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G3KA4

G3KA4 Technical Specifications

Caliber	7.62x51mm (.308 Win)
Ammunition Feed	Staggered magazines; 5- or 20-round capacity
Cyclic rate	600 RPM
Sight Radius	20 inches (508mm)
Weight: with empty magazine	9.0 pounds (4.09 kg)
Barrel length	12.4 inches (315mm)
Overall length with stock collapsed	28 inches (711.2mm)
Overall length with stock extended	35.25 inches (895.35mm)
Width	2.28 inches (57.91mm)
Height	8.26 inches (209.8mm)

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HK G3A3

G3A3 Technical Specifications

Caliber	7.62x51mm (.308 Win)
Ammunition Feed	Staggered magazines; 5- or 20-round capacity
Cyclic rate	600 RPM
Sight Radius	22.5 inches (572mm)
Weight: with empty magazine	9.7 pounds (4.41 kg)
Barrel length	17.71 inches (449.8mm)
Overall length	40.38 inches (1,025.7mm)
Width	2.28 inches (57.91mm)
Height	8.26 inches (209.8mm)

HK 33KA2

33KA2 Technical Specifications

Caliber	5.56mm (.223)
Ammunition Feed	Staggered magazines; 25-round capacity
Cyclic rate	700 RPM
Sight Radius	18.89 inches (479.8mm)
Weight: with empty magazine	8.05 pounds (3.66 kg)
Barrel length	12.68 inches (322mm)
Overall length	34.06 inches (865mm)
Width	2.28 inches (57.91mm)
Height	8.26 inches (209.8mm)

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SMG II

Sources indicate that the SMG II was designed in 1984 for a classified end-user who was well familiar with the advantages and shortcomings of the entire MP5-series of weapons. The result of HK's development and user feedback was a synthesis of some of the more desirable features within the MP5 system, several features from other weapons such as the UZI, and some new developments unique to the SMG II.

At a glance, the compacted SMG II bears a striking resemblence to the MP5K. The gun is equipped with a veritcal foregrip, the barrel is shrouded and does not protrude beyond the front sight, and nothing overtly extends from the rear of the double push-pinned receiver cap. The sight profile is nearly identical; the front sight is a hooded-post affair, and the rear sight is the familiar rotating-drum type. However, a closer look at the SMG II reveals that even these similar looking features differ in varying degrees from those of the MP5K.

Starting with the sights, the rear rotary aperture is similar to the peep type that is found on the MP5, rather than the open notch type typically found on the MP5K. Two mounting brackets which are spaced roughly 3 inches apart lie along the top of the upper receiver and allow the attachment of various types of optics. These brackets are unique in two ways: 1) they differ in shape from those found on other HK submachine guns and accept mounting devices similar to those used on the MSG90, G41, or 21/23 while 2) they are positioned further rearward than on other MP5-series weapons, the rear bracket lying directly against the rear sight. This is significant because it leaves about 5 inches of space between the front mounting bracket and the front sight - an area in which the weapon's cocking handle is positioned to allow ambidextrous use like the cocking handle on an UZI or a MAC-10.

At the rear of the weapon, what looks like an MP5K's receiver cap is acually the buttplate of a streamlined collabsible stock. Like that found on any A3 variant of the MP5, the stock's rails slide along channels in the upper receiver. But unlike the MP5, the SMG II upper receiver's stock channels are located directly above the ejection port. The stock rails are still shaped such that they fold downward along the contours of the upper receiver, and the right rail would obscure the ejection port if it was not properly machined in that area. On either side of the stock's base are ambidextrous sling mounts (there are also similar mounts on the front sight). The stock's release button is located on the top of the buttcap just aft of the rear sight. It is questionable whether or not it can be deployed faster than the collapsible or folding stocks found on the MP5 or MP5K. But the SMG II seems better balanced, and nothing protrudes downward from the rear to inhibit firing the weapon like a pistol.

Both of the SMG II's pistol grips are shaped like those found on the Navy trigger housings - perhaps this is no accident. Anyway, for those who are not familiar with the variations among MP5 trigger housings, the Navy versions lack finger grooves and gradually flare outward towards the bottom, where a small lip serves to keep the hand from slipping downward. Both of the grips are hollowed and facilitate the storage of either a cleaning kit or spare parts kit. There is a small lip at the front of the foregrip which keeps fingers from wandering along the bullet's path. Said lip is not as exaggerated as that found on the MP5K; consequently, the foregrip can be positioned farther forward of the magazine well than on the MP5K. This leaves ample space between the magazine well and the foregrip to allow the operator the option of holding the SMG II as one would hold a standard MP5 - with the forend rested across the palm of the hand. At the rear of the forend and adjacent to the gas valve lever are white markings indicating the two valve settings (more on this feature below). Between the forend and the magazine well lies the lower receiver's push/hinge pin.

By now, some astute readers may be wondering why mention has been made to the SMG II's lower receiver. The answer is simple: unlike any of the MP5s, the SMG II actually has one. This lower receiver outwardly represents the SMG II's departure from the scaled-down-G3 characteristics of the MP5 family of weapons. It houses a fire control mechanism along with the magazine well, magazine release, and bolt lock button. Each of these devices in turn differ from those found on the MP5, especially the bolt lock button which actuates a feature alien to the MP5 or other HK rifles.

A familiar-looking feature of the lower receiver is the fire control mechanism. The ambidextrous selector lever is ergonically identical to that used on the MP5 Navy trigger housing. It can be rotated to one of four positions : 0, 1, 3, or 30. Each number indicates the maximum number of rounds fired with one pull of the trigger, with 0 representing the 'safe' position. Naturally, one round in the magazine makes the 3- or 30-round position sort of a moot point, and it is assumed that the SMG II's polymer magazine holds no more than 30 rounds.

The trigger area is more elongated than on the MP5; the trigger guard advances into the region behind the magazine well that is normally occupied by the MP5's magazine release. This is possible because the SMG II's magazine release is positioned directly above the trigger area - part of a two-phased approach to making the release more user friendly. If MP5 users tend to have any complaints about their own weapons in this department, they are as follows: 1) the magazine release button is too far foward to be reached by the trigger finger, requiring use of the free hand to disengage it and 2) right-handed operators are at a disadvantage because it is on the right side of the weapon. HK has managed to work around these problems inherent to their rifles and submachine guns by the addition of a flapper mag release. However, they designed the SMG II with some consideration here so that either right- or left-handed operators could reach up and press the ambidextrous magazine release with their trigger finger. This may seem like a long-winded explaination to something rather trivial, but the speed of a magazine change is directly proportional to the chance of being stitched by an adversary in the process.

A second ambidextrous button located just above the magazine release actuates the bolt lock. When used in conjunction with a suppressor, this feature reduces the weapon's sound signature by locking the bolt closed. The SMG II is not the only firearm HK ever fielded with a similar device, though. Prototypes of the now-familiar MK23, or SOCOM pistol, had a bolt lock button inside the trigger guard just above the Laser Aiming Module's mounting stud. Obviously, employing such a device requires the user to manually cycle the action for follow-up shots. Operators sans discretion may question the trade-off here, but a bolt lock is arguably a worthwhile option.

Another feature that enhances the SMG II's stealth as well as its reliability is a forward assist. It is equipped with one that is more streamlined than that of the G41 or PSG1 and is situated between the stock rail and the selector lever. Southpaws can operate this assist with their thumbs, while right-handed users must alter their grip a bit more. Like the forward assists commonly found on rifles, it allows the user to chamber a round when the weapon is excessively fouled. But perhaps more importantly, it facilitates the quiet chambering of a round when the user does not wish to let the charging handle slam forward.

