" trigger group, and the MP5N's KAC stainless steel suppressor.[37]

MP5K

[edit]
An MP5K with the "Navy" trigger group, no stock, the MP5K foregrip handguard, and normal iron sights

The MP5K ("K" meaning Kurz, German for "short") is a redesigned compact variant of the MP5, introduced in 1976. Developed from the stockless MP5A1,[30] it features a 4.5-inch barrel incompatible with muzzle attachments, an endcap with sling mount instead of a stock, and a unique handguard with a built-in foregrip. Most components of the MP5K are shortened on account of its compact design, including its bolt, receiver, charging handle, cover, and trigger group frame; the lighter bolt gives it a higher rate of fire, at approximately 900 rounds per minute (as opposed to 800 rounds per minute with the regular MP5). Different variants of the MP5K use either unique open iron sights or redesigned fixed iron sights.[26]

MP5K Prototype
Stockless, cut-down MP5A2 with regular iron sights and an open vertical foregrip, developed in 1976.[30]
MP5KA1
Standard MP5K with the "SEF" trigger group, smooth upper surface, and small low-profile iron sights.[26]
MP5KA4
Standard MP5K with the "Navy 3-Round Burst" trigger group and regular iron sights.[26]
MP5KA5
Standard MP5K with the "Navy 3-Round Burst" trigger group, smooth upper surface, and small low-profile iron sights.[26]
MP5K-N
Naval variant of the MP5K, with the "Navy" trigger group and a custom "3-Lug" muzzle similar to that of the MP5N.[26]
MP5K-PDW
"Full-size" variant of the MP5K, introduced in 1991. It is designed to provide the benefits of the MP5K with the size and handling of a regular MP5, and is essentially a regular MP5K with a custom folding stock, "Navy" trigger group, and 5.5-inch barrel with a custom "3-Lug" muzzle similar to that of the MP5N but for a Qual-A-Tec suppressor. Despite its name, the MP5K-PDW is not a personal defense weapon, as it uses a handgun cartridge and not the sub-intermediate cartridges used by actual PDWs; rather, its name is derived from its intended use as a self-protection firearm for vehicle and aircraft crews.[37]
MP5K Operational Briefcase
Standard MP5K intended for use with the Spezialkoffer ("Special Case"), a custom briefcase built by Hofbauer GmbH with a modified claw mount for holding the MP5K, a firing port, and a trigger built into the briefcase handgrip, introduced in 1978. Intended for security details in close-range defense or suppressive fire situations, the MP5K Operational Briefcase uses a firing mechanism built into the briefcase to allow the MP5K to fire without taking time to remove it; however, it cannot be reloaded, cleared of obstructions, or emptied of spent shell casings without opening the briefcase and detaching the MP5K.[38]
MP5K Special Bag
Variant of the MP5K Operational Briefcase introduced around 1978, using a leather suitcase called the Spezialtasche ("Special Bag"). Instead of using the handgrip as a trigger, the Spezialtasche features a hidden opening that allows the user to discreetly reach into the bag and fire the MP5K directly.[38]
MP5K Falling Case
Variant of the MP5K Operational Briefcase introduced around 1978, using a detachable briefcase called the Zerfallkoffer ("Falling Case"). Instead of allowing the MP5K to fire within the case, the Zerfallkoffer's handgrip and claw mount is designed to be quickly detached from the briefcase, "shedding" it and allowing the MP5K to be used as normal, albeit with a carryhandle. The Zerfallkoffer is also compatible with the MP7.[38]

Rechambered variants

[edit]
An MP5/40 with a rail-equipped handguard and a polymer 30-round magazine

Though the MP5 is normally chambered in 9×19mm Parabellum, two variants and an unreleased kit existed that used different ammunition.[39]

MP5/10
MP5 chambered in 10mm Auto, introduced in 1992. It features either a fixed or retractable stock, the "Navy 2-Round Burst" trigger group, and the MP5N's custom "3-Lug" muzzle derivative and tritium illuminated sights. It includes a bolt hold-open device, which catches the bolt in its rear position when empty, and is released by pressing a lever on the left side of the receiver. It is fed by custom 30-round translucent straight magazines.[37] The MP5/10 was discontinued in 2000, but HK still offers support and spare parts.[39]
MP5/40
MP5 chambered in .40 S&W, introduced in 1992. It has largely the same features and configuration options of the MP5/10, and is fed by similar 30-round translucent straight magazines, but uses the regular "Navy" trigger group (without the burst-fire selection).[40] The MP5/40 was discontinued in 2000, but HK still offers support and spare parts.[39]
MP5 .22 LR
MP5 chambered in .22 Long Rifle, introduced around 2021. It comes in two variants: the MP5 .22 LR Rifle, which resembles an MP5SD3 with a 16.1-inch barrel hidden by a faux "integral suppressor" barrel shroud; and the MP5 .22 LR Pistol, which resembles an MP5A1 or MP5A3 with an 8.5-inch barrel. Both variants use the "Tropical" handguard and the "0-1" trigger group. Like all civilian market MP5 variants, it is semi-automatic only.[41]
MP5 .22 Long Rifle Rechambering Kit
Rechambering kit to convert an MP5 to .22 Long Rifle, introduced in the early 1970s and discontinued at an indeterminate point. The kit consisted of a barrel insert, a bolt group, and two 20-round magazines, and was mostly sold to law enforcement agencies for training purposes by easing trainees inexperienced with the MP5 into learning handling techniques and firing practice without the high recoil and cost of 9×19mm rounds. The conversion reduced the MP5's rate of fire to 650 rounds per minute. It was ultimately replaced by the MP5 .22 LR in 2021.
MP5 6.5×25mm Rechambering Kit
Rechambering kit to convert an MP5 to 6.5×25mm CBJ, which was proposed in the 2000s but never released. It would have allowed an MP5 to be rechambered simply by switching its barrel.[42]

