Vector Arms V-53 16” .223 Cal. Semi Auto Rifle & 7 Mags, Sling, HK-53
SOLD FOR: $1,630.00
LSB#: LSB250604CM047
Make: Vector Arms
Model: V-53
Serial Number: VA0009
Year of Manufacture: 1990s to 2000s
Caliber: .223 Rem.
Action Type: Semi-Auto Roller Delay Blowback Rifle Fed By Detachable Magazines.
Markings: The receiver is marked with the Vector Arms rollmark. The top of the receiver has the serial number, “VA0009”. The trigger housing is marked, “SEF”
Barrel Length: 8.5” Rifled, 16” with Pin/Welded Barrel Extension
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a hooded post integral to the triple frame. The rear sight is a four position rotating diopter drum fixed to the top of the receiver.
Stock Configuration & Condition: This rifle has a three piece stock set with a MP5-A2 stock, SEF polymer trigger housing, and MP5 style polymer handguard. There are light to moderate handling marks throughout. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the stock set is in Very Good condition.
Magazine Quantity & Condition: 2x 40rd HK33/53 magazines in Very Good condition, 2x 30rd HK93 ProMags in Excellent condition, 3x Steel 30rd HK33/53 magazines in Excellent to Like New condition.
Type of Finish: Black Enamel
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates a 9.5/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 95% of its metal finish. There are light handling marks throughout The leading edges have wear. The action has light wear. The markings are clear and legible. The pins are undamaged. Overall, this rifle rates in Very Good condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly, as does the safety. The trigger has a crisp and clean break. We did not fire this rifle, but we did perform a mechanic’s check. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: 7x Magazines, leather sling, manual.
Our Assessment: The Vector Arms V-53 is a semi-automatic clone of the Heckler & Koch HK53, itself a compact carbine derivative of the HK33 rifle. Built on the proven roller-delayed blowback system that made HK rifles famous, the V-53 delivers the same reliability, durability, and smooth shooting characteristics in a highly maneuverable package chambered in .223 Remington/5.56 NATO. With its short 8.5″ rifled barrel and permanently attached extension to meet the 16” legal minimum, this rifle captures the compact handling qualities of the original HK53 while remaining in compliance with civilian rifle regulations. This example is in Very Good overall condition, retaining about 95% of its original black enamel finish with only light handling marks and minor edge wear. The bore is bright with sharp rifling and no erosion, rating 9.5/10 in this writer’s opinion. The MP5-style fixed stock, SEF polymer trigger housing, and handguard are all in solid condition with only light use wear. The rifle comes well-outfitted with a total of seven magazines—two 40-round steel HK33/53 mags, two 30-round ProMags, and three steel 30-round HK33/53 mags—plus a leather sling and manual.
For enthusiasts of HK-pattern firearms, the V-53 offers an excellent opportunity to own a high-quality semi-auto HK53-style rifle without the cost and rarity of an original. It’s equally at home as a collectible, a fun range carbine, or a defensive rifle for those who value compact dimensions, rapid handling, and the proven HK roller-delayed operating system. With its clean bore, solid mechanics, and generous magazine package, this is a ready-to-enjoy example of one of Vector’s most desirable HK clones. -R.E.