While a forward assist serves to bolster the element of surprise, covert operators tend to rely on suppressors to maintain stealth when the weapon system allows. All of HK's submachine guns except for a few variants of the MP5K either allow for the attachment of suppressors or, as in the case of the MP5-SD, come with integrated suppressors. When HK's engineers (armed with no small measure of user feedback) developed the SMG II, they bestowed upon it a number of the advantages associated with each of their previous designs. The SMG II's free-floating barrel is threaded approximately 3 1/2 inches from the muzzle so that the suppressor's mount slips over it, thereby eliminating the need for either lugs or a barrel that protrudes beyond the front sight. The barrel shroud is ported so that the user can visually ensure that the suppressor is mounted properly. Also, the SMG II is equipped with a gas-bleed valve which allows the operator to reduce the speed of supersonic bullets to subsonic velocities. This valve is controled by a lever that rests just above the lower receiver's front hinge pin, and it can be rotated to one of two positions: open or closed. One advantage that a system such as this has over the MP5-SD is that the user maintains the option of reducing the bullet's velocity, terminal performance, and report.

HK reportedly has handmade at least 60 SMG IIs for one or more classified clients, and this is not surprising for several reasons. First of all, they have been known to custom-make firearms in the past - namely specially engraved or plated weapons for Middle-Eastern royalty. Also, their engineers have proved quite willing to take user feedback directly to the drawing board. Evidence of this can be seen in the MP5K, which was supposedly designed at the request of their South American sales representative, and in the addition of user-inspired features such as a bolt catch to some of their existing weapons. The SMG II represents the logical evolution of HK's proven MP5 which, by 1984, had already come to be recognized as the pre-eminent submachine gun by many within the free-world's law enforcement and SpecWar communities. However, in today's free world, the SMG II's versatility allows its user enough options to guarantee that it will never be placed in the hands of any other than a select few.

SMG II

Sources indicate that the SMG II was designed in 1984 for a classified end-user who was well familiar with the advantages and shortcomings of the entire MP5-series of weapons. The result of HK's development and user feedback was a synthesis of some of the more desirable features within the MP5 system, several features from other weapons such as the UZI, and some new developments unique to the SMG II.

At a glance, the compacted SMG II bears a striking resemblence to the MP5K. The gun is equipped with a veritcal foregrip, the barrel is shrouded and does not protrude beyond the front sight, and nothing overtly extends from the rear of the double push-pinned receiver cap. The sight profile is nearly identical; the front sight is a hooded-post affair, and the rear sight is the familiar rotating-drum type. However, a closer look at the SMG II reveals that even these similar looking features differ in varying degrees from those of the MP5K.

Starting with the sights, the rear rotary aperture is similar to the peep type that is found on the MP5, rather than the open notch type typically found on the MP5K. Two mounting brackets which are spaced roughly 3 inches apart lie along the top of the upper receiver and allow the attachment of various types of optics. These brackets are unique in two ways: 1) they differ in shape from those found on other HK submachine guns and accept mounting devices similar to those used on the MSG90, G41, or 21/23 while 2) they are positioned further rearward than on other MP5-series weapons, the rear bracket lying directly against the rear sight. This is significant because it leaves about 5 inches of space between the front mounting bracket and the front sight - an area in which the weapon's cocking handle is positioned to allow ambidextrous use like the cocking handle on an UZI or a MAC-10.

At the rear of the weapon, what looks like an MP5K's receiver cap is acually the buttplate of a streamlined collabsible stock. Like that found on any A3 variant of the MP5, the stock's rails slide along channels in the upper receiver. But unlike the MP5, the SMG II upper receiver's stock channels are located directly above the ejection port. The stock rails are still shaped such that they fold downward along the contours of the upper receiver, and the right rail would obscure the ejection port if it was not properly machined in that area. On either side of the stock's base are ambidextrous sling mounts (there are also similar mounts on the front sight). The stock's release button is located on the top of the buttcap just aft of the rear sight. It is questionable whether or not it can be deployed faster than the collapsible or folding stocks found on the MP5 or MP5K. But the SMG II seems better balanced, and nothing protrudes downward from the rear to inhibit firing the weapon like a pistol.

Both of the SMG II's pistol grips are shaped like those found on the Navy trigger housings - perhaps this is no accident. Anyway, for those who are not familiar with the variations among MP5 trigger housings, the Navy versions lack finger grooves and gradually flare outward towards the bottom, where a small lip serves to keep the hand from slipping downward. Both of the grips are hollowed and facilitate the storage of either a cleaning kit or spare parts kit. There is a small lip at the front of the foregrip which keeps fingers from wandering along the bullet's path. Said lip is not as exaggerated as that found on the MP5K; consequently, the foregrip can be positioned farther forward of the magazine well than on the MP5K. This leaves ample space between the magazine well and the foregrip to allow the operator the option of holding the SMG II as one would hold a standard MP5 - with the forend rested across the palm of the hand. At the rear of the forend and adjacent to the gas valve lever are white markings indicating the two valve settings (more on this feature below). Between the forend and the magazine well lies the lower receiver's push/hinge pin.

By now, some astute readers may be wondering why mention has been made to the SMG II's lower receiver. The answer is simple: unlike any of the MP5s, the SMG II actually has one. This lower receiver outwardly represents the SMG II's departure from the scaled-down-G3 characteristics of the MP5 family of weapons. It houses a fire control mechanism along with the magazine well, magazine release, and bolt lock button. Each of these devices in turn differ from those found on the MP5, especially the bolt lock button which actuates a feature alien to the MP5 or other HK rifles.

A familiar-looking feature of the lower receiver is the fire control mechanism. The ambidextrous selector lever is ergonically identical to that used on the MP5 Navy trigger housing. It can be rotated to one of four positions : 0, 1, 3, or 30. Each number indicates the maximum number of rounds fired with one pull of the trigger, with 0 representing the 'safe' position. Naturally, one round in the magazine makes the 3- or 30-round position sort of a moot point, and it is assumed that the SMG II's polymer magazine holds no more than 30 rounds.

The trigger area is more elongated than on the MP5; the trigger guard advances into the region behind the magazine well that is normally occupied by the MP5's magazine release. This is possible because the SMG II's magazine release is positioned directly above the trigger area - part of a two-phased approach to making the release more user friendly. If MP5 users tend to have any complaints about their own weapons in this department, they are as follows: 1) the magazine release button is too far foward to be reached by the trigger finger, requiring use of the free hand to disengage it and 2) right-handed operators are at a disadvantage because it is on the right side of the weapon. HK has managed to work around these problems inherent to their rifles and submachine guns by the addition of a flapper mag release. However, they designed the SMG II with some consideration here so that either right- or left-handed operators could reach up and press the ambidextrous magazine release with their trigger finger. This may seem like a long-winded explaination to something rather trivial, but the speed of a magazine change is directly proportional to the chance of being stitched by an adversary in the process.

A second ambidextrous button located just above the magazine release actuates the bolt lock. When used in conjunction with a suppressor, this feature reduces the weapon's sound signature by locking the bolt closed. The SMG II is not the only firearm HK ever fielded with a similar device, though. Prototypes of the now-familiar MK23, or SOCOM pistol, had a bolt lock button inside the trigger guard just above the Laser Aiming Module's mounting stud. Obviously, employing such a device requires the user to manually cycle the action for follow-up shots. Operators sans discretion may question the trade-off here, but a bolt lock is arguably a worthwhile option.

Another feature that enhances the SMG II's stealth as well as its reliability is a forward assist. It is equipped with one that is more streamlined than that of the G41 or PSG1 and is situated between the stock rail and the selector lever. Southpaws can operate this assist with their thumbs, while right-handed users must alter their grip a bit more. Like the forward assists commonly found on rifles, it allows the user to chamber a round when the weapon is excessively fouled. But perhaps more importantly, it facilitates the quiet chambering of a round when the user does not wish to let the charging handle slam forward.