Civilian variants

[edit]
An HK94 with a shortened barrel, the "0-1" trigger group, a retractable stock, the "Tropical" handguard, and an aftermarket ACOG sight
HK94
Civilian market variant of the MP5, imported to the United States civilian market from 1983 to 1989 (with a one-off final order for the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation delivered in 1991). It has a 16.54-inch barrel, "0-1" trigger group, push-button magazine release (as opposed to the paddle magazine release on regular MP5s), and a straight pistol grip similar to that on the MP5A4 and MP5A5. It has two variants: the HK94A2 with a fixed stock, and the HK94A3 with a retractable stock. Optional accessories included a handguard-mounted foregrip and a ventilated barrel shroud. The HK94 was particularly popular as a prop in film and television productions of the era, and blank-firing HK94s with "chopped" 8.9-inch barrels and fake automatic conversions were often used as cost-effective MP5 stand-ins well into the 2010s.[32][43]
HK94/SG-1
Accurized sharpshooting variant of the HK94, introduced in 1985. It was designed and intended for marksman fire in situations and environments where precise handgun cartridge fire may be needed, such as dense urban areas and indoor environments like prisons. It has a fixed match stock with a rubber buttpad and an adjustable cheekpiece, a folding bipod, a flash hider, and a Leupold 6x telescopic sight. A PSG1-inspired aftermarket trigger pack was also produced, featuring a target pistol grip and match trigger. The HK94/SG-1 did not sell very well due to its niche role and poor performance—it had poor range, penetration, and stopping power, and its Leupold scope was calibrated for .223 Remington and not 9×19mm—and only 50 units were imported to the U.S., primarily to target shooters and firearm collectors.[44]
SP89
Civilian market variant of the MP5K, imported to the U.S. between 1989 and 1994. To comply with the National Firearms Act, the SP89 features a redesigned handguard that replaces the MP5K's built-in foregrip with an extended barrel shroud. Like all civilian market MP5 variants, it is semi-automatic only.[43]
SP5K
Modernized SP89 for the American civilian market, imported to the U.S. as a pistol in 2017. It largely resembles the SP89, with a redesigned extended barrel shroud and a top-mounted Picatinny rail for sights. Like all civilian market MP5 variants, it is semi-automatic only.[45]
SP5
Modernized civilian market variant of the MP5 introduced in 2019, replacing the HK94. It resembles an MP5A2 with an 8.8-inch barrel, MP5K-style threaded adaptor, "Tropical" handguard, "0-1" trigger group, paddle magazine release, fluted chamber, and the buyer's choice of fixed stock, retractable stock, or endcap.[46]
SP5K-PDW
Modernized civilian market variant of the MP5K introduced in 2019, replacing the SP5K. It resembles an MP5K without its handguard foregrip. Like all civilian market MP5 variants, it is semi-automatic only.[47]

Prototypes

[edit]

Five prototype firearms based on the MP5 were developed by Heckler & Koch in the 1980s and 1990s, mostly intended as improved variants or potential successors, but were not developed any further.

HK54A1
Prototype improvement of the HK54, designed for the U.S. Navy Naval Weapons Support Center Crane's (NWSC) Joint Service Small Arms Program (JSSAP) in 1980. It was essentially a refreshed ambidextrous MP5SD with a redesigned retractable stock and compatibility with a 50-round drum magazine. It was designed to be suitable for frogmen and paratroopers in any environment, and was thus also designed to be reliably functional in extreme temperatures and while wearing bulky gloves. HK's proposal for the HK54A1 noted it could be converted to .45 ACP if necessary. An unknown number were produced for testing purposes out of regular MP5 components. The HK54A1 was never properly developed for field use, but it met most JSSAP requirements, drawing the attention of the U.S. government and leading to the development of the SMG I and SMG II.[48]
SMG I
Prototype derived from the HK54A1, first developed for the JSSAP between 1982 and 1983. It was intended to spawn a "family" of modular all-purpose submachine guns. Unique for HK, the SMG I used a simple blowback operation with separate lower and upper receivers and an easy-to-remove 5.8-inch barrel with an integral suppressor. It had a boxy body with a retractable stock and a diagonal foregrip. A mechanical and hydraulic buffer in the backplate and a timing device in the stock reduced its rate of fire to a manageable 500 rounds per minute, roughly half that of the HK54A1. The rear iron sight, resembling that of the HK21E, allowed for adjustments based on wind, ammunition type, and sight elevation, and also featured indents to assist with close-range point shooting. The trigger included an add-on to be used with bulkier gloves such as mittens. Only 20 handmade examples were produced. The SMG I was tested by NWSC Crane in 1984 and proved promising, but several minor issues prompted the development of the SMG II.[48][49][50]
SMG II
Prototype derived from the SMG I, developed around 1985. It has a largely identical design but addresses the issues reported by NWSC Crane. Its combination of the MP5, MP5SD, and MP5K was made more clear: analogous to the MP5 by default, the addition of a custom suppressor made it akin to the MP5SD, and the removal of the suppressor and retractable stock converted it into an MP5K-like automatic pistol. The three-round burst fire setting returned from the HK54A1. Several components were made from plastic to reduce weight, while the over-engineered rear sight was abandoned for a simpler MP5-style sight. Uniquely, the SMG II had a gas cylinder in the handguard with a gas relief valve on the receiver, used to control round velocity and thus also sound: the "L" setting reduced the propellant gases to fire rounds below the speed of sound—and thus without the usual crack of supersonic projectiles—for almost silent suppressed fire, while the "H" setting used all available gas to fire rounds at full velocity for reliable unsuppressed fire. Other internal changes were made to reduce cost and simplify production and maintenance, but otherwise the SMG II was largely just an improvement of the SMG I. Like the SMG I, only 20 handmade examples were produced for testing by NWSC Crane. While the SMG II again proved promising, it was ultimately abandoned, not for budgetary or technical concerns, but simply due to the success of the regular MP5 and its derivatives, which were already popular enough with the U.S. Navy and all other potential customers to make a replacement unnecessary; HK ultimately developed the MP5N for the U.S. Navy instead. Allegedly, between 60 and 80 additional SMG IIs were secretly commissioned for an unidentified U.S. government agency, possibly a member of the U.S. Intelligence Community, where they were favored by their users, but the lack of spare parts and the gradual move to higher-caliber firearms for close-quarters combat led to all of them being retired and melted down for disposal some time around 1999. Technical knowledge from the SMG II and the concept of a universal submachine gun were later repurposed for the MP2000 prototype and the UMP.[48][49][51]
MP5 PIP
Prototype developed around the late 1980s and early 1990s. Very little is known about the MP5 PIP or why it was developed, but it had a boxier body resembling the later UMP, a shorter diagonal magazine, and the "flipper" charging handle later used on the G36. Only one non-functional wooden mockup was produced.[52]
MP2000
Prototype derived from the SMG II, developed in the 1990s. It somewhat resembled the SMG II and featured a propellant gas-based round velocity silencing system similar to that of the SMG II. It was presumably an attempted revival of the SMG II concept to replace the MP5 for the 21st century. It is an immediate predecessor of the UMP, which was ultimately marketed as such.[48]

