Real MP5 or Clone? Century Arms AP5-P Test and Review

Published on December 28, 2025
Duration: 14:07

Elliott Delp provides a critical review of the Century Arms AP5-P, a clone of the HK MP5K. The review highlights the firearm's reliability over 500 rounds of 9mm without cleaning, its compatibility with suppressors, and the functionality of accessories like the SB Tactical brace and Holosun optic. However, significant ergonomic criticisms are raised regarding the safety selector's difficult manipulation. The AP5-P also demonstrated sensitivity to flat-nose ammunition, a drawback not shared by the original HK SP5. Despite these issues, the AP5-P is deemed a viable option for the average shooter due to its significantly lower price point compared to the HK SP5, though professionals or collectors might still prefer the original.

Quick Summary

The Century Arms AP5-P, a clone of the HK MP5K, offers good reliability over 500 rounds without cleaning but struggles with flat-nose 9mm ammo. Its safety selector is ergonomically challenging. Priced at $1500, it presents a significant value over the $3000 HK SP5 for average users, despite minor differences in trigger and grip quality.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction & Price Comparison
  2. 01:30Reliability & Initial Impressions
  3. 02:37Ergonomics & Safety Critique
  4. 03:59Barrel & Suppressor Compatibility
  5. 05:21Direct Comparison with HK SP5
  6. 08:34Ammo Sensitivity & PCC Market
  7. 11:17Final Verdict

Frequently Asked Questions

How reliable is the Century Arms AP5-P?

The Century Arms AP5-P demonstrated good reliability by firing over 500 rounds of 9mm ammunition without cleaning. However, it showed sensitivity to flat-nose 9mm ammunition, causing frequent jams, a characteristic not observed in the HK SP5.

What are the main ergonomic criticisms of the Century Arms AP5-P?

A significant ergonomic drawback of the AP5-P is its safety selector, which is difficult to manipulate without completely removing the hand from the firing grip. This contrasts with other platforms and can impact operational speed.

Is the Century Arms AP5-P worth the savings compared to the HK SP5?

For the average shooter, the AP5-P is recommended over the HK SP5 due to its substantial price difference ($1500 vs $3000). While the HK SP5 may offer slight advantages in trigger and grip, the value proposition of the AP5-P is strong for its cost.

What accessories are compatible with the Century Arms AP5-P?

The AP5-P features a 5.75-inch cold hammer-forged barrel with a tri-lug mount and threaded muzzle, allowing easy attachment of suppressors like the Otter Creek Labs model. It also accommodates accessories like the SB Tactical folding brace and Holosun red dot optics.

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