HK MP7 and HK MP7A1 Submachine Gun Personal Defense Weapon

Smaller than a conventional submachine gun, the 4.6 mm MP7A1 is a compact and lightweight Personal Defense Weapon that can be carried like a handgun yet is capable of rifle-like effectiveness. The HK-developed 4.6 mm x 30 ammunition provides the penetration approaching that of an assault rifle round and is able to defeat the types of body armor frequently found in the hands of terrorists and criminal gangs, in particular that of the former Soviet Bloc special forces, now the standard NATO test target (CRISAT).

In response to the NATO PDW requirement document D29, HK developed a Personal Defense Weapon system that will penetrate the CRISAT vest, comprised of 1.6 mm titanium plates and 20 layers of Kevlar, out to 200 meters and beyond. Adopted and fielded by several of the world’s leading special operations units, the gas-operated HK MP7A1 fires from the closed bolt position, using a rotary locking bolt system similar to that of the HK G36 assault rifle to contain the powerful 4.6 mm cartridge.

The MP7A1 handles like a pistol yet allows targets to be engaged like a rifle. With its 7-inch barrel, the HK MP7 A1 is capable of firing 10-shot semiautomatic groups at 45 meters of less than 2 inches. Unlike competing designs, the conventional and fully ambidextrous design of the MP7A1 ensures immediate acceptance by all users.

The MP7A1 is manufactured predominantly of carbon fiber reinforced polymer with embedded metal components where needed. The weapon can be field stripped in seconds without tools and requires little cleaning due to its unique gas system. The lethal 4.6 mm x 30 cartridge produces minimal felt recoil (50% of a 9 mm NATO round) to assure that multiple hits are easily obtainable in all modes of fire incapacitating the target through penetration and permanent tissue destruction.

The HK MP7A1 is fitted with a removable full length MIL-STD-1913 (Picatinny) rail on the top of the receiver for mounting a variety of optional targeting devices. Optional forearm rails are also available. Standard folding mechanical peep sights can be fitted to the top rail or an optional 24-hour reflex sight can be attached in seconds without tools. The reflex sight provides a single red aiming dot for 24-hour use when the weapon is fired from the shoulder or at arms length like a handgun. Special carrying devices are available for overt and discreet carry of the MP7A1. Due to its lightweight, small size and minimal width the MP7A1 is especially suitable for VIP protection details, pilots, drivers, guards, and support personnel who require hands-free carry of their defensive weapon while performing other tasks.

The MP7A1 size comparison...smaller than a submachine gun and only slightly larger than a conventional handgun. A 4.6mm steel ball round will penetrate a CRISAT target (the equivalent of a Soviet special forces bullet-proof vest) at 200 meters. Kevlar helmet penetration at 200 meters. The same 4.6 mm cartridge easily passes through automobile windshields with minimal deflection. The size of the MP7A1 make it ideal for air crew, drivers, and support personnel. A wide variety of accessories include suppressors and specialized sights. Carry options include concealed carry rigs, multi-purpose or elastic slings, and thigh holsters. Several ammunition types are available for a variety of mission requirements.