Other manufacturers

[edit]

Under license

[edit]
Name Origin Manufacturer Notes
Greece Hellenic Defence Systems [53]
Tondar Iran Defense Industries Organization MP5A3 copy[23]
Tondar Light MP5K copy[23]
Mexico SEDENA [54]
MP5P Pakistan Pakistan Ordnance Factories [55][56][57]
POF4
POF-5
Saudi Arabia Military Industries Corporation [58]
 Switzerland Brügger & Thomet [59]
Turkey MKEK With different trigger groups: E (Safe), T (Semi-Auto) and S (Full Auto).[60]
United Kingdom Royal Small Arms Factory [23]

Manufactured without license

[edit]
Name Origin Manufacturer Notes
NR-08 China Norinco MP5A4 copy[61]
NR-08A MP5A4 copy[62]
CS/LS3 MP5A5 copy, mainly for exports [59]
OFB Anamika 9mm India Indian Ordnance Factory MP5A3 copy[63]
Tihraga Sudan Military Industry Corporation MP5A3 and DIO Tondar copy.[64]

In the United States, PTR Industries,[65] Zenith Firearms,[66] Dakota Tactical,[67][68] and Century International Arms[69] manufacture semi-automatic clones of the MP5 that are legally classified as pistols. In 2007, Professional Arms demonstrated the MK5, an MP5 clone that could be rechambered between 9×19mm, .45 ACP, and .40 S&W.[70]

Users

[edit]
Worldwide users of the MP5 (former and current)
Country/Region Organization name Model Caliber Reference
Afghanistan Afghan National Army Pakistani-made (after 2001)

West German[71]

