Midway USA's Gun Stories Season 1 Episode 14 The MP5

Midway USA's Gun Stories season 1 episode 14, titled "The MP5," delves into the history and development of one of the most iconic submachine guns of all time. Hosted by actor and firearms enthusiast Joe Mantegna, the episode takes viewers on a journey from the gun's origins in post-World War II Germany to its widespread use by law enforcement and military special forces units around the world.

The episode opens with a brief history lesson on the MP5's predecessor, the MP40, which was used by German soldiers during World War II. From there, we learn how a small group of designers and engineers at the Heckler & Koch firearms company began working on a new submachine gun design in the late 1950s, one that would eventually become the MP5.

Through interviews with historians, gun experts, and former special forces operatives, we learn about the MP5's key features that made it such a popular choice for law enforcement and military units. These include its lightweight design, select-fire capability, and accuracy at both short and long ranges. Viewers also get to see the MP5 in action through footage of military and law enforcement training exercises.

Throughout the episode, Mantegna provides context and commentary, adding his own personal experiences as a firearms enthusiast. He highlights the MP5's popularity in movies and television, where it has become a fixture in the hands of special forces operatives and action heroes alike.

The episode also covers some of the controversies surrounding the MP5, such as its use by police during the 1993 Waco siege, where it was involved in the deaths of several civilians. The show doesn't shy away from these issues, instead using them as an opportunity to discuss the importance of responsible gun ownership and use.

Overall, "The MP5" is an informative and engaging look at one of the most iconic firearms in history. It offers a mix of history, technology, and pop culture, making it a must-watch for anyone interested in firearms or military history.