The Heckler and Koch MP7 is one of a new class of compact automatic sidearms known as Personal Defense Weapons (PDW). In military use, these are weapons designed for back-up troops such as convoy or support personnel who do not normally carry a full-size assault rifle but need more firepower than a conventional handgun. They are also favored by police departments and domestic security agents for anti-terrorist operations. In production since 2001, the receiver and many other structural components of the MP7 are made of lightweight polymer plastic. With its telescoping butt-stock and pistol grip, it is easily convertible from handgun to body-braced sidearm. In full-auto mode, the MP7 can fire up to 900 rounds per minute of special high-velocity, low-recoil ammunition capable of penetrating body armor and helmets.
Ammunition
- The Heckler and Koch MP7 fires 4.6 x 30 mm cartridges with all-steel bullets. This ammunition is unique to the MP7 and fires at a muzzle velocity of 2,400 feet per second. It has an effective range of 200 meters (600-plus yards).
Additional ammunition options in this caliber include tracers and frangible and spoon-tip rounds.
Action
- The operating action of the MP7 is a gas-operated, rotating bolt design similar to full-size assault weapons like the AK-47. It has a mode selector switch for semi-auto or full-auto operation.
Magazine
- The MP7 is fed by a removable, box-style magazine incorporated into the pistol grip. Magazine capacities of 20, 30 and 40 rounds are available.
Dimensions
- The Heckler and Koch MP7 measures 13.4 inches with the stock retracted and 21.2 inches with stock extended. Its barrel length is 7.1 inches. The weight of the MP7 is 3.96 lbs. empty and 4.4 lbs. with a loaded 40-round magazine.
Users
- In May, 2011, the principal agencies issuing the Heckler and Koch MP7 included the German Federal Defense Force, the Norwegian Army, the United Kingdom Ministry of Defense and the South Korean police.
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