_ [72]
Zahir Qadir's Frontier Force [73]
Albania Garda e Republikës _ _ [74]
Batalioni i Operacioneve Speciale (BOS) K _ [citation needed]
 Algeria Algerian Police SD6, SD3, K, A3, A5 9mm [75]
Algerian Special Forces _ 9mm [citation needed]
Argentina Argentine Navy _ _ [76]
Argentine National Gendarmerie _ _ [76]
Argentine Federal Police _ _ [76]
Argentine Naval Prefecture A2 _ [76]
Australia Airfield Defence Guards of the Royal Australian Air Force A3 9mm [77]
Special Operations Command A3, K, SD 9mm [78]
Police Tactical Groups _ 9mm [79]
Bahrain _ _ _ [80]
Bangladesh Bangladesh Army _ _ [81]
Bangladesh SWAT Police _ _
Rapid Action Battalion, _ _
Special Warfare Diving And Salvage of the Bangladesh Navy _ _
Belarus "Almaz" anti-terrorist group A3, K 9mm [82]
KGB Alpha Group A3 9mm [83]
Belgium Law enforcement in Belgium _ 9mm [80]
Brazil Federal Police A2, A3, A5, SD3 9mm [84][85]
BOPE A5, K 9mm [86][85]
1º Batalhão de Forças Especiais KA4, SD1, SD6 9mm [87][85]
Brasilia Police A3 9mm [85]
Civil Police of Rio de Janeiro State _ _ [88]
Comando de Operações Taticas A5, SD6 9mm [85]
COMANF KA4, SD6 9mm [85]
Brunei Royal Brunei Police Force _ 9mm [89]
Bulgaria Specialized Anti-Terrorism Task Force SD3 9mm [90]
Cameroon _ _ _ [80]
Canada Royal Canadian Mounted Police A2, A3 _ [91]
Royal Canadian Navy
Sûreté du Québec [92]
Chile _ _ _ [80]
China People's Police NR-08, CS/LS3 _ [93][94]
Costa Rica UEA (Unidad Especial de Apoyo) Special Police Unit _ _ [95]
Croatia Lučko Anti-Terrorist Unit SD3 _ [96]
Cuba Black Wasp A3 _ [97]
Special Unit of MININT
Czech Republic Police of the Czech Republic A5, SD6, SA3, K _ [80]
Military of Czech Republic _ [98]
Democratic Republic of Congo _ _ _ [80]
Denmark Frogman Corps _ _ [99]
Danish Police
Ecuador National Police _ _ [100]
Egypt Unit 777 K, A3, A5, SD _ [101]
Egyptian National Police
Estonia Estonian Defence Forces A2 9mm [102]
Fiji - _ _ [103]
Finland Special operations forces and military police of the Finnish Defence Forces A3 9mm [104]
France Groupe d'Intervention de la Gendarmerie Nationale (GIGN) A5, K _ [99]
Certain specialized units within the French Army A5, SD3, F 9mm [105][106]
Georgia Georgian Special Forces K, SD, A3, A1 9mm [107]
Special State Protection Service (SSPS)
Coast Guard of Georgia
Germany Bundespolizei (Federal Police) _ _ [108]
Landespolizei (State Police) _ _
German Army _ _ [109]
Feldjäger (Military Police) _ _
GSG 9 police tactical unit _ _ [110]
German Navy _ _ [80]
SEK
Ghana _ _ _ [80]
Honduras _ _ _ [80]
Hong Kong Hong Kong Police Force SFA2、A3、A5、F、K、K-PDW、RAS、SD3、SK、S-N1、S-N2 _ [111][112]
Hong Kong Customs and Excise Department SFA3 _
Iceland Icelandic Coast Guard A2N 9 mm [113]
Víkingasveitin _ _ [114]
Icelandic National Police
India Indian Army _ _ [115]
MARCOS _ _
National Security Guards _ _
Force One counter-terrorism group of the Mumbai Police _ _
Mizoram Police _ _ _
Special Protection Group _ _ [116]
Kolkata Police _ _ _
Indonesia Kopassus (Special Forces Command) of the Indonesian Army. A3, SD2 9mm [117][118]
KOPASKA (Frogman Forces Command) of the Indonesian Navy. A3, SD3 9mm [99]
Denjaka (Counter-terrorism special operations force) of the Indonesian Navy. N, A2, K, SD2 9mm [118]
Korpasgat (Quick Reaction Forces Corps) of the Indonesian Air Force. K-PDW, SD3 9mm [119]
Detachment 88 (Counter-terrorism detachment) of the Indonesian National Police. A2, A3 9mm [120]
Iraq Counter Terrorist Service A3 [80]
Iran Iranian Army MPT-9 _
Ireland Army Ranger Wing A3, SD6, F, K 9mm [121]
Directorate of Military Intelligence[citation needed] _ _
Garda Special Detective Unit[citation needed] _ _
Garda Emergency Response Unit[citation needed] _ _
Italy Carabinieri _ _ [122]
Ivory Coast Unknown users A5 9mm [123]
Jamaica Jamaica Constabulary Force _ _ [80]
Japan Special Boarding Unit A5, SD6 9mm [124]
Special Assault Teams A4, A5
SD4, SD6 		_ [125]
Anti-firearms squads of prefectural police departments
Special Investigation Teams of prefectural police departments SFK _ [126]
Special Security Team of the Japan Coast Guard _ _ [127]
Japanese Special Forces Group SD6 9mm [128]
Japanese Imperial Guard _ _ [129]
Jordan _ _ _ [80]
Kuwait _ _ _ [130]
Kenya Kenya Police _ _ [131][132]
Latvia Latvian Land Forces A3 9mm [133]
Lebanon Marine Commandos A3 _ [134]
Libya _ _ [134]
Liechtenstein Special Police Unit _ _ [135][136]
Security Corps _ _
Lithuania Lithuanian Armed Forces _ _ [137]
Aras _ _ [138]
Luxembourg Unité Spéciale de la Police intervention unit of the Grand Ducal Police _ _ [139]
Macau Public Security Police Force
Polícia Judiciária
Correctional Services Bureau
 Malaysia Royal Malaysia Police A2, A3, K, SD2, SD3 9mm [140][141]
Royal Malaysian Customs [142]
10 Paratrooper Brigade commando of the Malaysian Army A3, SD2, SD3 [143]
National Special Operations Force (NSOF) _
Trup Tindakan Cepat special operations unit of the Malaysian Prison Department A3, SD3
Malta Armed Forces of Malta _ _ [80]
Mauritius _ _ _ [80]
Mexico Mexican Army A4 9mm [144]
 Morocco Royal Moroccan Army A2 9mm [145]
Royal Moroccan Navy _ _
Royal Moroccan Gendarmerie A2 9mm
Montenegro Armed Forces of Montenegro SD6, SD3, SD2, A5, A3, A2, K-PDW 9mm [146][147][148]
Protivteroristička Jedinica Policije (Counter-Terrorist Police Unit) (PTJ) SD3, A3, A2, K 9mm
Posebna Jedinica Policije (Special Police Unit) (PJP) SD3, A3, A2, K 9mm
  Nepal Nepalese Army _ _ [149]
Netherlands Dutch Royal and Diplomatic security (DKDB) _ _ [150]
Koninklijke Marechaussee A3 9mm
Dutch police _ _
New Zealand Special Air Service of the New Zealand Army _ _ [151]
Special Tactics Group of the New Zealand Police _ _
Nicaragua _ _ _ [80]
Niger _ _ _ [80]
Nigeria _ _ _ [80]
Norway Norwegian Armed Forces, replaced by the MP7 A2N, A3N 9mm [152]
Norwegian Police Service _ _ [153]
Pakistan Pakistan Army _ _ [154]
Airports Security Force _ _
Personal security detail of VIP's _ _
Peru Peruvian Army special forces SD3 _ [155]
Philippines Armed Forces of the Philippines _ _ [156]
Philippine National Police _ _
Philippine Coast Guard _ _ [157]
Poland Police of Poland A3, A5, SD6, KA4 9mm [158][159][160][161][162][163]
Portugal Special Operations Troops Centre A5, SD6, KA4 9mm [164]
Portuguese Marine Corps A5 9mm [165]
National Republican Guard _ 9mm [166]
Polícia de Segurança Pública _ 9mm [167]
Qatar _ _ _ [80]
Romania Romanian Special Operations Forces N 9mm [168]
Romanian Intelligence Service (SRI) Counter Terrorist Brigade (Brigada Antiteroristă) _ 9mm [169]
Brigada Specială de Intervenție a Jandarmeriei _ 9mm [170]
Detașamentul Special de Protecție și Intervenție _ 9mm [171]
Russia FSB Alpha Group A3 9mm [172][19]
Saudi Arabia Royal Saudi Land Forces A2, A3 9mm [23]
Serbia 72nd Reconnaissance-Commando Battalion SD3 _ [80]
Singapore Singapore Armed Forces Commando Formation _ 9mm [173]
Singapore Police Force _ [174][175]
Slovakia Slovak Police _ _ [176]
Slovenia Military Police of Slovenian Armed Forces _ _ [177]
SEP SWAT Special Police Unit of Slovenian Police _ _
South Africa Special Task Force of the South African Police Service N 9mm [178][179]
South African Special Forces SD3
South African Army
Maritime Reaction Squadron
South Korea Republic of Korea Naval Special Warfare Brigade _ _ [180]
Spain Grupo Especial de Operaciones _ _ [181]
Servicio de Vigilancia Aduanera (SVA)
Sudan Sudanese Army Locally assembled Iranian Tondar.[182] _ [54]
Sweden Swedish Police Authority A5 _ [183]
 Switzerland Swiss Army A3, A5, K _ [184]
Taiwan Republic of China Army _ _ [80]
Republic of China Marine Corps
Coast Guard Administration
National Police Agency
Thailand Royal Thai Police A2, A3 9mm [80]
Department of Corrections
Turkey Turkish Armed Forces A2, A3, SD3, K 9mm [110]
General Directorate of Security
Ukraine Rapid Operational Response Unit (KORD) A3 (MKEK) 9mm [185]
United Arab Emirates _ _ _ [80]
United Kingdom United Kingdom Special Forces (UKSF) _ 9mm [110]
Police Service of Northern Ireland SF 9mm [186]
Metropolitan Police Specialist Firearms Command (SCO-19) SF 9mm [187]
Other British police Authorised Firearms Officers SF 9mm [188]
United States Special Operations Command (SOCOM) N, K-N, SD-N 9mm [189]
Secret Service _ _ [190]
FBI Hostage Rescue Team MP5/10 10mm [191]
Law enforcement in the United States _ _
Uruguay Uruguayan Navy Special Forces A5 9mm [80]
Vatican City Swiss Guard _ _ [192]
Vietnam Mobile Police Command (CSCĐ) teams A3, K-A4 9mm [193]
Quick reaction force (113) police
Zambia _ _ _ [80]

