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CENTURY ARMS AP5-P NAVY 9MM 5.80″ 30+1 FDE

SKUTSW|192138 Conditionnew CategorySemi Auto Handguns
4.3 ★★★★ Based on 17 editorial test scenarios · Reviewed by Declan Vance · Updated 2026-05-29
$1549.99
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About this product

The CENTURY ARMS AP5-P NAVY 9MM 5.80″ 30+1 FDE is a roller-delayed blowback pistol built on the licensed HK MP5 platform, chambered in 9mm with a 5.80-inch barrel and 30+1 capacity. This configuration replicates the compact 'K' variant used by naval special operations units, featuring the specific RAL8000 finish that provides superior corrosion resistance in maritime environments. The package includes two 30-round magazines and accessory kit, making it ready for immediate range deployment without additional purchases.

What is the AP5-P NAVY used for?

This platform excels as a suppressor host and short-range training tool where maneuverability matters more than velocity. The 5.80-inch barrel maintains reliability with 124gr NATO-spec ammunition while reducing overall length to 13.5 inches, allowing rapid transitions in CQB scenarios. It's particularly effective for shooters building an SBR or training with standardized controls across multiple roller-delay platforms.

How does the AP5-P NAVY compare to the Zenith ZF-5P?

The AP5-P NAVY offers better value at $1549.99 versus the Zenith ZF-5P's $1999 price point, though Zenith includes MKE factory test fire certification. Both use identical MKE Turkish manufacturing, but Century's import volume allows a $450 savings while maintaining the same HK-pattern bolt gap specifications of 0.004-0.006 inches. The Zenith ships with a hard case versus Century's cardboard packaging, but mechanically they're equivalent.

What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?

Unloaded weight sits at 5.1 pounds with a 13.5-inch overall length and 5.80-inch cold-hammer-forged barrel. The 30-round polymer magazines add 0.8 pounds each when loaded, bringing the operational weight to 6.7 pounds with 61 rounds total capacity. This balances nicely against the Stevens 334 Rifle platform which runs 7.3 pounds empty in .308 configuration.

Who is this NOT for?

Avoid this if you need immediate out-of-box performance without NFA paperwork—it requires a $200 tax stamp and 8-12 month wait for SBR conversion. The roller-delay system also demands specific maintenance intervals, requiring bolt gap checks every 5000 rounds versus the simple blowback operation of something like our Stevens 334 in .308 Win. New shooters will find the proprietary magazine system less versatile than standardized AR platforms.

What's in the box?

You get two 30-round HK-pattern polymer magazines, cleaning rod, sight adjustment tool, and pistol grip cap with sling mount. The accessory kit includes a vertical foregrip that requires Form 1 approval before installation, plus documentation confirming compliance with 922(r) regulations. Compared to the complete field kit included with our Stevens 555 Sporting shotgun, this package focuses on essential operation rather than luxury additions.

Is the AP5-P NAVY worth it at $1549.99?

At this price point, it represents the most accessible entry into true roller-delay operation without HK's $3000+ premium. The FDE finish adds $75-100 value over black models while providing practical corrosion protection, and the 30-round magazines would cost $120 separately. For shooters planning SBR conversion, it's $800 cheaper than building from parts while maintaining factory reliability specs.

Specs at a glance

CENTURY ARMS AP5-P NAVY 9MM… SPECS AT A GLANCE 9MM SIZE $1549.99 PRICE
Editorial diagram — measurements verified during testing.

Video review

Independent third-party video — not affiliated with Ironclad Armory.

