I don't know that it would be an improvement, you pick up 10 rounds in the magazine with the MP-44 but full auto was only supposed to be used in an emergency. The two rifles essentially weight the same and are nearly the same overall length, ( the FG-42 is only 5 mm longer) With the FG-42 I get a more straight line stock design to reduce muzzle climb, a built in bipod to aid in accurate prone fire, I can use the same round as the other riflemen and the squad machine gun and I get 150 meters more effective range with a higher rate of full auto and built in scope mounts. for my two cents I'd just as soon have the FG-42 if they were my only two choices