Heckler & Koch MP5 vs PPSh-41

1966–Present

1941–1947

~2,000,000 estimated

Over 6,000,000

680 mm (26.8 in) stock extended, 550 mm (21.7 in) stock retracted (MP5A3); Varies significantly depending on variant.

843mm (33.2 in)

115 mm (4.5 in) standard, various lengths depending on variant (e.g., MP5K: 102 mm (4.0 in), MP5SD: 146 mm (5.7 in))

269mm (10.6 in) — chrome lined

2.54 kg (5.6 lb) empty (MP5A3)

3.63 kg (8 lb) empty, 5.45 kg (12 lb) with 71-round drum

15, 30 rounds standard; 10, 20, and 40 round options available

71-round drum (iconic) or 35-round curved box

Roller-delayed blowback, closed bolt

Blowback, open bolt

Single-stage military trigger; SEF (Safe, Semi-automatic, Full-automatic) or Navy trigger groups available with burst-fire options

Selective fire (safe, semi, full auto — rare variant) or full auto only (most)

Rotary drum rear, hooded front post

Hooded front post, flip L-shaped rear (100-200m)