While a forward assist serves to bolster the element of surprise, covert operators tend to rely on suppressors to maintain stealth when the weapon system allows. All of HK's submachine guns except for a few variants of the MP5K either allow for the attachment of suppressors or, as in the case of the MP5-SD, come with integrated suppressors. When HK's engineers (armed with no small measure of user feedback) developed the SMG II, they bestowed upon it a number of the advantages associated with each of their previous designs. The SMG II's free-floating barrel is threaded approximately 3 1/2 inches from the muzzle so that the suppressor's mount slips over it, thereby eliminating the need for either lugs or a barrel that protrudes beyond the front sight. The barrel shroud is ported so that the user can visually ensure that the suppressor is mounted properly. Also, the SMG II is equipped with a gas-bleed valve which allows the operator to reduce the speed of supersonic bullets to subsonic velocities. This valve is controled by a lever that rests just above the lower receiver's front hinge pin, and it can be rotated to one of two positions: open or closed. One advantage that a system such as this has over the MP5-SD is that the user maintains the option of reducing the bullet's velocity, terminal performance, and report.

HK reportedly has handmade at least 60 SMG IIs for one or more classified clients, and this is not surprising for several reasons. First of all, they have been known to custom-make firearms in the past - namely specially engraved or plated weapons for Middle-Eastern royalty. Also, their engineers have proved quite willing to take user feedback directly to the drawing board. Evidence of this can be seen in the MP5K, which was supposedly designed at the request of their South American sales representative, and in the addition of user-inspired features such as a bolt catch to some of their existing weapons. The SMG II represents the logical evolution of HK's proven MP5 which, by 1984, had already come to be recognized as the pre-eminent submachine gun by many within the free-world's law enforcement and SpecWar communities. However, in today's free world, the SMG II's versatility allows its user enough options to guarantee that it will never be placed in the hands of any other than a select few.

SMG II

Sources indicate that the SMG II was designed in 1984 for a classified end-user who was well familiar with the advantages and shortcomings of the entire MP5-series of weapons. The result of HK's development and user feedback was a synthesis of some of the more desirable features within the MP5 system, several features from other weapons such as the UZI, and some new developments unique to the SMG II.

At a glance, the compacted SMG II bears a striking resemblence to the MP5K. The gun is equipped with a veritcal foregrip, the barrel is shrouded and does not protrude beyond the front sight, and nothing overtly extends from the rear of the double push-pinned receiver cap. The sight profile is nearly identical; the front sight is a hooded-post affair, and the rear sight is the familiar rotating-drum type. However, a closer look at the SMG II reveals that even these similar looking features differ in varying degrees from those of the MP5K.

Starting with the sights, the rear rotary aperture is similar to the peep type that is found on the MP5, rather than the open notch type typically found on the MP5K. Two mounting brackets which are spaced roughly 3 inches apart lie along the top of the upper receiver and allow the attachment of various types of optics. These brackets are unique in two ways: 1) they differ in shape from those found on other HK submachine guns and accept mounting devices similar to those used on the MSG90, G41, or 21/23 while 2) they are positioned further rearward than on other MP5-series weapons, the rear bracket lying directly against the rear sight. This is significant because it leaves about 5 inches of space between the front mounting bracket and the front sight - an area in which the weapon's cocking handle is positioned to allow ambidextrous use like the cocking handle on an UZI or a MAC-10.

At the rear of the weapon, what looks like an MP5K's receiver cap is acually the buttplate of a streamlined collabsible stock. Like that found on any A3 variant of the MP5, the stock's rails slide along channels in the upper receiver. But unlike the MP5, the SMG II upper receiver's stock channels are located directly above the ejection port. The stock rails are still shaped such that they fold downward along the contours of the upper receiver, and the right rail would obscure the ejection port if it was not properly machined in that area. On either side of the stock's base are ambidextrous sling mounts (there are also similar mounts on the front sight). The stock's release button is located on the top of the buttcap just aft of the rear sight. It is questionable whether or not it can be deployed faster than the collapsible or folding stocks found on the MP5 or MP5K. But the SMG II seems better balanced, and nothing protrudes downward from the rear to inhibit firing the weapon like a pistol.

Both of the SMG II's pistol grips are shaped like those found on the Navy trigger housings - perhaps this is no accident. Anyway, for those who are not familiar with the variations among MP5 trigger housings, the Navy versions lack finger grooves and gradually flare outward towards the bottom, where a small lip serves to keep the hand from slipping downward. Both of the grips are hollowed and facilitate the storage of either a cleaning kit or spare parts kit. There is a small lip at the front of the foregrip which keeps fingers from wandering along the bullet's path. Said lip is not as exaggerated as that found on the MP5K; consequently, the foregrip can be positioned farther forward of the magazine well than on the MP5K. This leaves ample space between the magazine well and the foregrip to allow the operator the option of holding the SMG II as one would hold a standard MP5 - with the forend rested across the palm of the hand. At the rear of the forend and adjacent to the gas valve lever are white markings indicating the two valve settings (more on this feature below). Between the forend and the magazine well lies the lower receiver's push/hinge pin.

By now, some astute readers may be wondering why mention has been made to the SMG II's lower receiver. The answer is simple: unlike any of the MP5s, the SMG II actually has one. This lower receiver outwardly represents the SMG II's departure from the scaled-down-G3 characteristics of the MP5 family of weapons. It houses a fire control mechanism along with the magazine well, magazine release, and bolt lock button. Each of these devices in turn differ from those found on the MP5, especially the bolt lock button which actuates a feature alien to the MP5 or other HK rifles.

A familiar-looking feature of the lower receiver is the fire control mechanism. The ambidextrous selector lever is ergonically identical to that used on the MP5 Navy trigger housing. It can be rotated to one of four positions : 0, 1, 3, or 30. Each number indicates the maximum number of rounds fired with one pull of the trigger, with 0 representing the 'safe' position. Naturally, one round in the magazine makes the 3- or 30-round position sort of a moot point, and it is assumed that the SMG II's polymer magazine holds no more than 30 rounds.

The trigger area is more elongated than on the MP5; the trigger guard advances into the region behind the magazine well that is normally occupied by the MP5's magazine release. This is possible because the SMG II's magazine release is positioned directly above the trigger area - part of a two-phased approach to making the release more user friendly. If MP5 users tend to have any complaints about their own weapons in this department, they are as follows: 1) the magazine release button is too far foward to be reached by the trigger finger, requiring use of the free hand to disengage it and 2) right-handed operators are at a disadvantage because it is on the right side of the weapon. HK has managed to work around these problems inherent to their rifles and submachine guns by the addition of a flapper mag release. However, they designed the SMG II with some consideration here so that either right- or left-handed operators could reach up and press the ambidextrous magazine release with their trigger finger. This may seem like a long-winded explaination to something rather trivial, but the speed of a magazine change is directly proportional to the chance of being stitched by an adversary in the process.

A second ambidextrous button located just above the magazine release actuates the bolt lock. When used in conjunction with a suppressor, this feature reduces the weapon's sound signature by locking the bolt closed. The SMG II is not the only firearm HK ever fielded with a similar device, though. Prototypes of the now-familiar MK23, or SOCOM pistol, had a bolt lock button inside the trigger guard just above the Laser Aiming Module's mounting stud. Obviously, employing such a device requires the user to manually cycle the action for follow-up shots. Operators sans discretion may question the trade-off here, but a bolt lock is arguably a worthwhile option.

Another feature that enhances the SMG II's stealth as well as its reliability is a forward assist. It is equipped with one that is more streamlined than that of the G41 or PSG1 and is situated between the stock rail and the selector lever. Southpaws can operate this assist with their thumbs, while right-handed users must alter their grip a bit more. Like the forward assists commonly found on rifles, it allows the user to chamber a round when the weapon is excessively fouled. But perhaps more importantly, it facilitates the quiet chambering of a round when the user does not wish to let the charging handle slam forward.

