Stribog SP10A3 vs. HK UMP

After extensive shooting with the Stribog SP10A3, it's clear that this 10mm pistol caliber carbine stands out as a robust offering in its category. The excitement surrounding this firearm has led to it being frequently compared to the legendary HK UMP, an iconic submachine gun typically chambered in .45 ACP. Intrigued by these comparisons, I decided to pit the two against each other to see how they stack up.

The SP10A3's 10mm round is often considered ballistically superior to .45 ACP, offering higher velocity and energy. While .45 ACP has the advantage of being subsonic—making it quieter and easier to suppress—10mm subguns are rare, making the SP10A3 a noteworthy contender in the market.

When it comes to recoil, the Stribog's roller delayed operating system provides a smoother shooting experience compared to the UMP's direct blowback mechanism. While 10mm generally has more recoil than .45 ACP, in this case, the SP10A3 offers a softer shooting experience. The UMP, with its lightweight polymer receiver and heavy bolt, produces more felt recoil than one might expect from a .45 subgun.

Visually, the SP10A3 and UMP share several similarities, including magazine compatibility. The Stribog comes with semi-translucent 20-round magazines and can also use UMP magazines, which can hold up to 25 rounds of 10mm. While UMP magazines are notoriously expensive, their compatibility adds versatility to the setup. However, .40 caliber UMP mags do not work with the SP10A3, despite being significantly cheaper.

The trigger on the SP10A3 is markedly better than that of the UMP. While HK firearms from this era are known for their redundancy, which can lead to a less desirable trigger pull, the Stribog delivers a crisp, responsive shooting experience. Both firearms feature non-reciprocating charging handles that can be switched to accommodate left-handed shooters, a thoughtful feature for many users.

The SP10A3 has proven to be impressively accurate, with the ability to hit targets at 200 yards and even beyond. Reliability is also a strong suit, with the firearm functioning flawlessly using various 10mm loads, particularly Seller & Bellot ammunition. However, users should avoid weak or "range" 10mm ammo to ensure consistent performance.

Suppressing 10mm rounds can be tricky, and while we tested several suppressors, the Primal was the quietest, albeit with significant back pressure. The Ghost, in its short configuration, produced less back pressure but was louder. Finding a suppressor that balances sound performance and back pressure remains a challenge.

One small complaint is the lack of AR-15 grip compatibility. While the stock grip is comfortable, the ability to customize it with an AR grip would enhance modularity.

As a long-time HK enthusiast, it's a tough pill to swallow, but an objective comparison reveals that the Stribog SP10A3 outshines the UMP in several key areas. This doesn't diminish the UMP's legacy, which has been proven in military and law enforcement applications worldwide. The SP10A3 benefits from nearly 30 years of advancements in firearm design, making it an impressive addition to the market.

In summary, the Stribog SP10A3 is a remarkable 10mm PCC that delivers a soft shooting experience, excellent accuracy, and reliable performance. For those seeking a top-tier 10mm subgun, the SP10A3 might just be the best choice available today.

Where do I recommend purchasing one? I'm glad you asked!