“The poors” catch a lot of hell for not buying real HKs but I just can’t justify it. Maybe if I love this one a lot I might spring for the real deal. Fun fact, the MKE clones are closer to the original MP5 than the HK SP.
The only thing demonstrably better on the HKs is the small parts quality. If you buy a clone you’d better keep spare parts like an ejector, extractor/springs, firing pin/spring, hammer spring, locking piece, etc. The clones are just a bit dated. After a few upgraded HK parts and a few hundred rounds I might trust it at the bedside.
I have an AP5. 600 rounds through it with no malfunctioning. 147gn HST, 124gn HST, Norma monolithic 90gn. FMJ’s. I put a timney trigger in it as well. I highly recommend it
I picked up an AP5-L from Palmetto State Armory for $850. It’s a rifle with a 16" barrel and Magpul stock set. It came with a fake suppressor that covers the barrel when installed. The muzzle is threaded and has trilugs. Here it is with a B&T suppressor installed.
My sample has been 100% reliable out of the box. I immediately cleaned and lubed it. I was a little skeptical of the problems people had with light ammo so I started with junk Monarch 115gr and had no problems at all. I keep the bolt locked to the rear a lot so that may have helped.
I wasn’t that worried about the fit and finish when I ordered it but was surprised when I got it and everything looks fine. The bolt gap is at the ideal spec.
The original grip sucks for lefties and that’s the only reason I updated the lower housing. The rear castle sight sucks if you’re using a stock so I updated to the diopter. My only complaint is the special rear sight tool and the fidgety way you have to adjust it.
