I hear ya.
But... an MP5 Clone is often almost three times the price. Yes, you can spend less but its easy to spend more. I think I saw a PTR K type on GB recently for $1K but it would need a ton of 'fixing' cuz it had no rail, etc. Even the Turkish clones have now gone way north. And if you want a good number of mags, get a second mortgage.
https://www.recoilweb.com/century-arms-ap5-the-turkish-mp5-is-back-167411.htmlA NIB Scorpion can be had for $700 or less. And it comes with all useful items - all it really needs is a trigger spring kit for peanuts and its a great weapon. Decent grip, good mag release (yes I changed mine, but thats a preference), decent rail, and still a ton of stuff to add if you like. And a brace is an easy thing to add to it.
And YES, the MP5 comes with a sweeter recoil and coolness, but still needs some upgrades
The Scorpion is nice because its a semi version of a real deal subgun, and the aftermarket jumped on it like a Glock, and it is easy to add stuff for not a ton of money - so you end up with a tailored weapon.
Thanks for the link to the GHW grip - looks great. I just wish more folks made them in FDE.
I also consider a grip trap door to be highly useful.