HK MP7A1 PDW 4.6x30mm Submachine Gun

The Heckler & Koch MP7A1 is a personal defense weapon that can be carried like a handgun but has rifle-like effectiveness. It is smaller than a conventional submachine gun, compact, and lightweight.

The HK-developed 4.6 x 30 mm ammunition has penetration comparable to an assault rifle round and is capable of defeating the types of body armor commonly found in the hands of terrorists and criminal gangs, particularly that of former Soviet Bloc special forces, which is now the standard NATO test target (CRISAT).

In response to NATO PDW requirement document D29, HK created a Personal Defense Weapon system capable of penetrating the CRISAT vest, which is made of 1.6mm titanium plates and 20 layers of Kevlar, out to 200 meters and beyond.

The gas-operated MP7A1 is used by several of the world’s top special operations units and fires from the closed bolt position, employing a rotary locking bolt system similar to that of the HK G36 assault rifle to contain the powerful 4.6mm cartridge.

The MP7A1 handles like a pistol but can engage targets like a rifle. The HK MP7A1’s 7-inch barrel allows it to fire 10-shot semiautomatic groups of less than 2 inches at 45 meters. In contrast to competing designs, the MP7A1’s conventional handgun-like appearance and fully ambidextrous design ensures immediate acceptance by all users.

The MP7A1 is primarily made of carbon fiber reinforced polymer, with embedded metal components where necessary. Due to its unique gas system, the weapon can be field stripped in seconds without the use of tools and requires little cleaning.

The lethal 4.6 x 30mm cartridge has minimal felt recoil (half that of a 9mm NATO round) to ensure that multiple hits are easily obtained in all modes of fire—incapacitating the target through penetration and permanent tissue destruction.

On the top of the receiver, the MP7A1 has a removable full length MIL-STD-1913 (Picatinny) rail for mounting a variety of optional targeting devices. Forearm rails are also available as an option. Standard folding mechanical peep sights or an optional 24-hour reflex sight can be attached to the top rail in seconds without the use of tools. When the weapon is fired from the shoulder or at arms length, the reflex sight provides a single red aiming dot for 24-hour use.

There are special carrying devices available for both overt and covert carrying of the MP7A1. The MP7A1 is ideal for VIP protection details, pilots, drivers, guards, and support personnel who require hands-free carry of their defensive weapon while performing other tasks due to its lightweight, small size, and minimal width.