The 4.6x30mm cartridge is primarily chambered by modern personal defense weapons (PDWs) and select carbines designed for compact size and effective performance against body armor at close to medium ranges.
Developed by Heckler & Koch, the 4.6x30mm round offers a unique combination of high velocity, low recoil, and specialized terminal ballistics. Firearms designed to use this ammunition include prominent platforms like the Heckler & Koch MP7, as well as several other specialized weapons.
Firearms Chambered in 4.6x30mm
Here is a list of firearms that shoot the 4.6x30mm cartridge:
| Name | Country | Type |
|---|---|---|
| Heckler & Koch MP7 | Germany | Personal defense weapon/Submachine gun |
| ST Kinetics CPW | Singapore | Personal defense weapon/Submachine gun |
| CMMG Banshee Mk4 | USA | Pistol/Carbine (as SBR) |
| Tommy Built Tactical T7 | USA | Pistol/Carbine (as SBR) |
Notable Platforms and Their Characteristics
The 4.6x30mm cartridge is a distinctive choice for specific weapon systems, often favored for its performance characteristics.
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Heckler & Koch MP7: The MP7 is perhaps the most famous firearm chambered in 4.6x30mm. Designed by the German company Heckler & Koch, it is classified as a Personal Defense Weapon (PDW). Its compact size, high rate of fire, and ability to penetrate light body armor make it a popular choice for military and special operations units. The MP7 is known for its excellent ergonomics and manageable recoil, allowing for effective control even in fully automatic fire.
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ST Kinetics CPW: Originating from Singapore, the ST Kinetics CPW (Compact Personal Weapon) is another example of a PDW/submachine gun designed to utilize the 4.6x30mm round. It aims to offer similar advantages in terms of size and firepower to other PDWs, making it suitable for close-quarters combat and personal protection roles.
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CMMG Banshee Mk4: From the USA, the CMMG Banshee Mk4 represents a different segment, offered as a pistol or carbine (when configured as a Short Barreled Rifle or SBR). This platform allows for the 4.6x30mm cartridge to be used in an AR-style platform, providing a more modular and customizable experience for civilian and law enforcement users. The Banshee series is known for its radial delayed blowback system, which helps reduce recoil.
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Tommy Built Tactical T7: Also from the USA, the Tommy Built Tactical T7 is another pistol or carbine (SBR) option. This platform often incorporates designs that draw inspiration from other well-regarded firearms, adapting them to chamber the 4.6x30mm round. It caters to enthusiasts and professional users looking for a distinct firearm with the unique ballistics of this cartridge.
The 4.6x30mm round itself is known for its flat trajectory and high velocity, contributing to its effectiveness in military and special purpose applications where penetration and compact weapon size are critical.
