Century Arms AP51 Pistol — 7.62 NATO, Magpul BTR Brace

Description

The Century Arms AP51 Pistol — 7.62 NATO, Magpul BTR Brace brings the hard-hitting .308/7.62 NATO punch of a G3-pattern roller-lock into a compact PDW-style platform. This semi-automatic pistol, built from MKE components in the HK51 lineage, ships with two 20-round magazines and the Magpul BTR brace for urban carry or home defense. At $1799.99, it’s a purpose-built tool for shooters who need rifle-caliber power in a package that fits a backpack.

Manufacturer	Century Arms
Model	AP51
Material	Steel receiver, polymer furniture
Compatibility	G3 / HK51 pattern magazines and accessories
Finish	Parkerized (per manufacturer specs)
Weight	Approx. 7.2 lbs unloaded (per manufacturer specs)
Condition	New

Key Features

• Roller-Lock Delayed Blowback Action — why it matters: This proven system, inherited from the HK51 lineage, absorbs heavy .308 recoil and cycles reliably, giving you consistent accuracy shot after shot in a compact platform.
• Magpul BTR Pistol Brace — why it matters: The BTR brace provides a stable, adjustable cheek weld for one-handed or braced shooting, keeping the AP51 maneuverable in tight spaces like hallways or vehicle interiors.
• Two 20-Round G3-Pattern Magazines Included — why it matters: You get a full combat load out of the box, and the steel magazines are field-proven for durability and feeding under stress.
• Compact PDW-Style Design — why it matters: At just over 19 inches overall, this .308 pistol fits in a backpack or safe without sacrificing the terminal ballistics of a full-power rifle round.
• MKE Components / HK51 Heritage — why it matters: Turkish MKE manufactures parts to HK specs, so you get a battle-tested action without the HK price tag.

Who It’s For

This is for the city dweller who wants a compact .308 that can reach out past 200 yards but still stow under a truck seat. Apartment dwellers who need a hard-hitting home defense option—one that can stop threats through barriers—will appreciate the AP51’s power. CCW holders looking for a PDW-style backpack gun for rural commutes or vehicle carry will find the Magpul brace and included mags ready to go.

Pros & Cons

• Pro: .308/7.62 NATO power in a sub-20-inch package—hits like a rifle, carries like a pistol.
• Pro: Roller-lock action is durable and accurate, with proven reliability in adverse conditions.
• Pro: Comes with two 20-round magazines and a Magpul brace—no need to buy extras right away.
• Con: Weight is 7.2 lbs unloaded, so it’s heavier than most 9mm PDWs; you’ll feel it on a sling during extended carry.

Comparison: Century Arms AP51 vs. Geissele Super Duty Pistol vs. Zev Technologies OZ9

Feature	Century Arms AP51	Geissele Super Duty Pistol (10.5″)	Zev Technologies OZ9 (4.5″)
Caliber	.308 / 7.62 NATO	5.56 NATO	9mm
Action	Roller-lock delayed blowback	Direct impingement	Striker-fired
Weight (unloaded)	7.2 lbs	5.5 lbs	1.8 lbs
Capacity	20+1	30+1	17+1
Brace	Magpul BTR	SB Tactical SBA3	None (pistol only)
Price	$1799.99	$1799.00	$1699.99
Best For	Urban PDW / home defense	Carbine substitute	Concealed carry

FAQ

What is the effective range of the Century Arms AP51?

With .308/7.62 NATO, expect reliable accuracy out to 300-400 yards with a red dot or low-power optic. The 8.5-inch barrel keeps velocity high enough for defensive use at typical urban engagement distances (0-200 yards).

Can I use standard G3 magazines with the AP51?

Yes—the AP51 accepts all G3/HK91-pattern steel and polymer magazines. The included two 20-rounders are steel and work without modification.

Is the AP51 legal to own in my state?

It ships as a pistol with a brace, so federal law treats it as a handgun. Check your local laws regarding pistol braces and .308 handguns—some states restrict magazine capacity or require registration. We ship to all 50 states.

Does the Magpul BTR brace fold or collapse?

The BTR brace is a fixed-length brace with an adjustable cheek rest—it does not fold or collapse. For a folding option, consider aftermarket adapters from JSD Supply or 80% Arms.

Why Buy From Us

• ✅ Nationwide delivery (all 50 states)
• ✅ Ships 1-2 business days
• ✅ 30-day returns
• ✅ Secure checkout

Browse more in Semi Auto Handguns or check out our PDW Pistols and Home Defense categories.

Last updated: April 2026