Arguably the world’s most common submachine gun: the MP5. The only notable competition? The Israeli Uzi. We can’t pretend to argue for or against either admired platform; they’re both outstanding. But there are a few common disputes for each weapon’s utility. Both platforms were originally chambered for 9mm, (though both have additional chamberings now), for lighter weight and less recoil. While the Uzi weighs an empty 7.72 pounds, the MP5 dominates with a mere 5.5 empty weight. The stockless Uzi is an insane 10 inches shorter than the first MP5 due to the telescoping bolt design. The MP5 is closed bolt; the Uzi is open bolt. They’re both respected for good reason.

Regardless, German weapon designers recognized the success of the HK G3 during its adoption by the West German Army in 1959. With the G3 as the foundation, four German designers drafted the first MP5 (short for Maschinenpistole 5 — translation Submachine gun 5) in the early 1960’s. Two years after conception, the MP5 was adopted by German police and border guard. Numerous German law enforcement groups still use it today, as well as 40 other nations, including a prevalence in many American SWAT teams. Today, there are over 100 MP5 variants, including large caliber, semi-auto, K versions, and (our favorite) suppressed.

H&K formed the suppressed MP5SD (SD — Schalldämpfer German for “sound suppressor”) in 1974. This particular model was designed to be quieter and more discrete. The integral (and detachable) sound suppressor reduces sound report. In addition, the SD model keeps bullet velocity reliably subsonic, negating audible sonic crack. This particular version was designed for use only with supersonic ammo and the suppressor attached. And since we can’t stop at “good,” we sought for “better,” inventing an alternate MP5SD can. If you haven’t seen our shorter and quieter version, you can check it out here.

While the MP5 often features in the hands of celebrities, appearing in movies like Die Hard and the Matrix, it wasn’t always Hollywood’s go-to gun. British SAS commandos stormed the Iranian Embassy in London, guarded with MP5’s. Soldiers rescued all but one hostage and killed five of the six terrorists in a mere 17 minutes. The remaining gunman was prosecuted shortly thereafter. The entire operation was broadcasted on live television at peak times, and viewed by millions of people. This SAS assignment, Operation Nimrod, is often considered responsible for the MP5’s iconic status.

A year later, the British country of Gambia was overtaken by a coup. Two SAS men armed with MP5s infiltrated the country, took on a whopping 400 rebels, and won. This operation reinstated the country’s legally-elected government. So, yeah. It’s a pretty reliable, pretty kickass, firearm.