The K&M Sub-Machine Gun, more commonly known as the MP5, is one of the most recognizable weapons in the Counter-Strike series. This German-made submachine gun, manufactured by Heckler & Koch, is favored for its accuracy, affordability, and ease of use. It was present in every Counter-Strike game except Counter-Strike: Global Offensive, where it was replaced by the MP7. However, a successor in the form of the MP5-SD was added to Global Offensive in August 2018, reintroducing the weapon in a suppressed variant. Learn everything about the Counter-Strike K&M SMG, the MP5. Discover its stats, tactics, and more for this versatile weapon.

The MP5 is a well-rounded choice for both Counter-Terrorists and Terrorists, offering a balance between speed, control, and firepower. While it lacks the sheer stopping power of rifles, its affordability and versatility make it a staple in many early-game rounds.

Weapon Properties and Performance

Damage and Accuracy

The MP5 is a lightweight submachine gun with a fast rate of fire and low recoil, making it an effective choice for close-to-mid-range engagements. It is among the most accurate SMGs in Counter-Strike, rivaled only by the UMP-45. However, it suffers from low armor penetration, meaning it struggles against opponents equipped with Kevlar.

Weapon Stats

The damage output varies across different Counter-Strike titles. In Counter-Strike 1.6 and Condition Zero, the MP5 deals moderate damage with higher effectiveness against unarmored targets. In Counter-Strike: Source, the weapon’s damage was slightly tweaked, but its fundamental strengths and weaknesses remained the same.

Damage Values (Counter-Strike 1.6 & Condition Zero)

• Headshot (Unarmored): 100 damage
• Headshot (Armored): 50 damage
• Chest & Arms: 25 damage (unarmored), 12 damage (armored)
• Abdomen & Pelvis: 31 damage (unarmored), 15 damage (armored)
• Legs: 18 damage

Damage Values (Counter-Strike: Source)

• Headshot (Unarmored): 103 damage
• Headshot (Armored): 51 damage
• Chest & Arms: 25 damage (unarmored), 12 damage (armored)
• Abdomen & Pelvis: 32 damage (unarmored), 16 damage (armored)
• Legs: 19 damage

Despite its lower damage output compared to rifles, the MP5 excels in mobility and ease of handling. The lack of significant recoil allows players to maintain accuracy while moving, making it ideal for run-and-gun playstyles.

Best Tactics for the Counter-Strike K&M SMG

Close-Range Engagements

Due to its high fire rate and low recoil, the MP5 is best used in close-quarters combat. When engaging enemies at short distances, players should aim for the head or upper torso to maximize damage output. At close range, spraying is viable, as the recoil remains manageable, allowing most bullets to land on target.

Mid-Range Combat

At medium range, the MP5 requires a more controlled approach. Players should burst fire in short, accurate volleys, aiming for the stomach or chest to increase headshot probability. Crouching can help improve accuracy, especially when trying to land precise headshots.

Long-Range Limitations

The MP5 is not ideal for long-range fights due to its damage drop-off and spread. If forced into a long-range duel, players should strafe and fire in five-round bursts to maintain accuracy. However, avoiding such fights altogether is often the best course of action.

Movement and Strafing

One of the MP5’s biggest strengths is its mobility. Unlike heavier weapons, the MP5 allows players to move quickly while maintaining good accuracy. Strafing while firing is a key tactic, allowing players to avoid enemy shots while keeping their own accuracy intact.

Reloading and Secondary Weapons

The MP5 has a relatively short reload time, but reloading in the open can still be dangerous. Players should reload after engagements and always have a sidearm ready in case an enemy appears unexpectedly. Pairing the MP5 with a Desert Eagle or P250 can help compensate for its lower long-range effectiveness.

Appearances Across the Counter-Strike Series

The MP5 has been a staple weapon since the early beta versions of Counter-Strike. It appeared in:

• Counter-Strike Beta
• Counter-Strike (1.6)
• Condition Zero
• Deleted Scenes
• Counter-Strike: Source

In Deleted Scenes, the MP5 was frequently used by NPCs and had a flashlight attachment, a unique feature not found in other Counter-Strike games.

The MP5 in Counter-Strike: Global Offensive

Originally, the MP5 was meant to be part of Counter-Strike: Global Offensive, as seen in the game’s early development stages. However, it was replaced by the MP7 before launch. Despite this, remnants of the MP5 existed in the game’s code and achievement icons.

In August 2018, Valve introduced the MP5-SD, a suppressed version of the MP5, bringing the weapon back into the game with new mechanics.

Behind the Scenes and Trivia

• The MP5 was featured in all official Counter-Strike logos before Global Offensive, where it was replaced by an operative holding a SCAR-L.
• In Left 4 Dead 2 (German version), the MP5 is a direct port from Counter-Strike: Source, but with a 50-round magazine instead of 30.
• In Deleted Scenes, the MP5 has an under-barrel flashlight, making it one of the few weapons with a built-in light source.
• Prior to Counter-Strike: Global Offensive, bots often selected the MP5 when they couldn’t afford rifles.

Advantages and Disadvantages of the K&M SMG

Advantages

The MP5 is widely regarded as one of the most user-friendly weapons in Counter-Strike due to its combination of accuracy, mobility, and affordability. It offers several advantages that make it a solid choice in early and eco rounds:

• High Rate of Fire: The MP5 fires bullets at a rapid pace, making it effective in close-quarters combat.
• Low Recoil: Compared to many other weapons, the MP5 has minimal recoil, allowing for greater accuracy even while moving.
• Lightweight: The MP5 does not slow players down, allowing for quick repositioning and agile movement during engagements.
• Short Reload Time: In games like Counter-Strike 1.6 and Condition Zero, the MP5 reloads quickly, ensuring minimal downtime in fights.
• Affordable Price: At $1500, the MP5 is a cost-effective choice, making it accessible in eco and anti-eco rounds.
• Effective on the Move: The weapon retains decent accuracy while strafing, making it an excellent choice for run-and-gun tactics.

Disadvantages

Despite its strengths, the MP5 has notable weaknesses that limit its effectiveness in higher-tier play:

• Low Damage Against Armored Targets: The MP5 struggles against enemies wearing Kevlar, requiring additional shots to secure kills.
• Shorter Effective Range: The MP5 has a shorter effective range compared to rifles, making long-distance engagements challenging.
• High Spread with Continuous Fire: If fired continuously, the MP5’s spread increases significantly, reducing accuracy.
• Limited Armor Penetration: Its bullets have poor penetration against armored opponents, making rifles a better choice in full-buy rounds.
• Inferior to Rifles in Later Rounds: While excellent in early rounds, the MP5 is often replaced by rifles like the AK-47 and M4A1-S as the game progresses.

Conclusion

The K&M SMG, or MP5, remains one of the most iconic weapons in the Counter-Strike series. Its accuracy, mobility, and affordability make it a popular choice in early rounds. While it lacks armor penetration and long-range effectiveness, its ease of use and versatility keep it relevant in many scenarios. Whether in Counter-Strike 1.6, Condition Zero, or Source, the MP5 has earned its place as one of the most reliable SMGs in the game’s history.