Heckler & Koch HK53
Heckler & Koch · Carbine · In Production · 1975
Also known as: HK 53, L101A1
Overview
The Heckler & Koch HK53 is a compact carbine derived from the HK33 assault rifle, retaining the company's signature roller-delayed blowback action developed for the G3. Chambered in 5.56x45mm NATO with a short 211 mm barrel, it bridges the gap between a submachine gun and a full rifle, delivering rifle-caliber performance in a package small enough for close-protection and special-operations work. It became a favored weapon of British special forces and numerous police units worldwide.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 3350 g (118.2 oz) |
| Overall Length | 765 mm (30.12") |
| Folded Length | 563 mm (22.17") |
| Barrel Length | 211 mm (8.31") |
| Action Type | Roller Delayed Blowback |
| Firing Mechanism | Hammer Fired |
| Trigger Type | Single Stage |
| Magazine Capacity | 25 rounds |
| Magazine Type | Detachable Box |
| Muzzle Velocity | 750 m/s (2461 fps) |
| Muzzle Energy | 1125 J (830 ft·lbf) |
| Effective Range | 300 m (328 yd) |
| Rate of Fire | 700 rpm |
| Barrel Rifling | Right Hand |
| Rifling Twist | 178 mm (7.01") |
| Number of Grooves | 6 |
| Frame Material | Steel |
| Barrel Material | Steel |
| Stock Material | Polymer |
| Finish | Phosphate |
Calibers
- 5.56x45mm NATO · primary · 5.56mm NATO — also known as .223 Remington, 5.56x45mm, SS109
Features
- Firing modes: Semi Automatic, Full Automatic
- Feed systems: Detachable Box Magazine
- Safety mechanisms: Manual Safety, Fire Selector
- Features: Retractable Stock, Roller Delayed Blowback Action, Drum Rear Sight, Polymer Handguard, Hk Claw Mount Compatible
Variants
Service history
Operators
- British Army (Special Air Service)
- Royal Marines · as L101A1
- Various police and special forces units
Conflicts
- The Troubles (1969-1998)
Production
Production years: 1975-present
Produced in limited numbers compared to the HK33; favored by specialist users
Origin
Country of origin: Germany
Designer: Heckler & Koch
Notes
Sometimes described as a submachine gun due to its size, but it fires the 5.56x45mm rifle cartridge. Accepts the same HK roller-locked accessories as the HK33/G3 family.
Background
Compact enough to be carried concealed under a coat yet firing full-power 5.56mm, the HK53 became a quiet favorite of the British SAS for close-protection and counter-terror work where a submachine gun lacked punch.