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There’s no denying the Heckler & Koch MP5 is one of the most iconic submachine guns ever made. Its full-auto cyclic rate was really controllable and is always worth a good smile. HK brought in their civilian legal MP5 models in the 1980s but in recent history has been extremely difficult to find on the market. Companies like Zenith, PTR and Dakota Tactical all make versions of the MP5. In the last few years, the HK SP5K has been on the market so we can actually buy the iconic gun from the people who made it a living legend.
Specs
The HK SP5K is based on the MP5K and more or less looks very similar from a couple noticeable changes. It’s still a roller delayed blowback system and can accept both 10 round magazine as well as 30 round magazines. The SP5K has a 4.5-inch barrel and is right around 4.2 pounds unloaded. The SP5K feels balanced in the hand and most of the controls are easily accessible. One thing that is different from traditional MP5Ks is the fact the SP5K doesn’t have a paddle magazine release and only has a button release. Instead of having a flush barrel or 3 lug barrel, the SP5K has a blast can at the end which gives the gun a different look from the iconic look it typically has. I purchased an SB Tactical SBT5KA brace as well to run on the gun and so far it’s been a great combination.
Out Of The Box
The SP5K came with two magazines, a sight tool, and a sling along with the typical instruction manual and hard case. The hard case is really nicely built and has custom foam inserts for the SP5K. The backplate of the gun had a loop to put the single point sling so you could carry it and use the sling as a support point while firing but I decided to put the SB Tactical SBT5KA brace on instead. I think the brace makes the SP5K a lot more functional and easier to shoot in general.
The accessory rail that comes standard is really well built and works great for mounting various optics. I ultimately decided on a Trijicon RMR with a Scalarworks mount. The height of the mount is very similar to a 1.93 mount for an AR with the ability to use the iron sights as well.
Range Time
Taking the SP5K out to the range was no disappointment. I took it out several times and shot roughly 1,200 rounds through the gun in my four or five range outings. The SP5K has a very gentle recoil impulse even compared to most PCCs on the market today. The roller delayed blowback system does a great job making it an extremely soft shooter. I was pleasantly surprised how accurate the little SP5K was even with a 4.5-inch barrel. I decided to back up and take shots at a 2/3 size steel silhouette and could consistently hit steel all the way back to 100 yards. The gun is extremely accurate and controllable despite its size. The SB Tactical Brace is partly to thank giving the extra support to connect hits on target along with using a red dot.
Some of the Negatives
The SP5K has been a great gun to shoot, but it’s not perfect. One of the toughest things to use is the push-button magazine release. The original models and most clone models will have the true paddle release along with a button release. The SP5K is different because it is a button only release. It was difficult to quickly release the magazine without taking both hands to release the mag. I couldn’t reach the button with my off hand unless I reached around the gun and hit it that way.
The original guns along with the military versions have a paddle release that works much better than the current set up. Luckily, it’s an easy fix by installing a paddle release bought from HK parts. The only other thing that is a negative to me is the price of $2,699. I understand it’s the only version from HK but priced that way, it’s not accessible to the majority of shooters. I think it’s on the high side but an opportunity for collectors and people who want to own a genuine MP5 style firearm from HK.
Overall Thoughts
Overall, the HK SP5K is a great gun and I love being able to take it out and shoot whenever at the range. It may be partially nostalgic or meeting your hero, but it’s a smooth shooting beast. The gun is very easy to shoot and I would expect nothing less from HK. The SP5K may have a couple small issues but as a whole, it’s a fantastic gun. With the limited availability of SP5Ks, I would say if you ever wanted to buy one that there is no better time than the present. HK has talked about halting production which will only drive prices up more in today’s market. Let me know what you guys think of the HK SP5K or other MP5 clones. If you have questions about the SP5K or anything else feel free to message me on my Instagram page @fridgeoperator. Stay safe out there.
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