Enterprising collectors, shooters, and hobbyists that are HK fanatics have a choice when it comes to what is likely the company’s most infamous design of all time, and certainly one of the most influential subguns of all time, the MP5.

Should you buy one, or build a platform that’s effectively (though not technically) the same?

There are some additional considerations that you should take with each of these avenues.

Buying an HK MP5

The first avenue is the most straightforward, even though there are some factors that should be considered that might complicate it.

First, from a high level, buying an HK MP5 is theoretically like buying any other NFA firearm. You find one at a shop, do the NFA paperwork, submit for the NICS check, and it’s yours. The process might be a little simpler if you find a semi-auto only variant, such as the SP5, the civilian variant, but basically, that’s how it works.

Of course, that assumes you can find one. Real MP5 subguns (and variants) from HK are in infamously short supply.

That also assumes you have the money to spend on it, or even want to. As infamous as the platform is for its rarity, it is equally notorious for the price. Depending on variant, condition, and the whim of the seller, a real HK MP5 could set you back 10K or even much more than that.

One potential workaround here that is still functionally the same is to buy an MP5 clone. There are a lot of MP5 lookalikes out there, even some that are built around the same principle of a roller-delayed blowback action. 

This brings us to another potential option, especially if you have the time and mechanical knowledge to pull it off. You could also build an MP5-adjacent design from an MP5 upper and parts.

Building an MP5-Inspired Platform

You also have the option to build an MP5-inspired platform or a clone with an MP5 upper receiver, lower receiver, barrel, bolt group, cocking tube, handguard, springs, pins, and some other parts and hardware.

This avenue may be more effective if you can’t find an actual MP5 and are alright with building a platform that captures the details of an MP5 even if it doesn’t have the official HK stamp.

Going the “build” route also gives you the flexibility to customize the build as you see fit along the way, which will give you greater control over the performance of the finishing platform.

All in all, there isn’t a right or wrong answer here. It all comes down to what you want, how familiar you are with firearm assembly and mechanics, how much you want to spend, and availability in your area.

Where to Get MP5-Compatible Parts

For those of you thinking about following the latter route, visit Zenith Firearms. Not only do they carry a wide range of MP5 parts, but they also carry MP5 uppers, including blemished uppers that can save you a little on the build.

Visit their website and get in touch with them if you have any questions before you take on the project.

For more information about Roller Delayed Pcc and Mp5 Accessories Please Visit : Zenith Firearms.