While a forward assist serves to bolster the element of surprise, covert operators tend to rely on suppressors to maintain stealth when the weapon system allows. All of HK's submachine guns except for a few variants of the MP5K either allow for the attachment of suppressors or, as in the case of the MP5-SD, come with integrated suppressors. When HK's engineers (armed with no small measure of user feedback) developed the SMG II, they bestowed upon it a number of the advantages associated with each of their previous designs. The SMG II's free-floating barrel is threaded approximately 3 1/2 inches from the muzzle so that the suppressor's mount slips over it, thereby eliminating the need for either lugs or a barrel that protrudes beyond the front sight. The barrel shroud is ported so that the user can visually ensure that the suppressor is mounted properly. Also, the SMG II is equipped with a gas-bleed valve which allows the operator to reduce the speed of supersonic bullets to subsonic velocities. This valve is controled by a lever that rests just above the lower receiver's front hinge pin, and it can be rotated to one of two positions: open or closed. One advantage that a system such as this has over the MP5-SD is that the user maintains the option of reducing the bullet's velocity, terminal performance, and report.

HK reportedly has handmade at least 60 SMG IIs for one or more classified clients, and this is not surprising for several reasons. First of all, they have been known to custom-make firearms in the past - namely specially engraved or plated weapons for Middle-Eastern royalty. Also, their engineers have proved quite willing to take user feedback directly to the drawing board. Evidence of this can be seen in the MP5K, which was supposedly designed at the request of their South American sales representative, and in the addition of user-inspired features such as a bolt catch to some of their existing weapons. The SMG II represents the logical evolution of HK's proven MP5 which, by 1984, had already come to be recognized as the pre-eminent submachine gun by many within the free-world's law enforcement and SpecWar communities. However, in today's free world, the SMG II's versatility allows its user enough options to guarantee that it will never be placed in the hands of any other than a select few.

:www.remtek.com

IMI / Magnum Research Desert Eagle pistol

same Desert Eagle mark VII pistol, caliber .44 Magnum, with slide locked open to show its multi-lug rotary bolt

Current production Desert Eagle Mark XIX, caliber .50AE

spesifikasi :

data for Mark XIX pistols
Type: Single Action
Chambering: .357 Magnum, .41 Magnum (obsolete), .44 Magnum, .440 Cor-bon, .50 AE
Length overall: 10.24 in. - 260mm
Weight: 62 oz. - 1,715 g empty
Barrel length: 6 in. - 152 mm (also 10" - 254 mm)
Magazine: 9 (.357), 8 (.44) or 7 (.50) rounds

he Desert Eagle Pistol was conceived in 1979, when three people with an idea for creating a gas- operated, semi-automatic, magnum-caliber pistol founded Magnum Research, Inc. in St. Paul, Minnesota (USA). Early pistols, then known as Eagle 357, were announced in 1982

Glock Model 19

Designation: Model 19/19C
Manufacturer: Glock GmbH, Deutsch Wagram
Country: Austria
Service Date: NA
Type: Handgun
Operation: Recoil-Operated Semi-Automatic
Caliber: 9 mm Parabellum
Length: 6.85 in (174 mm)
Weight (Empty): 1 lb 5 oz (595g)
Magazine: 17-Round Detachable Box
Muzzle Velocity: 1,148 ft/sec (350 m/sec)

HK MP5 THE BEST SMG

MP5/10 Technical Specifications

Caliber	10mm Auto
Operation	Recoil operated, delayed roller-locked bolt system
Ammunition Feed	Straight, translucent, synthetic magazine; 30-round capacity
Modes of fire	Semi-automatic, 3-round burst, and full-automatic
Rifling	6 Groove right hand twist, one turn in 15 inches
Mechanical sights	Rotary aperature rear sight adjustable for windage and elevation; Hooded post front sight
Optical sights	Any telescopic sight or aiming device compatible with HK claw-lock mounts; HK PULSE BEAM laser aimers mounted on cocking tube
Weight: with A2 (fixed) stock	5.88 pounds (2.67 kg)
Weight: with A3 (collapsible) stock	6.23 pounds (2.85 kg)
Barrel length	8.85 inches
Overall length: with A2 stock	26.77 inches (680mm)
Overall length: with A3 stock extended	25.98 inches (660mm)
Overall length: with A3 stock collapsed	19.29 inches (490mm)
Sight radius	13.38 inches (340mm)
Width	1.96 inches (50mm)
Height	8.26 inches (210mm)
Standard features	Bolt hold-open catch, ambidextrous trigger group & sling attachmentpoints, translucent synthetic magazines
Optional features	Tritium sights (front & rear), semi-automatic fire only, 2-round burst, 3-round burst, and fully automatic fire trigger groups

L86A1 - SA-80 Light Support Weapon (Britain)

Caliber: 5.56x45mm NATO
Weight: 7.3 kg empty, with SUSAT optical sight
Length: 900 mm
Length of barrel: 646 mm
Feeding: detachable box magazines, 30 rounds
Rate of fire: 610 - 775 rounds/min

The development of the SA-80 (Small Arms family for 1980s) was started in Britain by the late 1960s, with the search for the "ideal" small-bore ammunition. By the mid-1970s British designers developed a 4.85x49mm cartridge, intended for the SA-80 system, and consequently designed a SA-80 IW rifle and SA-80 LSW light machine gun for this ammunition. The 4.85mm LSW appeared in the prototype form circa 1976, but the NATO trials, held in the 1978-1979, resulted in adoption of the 5.56mm cartridge as a common NATO ammunition, so British designers from the RSAF Enfield redesigned their weapons for 5.56mm NATO rounds. The LSW was based on the SA-80 IW design, which is covered in the Assault Rifles section on this site under the L85A1 topic. The final version of the SA-80 LSW was adopted by the British Army in 1986, and total slightly over the 22 000 LSW weapons were manufactured before the production of both L85 IW and L86 LSW was ceased.

The L86A1 was plagued by the same problems as its sister, L85A1 rifle. In fact, the L86A1 was more suitable as a semi-automatic para-sniper rifle, than the LSW / LMG, due to the poor reliability in full automatic fire, relatively small (by machine guns standards) magazine capacity and the lack of quick detachable barrels.

Current British troops prefer much heavier and belt-fed 7.62mm L7A1 GPMG (a license-built copy of Belgian FN MAG general purpose machine gun), and at the present time the existing stocks of L86A1 are complemented with the 5.56mm FN Minimi belt-fed LMG in the short-barreled Para configuration. The L86A1 will be used mostly as a longer-range aimed fire weapons, while the suppressive fire functions will be conducted using more effective FN Minimi.

Technical description.
General design of the L86A1 is mostly similar to the design of L85A1 rifle, except for the following. The L86A1 has longer barrel, with the steel stock extension under it, that carries the folding bipods. The bolt and trigger system are modified, so the gun can be fired from open bolt. The butt is fitted with folding shoulder support. The vertical grip is attached below the receiver, behind the magazine housing. The L86A1 could not be fitted with bayonet.

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Heckler-Koch HK MG4 MG 43 machine gun (Germany)

	HK MG4 / MG4 E	HK MG4 KE
Caliber	5.56x45mm NATO
Weight	8,1 kg (7.9kg MG4 E)	7,7 kg
Length	1030 mm	950 mm
Barrel length	482 mm	402 mm
Feed	belt
Rate of fire	880 (770 MG4 E) rounds per minute	770 rounds per minute

The HK MG 43 (this is an original factory designation of the project) is a light, 5.56mm machine gun, developed by famous German company Heckler & Koch as a direct rival to the well-established FN Minimi / M249 SAW LMG. The MG 43 was developed during late 1990s and first appeared circa 2001. It had been type-classified by the Bundeswehr (German Army) in 2003 as the MG4, and by 2007 is already in use as a ground and vehicle gun, gradually replacing older, but more powerful 7,62mm MG3 machine guns in German service. Recently HK has announced that Spain has ordered a slightly modified version of MG4, known as HK MG4 E (Export).
Like the HK G36 assault rifle, the MG-43 is a quantum leap from earlier HK designs, which were based on Vorgrimler-designed, roller delayed blowback actions. MG4 is a conventional, gas operated design, and utilizes all new trends in small arms development, including polymers and accessory interfaces (Picatinny rails).

