Manufacturer Review: Zenith Firearms

Zenith Firearms background and MP5 roots

The conversation opens with an introduction to Zenith Firearms and its move from importing roller-delayed firearms to designing and manufacturing its own in the United States. Based in Virginia at the foot of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Zenith spent years working with MP5-style platforms, importing, using, and repairing them. That experience led the company to identify areas for improvement on the classic roller-delayed system originally developed by HK in Germany. Zenith now produces its own American-made roller-delayed firearms, including MP5-style models and the newer ZF 56 series, while also holding military contracts and focusing on tight tolerances and modern manufacturing methods.

ZF-5 design improvements and parts reduction

Zenith’s work on the MP5 platform led to several design changes in the ZF-5 series. The cocking tube, a critical component for smooth operation, is machined as a single monolithic piece rather than being assembled from multiple parts. The trigger pack is also monolithic, simplifying the internal layout compared to traditional HK-style MP5 trigger groups. These changes reduce the overall parts count from roughly 177 components to around 133, with less welding and fewer individual pieces. The goal is increased durability, easier cleaning, and improved reliability by minimizing potential failure points while maintaining the proven roller-delayed operating system.

ZF-5 variants and MP5-style options

The discussion then focuses on specific ZF-5 variants. Zenith emphasizes that these are not MP5s but ZF-5 firearms built on the same roller-delayed concept. The ZF-5P is the shortest version, roughly equivalent to an MP5K, while the standard ZF-5 represents the full-size configuration. All are semi-automatic. Zenith offers different front-end options, including tri-lug, threaded, or non-threaded barrels, giving users flexibility for muzzle devices or suppressor mounting. The hosts note that many companies now produce MP5-style firearms, but highlight the ZF-5 series as one of the better MP5-based options they have used, particularly praising the ZF-5P variant for its shooting characteristics.

Introduction to the ZF-56 roller-delayed rifle

Attention shifts to the ZF-56, described as a new, American-designed and American-made roller-delayed platform. Drawing on a decade of MP5 manufacturing experience, Zenith set out to create a rifle that keeps the roller-delayed “bones” and HK-inspired operating system but integrates AR-style ergonomics. The ZF-56 uses AR magazines, has an AR-like appearance, and incorporates a bolt lock feature that traditional MP5 platforms lack, eliminating the need for a classic MP5-style cocking handle to keep the gun running. Controls are modernized with compatibility for various triggers, magazine releases, and ambidextrous safety selectors, aiming for familiar handling for shooters used to AR-pattern rifles.

Caliber options and future ZF-56 family plans

Zenith outlines the caliber strategy for the ZF-56 family. The initial releases are chambered in 5.56 and 300 Blackout, launched at the same time. The hosts highlight the novelty of a roller-delayed 300 Blackout platform, noting that 300 Blackout is already soft shooting, and combining it with roller delay should make it even smoother, including with suppressed use. Zenith plans to expand the ZF-56 line to additional calibers while keeping a consistent external family look. Future variants are expected in 9mm, 10mm, 7.62x51, and 7.62x39, with each model sharing the same general platform and controls to maintain familiarity across different chamberings.

Handguard design, cooling, and customization

The ZF-56 handguard design is discussed in detail. The handguards are notably robust and somewhat large because the roller-delayed operating system sits in the upper portion, while the lower area provides space for a planned cooling system. Zenith intends to use the extra room and slightly longer barrels to integrate cooling features so shooters can fire longer strings without excessive heat buildup. The M-LOK handguard also offers better purchase when hot. The rear of the rifle is designed to accept common adapters, such as 1913 Picatinny rail sections, enabling users to mount various folding stocks or braces. Built-in QD sling sockets, end plate options, and ambidextrous controls further support customization out of the box.

Barrel lengths, 300 Blackout, and user feedback

Barrel length options for the ZF-56 are covered next. Zenith offers 16-inch, 14.5-inch, and 12-inch configurations for both 5.56 and 300 Blackout versions. The hosts discuss how 300 Blackout often performs well with shorter barrels, mentioning around 9 inches as a common length for achieving full powder burn, and suggest that a 9-inch option could be ideal. Zenith’s owner listens to this feedback and takes notes during the conversation, indicating a willingness to adjust future offerings based on shooter input. The hosts encourage viewers to comment with suggestions for improvements, desired barrel lengths, and other features they would like to see added to the ZF-56 lineup.

Future calibers, magazine compatibility, and closing

The video closes with speculation about additional calibers and magazine compatibility. Beyond the planned 5.56, 300 Blackout, 7.62x51, 7.62x39, 9mm, and 10mm variants, the hosts float ideas like .45 ACP or .40 S&W to potentially use UMP magazines, though these are presented as suggestions rather than confirmed projects. Zenith notes that the 7.62x51 version is expected to accept PMAGs, while the 9mm model is planned to use Glock magazines, aligning with widely available magazine standards. The hosts reiterate their interest in future ZF-56 configurations and emphasize Zenith’s responsiveness to user feedback as the company continues developing its roller-delayed rifle family.