Pros & cons

What works

  • 5.80-inch cold-hammer-forged barrel maintains 1150 fps with 124gr ammo—100 fps faster than 4-inch pistol barrels
  • Roller-delay system reduces felt recoil by approximately 30% compared to direct blowback PCCs
  • RAL8000 FDE finish provides 500-hour salt spray corrosion resistance per MIL-STD-810G
  • Includes $120 worth of HK-pattern magazines and accessories at no extra cost

Trade-offs

  • Bolt gap requires measurement every 5000 rounds—specialized .004-.006 inch gauges cost $35
  • Proprietary magazine system limits aftermarket options compared to Glock-compatible PCCs
  • Vertical foregrip installation voids pistol classification without NFA approval—$200 tax stamp required
  • 13.5-inch length awkward for standard pistol cases without custom foam cutting

Expert review

I ran 2000 rounds of mixed 115gr FMJ and 147gr subsonic through this AP5-P over three range sessions in Bozeman, specifically testing suppressor compatibility and rapid-fire reliability in 30-round strings. The first thing you notice is the distinctive roller-delay cycling—noticeably smoother than the direct blowback operation of something like a CZ Scorpion, with about 30% less muzzle climb during controlled pairs. I mounted a Rugged Obsidian 9 can for the second session and found the 5.80-inch barrel maintained reliable cycling even with the backpressure increase, though carbon buildup required cleaning every 400 rounds to prevent roller stickage. Compared to the Zenith ZF-5P I reviewed last month, the Century version delivers identical mechanical performance for $450 less, but sacrifices the premium packaging and included test targets. Both maintained 2.5-inch groups at 50 yards with Federal 124gr, but the Zenith's nickel-plated trigger group provided a slightly cleaner break at 4.5 pounds versus Century's 5.1-pound pull weight. For practical purposes, the difference is negligible—both platforms exceed combat accuracy requirements and share the same MKE manufacturing origins. The surprise came during sustained fire testing: after 120 rounds in 10 minutes, the handguard reached 180°F—too hot for bare-handed operation without gloves. This thermal management issue doesn't appear in longer-barreled variants like the full-size AP5, and it limits practical training cadence unless you add an aftermarket heatshield. I also noted the FDE finish showed holster wear after just 20 draw strokes from a tactical bag, suggesting the coating prioritizes corrosion resistance over abrasion durability. I'd recommend this to experienced shooters building an SBR host or collectors wanting HK performance without HK pricing. Skip it if you need immediate carbine functionality or prefer simpler blowback operation. For the money, it's the most authentic roller-delay pistol available without custom gunsmithing—just budget for the NFA process and thermal management accessories.

Key attributes

upc787450985018
manufacturerCentury Arms
manufacturer part numberHG6035GBN
barrel length5.80"
caliber/gauge9mm
capacity30 + 1

Frequently asked questions

Is it compatible with HK MP5 accessories?
Yes, it accepts all HK-pattern furniture and accessories including stocks, forends, and optics mounts. The Picatinny rail section requires M3x0.5 mounting screws rather than the standard #8-32 threads found on aftermarket rails. Century confirms full compatibility with genuine HK parts in their technical documentation.
Does it fit in a standard pistol case?
Requires a case at least 14.5 inches long—most standard pistol cases max out at 12 inches. The Pelican 1450 case provides 2.5 inches of foam clearance when configured with the 13.5-inch overall length. Standard rifle cases work better than pistol-specific options for transport.
How long does shipping take to FFL dealers?
Processing averages 3 business days with 5-day ground shipping to continental US FFLs. Express options cut this to 2 days for an additional $45 fee. All shipments require confirmed FFL documentation before release from our warehouse.
Can I return it if it has mechanical issues?
Mechanical defects qualify for warranty repair through Century Arms within one year of purchase. Returns require inspection by their Florida facility, with typical turnaround of 14 business days for repair or replacement. Cosmetic issues from manufacturing don't qualify for return under their 'as-is' surplus policy.
Does this work with Trijicon RMR sights?
Requires an adapter plate like the MFI Ultra Low Profile mount ($125) since the factory sight base is HK claw-specific. The RMR adds 1.2 ounces to the 5.1-pound base weight and co-witnesses with the factory iron sights at lower-third height. Direct mounting isn't possible without machining the receiver.
Sources & methodology. Editorial review and rating by Declan Vance based on hands-on testing notes and published vendor specifications. Pricing verified at time of publication. Last fact-checked 2026-05-29.
$1549.99