The Century Arms AP5SD (The AP5 Improved?!)

MP5 history and the AP5 SD concept

The discussion opens with an overview of the Century Arms AP5 SD and its roots in the legendary MP5 platform. The hosts note that MP5 and MP5-style guns have seen use in nearly every conflict since the mid-1960s, with the design originating in the early 1960s and entering service around 1966. They reference its continued use by various militaries, special units, and law enforcement, including ship-boarding roles for units like the SEALs. The British SAS embassy hostage rescue in the 1980s is cited as a moment when the MP5 became widely recognized, complete with large lights mounted on the guns. Despite newer technology, they emphasize that MP5 variants remain in service worldwide and are still seen in places like Istanbul airports, underscoring the platform’s enduring relevance.

AP5 SD configuration and features

Attention turns to what makes the AP5 SD distinct. The hosts clarify that this model is SD-looking rather than a true integrally suppressed MP5SD. The barrel is covered by a dummy shroud that provides the classic SD profile but does not function as an integral suppressor. The shroud can be unscrewed, allowing users to pursue a Form 1 build or attach a separate suppressor via a Form 4 can. The gun arrives from Century Arms with SD-style handguard and shroud, as well as selector markings that mimic Navy-style fire control indicators, though the gun remains a semi-auto pistol. They briefly mention that owners could install components like a Franklin Armory binary trigger or an auto sear pack, while stressing that the factory configuration is a straightforward semi-automatic AP5 SD pistol.

Optics, brace, and sighting setup

The AP5 SD in the video is configured as a pistol with a Magpul brace attached at the rear. The hosts describe the Magpul brace as collapsible and notably stable, with a QD sling point at the back, making it practical for temporary shouldering and sling use. A 30-round MP5-pattern magazine is used, maintaining the classic MP5 magazine profile. On top, they have mounted an EOTech optic, though they point out that the gun looks and functions well even without it. The AP5 SD retains classic HK-style sights, including a rear diopter that can be rotated for different apertures. The combination of brace, red dot, and diopter sights is presented as a flexible setup, while the hosts also appreciate the clean, traditional appearance of the gun when the optic is removed.

Shooting with the faux SD shroud

They begin live fire with the AP5 SD configured as it comes from Century Arms, using the faux SD shroud. The hosts emphasize that, in this state, the shroud is purely cosmetic and does not provide sound suppression. Even so, the gun delivers the familiar MP5 shooting experience. They comment on the overall feel and note that the platform remains controllable and enjoyable. The conversation includes some light banter about magazines and preferences, but the key point is that the AP5 SD, even with only the inert shroud installed, still captures the MP5SD aesthetic and handling characteristics. This configuration serves as a baseline before they move on to testing a real suppressor threaded onto the muzzle once the shroud is removed.

PTR Vent 3 suppressor performance

After demonstrating the faux SD setup, the hosts install a PTR Vent 3 suppressor on the AP5 SD. One of them mentions having tried this can at SHOT Show 2024 range day and being impressed by its performance on MP5-style guns. On the range, they describe the Vent 3 as very quiet and well-suited to the platform. During firing, they note that the gun feels extremely soft, with recoil described as minimal to the point of feeling almost like an airsoft gun if the action noise could be removed. They mention that some of the ammunition appears to be supersonic, but the suppressor still keeps the overall report comfortable, allowing shooting without ear protection in this demonstration. The Vent 3 is portrayed as doing “complete justice” to the AP5 SD when used as a thread-on can.

Heat management, ergonomics, and customization

Following the suppressed shooting, the hosts discuss heat and ergonomics. The SD-style handguard is described as having a PVC, corrugated-pipe feel reminiscent of older MP5SD designs. They report feeling no significant heat through the handguard, even after firing, and note that the suppressor is smoking while the shooter’s support hand remains comfortable. The AP5 SD is characterized as, for all practical purposes, an MP5 in terms of handling. They highlight the SD-style markings and overall look, and then shift to customization potential. Owners can swap the handguard for M-LOK options, add accessories like UTG or B&T mounts, and generally “Gucci” the gun if desired. At the same time, they acknowledge that some users will prefer to keep the SD configuration as original-looking as possible.

Final impressions on the AP5 SD platform

In closing, the hosts reiterate that the Century Arms AP5 SD delivers the MP5SD aesthetic while functioning as a semi-auto pistol with a faux integral shroud and the option to run a thread-on suppressor. They mention other AP5 variants, including a K version, and express a strong preference for running MP5-style guns suppressed, stating that the platform simply shoots, feels, and sounds better that way. The conversation touches again on the appeal of owning multiple configurations to preserve the SD look while also having a more accessorized setup. They encourage viewers to look into the AP5 SD and related offerings, referencing Classic Firearms contests and thanking the audience. The overall impression is that the AP5 SD is a nostalgic yet practical MP5-style 9mm platform with solid suppressor compatibility and customization options.