First Impressions of Century Arms MKE AP5 Accessory Kit w/Pistol Cleaning Kit and Flash Hider
The Century Arms MKE AP5 Accessory Kit w/Pistol Cleaning Kit and Flash Hider promises to elevate your AP5 experience, offering essential components in one convenient package. This kit includes a single hook sling, a cleaning kit in a plastic case, an optic rail mount, and a flash hider, all designed to complement your AP5 pistol. I was eager to see if this kit truly delivered on its promise of enhanced functionality and convenience, especially given its comprehensive nature.
Having invested in an AP5 Core recently, I was immediately looking for accessories to enhance its practicality. The allure of a complete kit, designed specifically for my firearm, significantly reduced the need for me to hunt down individual components. I’ve always appreciated Century Arms‘ commitment to providing affordable and reliable firearms, and I had hoped this accessory kit would uphold that reputation.
Upon unboxing the kit, I was initially impressed by the organized presentation. The components appeared well-made, and the included instructions were clear and concise. My initial thoughts were positive regarding the materials, build quality, and the overall design of the accessories.
Compared to piecing together individual accessories from various manufacturers, this kit seemed like a more efficient and cost-effective solution. I considered other options, such as buying a standalone sling, an aftermarket flash hider, and assembling a custom cleaning kit. This kit seemed more cohesive and purpose-built.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic; I was excited to see how these accessories would perform in real-world conditions. The price point seemed reasonable for what was included, and I was eager to upgrade my AP5.
Real-World Testing: Putting Century Arms MKE AP5 Accessory Kit w/Pistol Cleaning Kit and Flash Hider to the Test
First Use Experience
My first testing ground for the Century Arms MKE AP5 Accessory Kit w/Pistol Cleaning Kit and Flash Hider was at my local outdoor shooting range. The weather was fairly mild, with a slight breeze, making it ideal for testing the accessories in a controlled environment. I specifically focused on the ease of installation and immediate performance of each component.
The optic rail mount proved to be surprisingly easy to install, securely attaching to the AP5’s receiver without any modifications. The sling, although basic in design, served its purpose well, allowing me to carry the pistol comfortably. The flash hider was straightforward to attach and noticeably reduced muzzle flash.
There were no major issues during the initial range visit, but I did notice the sling material felt somewhat stiff. The cleaning kit, though compact, contained all the essential tools needed for basic maintenance, which was a relief.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use, the Century Arms MKE AP5 Accessory Kit w/Pistol Cleaning Kit and Flash Hider has held up reasonably well, though some aspects have revealed certain limitations. The optic rail mount remains secure, and I haven’t experienced any issues with its stability despite repeated use. The flash hider continues to perform as expected, effectively mitigating muzzle flash, especially during low-light conditions.
However, the sling is showing some signs of wear, with the material starting to fray slightly around the attachment points. Routine maintenance is straightforward, and the cleaning kit remains a convenient and effective tool for keeping my AP5 in top condition. Despite the sling’s minor durability concerns, the overall performance of the kit has been satisfactory.
In comparison to my previous experience of using a standalone cleaning kit, the included kit is more compact and organized, which is a welcome improvement. The optic rail mount has been far more reliable than some cheaper aftermarket options I’ve used, which often came loose after a few magazines.
Breaking Down the Features of Century Arms MKE AP5 Accessory Kit w/Pistol Cleaning Kit and Flash Hider
Specifications
The Century Arms MKE AP5 Accessory Kit w/Pistol Cleaning Kit and Flash Hider comprises several key components designed to enhance the usability of the AP5 pistol. The kit is tailored explicitly for the Century Arms AP5 Core pistol platform, ensuring a seamless fit and functionality. The accessories included are intended to improve the overall shooting experience and provide essential maintenance tools.
The AP5 Single Hook Sling is a basic but functional sling for carrying the AP5. The sling is made from durable nylon webbing. The Cleaning Kit with Plastic Case includes essential cleaning tools, such as a bore brush, cleaning rod, and lubricant applicator. The Optic Rail Mount is designed to securely attach various optics to the AP5’s receiver. The Flash Hider is designed to reduce muzzle flash and directs gases forward, reducing side blast.
These specifications are essential because they directly influence the user experience by making the AP5 more versatile, easier to maintain, and more comfortable to operate. The optic rail mount allows for the quick and easy installation of red dots or other optics, enhancing accuracy. The cleaning kit ensures that the AP5 remains in optimal working condition, promoting reliability and longevity. The flash hider improves the shooter’s visibility by minimizing muzzle flash, especially in low-light scenarios.
Performance & Functionality
The Century Arms MKE AP5 Accessory Kit w/Pistol Cleaning Kit and Flash Hider largely delivers on its promise of enhancing the functionality of the AP5 pistol, though some components perform better than others. The optic rail mount is highly reliable and stable, providing a solid platform for mounting optics. The cleaning kit is practical and easy to use, effectively facilitating basic maintenance tasks.
