Heckler & Koch MP7 vs Thompson Submachine Gun

2001–Present

1921–Present

~50,000 estimated

~1,500,000 units (World War II peak production) and limited post‑war runs

418 mm (16.5 in) stock retracted, 638 mm (25.1 in) stock extended

762 mm (30.0 in) with stock extended; 660 mm (26.0 in) with stock folded (M1A1)

180 mm (7.1 in)

254 mm (10.0 in) standard; 305 mm (12.0 in) for some export models

1.5 kg (3.3 lb) empty

4.4 kg (9.7 lb) empty (M1); 3.9 kg (8.6 lb) empty (M1A1)

20, 30, or 40 rounds

20‑round box, 30‑round box, 50‑round drum, 100‑round drum (rare)

Gas-operated, rotating bolt

Simple blow‑back, open‑bolt, selective‑fire; rate of fire 600–1,250 rpm depending on model

Single-stage

Two‑stage trigger: semi‑automatic (first pull) and fully‑automatic (second pull) on early models; later models use a single‑stage full‑auto trigger with a selector switch

Flip-up iron sights, Picatinny rail for optics

Rotary drum rear sight with 50, 100, 200, 300 yard settings; hooded front post; optional adjustable rear sight on later police variants