HK MG4 is a gas operated, belt feed, air cooled automatic weapon. The gas group is located under the barrel and uses a conventional gas piston to operate bolt group. Barrel is locked using typical rotating bolt design. Barrel of the HK MG4 is a quick detachable, and has a folding carrying handle to assist replacement of the hot barrels. The two-pawl belt feed is operated by the roller on the top of the bolt carrier. Belt is fed from separate or clamp-on plastic boxes, from left to right. Spent belt links are ejected to the right, spent cartridge cases are ejected down from the window on the bottom of the receiver.

HK MG4 is fitted with folding bipod, integral to the forend, and has a standard interface for M2-type infantry tripod or vehicle mount. Plastic buttstock can be folded to the left side to save the space, and gun can be fired with the butt folded. HK MG4 is fitted with the Picatinny rail on the top of the receiver, and also is equipped with open sights as a standard. Front sight is mounted on the barrel and can be folded down when not in use. Rear sight is graduated up to 1000 meters, mounted on the Picatinny rail and can be easily detached if not required.

Foldable charging handle is located at the right side of the receiver. Ambidextrous safety switch is located on the pistol grip, and allows only for full automatic fire mode.

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Heckler und Koch 7,62mm HK 11 / HK 21 and 5,56mm HK 13 / HK 23 machine gun (Germany)

Data for belt-fed machine guns

	HK 21E	HK 23E
Caliber	7,62x51 mm NATO	5.56x45 mm NATO
Weigth	9.3 kg on bipod	8.7 kg on bipod
Length	1140 mm	1030 mm
Length of barrel	550 mm	450 mm
Feeding	box magazine 20 or 30 rounds, drum 80 rounds or belt 50 or 100 rounds	box magazine 20 or 30 rounds, drum 100 rounds or belt 50 or 100 rounds
Rate of fire	800 rounds/min	800 rounds/min

In 1961 Heckler&Koch had completed about 1/3 of its first manufacturing contract for the G3 rifle. At this time the HK management decided that it would be worth the investment to develop a universal machine gun which would be as close to the new rifle, in terms of design and maintenance, as possible. The basic action of the new machine gun, which received the company designation HK 21, was similar to that of the G3 rifle. The HK 21 fired from a closed bolt (not that big an issue since its heavy barrel was really quick-detachable) and, unlike most machine guns, its belt feed module was located below the receiver. This made the loading and unloading of the belt somewhat less comfortable than on other weapons, such as the MG 3. On the other hand, it allowed for the easy replacement of the belt feed module with a magazine adapter module, which permitted the use of standard G3 rifle magazines or specially developed 80-round double drums. The new machine gun was on the “light” side of the spectrum, although in its basic version it fired a full-power 7.62x51 NATO ammunition and a variety of tripods and other mountings were offered along with the gun. The HK 21 came too late to be seriously considered by the Bundeswehr, but it was tried and adopted by the Portuguese army, and number of weapons was also bought by other countries, such as Greece, Mexico, Sweden and some others, mostly African and Asian nations.
The HK 21 spawned a whole range of modifications and derivatives. Other than the basic 7.62mm NATO caliber, HK also offered its machine guns in US 5.56x45mm and Soviet 7.62x39 chambering. Early versions in these “additional” calibers also were offered under the designation HK 21, but later on HK adopted a special pattern for numbering, where first digit of model number designated a type of weapon (i.e. 1 – LMG with magazine feed, 2 – GPMG with belt feed, 3 – assault rifle, 5 – submachine gun etc), and second digit designated the caliber (1 – 7.62x51 NATO, 2 – 7.62x39 Soviet, 3 – 5.56x45 US). Therefore, belt fed HK machine guns were offered as HK 21, HK 22 and HK 23. It must be noted that HK never manufactured weapons in 7.62x39 Soviet in any significant numbers, and completely dropped this caliber from its catalogues by the 1980s.
In parallel with belt fed machine guns, HK also developed a number of magazine-fed light machine guns. While those could be classified as “machine rifles”, most of these weapons are actually just conversions of belt-fed guns and, for example, any magazine-fed HK 11E can be converted to a belt-fed HK 21E configuration (assuming that all of the necessary parts are on hand) and vice versa.
One last note must be made concerning HK delayed blowback machine guns in 7.62mm NATO caliber. Those guns were lighter than most rivals (such as the MG 3 or FN MAG), and fired from a closed bolt, thus limiting the maximum effective range and sustained firepower capabilities. On the other hand, the stationary barrel and closed-bolt firing, combined with a selective fire trigger, allowed for very accurate semi-automatic fire. These guns were almost ideal squad automatic weapons: versatile, relatively lightweight and easily operated by one man.
Despite its failure in the US SAW program, HK kept updating its weapons. In about 1981 HK introduced new versions of its machine gun lineup, distinguished by the “E” model suffix, which stood for “Export”. These weapons had longer receivers and barrel jackets, and thus were slightly heavier than their predecessors (especially in 5.56mm versions), and also had a number of other improvements. These weapons sold moderately well, mostly for export, and HK kept manufacturing them until very recently. It seems that HK gradually stopped the production of its roller-delayed machine guns by the early 2000’s, as the current trends on the world small arms market are toward gas operated light machine guns in 5.56mm NATO caliber, such as HK's own MG 4.

All Heckler & Koch machine guns are based on the same delayed blowback action with a stationary barrel. The key differences between the various models of the same period are the feed type (belt or magazine) and the type of cartridge used, although in the “A1” and “E” modifications every gun can be converted from belt to magazine feed with the substitution of the appropriate parts, and HK 21 guns of the earliest make also could change caliber with the replacement of the barrel, bolt and certain parts in the feed. Barrels are quick detachable. A new barrel then can be inserted within a very short period of time.
The roller-retarded bolt system employs a two parts bolt with two rollers. The front bolt part (the bolt head) is relatively light and has a bolt face with an extractor on it. It also has a hollow cavity at the rear, in which the inclined forward end of the rear part of the bolt (bolt body) is inserted. The system features two rollers, inserted from the sides into the bolt head and rested on the inclined forward end of the bolt body. When the gun is fired, the pressure began to move the cartridge back against the bolt face. The rollers, which are extended into the recesses in the barrel extension, began to move inward into the bolt head, due to inclined shape of the recesses. This movement translates into the faster rearward movement of the heavier bolt body, so, at the initial instant of firing when pressure in the chamber is still high, the bolt face moves relatively slowly. As the pressure drops to a reasonable level, the rollers gradually leave the recesses in the barrel extension; as soon as the rollers are completely pushed into the bolt, the bolt head and bolt body begin to move backwards at the same speed, extracting and ejecting the spent case and chambering a fresh cartridge on the way back. Since this system provides no positive initial extraction, the cartridge chamber is fluted to reduce friction.
All HK machine guns fire from a closed bolt. The trigger / hammer units are made integral with the pistol grip, and hinged to the receiver at the front. Early guns had selective fire, with a three position safety / selector lever located above the trigger on the left side of the unit. Later guns added a three-round burst mode to the already available automatic and single-shot modes.
The charging handle is located on the left side of the barrel jacket, and folds forward when not used. It does not reciprocate when the gun is fired, and can be used to lock the bolt back for unloading, change of barrel or inspection.
Late production HK guns use modular feed units, attached to the bottom of the receiver by means of cross-pins. Available feed options are magazine feed or belt feed. The magazine feed unit will accept standard rifle-type magazines developed for HK assault rifles of the same caliber, or specially designed double drums. Belt feed units will accept standard disintegrating or non-disintegrating belts. Belt feed is from left side only. Early belt-fed guns had “unitary” feed modules, with the only way to load or unload the belt being pulling the belt through the unit. With the “A1” configuration, belt feed units were redesigned to accommodate a hinged bottom cover, which can be easily opened for rapid loading or unloading of the belt. The bottom of the belt feed module has a special interface which will accept 100-round (7.62mm) or 200-round (5.56mm) belt boxes.
HK machine guns are fitted with polymer buttstocks and detachable, adjustable, folding bipods. For “assault” missions, a forward vertical grip can be attached to the barrel jacket. Additionally, guns are fitted with a folding carrying handle, located at the center of mass. Other accessories include several types of tripods and vehicle mounts, made by HK and several other companies.