Former users

[edit]
[edit]

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Heckler & Koch MP5

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
The Heckler & Koch MP5 is a compact chambered in , developed by the German firearms manufacturer in 1964 as a pistol-caliber companion to the G3 , featuring a roller-delayed blowback operating system that fires from a for enhanced accuracy and control. Designed under Project 64 (initially designated HK54), the MP5 emerged from engineering efforts led by a team including Helmut Baureuter, Manfred Guhring, Tilo Möller, and Georg Seidl, building on the proven roller-delayed mechanism first popularized in the and refined in the G3 to create a lightweight, reliable weapon suited for close-quarters combat. It was officially introduced in and quickly gained adoption by and law enforcement agencies worldwide, including the West German border police and counter-terrorism unit, due to its precision, low recoil, and versatility in urban and tactical scenarios. Key technical specifications include a cyclic rate of fire of approximately rounds per minute, a of 400 m/s with standard , and a standard 30-round magazine capacity, with the base model's barrel length measuring 225 mm and overall length varying from 680 mm (stock extended) to 550 mm (stock collapsed) for the MP5A3 variant. The weapon supports selective fire modes—semi-automatic, full-automatic, and in some models a 3-round burst—and weighs about 2.9 kg unloaded, making it ideal for room-clearing and hostage rescue operations. Over its service life, the MP5 has spawned numerous to meet evolving tactical needs, including the MP5A3 with a retractable stock for improved handling, the compact MP5K for by , and the integrally suppressed MP5SD for stealthy engagements, with mid-life improvements in the adding modular rails and reinforced components to counter modern threats like . Its enduring legacy stems from over five decades of global use by more than 40 countries' militaries and police, cementing its status as a benchmark for design in counter-terrorism and roles.

History

Development origins

The development of the Heckler & Koch MP5 began in 1964 as part of Project 64, an internal initiative at the German firearms manufacturer to design a compact optimized for police and applications, emphasizing reliability and controllability in close-quarters scenarios. This project built directly on Heckler & Koch's established engineering heritage, incorporating the roller-delayed blowback mechanism originally developed for the II-era MG42 machine gun and later refined in the G3 . Adapting this system—characterized by rollers that temporarily delay bolt movement to manage recoil from lower-pressure pistol cartridges—enabled safe and accurate operation with the 9 mm Parabellum round. Between 1965 and 1966, engineers Tilo Möller, Manfred Guhring, Helmut Baureuter, and Georg Seidl produced key prototypes under the HK 54 designation, testing configurations with varying barrel lengths and stock options to balance maneuverability, accuracy, and . The prototype was initially designated HK 54 and renamed MP5 for export markets following its domestic adoption. A pivotal feature of these prototypes was the closed-bolt firing mechanism, which enhanced safety by preventing discharges and improved overall precision compared to open-bolt designs common in submachine guns of the era; this innovation was supported by internal documentation and aligned with contemporaneous patent filings for the roller-delayed system, such as U.S. 3,283,435 granted in 1966.

Early adoption and notable deployments

The Heckler & Koch MP5 was adopted by the West German Federal Police and Border Guard (Bundesgrenzschutz) in 1966, marking its entry into service as a standard submachine gun for law enforcement and border security operations. This initial procurement followed extensive testing and reflected the weapon's suitability for close-quarters scenarios, leading to evaluations by NATO member nations in the late 1960s as interest grew in its roller-delayed blowback mechanism. The MP5's early integration into West German forces laid the groundwork for its role in specialized units, including the newly formed Grenzschutzgruppe 9 (GSG 9) counter-terrorism team established in 1972. The MP5 saw its first major combat exposure in the 1970s during high-stakes hostage rescue missions by . On October 18, 1977, during Operation Feuerzauber in , , commandos stormed the hijacked , using MP5 submachine guns to neutralize three terrorists and free all 86 passengers and crew without casualties among the hostages. This operation demonstrated the MP5's accuracy and controllability in dynamic, confined environments, solidifying its reputation for reliability in counter-terrorism tactics. The weapon's profile surged internationally with its prominent use by the British Special Air Service (SAS) during the 1980 Iranian Embassy siege in London. In Operation Nimrod on May 5, 1980, SAS troopers employed variants of the MP5—including the MP5A3 with retractable stock and the integrally suppressed MP5SD—to assault the building, killing five of the six hostage-takers and rescuing 26 civilians in a televised operation that highlighted the submachine gun's effectiveness in close-quarters battle. By 1980, the MP5 had expanded to over 20 countries, driven by its proven performance in hostage rescue scenarios and endorsements from elite units like and the SAS. This rapid proliferation among military and police forces underscored the weapon's adaptability and trustworthiness in high-risk interventions.

