About the MP5
Quite possibly one of the most iconic firearms ever produced, the HK® MP5 is a versatile compat SMG, favored by law enforcement, special forces personnel, collectors, and tacticians worldwide, thanks to authentic HK German engineering, precise machining, and quality parts and components. Built upon a unique roller-delayed blowback design, the MP5 was initially introduced in 1964 and has become a mainstay among SWAT teams, police, and military units across the United States and more than 40 other countries across the globe.
What is a Roller-Delayed Blowback System?
The delayed blowback system is a direct descendant of the iconic direct blowback system, requiring fewer moving parts and is typically cheaper to produce than its predecessor. The action of the gun is held closed by heavy spring pressure the mass of the bolt, allowing the gases to cycle the action, eject the spent casing, and chamber a new cartridge in a fraction of a second.
Roller-delayed blowback operation uses rollers on the sides of the bolt to deliver smooth operation under extreme pressures. As the bolt head is driven back into the spring, the rollers are forced out into precision-machined slots in the receiver to temporarily prevent the rearward motion of the bolt head, while the bolt carrier is allowed to proceed rearwards. The rollers then drive the entire bolt and bolt carrier against the spring, allowing the bolt head to cycle fully, which leads to a substantial delay before the spent shell is extracted and the new cartridge is loaded. This delay allows gas pressure to dissipate and shrink to safe levels prior to ejection, eliminating jams and protecting against excessive wear and potential damage to the receiver. To further enhance reliability, many roller-delayed firearms incorporate a fluted chamber to assist with case extraction under higher-than-normal pressures.
Are There Less Expensive, Civilian-Legal MP5 Clones Out There?
Of course! As one of the most sought-after sub guns ever produced, there is a multitude of “economy-priced” MP5 clones, such as the Century Arms® AP5, Zenith® ZF-5, and the PTR® 9CT. Many of these clones are slightly cheaper than the HK MP5, and feature semi-auto ONLY fire controls, making it an attainable and non-NFA-regulated item.
Can I Use Aftermarket Magazines and Accessories with my HK MP5?
Sure can! The MP5 utilizes a common and easy-to-find tri-lug adaptor and modular tail cap, allowing civilians to attach a variety of MP5-compatible suppressors and pistol braces with ease. There is an ever-growing offering of aftermarket mags and tactical accessories for the MP5, allowing you to use a variety of factory and aftermarket magazines and tactical accessories without issue.
At GunMag Warehouse, we offer a huge selection of MP5 magazines, tactical lights, and accessories at competitive prices, designed to fit any budget. Shop our complete collection of MP5-compatible gear today and save big on your next trip to the range!