XM25 modifikasi dari M14

XM25 Airburst Weapons System

The XM-25 Air Burst Assault Weapon is the air burst portion of the XM29, Integrated Air Burst Weapon. The XM-25 dramatically increases Soldier survivability, standoff and versatility. The air burst weapon provides the Soldier with a 300-500% increase in hit probability to defeat point, area and defilade targets out to approximately 500 meters. The XM-25 weapon includes revolutionary high explosive air bursting munitions and an integrated, multifunctional, all environment, full-solution target acquisition / fire control system. The XM25 25mm Airburst Weapons System provides the infantry soldier with a decisive overmatch capability in a next-generation weapon system that will dramatically increase lethality, range and capability through the use of a family of munitions consisting of thermobaric, high explosive air bursting (HEAB) ammunition.

The XM25 fires 25mm high explosive airbursting (HEAB) munitions. The XM25 incorporates a target acquisition/fire control that integrates thermal, powered direct-view optics, laser rangefinder, compass, fuze setter, ballistic processor, and internal display. The XM25 has a 300-meter range point target and 500-meter range area target capable of defeating defilade (hidden) targets. Spiral development of the XM29 will accelerate fielding of the XM25 subsystem in advance of the dual barrel system. Development of the XM25 will maximize commonality of parts and share the same logistics and supportability resources of the XM29.

The XM25 is equipped with a ballistic computer, thermal sights and zoom capabilities. The XM25 incorporates a target acquisition/fire control that integrates thermal powered direct view optics, laser rangefinder, compass, fuze setter, ballistic processor, and internal display. The XM25 has a 500-meter range against point targets and 500-700-meter range against area targets, and is capable of defeating defilade (hidden) targets.

Ideal for urban combat, the XM25 puts precision firepower in the hands of the Soldier, allows him or her to eliminate threats without causing significant collateral damage. The XM25 fires a High-Explosive (HE), air-bursting 25mm round capable of defeating an enemy behind a wall, inside a building or in a foxhole. Weighing in at less than 12 pounds, the XM25 incorporates a target acquisition fire control that integrates thermal-powered, direct-view optics, laser range-finder, compass, fuse setter, ballistic processor and internal display. As the round flies downrange to the target, it precisely measures the barometric pressure, temperature and velocity of the projectile to a computer chip in the round so that it detonates at exactly the right moment to deliver maximum effectiveness. The XM25 is five times more lethal at the M203 maximum range and continues to provide lethality well beyond the M203's maximum ability, giving Soldiers a 300- to 500-percent increase in hit probability, according to weapon specifications.

The XM25 Assault Weapon is the air burst portion of the XM29, Integrated Air Burst Weapon. The XM25 Air Burst Assault Weapon dramatically increases Soldier survivability, standoff and versatility. The air burst weapon provides the Soldier with a 300-500% increase in hit probability to defeat point, area and defilade targets out to approximately 500 meters. The XM25 weapon includes revolutionary high explosive air bursting munitions and an integrated, multifunctional, all environment, full-solution target acquisition / fire control system. This system supports the Current to Future transition path of the Transformation Campaign Plan (TCP).

Alliant Techsystems (Plymouth, MN) Brashear L3, (Pittsburgh, PA) and Heckler & Koch Gmbh (Oberdorf, Germany) are working in conjunction with PM Soldier Weapons to develop the XM25. The XM25 Air Burst Assault Weapon will reach Milestone B in FY 2005. The System Development and Demonstration (SDD) phase will complete development of the XM25 weapon system and verify training solution for the Milestone C approval in FY 2008.

Heckler-Koch HK SL-8 rifle (Germany)

Type / action	semi-automatic, gas operated rifle
Caliber(s)	5,56x45mm / .223 Remington
Weight unloaded	4,1 kg / 9 lbs
Length	980 - 1030 mm / 38,6-40,5"
Barrel length	510 mm / 20,1"
Magazine capacity	10 or 30 rounds

Beretta moldes 81, 82, 84, 85, 86, 87, 89 (Italy)

Type: Double Action (models 87 and 89 - Single Action)
Chamber: .22LR (5.6mm) models 87 and 89; 7.65x17mm (.32ACP) models 81 and 82; 9x17mm Short (.380 ACP) models 84, 85 and 86
Weight unloaded: 570 - 680 g depending on model
Length: 172 mm
Barrel length: 97 mm
Capacity: 7 (model 87), 8 (models 82, 85, 86, 89), 12 (model 81), 13 (model 84) rounds

New generation of the compact pistols from famous Italian company Pietro Beretta appeared in 1976, with introduction of the models 81, 82, 84 and, later, 85. These models were similar in appearance, major dimensions and design, and differed only in calibers and magazine capacities. Models 81 and 82 were chambered for 7.62x17mm Browning cartridge, also known as .32ACP. Models 84 and 85 were chambered for 9x17mm Browning Short, also known as .380ACP. Models 81 and 84 had double-stack, high capacity magazines, while models 82 and 85 had single-stack magazines and thinner grips. During the following decades, these models passed some upgrades and currently manufactured in FS modifications, easily distinguishable from earlier versions by reshaped triggerguards, styled after famous Beretta 92FS combatt pistol. During the same period some internal alterations also were made. Later, in 1986, Beretta added another pistol to this line, a model 86. Being similar to model 85 in almost all aspects, Beretta 86 has redesigned front part of the frame and added a tip-up barrel. This means that the barrel is hinged to the frame under the muzzle, and rear part of the barrel can be tipped up for visual inspection, clearing, manual unloading and loading directly into the chamber. Latter is an essential thing for those who cannot cycle the slide manually, due to weak, or wet hands, for example. Beretta now marketed these guns under the common name "Cheetah".

This family also includes two rimfire pistols, intended mostly for plinking and target shooting. Model 87 is similar in appearance to other models but has single-stack magazine and available with snandard lenght or with extended barrel. Model 89 is a target pistol, with extended, heavy barrel and light slide. Model 89 is equipped with ajustable rear sights and has a scope rail on the top of the barrel jacket. Both Model 87 and Model 89 featured single action triggers.

In general, all these pistols are blowback operated, hammer fired guns. Ambidextrous safety is mounted on the frame and disconnects the trigger from the sear and locks the slide when engaged. Slides are of familiar Beretta opent-top pattern, and overall shape of these guns is very similar to famous Beretta 92 pistol. Frames are made from ligh alloy, slides are steel. All centerfire pistols of this family featured fixed sights, dovetailed into the slide. These guns can be found in blued or nickel finish, with plastick or wooden grip panels.

Modifications:
Modifications are marked with suffixes after the model number, such as model 82BB or model 84FS.

BB models. This was first modification of the whole line. All BB-marked models have the following additional features: loaded chamber indicator; automated firing pin safety; hammer half-cock position.

FS models. These are the latest (current) versions of the breed. FH models have safety coupled with decocker device, so, when safety is applied, hammer drops automatically against the interceptor, and then slide and sear are locked. Triggerguard of all FS models is reshaped for better two-hands grip and patterned after the Beretta 92FS / US M9 pistol.