Design

Operating mechanism

The Heckler & Koch MP5 employs a roller-delayed blowback operating mechanism, which relies on mechanical delay rather than gas operation to manage and ensure safe cycling. In this system, the bolt head contains two cylindrical rollers that engage recesses in the barrel extension's , effectively locking the bolt during firing. When the cartridge ignites, the expanding gases exert pressure on the cartridge case, which pushes against the bolt face; this force compresses the rollers inward against inclined surfaces on the locking piece within the bolt carrier, delaying the bolt's rearward movement until chamber pressure has sufficiently dropped to a safe level—typically after the bullet has exited the barrel. The bolt carrier then travels rearward at approximately four times the speed of the bolt head due to the mechanical leverage, extracting the spent case and compressing the spring housed in the bolt carrier assembly. The MP5 fires from a closed-bolt position in both semi-automatic and full-automatic modes, with the bolt forward and a round fully chambered prior to ignition, enhancing first-shot accuracy and overall controllability compared to open-bolt designs. This configuration uses a striking a fixed , and the absence of a gas port means the system depends entirely on energy for operation, with no direct gas diversion from the barrel. Extraction occurs via a robust extractor on the bolt face, aided by flutes in the chamber that allow high-pressure gases to seep around the case for reliable removal, while a fixed ejector in the receiver imparts rightward ejection. The spring, guided by a rod and retained in the bolt carrier, then propels the assembly forward to strip and chamber the next round from the magazine. For maintenance, the MP5 features a simple field-stripping process that facilitates cleaning without specialized tools. To disassemble, first ensure the weapon is unloaded and the bolt is forward; depress the takedown on the rear of the receiver to remove the buttstock and attached recoil spring assembly, then pull the charging handle to extract the bolt carrier group. Separate the lower receiver by pushing out the pivot pin, and rotate the bolt head counterclockwise to disengage it from the carrier for of the rollers, locking piece, and spring components. Reassembly reverses these steps, with the recoil spring ensuring proper tension upon installation. This design minimizes wear on critical parts like the washers in the spring guide, promoting longevity in high-round-count environments.

Key features and ergonomics

The Heckler & Koch MP5 incorporates robust designed for rapid and accuracy, featuring a fixed front post sight and a rear adjustable drum sight with rotating apertures for 'V' and peep configurations, allowing precise adjustments for elevation and across various ranges. Optional optical mounts, such as the STANAG 4694 clamping profile rail, enable the attachment of sights compatible with equipment, enhancing versatility in low-light conditions. The MP5's controls emphasize intuitive operation through a select-fire trigger group housed in a black plastic housing, offering safe, semi-automatic, and full-automatic firing modes with a cyclic rate of approximately 800 rounds per minute. The selector lever, positioned on the left side of the receiver, provides clear detents for each mode, while ambidextrous configurations in variants like the MP5-N accommodate left- and right-handed users by mirroring the lever on both sides. Ergonomics are further improved by the fixed , which offers a comfortable angle for sustained control, and the optional vertical foregrip, which provides additional support to mitigate during full-automatic fire. The retractable steel stock, as seen in models like the MP5A3, locks into three positions to balance stability for aimed shots with compactness for storage or movement, retracting along the receiver to minimize the overall length to approximately 550 mm when fully collapsed. The MP5's design prioritizes balance and maneuverability, with its 225 mm barrel contributing to an unloaded weight of approximately 2.9 kg that distributes mass evenly for quick handling in close-quarters environments without excessive fatigue. This compact profile, combined with the roller-delayed blowback operating system, enables a lightweight build that supports accurate fire in confined spaces.

Accessories and attachments

The Heckler & Koch MP5 supports a range of barrel accessories that enhance its versatility in various operational environments. Many MP5 models feature a threaded muzzle, typically with a 1/2x28 thread on Navy-style barrels, enabling the attachment of suppressors, flash hiders, and compensators for management and reduced . Quick-detach systems, such as the three-lug barrel configuration, allow for rapid installation of compatible suppressors without tools, facilitating suppressed operations while maintaining the weapon's compact profile. Receiver modifications primarily revolve around rail systems designed to accommodate modern optics and aiming devices. The proprietary claw mount, which engages notches machined into the MP5's receiver, provides a secure platform for attaching MIL-STD-1913 Picatinny rails, allowing users to mount red dot sights, holographic optics, or laser aiming modules. For enhanced compatibility with equipment, the MP5 MLI upgrade includes a self-aligning STANAG 4694 clamping profile rail directly on the receiver, ensuring repeatable zeroing for reflex sights. These modifications preserve the MP5's roller-delayed blowback mechanism without requiring permanent alterations. Handguards and offer customizable to improve handling and stability. Replaceable handguards, such as the slim HKey with its keyhole attachment system, allow for the mounting of foregrips, lights, or modules while providing a secure grip during sustained fire. Folding , often constructed from reinforced or metal, collapse to reduce overall length for close-quarters use, with options for multi-position adjustability to accommodate . Cheek risers, integrated into select folding , enable precise eye alignment with , enhancing accuracy for users wearing helmets or protective gear. Additional accessories include slings and magazine enhancements that support tactical deployment. Quick-adjust slings attach via clips on the magazine well or sling points on the and handguard, enabling hands-free carry and rapid transitions. Extended magazine wells, compatible with the MP5's standard 30-round or higher-capacity options, facilitate faster reloads by flaring the entry for drum or extended . Breaching tools, such as muzzle-mounted shot shell adapters, integrate with the threaded barrel to deliver breaching charges without modifying the core platform.

