4.6x30 Ammo Overview
The 4.6x30mm cartridge was developed by Heckler & Koch in the late 1990s for personal defense weapons like the HK MP7. Designed for high-velocity penetration and lightweight performance, it offers a compact alternative to traditional pistol calibers. The round maintains a niche presence, favored in specialized military and law enforcement applications.
Why Choose 4.6x30 Ammo?
- High velocity with low recoil for control
- Designed to penetrate body armor effectively
- Lightweight for extended magazine capacity
- Compatible primarily with HK MP7 family
- Specialized ammunition for tactical use
Key Variants
4.6x30mm FMJ
Full metal jacket variant best suited for training and range practice with reliable feeding and penetration.
4.6x30mm AP
Armor-piercing rounds designed for tactical operators needing enhanced barrier penetration capability.
4.6x30mm Subsonic
Low velocity load optimized for suppressed firearms, reducing noise signature without sacrificing reliability.
Competitor Comparison
| Feature | 4.6x30 Ammo | 5.7x28mm | 9mm |
|---|---|---|---|
| MSRP | Mid-range | Mid-range | Low to mid-range |
| Velocity (fps) | ~2,300 | ~2,350 | ~1,150 |
| Weight (grains) | 31 | 40 | 115–147 |
| Penetration | High, armor-piercing | High, armor-piercing | Moderate |
| Notable Pro | Lightweight, high velocity | Balanced performance, popular | Universal availability |
| Notable Con | Limited platform compatibility | Higher cost, limited availability | Less effective against armor |
Best Use Cases
- Personal defense with MP7 or compatible PDWs
- Law enforcement tactical operations
- Special forces close quarters engagements
- Range training for specialized platforms
- Collection of niche tactical calibers
FAQs
Can I use 4.6x30 ammo in standard pistols?
No. 4.6x30mm rounds are designed for specialized PDWs like the HK MP7 and not compatible with typical pistols.
What is the main advantage of 4.6x30 ammo?
Its high velocity and armor-piercing capabilities offer superior penetration with low recoil in compact weapons.
How does 4.6x30 compare to 5.7x28mm?
Both provide similar roles in armor penetration, but 5.7x28mm has broader platform support and slightly higher bullet weight.







