I actually like the mg 1a - from all the guns in game it has for nether most pleasant handling - and up until malice the damage is ok. I personally find it actually the perfect choice as entry weapon for the vet.
Anything that is not viable on Malice is absurdly weak.
Not even talking about higher difficulties.
For example, Zealot’s starting weapon - Combat Axe is one of the top weapons even on Damnation.
Not even talking about how good his Shredder Autopistol.