Heckler & Koch MP5 vs Sten Mk II

1966–Present

1941–1945

~2,000,000 estimated

Over 4,600,000

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

762mm (30 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))

197mm (7.75 in)

2.54 kg (5.6 lb) empty (MP5A3)

2.95 kg (6.5 lb) empty, 3.7 kg (8.2 lb) loaded

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

32 rounds — side-mounted (MP40-compatible design)

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 — Mk II) or full auto only (some variants)

Rotary drum rear, hooded front post

Fixed front post, fixed peep rear — crude but functional