The sling is functional but lacks the comfort and adjustability found in more premium options. The flash hider effectively reduces muzzle flash, contributing to improved visibility and reduced perceived recoil. The kit meets most expectations but falls short in terms of sling quality.
The optic rail performs flawlessly, holding zero even after extended firing sessions. The cleaning kit, while basic, gets the job done without any fuss. The sling, however, could benefit from improved padding and a more robust construction.
Design & Ergonomics
The Century Arms MKE AP5 Accessory Kit w/Pistol Cleaning Kit and Flash Hider features a practical design that prioritizes functionality over aesthetics. The build quality is generally good, with most components constructed from durable materials. The optic rail is aluminum, the cleaning kit components are plastic and metal, and the sling is nylon.
The overall weight of the kit is minimal, adding only slightly to the AP5’s original weight. The optic rail is intuitive to install, and the cleaning kit’s compact design makes it easy to store and transport. The sling is user-friendly.
The kit has a simple aesthetic and prioritizes function over form. It blends well with the AP5’s design.
Durability & Maintenance
The Century Arms MKE AP5 Accessory Kit w/Pistol Cleaning Kit and Flash Hider is designed to withstand regular use, but the durability varies among the different components. The optic rail mount and flash hider are made from robust materials that are likely to last for years with proper care. The cleaning kit components are also reasonably durable, but the plastic case may be prone to cracking under extreme conditions.
The sling is the weakest link in terms of durability, as the nylon webbing may fray over time, especially under heavy use. Maintenance is straightforward. The cleaning kit can be cleaned with mild solvents, and the other components require only occasional wiping down.
With proper care, the majority of the kit will last for several years. The sling may need to be replaced eventually.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Century Arms MKE AP5 Accessory Kit w/Pistol Cleaning Kit and Flash Hider itself is a set of accessories designed to enhance the AP5, not necessarily offering further customization options. The primary customization aspect comes from the optic rail mount, which allows users to attach a wide range of optics, such as red dot sights, holographic sights, and even low-powered scopes. These accessories can significantly improve the AP5’s accuracy and usability in various shooting scenarios.
The AP5 is generally compatible with a wide array of aftermarket accessories, including different grips, trigger upgrades, and charging handles, providing users with extensive customization possibilities. Many of these accessories are interchangeable between different MP5-pattern firearms, offering further flexibility. The kit itself doesn’t prevent the use of other aftermarket parts.
The flash hider included is compatible with many other muzzle devices designed for the AP5’s thread pitch. Users could swap this flash hider with a compensator or suppressor adapter.
Pros and Cons of Century Arms MKE AP5 Accessory Kit w/Pistol Cleaning Kit and Flash Hider
Pros
- Affordable and convenient complete accessory solution for the Century Arms AP5. It saves time and money compared to purchasing individual components.
- Reliable optic rail mount provides a secure platform for mounting various optics, enhancing accuracy and usability. It holds zero even after extended use.
- Compact cleaning kit includes essential tools for maintaining the AP5, ensuring reliable performance. It simplifies routine maintenance tasks.
- Effective flash hider reduces muzzle flash, improving visibility and minimizing perceived recoil. This is especially beneficial in low-light conditions.
- Easy installation of all components, making it accessible for both experienced and novice shooters. Minimal tools are required for installation.
Cons
- Basic sling quality is lower compared to aftermarket options. It lacks padding and adjustability.
- Sling durability concerns as the nylon webbing may fray over time. This limits its suitability for heavy-duty use.
Who Should Buy Century Arms MKE AP5 Accessory Kit w/Pistol Cleaning Kit and Flash Hider?
This Century Arms MKE AP5 Accessory Kit w/Pistol Cleaning Kit and Flash Hider is perfect for AP5 owners looking for an affordable and convenient way to enhance their firearm. It is ideal for recreational shooters, home defense enthusiasts, and those who want to improve their AP5’s accuracy with an optic.
Those who should skip this product are individuals who require a high-quality sling or are willing to invest in individual, premium accessories. Those prioritizing top-tier components might prefer purchasing each item separately.
A must-have modification is a higher-quality sling if frequent carry is anticipated. Consider upgrading to a padded, adjustable sling for improved comfort and durability.
Conclusion on Century Arms MKE AP5 Accessory Kit w/Pistol Cleaning Kit and Flash Hider
Overall, the Century Arms MKE AP5 Accessory Kit w/Pistol Cleaning Kit and Flash Hider provides a solid value proposition for AP5 owners. The kit offers essential components at an affordable price, making it a practical choice for those seeking to enhance their firearm without breaking the bank. While the sling may be the kit’s weakest point, the optic rail, cleaning kit, and flash hider perform well and add significant value.
The price is justified considering the included accessories and their overall functionality. It is more cost-effective than purchasing each item separately.
I would recommend this kit to anyone looking to get started with their AP5 customization journey. It’s a convenient and affordable solution for improving the AP5’s usability. Upgrade your AP5 today and experience the difference this accessory kit can make!