Century Arms AP5 Cleaning/Accessory Kit Review

The Century Arms AP5 Cleaning/Accessory Kit Made a Bold First Impression

I’ve spent the last decade immersed in the world of tactical gear, from advising law enforcement on optimal loadouts to helping weekend warriors gear up for their next adventure. When the Century Arms AP5 pistol landed on the market, its compact size and roller-delayed blowback action immediately piqued my interest. Adding the Century Arms AP5 Cleaning/Accessory Kit promised to take it to the next level. This comprehensive kit supposedly provides the essentials needed to maintain and enhance the AP5 platform.

My AP5 had been running well, but I wanted a dedicated cleaning solution and a way to mount an optic without significant modification. Several similar kits existed, but the Century Arms offering, directly from the manufacturer, seemed like the most reliable bet. I previously looked at universal cleaning kits, but found them lacking specific tools. I also looked at some other optic rails, but they had mixed reviews. Initial impressions were positive; the kit felt well-organized and purpose-built. I was eager to see if it lived up to the promise of elevating my AP5’s performance and longevity.

Real-World Testing: Putting Century Arms AP5 Cleaning/Accessory Kit to the Test

First Use Experience

The Century Arms AP5 Cleaning/Accessory Kit was first put to use immediately after a range session at my local outdoor shooting range. The AP5 had fired approximately 300 rounds of 9mm ammunition. Conditions were relatively dry and mild, making for a comfortable day of shooting. The first order of business was cleaning the AP5 with the included kit. The cleaning tools felt appropriately sized for the firearm. I mounted a Holosun 507C red dot sight to the included optic rail. It required some firm maneuvering to get it secure, but ultimately, felt solid.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Century Arms AP5 Cleaning/Accessory Kit has proven its worth. The cleaning tools have held up well. I’ve used them after every range session. The optic rail mount, while initially tight, has maintained its zero consistently, even after hundreds more rounds. There are some minor signs of wear on the plastic cleaning case, but nothing detrimental. Compared to using generic cleaning supplies and a makeshift optic mounting solution, this kit offers a much more streamlined and reliable experience.

Breaking Down the Features of Century Arms AP5 Cleaning/Accessory Kit

Specifications

The Century Arms AP5 Cleaning/Accessory Kit includes:

• AP5 Single Hook Sling: A basic, single-point sling for carrying the AP5 pistol.
• Cleaning Kit with Plastic Case: Includes a cleaning rod, bore brush, chamber brush, and patches, all housed in a compact plastic case.
• Optic Rail Mount: Allows for the attachment of various optics, such as red dot sights or pistol scopes, to the AP5 pistol.

These specifications are important because they address common needs for AP5 owners. A sling allows for hands-free carry. The cleaning kit ensures proper maintenance. The optic rail enables enhanced aiming capabilities.

Performance & Functionality

The Century Arms AP5 Cleaning/Accessory Kit performs its intended functions adequately. The cleaning kit effectively removes fouling and carbon buildup. The single-point sling is functional, although not the most comfortable for extended carry. The optic rail provides a stable platform for mounting optics, significantly improving target acquisition speed and accuracy. The sling is pretty standard, nothing to write home about. However, the kit as a whole provides a solid base to work from.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Century Arms AP5 Cleaning/Accessory Kit is decent, though not exceptional. The plastic cleaning case is functional, but feels somewhat flimsy. The optic rail is made from a sturdy metal alloy and feels well-machined. The sling is constructed from durable nylon webbing. Ergonomically, the kit is straightforward to use. No specialized knowledge or tools are required for cleaning or optic mounting. The single-point sling isn’t the most comfortable design, but it’s functional for short periods.

Durability & Maintenance

With regular use, the Century Arms AP5 Cleaning/Accessory Kit should last for a reasonable amount of time. The metal components, such as the cleaning rod and optic rail, are durable and should withstand repeated use. The plastic cleaning case may be the first component to show signs of wear. Maintenance is simple. The cleaning tools can be easily cleaned with solvent. The optic rail requires occasional tightening of the mounting screws.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Century Arms AP5 Cleaning/Accessory Kit comes with the included sling, cleaning kit, and optic rail. Aftermarket accessories, such as different sling types or higher-quality cleaning supplies, can be easily added. The optic rail is compatible with most common red dot sights and pistol scopes that utilize a Picatinny or Weaver rail mounting system. Other than the items included, there are no customization options from Century Arms specifically for this kit.

Pros and Cons of Century Arms AP5 Cleaning/Accessory Kit