Variants

Standard MP5 models

The standard MP5 models form the foundational full-sized variants of the Heckler & Koch MP5 , emphasizing reliability through roller-delayed blowback operation and progressive enhancements in stock design and firing controls. These models, chambered in , maintain a consistent 225 mm barrel length and overall length ranging from approximately 680 mm (fixed or extended stock) to 550 mm (retracted stock), with an unloaded weight around 2.5–3 kg depending on the stock type. The MP5A1, an early production model from the late , featured a simple fixed metal buttstock and the standard SEF (Sicher, Einzelschuss, Feuervoll) trigger group, enabling safe, semi-automatic, and full-automatic fire modes at a cyclic rate of about 800 rounds per minute. This was followed by the MP5A2 in the , which upgraded to a more durable fixed stock for improved while retaining the SEF trigger pack. The MP5A3 introduced a retractable tubular metal stock, allowing users to collapse it for or storage, enhancing versatility without altering the core firing mechanism. Further refinements appeared in the MP5A4 and MP5A5 during the , incorporating the trigger group developed for U.S. requirements. This ambidextrous pack expanded options to include , semi-automatic, three-round burst, and full-automatic modes, providing controlled fire for tactical scenarios while maintaining the A4's fixed stock and the A5's retractable stock. These evolutions prioritized modularity and user adaptability, with the group featuring pictographic selectors for intuitive operation across both sides of the weapon. The MP5F, introduced in the late specifically for the French Gendarmerie Nationale (internally designated MP5E2), represents a modernized standard variant with reinforced welded construction in key areas, such as the front sight base with dual ambidextrous sling attachment points, to withstand rigorous service demands. It adopts an enhanced retractable with a rubberized buttpad for better absorption and a suited to varied operators, while supporting optional ambidextrous extended selectors compatible with Navy-style triggers. Overall dimensions align closely with the MP5A3, ensuring interchangeability with existing accessories. Standard magazine capacity for these models is 30 rounds in curved steel box magazines, designed for reliable feeding from the closed-bolt position; 15-round straight magazines are available for reduced loadouts. options, such as 50-round units, provide extended capacity for sustained fire applications, though they increase overall weight and bulk. Trigger packs remain swappable across variants, with the SEF configuration standard for basic safe/semi/full-auto operation and the pack reserved for advanced users requiring burst capability.

Compact and suppressed variants

The compact variants of the Heckler & Koch MP5 were engineered for enhanced maneuverability in close-quarters battle and scenarios, particularly for and personal protection details. The MP5K (Kurz, meaning "short" in German), introduced in 1976, represents the foundational compact model with a 115 mm barrel, no stock, and an unloaded weight of 2 kg, enabling easy concealment under clothing or in briefcases while retaining the roller-delayed blowback mechanism and 9 mm x 19 caliber compatibility. Its design prioritizes rapid deployment in high-threat environments, such as VIP security, with a cyclic around 900 rounds per minute and support for 15- or 30-round magazines. Building on the MP5K, the MP5K-PDW () variant adds a side-folding metal stock and vertical foregrip to improve handling and accuracy during sustained fire, while featuring an extended 140 mm barrel threaded for suppressors or three-lug attachments. This configuration increases the overall length to approximately 369 mm when folded but enhances stability for vehicle crews or entry teams in restricted spaces, maintaining the same 9 mm chambering and options as the MP5K. Weighing about 2.5 kg empty, the PDW balances portability with tactical versatility, achieving a of around 375 m/s. The MP5SD series addresses stealth requirements for covert operations through integral suppression, comprising models SD1 through SD6 differentiated by stock types and trigger groups. These variants employ a vented 140 mm barrel with multiple ports near the chamber to bleed off gases, reducing to subsonic speeds below 340 m/s even with standard supersonic 9 mm , which in turn significantly reduces the audible report due to the lack of sonic crack and effective gas containment, making it suitable for covert operations. The design ensures compatibility with subsonic loads for further without altering the weapon's 800 rounds per minute cyclic rate or closed-bolt firing for enhanced accuracy. Specific configurations include the stockless SD1 and SD4 (the latter with a three-round burst option), fixed-stock SD2 and SD5, and retractable-stock SD3 and SD6, allowing adaptation to diverse mission profiles in units.

Rechambered and specialized variants

The Heckler & Koch MP5/10, chambered in , and the MP5/40, chambered in , represent specialized rechambered variants developed primarily for applications in the early 1990s. Introduced in 1992, these models addressed demands for increased over the standard 9mm Parabellum while retaining the core roller-delayed blowback mechanism of the MP5 platform. To accommodate the higher chamber pressures of these cartridges, the bolt carrier group was redesigned with heavier components, ensuring reliable cycling without significant alterations to the overall receiver or ergonomics. Both variants were produced in configurations with fixed or retractable stocks and translucent 30-round magazines, though production was limited compared to 9mm models due to the niche adoption of these calibers outside . Civilian adaptations of the MP5 platform emphasize semi-automatic operation to comply with U.S. federal regulations, transforming the select-fire into legal sporting firearms. The HK94, launched in 1983, served as the initial variant, featuring a 16-inch barrel to meet rifle length requirements under the , along with a fixed or collapsible stock for enhanced stability during recreational shooting. This model retained much of the MP5's iconic aesthetics and controls but omitted full-auto capability, making it accessible for civilian collectors and sport shooters prior to the 1994 Assault Weapons Ban. Following regulatory shifts, including ATF interpretations on pistol configurations, introduced the SP5 in 2019 as a variant with an 8.9-inch barrel, threaded muzzle, and no stock, allowing brace attachments for one-handed use while preserving the MP5's compact profile. The SP5K (2016) and SP5K-PDW (2020) offer compact alternatives, with the SP5K featuring a 4.5-inch barrel for and the SP5K-PDW adding a threaded extension and compatibility for stocks or braces. For cost-effective training and , authorized a .22 Long Rifle (LR) rimfire version in 2021, manufactured under license by to replicate the MP5's handling without the expense of . This semi-automatic model features a 16.1-inch barrel in rifle form or a shorter variant, both utilizing dedicated 10- or 25-round magazines adapted for rimfire feeding, with a faux suppressor shroud covering the extended barrel to evoke the original's suppressed aesthetics. The design prioritizes low and high-volume fire for skill development, though it requires caliber-specific components incompatible with 9mm parts. The MP5-N, developed in 1986 specifically for the , incorporates specialized features for maritime environments, including a corrosion-resistant finish to withstand saltwater exposure and a threaded barrel for suppressor attachment. Its defining element is the "Navy" trigger group, which adds a three-round burst mode alongside semi-automatic and full-automatic selections, accessible via an ambidextrous selector for enhanced control in close-quarters naval operations. This variant maintains the standard 9mm chambering but emphasizes durability and firing flexibility for like the Navy SEALs.