Glock family of handguns (Austria)

The Glock family of pistols, once started by famous Glock 17 pistol, was developed by Austrian company Glock Gmbh., previously known for quality knives and entrenching tools. The Glock 17 pistol first appeared at the Austrian Army trials, won it and was adopted by Austrai Army and Police in the early 1980s under the designation of P-80. Since then, the Glock 17 and its descentants become very popular military and law enforcement firearms, being exported in more than 50 countries. Currently, Glocks are chambered in all major pistol calibers, namely 9x17mm Short (.380ACP), 9x19mm Luger, .357SIG, .40SW, 10mm auto and .45ACP. Also, Glocks available in full-size service models, semi-compact models, compact models for concealed/backup carry, and in longslide competition models. Training versions, firing non-lethal practice ammo, also available. Training versions are distinguished from "live" ones by frame colour - blue frame for guns that fire non-lethal ammunition and red frame - for non-firing guns.

All Glocks (except for ones chambered in 9x17 - .380ACP) are recoil operated, locked breech pistols. Glocks feature Browning-type linkless locking system with barrel interlocking with slide via ejection port. All Glocks feature patented "Safe action" striker-fired trigger mechanism. After the each cycle of the slide the striker is set to half-cock position and is safely blocked by internal safety. When shooter pulls the trigger, he disengades the trigger safety first, then cocks the striker to the full-cock and then fires the gun. This results in constant trigger pull (ajustable from 2 to 5.5 kg) and, unlike the traditional DA or DAO pistols, unavailability of the "second strike" option in case of the misfire. All Glocks has no external controls except the trigger and the slide stop (the only different is Glock 18, which has slide mounted fire mode selector).

The .380ACP / 9x17mm Short chambered Glocks (models 25 and 28) differs from the rest of the Glock family by operating by simple blowback principle. These pistols targeted for civilian markets where ownership of the firearms chambered in "military" calibers is prohibited, or for those shooters who can't withstand more severe recoil of the "bigger" calibers.

All Glocks feature polymer frame, steel slides made by precision moulding process and had Tenifer heat-threatment to increase rust and wear risistance. early Glocks had plain grips with slight serrations. Modern variants has finger grooves on the front strap of the grip, and ambidextrous thumb rests. Also, modern versions featured underbarrel acessory rails. Barrels has hexagonal rifling in all calibers. Both front and rear sights are dovetailed and usually had white or luminous inserts. Ajustable sights are available for competition models.

Almost all models had modifications with factory-ported barrels. These models are marked with suffix "C" after the model number, i.e. Glock 17C.

The Glock 17 (and only model 17) could be modified with "amphibious kit" that allows underwater firing (in wery shallow depths, thought). Basically, the underwater shooting itself has wery little effect in real combat, since the effective range is extermely short. The real purpose of that feature is to show the strenght of the gun and to allow safe shoting in severe weather conditions, with possible water in the barrel (in many guns this may result in blown barrel).

The select-fire version of the Glock, called Glock 18, available only in 9mm Luger and only for Military / Law enforcement sales. Glock 18 could fire single shots or three-shot bursts. Glock 18 may be equipped with 31-rounds extended magazines and after-market folding stocks. For security reasons, some parts of the Glock 18 ARE NOT interchangeable with Glock 17/19 pistols. The theoretical rate of fire in full-auto mode is 1200 rounds per minute.

	Milkor MGL Mk.1 / Mk.1S	Milkor MGL-140
Caliber	40x46mm
Type	multi-shot revolver
Overall length, shoulder rest open/folded	730 / 630 mm	787 / 661 mm
Weight	5.3 kg empty (5.6 kg Mk. 1S)	6 kg empty
Effective range	150 m point targets; up to 400 m area targets
Capacity	6 rounds

The Milkor MGL six-shot 40mm grenade launcher is the world's first mass-produced multi-shot 40mm hand-held weapon. Developed by the South-African company Milkor, it entered production in 1983, and served with South-African National Defense Forces for more than twenty years. Since the 1996, an improved version of the basic design entered the production, it has been designated MGL Mk.1. The Milkor MGL is also used by more that twenty other countries worldwide. Milkor MGL offers significant firepower increase, compared to US-made M79 single shot 40mm launcher. The rapid-fire capability (six shots in less that three seconds) is essential in ambush situations and in quick-pacing urban warfare. The Milkor Mk.1 is now offered for export, and an almost exact copy of Mk1, is manufactured in Croatia by the RH Alan company as RGB-6. The most recent modifications of the Mk.1 launcher, which are manufactured and offered in USA under license by the Milkor Marketing Inc., are the Milkor Mk.1S and Milkor MK-140. These two launchers differ from original Mk.1 by having stronger, stainless steel frame (as opposed to the original aluminium frame), as well as by having four Picatinny-type accessory rails around the barrel. The difference between Mk.1S and Mk-140 is the length of the cylinder - while Mk.1S retains the original cylinder, the Mk-140 has a longer cylinder, which can accommodate a wider variety of the less-lethal 40mm ammunition, which usually has longer warheads. Both types also an fire all standard 40x46mm 'lethal' ammunition, including HE, HE-FRAG, HEDP and others.

The Milkor Mk.1 is a revolver type, hand-held grenade launcher. The six-shot cylinder is rotated by the clockwork-type spring for each shot. Spring is wound manually during the reloading. For reloading, the rear part of the frame (along with the pistol grip) is unlocked and then rotated sideways around the top strut of the frame, until the chambers in the cylinder are exposed for reloading. Once cylinder is reloaded, the rear part of the frame is rotated back and locked into position. The double-action firing mechanism has a manual safety above the pistol grip. All Mk.1 launchers are fitted with the red-dot type sight, with range scale. Modern versions, M.1S and Mk.1L, also can be fitted with other types of sighting equipment, using Picatinny rail on the top of the barrel. The top folding shoulder stock has a rubber recoil pad.

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image: www.gun-world.net

Caliber: 35x32mm SR
Type: gas operated, magazine fed automatic grenade launcher
Overall length: 970 mm
Weight: 12 kg in light configuration (with scope and bipod, less magazine); 20kg on tripod, less magazine
Effective range: up to 600 m point targets; 1700 m maximum.
Rate of fire: 500 rounds per minute

After much experimentation with locally built copies of Soviet AGS-17 grenade launcher, Chinese experts developed their own concept of such infantry support weapon. For some reasons they decided to trade some firepower for mobility, and to develop the lightest possible weapon, which can be operated and carried on battlefield by a single man. Furthermore, they developed their own 35mm grenade ammunition. To achieve minimum weight of weapon, they used locked breech action (that minimizes weight of recoiling parts) and discarded the complicated belt feed in the favor of much simpler magazine feed. early experiments were conducted with weapons known as W-87. these were distinguishable by wood buttstocks, bottom pistol grips and large conical flash hiders. W-87 launchers used top feed with box or drum magazines. With the time the design evolved, and several years ago PLA adopted the QLZ-87 automatic grenade launcher, that is a further development of W-87. At the present time (early 1987) the QLZ-87 launcher is being used by Chinese troops of Hong Kong garrison, as well as by some units located near the strait that separates mainland China and Taiwan. From available information it seems that QLZ-87 still has some teething problems and probably will be gradually improved in coming years.

