Walther MP

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	Weapon: Walther MP Type: Submachine Gun Country of Origin: Germany Year Adopted: 1963 Caliber: 9mm Luger Action: Blow Back Fully Automatic Overall Length (mm): 640.0 Weight (kg): 3.00 Effective Range (m): 100

The Walther MP (Maschinenpistole) series, including the MPK and MPL models, was a post-World War II submachine gun developed by Carl Walther GmbH in the early 1960s. Designed as a compact and reliable firearm for military and police use, it featured a simple blowback operation and was chambered in 9x19mm Parabellum. The weapon utilized a straight blowback mechanism with an open bolt, ensuring reliability in harsh conditions. Constructed with a mix of stamped steel and machined components, it included a distinctive folding stock for portability and ease of use in confined spaces.

Production of the Walther MP series began in 1963 and continued until the mid-1980s. The MPK (K for kurz, or short) featured a shorter barrel for close-quarters engagements, while the MPL (L for lang, or long) offered a longer barrel for greater accuracy at range. Together, the models were produced in modest quantities, primarily for export and domestic police forces. They were adopted by West German police and border guards, as well as other nations' law enforcement and military units, but never achieved widespread use due to competition from other submachine guns like the Uzi and MP5.

The Walther MP series gained a reputation for its solid construction and reliability, though it was often criticized for its relatively high weight and bulk compared to more modern designs. While not a groundbreaking firearm, it provided a robust and effective solution for those who used it. The series is less well-known than Walther's pistols but remains a significant part of the company's postwar firearms portfolio. Today, surviving examples are valued by collectors for their historical and mechanical significance.