Production

Licensed manufacturing

Heckler & Koch has established licensed manufacturing agreements for the MP5 in multiple countries to meet regional demands while maintaining design integrity through oversight and technical transfer. These partnerships typically involve adherence to HK's precise engineering standards, including the roller-delayed blowback operating , with early production runs often incorporating key components like rollers and bolts sourced directly from to ensure compatibility and reliability. A prominent licensee is Makina ve Kimya Endüstrisi Kurumu (MKEK) in , which began producing the MP5 in the following a agreement with HK. Manufacturing occurs at MKEK's Kirikkale facility, where the MP5A3 and MP5K variants are assembled to HK specifications for use by the and security services. This ongoing production, valued at millions in contracts, emphasizes through licensed tooling and periodic audits, producing thousands of units annually for domestic and export markets. In Mexico, the Secretaría de la Defensa Nacional (SEDENA) operates licensed production of the MP5, including models tailored for the Mexican such as the MP5A2 and suppressed variants. SEDENA's facilities in and follow HK tolerances for the weapon's stamped steel receiver and delayed-blowback mechanism, with initial setups including German-sourced precision parts to replicate the original's accuracy and low recoil characteristics. These outputs support naval and have been integral to Mexico's defense inventory since the 1980s. Pakistan Ordnance Factories (POF) in Wah Cantt. has manufactured the MP5 under HK license since the , producing variants like the MP5P3 with retractable stocks for the . POF adheres to HK's dimensional standards, initially importing roller-delayed components from before localizing production, ensuring the 9x19mm Parabellum chambering and selective-fire capabilities match the original design. This partnership has yielded tens of thousands of units, primarily for military use. Other notable licensees include in , the in , and Al Kharj Arsenal in , which produce MP5 variants under HK agreements for regional forces.

Unauthorized production and clones

Unlicensed reproductions of the MP5 have proliferated in various regions, contributing to the spread of copies in and beyond, including the Chinese NR08, which was developed based on patterns from licensed productions. In , the Ordnance Factory Board reverse-engineered the design as the Anamika submachine gun for military and police use. In the United States, modern civilian clones emerged prominently after , with Firearms initially importing semi-automatic MP5-pattern firearms manufactured by Turkey's Makine ve Kimya Endüstrisi (MKE) under a separate HK licensing agreement for parts, before shifting to domestic production of the ZF-5 series to bypass import restrictions. Similarly, PTR Industries has developed roller-delayed blowback builds like the 9CT and 9KT pistols, replicating the MP5's mechanism using American-sourced components for civilian markets, emphasizing compatibility with original accessories. Quality among these unauthorized reproductions varies significantly, with some Asian copies, such as Indian Ordnance Factory Board's Anamika or Chinese NR08 models, exhibiting inferior metallurgy due to cost-cutting measures that compromise durability and precision in roller-delayed components. In contrast, high-fidelity U.S. clones from manufacturers like PTR and employ 4140 chrome-moly for barrels and receivers, providing enhanced strength and resistance to wear comparable to military-grade specifications while maintaining affordability for civilian users. During the early 2020s, U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) classifications under the 2023 pistol brace rule posed challenges for MP5 clone imports and configurations, potentially reclassifying braced variants like the Zenith ZF-5P or HK's own SP5 as short-barreled rifles requiring registration, which disrupted supply chains until the rule's vacatur in federal courts by mid-2025.

Operators

Current military and law enforcement users

The Heckler & Koch MP5 remains in active service with various elite military and units worldwide as of 2025, valued for its reliability in close-quarters battle, hostage rescue, and counter-terrorism operations, and is used by militaries and police in over 40 countries. In the United States, the MP5-N variant is employed by U.S. Command (SOCOM) units, including SEALs, for personal protection, covert operations, and boarding team missions, featuring a navalized design with a threaded barrel for suppressors and sights. Similarly, the United Kingdom's (SAS) utilizes the compact MP5K for counter-terrorism tasks, undercover work, and close protection, due to its concealable size under clothing and compatibility with for reduced over-penetration in urban environments. In , Germany's Grenzschutzgruppe 9 () continues to rely on the MP5 as its primary for counter-terrorism and high-risk interventions, including variants like the suppressed MP5SD3 paired with specialized 9mm ammunition for stealth operations. France's Recherche, Assistance, Intervention, Dissuasion (RAID) unit deploys the MP5F, a reinforced variant developed specifically for French , in tactical assaults and hostage rescues, with modifications for ambidextrous handling and high-pressure rounds. Australia's Federal Police maintains the MP5 in its operational response groups for specialized tactical duties, such as counter-terrorism and VIP protection. Regionally, in , Japan's (SAT) employs the MP5A5 for urban counter-terrorism and hostage rescue, appreciating its precision in confined spaces alongside other variants like the MP5SD6. In , South Africa's (SAPS) integrates the MP5 into training and operations for building clearance and high-risk arrests, often in conjunction with local assault rifles.

Former users and phase-outs

Several European nations have phased out the Heckler & Koch MP5 in favor of more modern personal defense weapons or short-barreled rifles, driven by the need for improved penetration against and enhanced modularity. In , the largely replaced the MP5 with the HK MP7 during the , retaining only limited variants such as the MP5A2N and A3N for units like . In the United States, some local police departments have transitioned away from the MP5 toward AR-15 pistol configurations or short-barreled since the mid-2010s, citing preferences for 5.56mm or .300 Blackout calibers that offer superior and reduced overpenetration risks compared to 9mm. This shift reflects broader trends post-high-profile incidents, where rifle platforms provide better performance against barriers and armored threats. In the , received U.S.-supplied MP5s as part of broader packages during the occupation, but following the 2011 withdrawal, significant portions of this equipment became surplus due to accountability issues and changing operational needs. Demilled units from these stocks have appeared in auctions, highlighting the logistical challenges of maintaining aging foreign-sourced . Key factors contributing to these phase-outs include the aging of MP5 stocks from decades of service, rising maintenance and logistics costs for proprietary 9mm systems, and a doctrinal preference for versatile, modular platforms like the HK416 that support rifle-caliber and accessory integration.

References

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