The QLZ-87 grenade launcher is gas operated, locked breech weapon that uses rotary bolt and direct gas impingement system probably borrowed from M16 rifle. Gas system is fitted with manual adjustment valve. Charging of the weapon is conducted by pulling back and forward the pistol grip which is (unusually) located at the right side of weapon. This pistol grip is accompanied with trigger and safety/fire selector that allows for single shots and full auto fire. The steel receiver is of tubular shape and rather slim; at the top of the receiver there is a fixed carrying handle. Rear part of receiver is fitted with rubber shoulder pad. Feed is using drum magazines of various diameter, that can hold 6, 9, 12 or 15 rounds; standard capacities seem to be 6 or 15 rounds. Drums are attached at the bottom of the gun, unlike earlier W87 weapons. The smaller capacity drums are used in "light" configuration when gun is used from integral bipod; larger capacity drums are mostly used in heavy configuration, when gun is used from special tripod. Standard sighting equipment is telescope sight with fixed magnification which is offset to the left to provide low profile of weapon while firing at high angles.
It must be noted that rate of fire of QLZ-87 is rather high for such a weapon, especially consider its relatively low weight, and it must be a tough task to control the gun in full auto fire, especially in "light' configuration. Relatively small magazine capacity (even the biggest 15-round magazine holds two times less ammunition than a belt box for AGS-17 or Mk.19 launchers) also decreases the suppressive fire capabilities of the QLZ-87, but it seems that PLA experts prefer maneuverability over firepower.
There are few types of 35mm ammunition for QLZ-87 weapon; these include fragmentation shells that provide kill zone with claimed radius of about 10 meters, and armor piercing grenades with penetration up to 80 mm (not confirmed). The weight of complete 35mm round is about 250 gram, muzzle velocity about 190 m/s.

NORINCO / Hawk Industries Type 97-1 pump shotgun / Anti-riot gun (PR China)

	Type 97-1	Hawk pump	Hawk bullpup pump
Type	pump-action shotgun
Gauge	12; chamber 76 mm / 3"
Length	940 mm (fixed stock) / 37"	840 mm / 33"	670 mm / 26.4"
Weight	~ 3.1 kg / 6.8 lbs	3.2 kg / 7 lbs	3.1 kg / 6.8 lbs
Magazine	5 rounds in underbarrel tubular magazine	5 rounds in removable box magazine	5 rounds in removable box magazine

AICW - Advanced Infantry Combat Weapon (Australia)

Caliber: 5.56x45mm NATO + 40mm
Action: Gas operated, rotating bolt + Metal Storm patented stacked-projectile caseless
Overall length: 738 mm
Barrel length: n/a
Weigth: 6.48 kg unloaded, w/o sight; 7.85 kg loaded w/o sight (30 5.56mm + 3 40mm rounds); 9.9-9.9 kg loaded w. electronic sight
Rate of fire: 650 rounds per minute (for 5.56mm barrel)
Capacity: 30 rounds (5.56mm) magazine plus 3 40mm rounds in the G/L barrel

The AICW (Advanced Infantry Combat Weapon) is a joint development of the Australian DSTO (Government operated Defence Science and Technology Organisation), and private companies Metal Storm and Tenix Defence. This development has been carried out since the turn of 21st century, closely following the concept of the American XM29 OICW system. Overall, AICW represents the modular weapon system that combines the 5.56mm rifle/carbine copmponent as a host (basic) platform with 40mm multi-shot grenade launcher (G/L) module and multi-purpose electro-optical sighting system, which can be used to fire either rifle or G/L component, and also can provide recon data to external "consumers" such as tactical computers.
The host rifle component of the AICW is the updated Australian-made F88 rifle, which is a license-built Steyr AUG. However, the basic F88 rifle has been extensively modified to accept other elements of the system - for example, receiver has been upgraded to receive the G/L module at the top, and the buttstock has been enlarged to accomodate G/L electronic fire contol module. Other changes include modification to the safety and trigger arrangements - AICW system has a single trigger for both weapon components (5.56 and 40mm), and a three position (safe - rifle - G/L) safety/selector switch at the side of the pistol grip.
The most interesting part of the AICW weapon is the multi-shot Metal Storm 40mm grenade launcher, which looks like a single 40mm G/L barrel but contains three 40mm projectiles stacked one behind the another. These projectiles are launched using the electric ignition impulses, provided by the fire control module built into the buttstock of the host rifle. Since the muzzle velocity of these projectiles is slightly more than usual for 40mm handheld G/L (95m/s instead of 75m/s), host rifle incorporates the recoil reduction buffer, that allows the Metal Storm G/L barrel to recoil against the spring, decreasing the peak recoil impulse.
The top of the receiver hosts the multi-role sights of various type and make. At the AICW VX3 live fire demonstartions that took place in the summer of 2005, AICW prototypes were displayed with ITL Viper multi-purpose rifle sight (that incorporates laser range-finder and digital compas), or with Vinghog Vingsight Fire Control System. At the present time (late 2005) AICW prototypes have not yet fired 40mm grenades with live warheads, nor incorporated an airburst facility. However, it is stated that it is possible to easily adapt most of the existing 40mm grenade warheads to the Metal Storm technology, including air-bursting grenades that are now in development in several countries.

At the present time AICW weapons are available only as the "3rd generation technology demonstartors", that completed first live-fire trials (as a complete system) in the summer of 2005. Current Australian MOD plans state that ADF may start to purchase AICW systems in around 2010-2012.

www.world-guns.ru

Heckler und Koch UMP (Germany)

Caliber: .45ACP, .40SW and 9x19mm Luger/Para
Weight: 2.1 - 2.2 kg empty
Lenght (stock closed/open): 450 / 600 mm
Barrel lenght: 200 mm
Rate of fire: 600 - 700 rounds per minute
Magazine capacity: 10, 25, 30 rounds
Effective range: 100 meters

The UMP (Universal Machinen-Pistole = Universal Submachine Gun) had been developed by the Heckler & Koch company of Germany in the mid- to late- 1990s and first appeared on the markets in 1999. The key idea behind the UMP was to ceate lightweight and powerful submachine gun, that also will be cheaper than one of the J&K's flagships, the MP-5. UMP, being targeted primary for USA law enforcement market, first appeared in .45ACP and .40SW chamberings, and later - in 9mm.

The UMP is a blowback-operated select-fire submachine gun, being fired from the closed bolt. The receiver is made from the polymer, the controls are fully ambidextrous. UMP can be fired in full-auto, in single shots, and in 2 or 3 round bursts (optional). UMP also has bolt hold-open device, which traps the bolt in the open position when the last round from magazine had been fired. UMP has side-folding buttstock and two set of picatinny rails - one on the top of the receiver, and the other - on the forend. These rails can accept wide variety of sighting and other equipment, such as red-dot sights, laser pointers, tactical grips and flashlights. The barrel has quick mount for snap-on silencer.

ST Kinetics CPW submachine gun - Compact Personal Weapon (Singapore)

STK CPW prototye with red dot sight and telescoping butt collapsed

Caliber	9x19mm Luger / Parabellum, possible others
Weight	1.5 kg
Length (stock closed/open)	350 / 500 mm
Barrel length	180 mm
Rate of fire	900-1100 rounds per minute
Magazine capacity	30 rounds
Effective range	100 meters

The Compact Personal Weapon (or CPW in short) is a new development of Singaporean company ST Kinetics. CPW follows the current trend for modularity of design, with intent of providing a compact personal defense weapon of about pistol size but of greater effectiveness for military personnel which is normally not issued with rifle of any kind. It is yet to be seen if STK CPW will be produced in any numbers and adopted by any military or security force.

The STK CPW is delayed blowback operated weapon that fires in single shots and in full automatic mode. It is made mostly from impact-resistant polymer, with aluminum alloy receiver. Barrel and bolt can be replaced to change the caliber from standard 9x19 to others (most possible choice being some small-caliber armor piercing round such as 4.6x30 HK or 5.7x28 FN). Of cause, this also will require use of different magazines, which, in turn, may require replacement of the rear part of the grip. The rear (removable) section of the grip and the magazine body are made from translucent polymer for easy check of remaining ammunition supply. Gun features ambidextrous controls, including safety, fire mode selector, bolt catch release and magazine release. It is fitted with telescoped buttstock. Sights are installed using integral Picatinny rail on the top of receiver, with standard being either open sights or red dot. Additional Picatinny rail is provided at the bottom of the gun housing, in front f the trigger guard.