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Marco Vorobiev

Oddities: The AK Bullpup?

The K-3 Armenian Avtomat is an AK bullpup configuration. Here’s how this oddball and related AK variants came to be.

The advantage of the K-3 AK:

  • Designed sometime prior to 1996, the K-3 AK bullpup is based on the standard AK-74 rifle.
  • According to the bullpup’s designers, it’s cheaper, more accurate and has less recoil.
  • Bullpup AKs were issued to Russian special forces.
  • The Ukrainian version of the bullpup AK is the Vepr Avtomat.
The Russian Special Purpose Weapon Complex OC-14 Groza is based on the AK-74 and preceded Armenian or Ukrainian variants. However, it is produced in very small runs.
The Russian Special Purpose Weapon Complex OC-14 Groza is based on the AK-74 and preceded Armenian or Ukrainian variants. However, it is produced in very small runs.

Reconfigured Variants – AK Bullpups

Apart from the licensed and unlicensed AK-74 copies, there were a couple of variants that were simply made out of existing rifles. These were reconfigured externally by the engineers to comply with requirements of their respective militaries and were re-issued as locally made rifles with local designations.

The K-3 is an Armenian Avtomat of the bullpup configuration. It was developed by the Defense Industry Department of the Ministry of Defense of Armenia in 1996. The K-3 bullpup is based on the standard AK-74 rifle and entered service with the Armenian Defense Force in 1999. Today the K-3 sees limited service with special operations troops in Armenia, and was never intended or supplied for export.

  • Weight: 2.7 kg
  • Length: 700mm
  • Barrel length: 415mm
  • Caliber: 5.45X39mm
  • Rate of fire: shots/min: 600-650 rounds/second
  • Muzzle velocity: 900 m/s (2,953 fps)
  • Aim range: 400 meters (437 yards)
  • Feed: standard AK-74 30- or 45-round magazines
The Armenian-made K-3 Avtomat is based on the Soviet AK-74, but very different in configuration and appearance. It is the first mass produced bullpup AK-74 variant.
The Armenian-made K-3 Avtomat is based on the Soviet AK-74, but very different in configuration and appearance. It is the first mass produced bullpup AK-74 variant.

Very little is known about this variant, only that for the first time the K-3 5.45mm Avtomat was introduced to a wide audience in 1996. Despite the fact that the principle of operation is practically identical to the standard AK-74, its bullpup configuration is drastically different. Part of the gun’s trigger group (hammer to be precise) and the magazine are located behind the pistol grip and the trigger.

Typically, the Kalashnikov safety/selector lever is left in the back of the receiver. The ejection of empty casings is to the right, making shooting from the left shoulder difficult. Sights are made on high blocks, diopter rear sight is adjustable in range. The muzzle brake has a modified design to facilitate the launching of 3K-3 fragmentation grenades also developed in Armenia. To fire a rifle grenade, a regular live cartridge is used.

The K-3 Avtomat is similar to the AK-74. However, according to the gun’s creators, it is cheaper and more accurate, and has less recoil. The Armenian bullpup is made mostly out of metal. Its design includes an accessory rail for mounting a standard 4X-power PSO-1 optical sight, which is also produced in Armenia.

Regardless, it’s commendable for any country to develop and produce a firearm of its own design, especially such a small country like Armenia. The fact remains that most of the former Soviet republics have stockpiles of awesome Soviet-built AKMs and AK-74s. Not using free, proven guns that you already have is like pissing against the wind. Why do it? That’s why the bulk of the Armenian armed forces are armed with the best variants of Soviet-built 7.62mm and 5.45mm AKs.


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One more bullpup comes to us from the Ukraine. We all know about the Vepr rifles here in the U.S., but this one is of a different breed.

After the collapse of the Soviet Union, each of its former republics tried to prove independence in all possible ways and, naturally, without creating firearms of their own design the independence would not be complete.

The Ukrainian bullpup Vepr Avtomat is based on the Soviet AK-74, or rather built from it.
The Ukrainian bullpup Vepr Avtomat is based on the Soviet AK-74, or rather built from it.

Because providing its armed forces with domestically produced weapons is the best proof of the country’s independence, the Ukraine was actively proving its independence in this way. As it turned out, there were a lot of people in the Ukraine who had pretty good and original ideas about firearms, as well as a well-developed scientific and industrial base that could easily be employed in development of such firearms.

The Ukrainian version of the bullpup AK was the Vepr Avtomat. This gun was introduced in 2003, and was developed in association with a rather interesting organization, the Scientific and Technical Center for Precision Engineering of the National Space Agency of Ukraine.

At the time of its introduction, there were jokes floating around about the type of weapon the Vepr represented, considering the entity that made it. Most popular was that the Vepr was a gun for the space wars. However, all jokes aside, the new Avtomat turned out to be nothing to laugh at. When the Vepr was released, some specialists compared it to the infamous Russian special purpose weapon complex, the Groza. I would not go as far as agreeing with those specialists, but in many respects such a comparison is valid.

Just like the Groza, the Ukrainian Vepr was based on the AK-74, and also like the Groza, the Vepr was configured as a bullpup Avtomat. However, unlike the Groza, the new Ukrainian Avtomat was not chambered for 9x39mm or 7.62x39mm (calibers used by the Russian Groza), but for the 5.45x39mm cartridge. Even though the Vepr acquired some Groza features that are common in bullpup guns, it did not acquire the Groza’s characteristics.

Unlike the Armenian or Ukrainian bullpups, the OC-14 Avtomat/grenade launcher named Groza is a versatile weapon that can be configured for different missions. It fires a special 9x39mm sub-sonic round.
Unlike the Armenian or Ukrainian bullpups, the OC-14 Avtomat/grenade launcher named Groza is a versatile weapon that can be configured for different missions. It fires a special 9x39mm sub-sonic round.

The main feature of the Vepr is that it was possible to maintain the maximum compatibility of parts and assemblies with the AK-74. This was very important for the Ukrainians, since they inherited a huge stockpile of AK-74 Avtomats after the fall of the Soviet Union. The considerable numbers of Soviet AKs provided the barreled actions for the new guns, and an almost infinite source of repair parts and assemblies.

The weight of the new Avtomat is 3.45 kgs (7.6 lbs.) empty; the length is only 702mm (27.64 inches), with a barrel length that is standard for a full-length Avtomat, at 415mm (16.34 inches). That is where the differences from the AK-74 end. The muzzle velocity is 900 m/s (2,953 fps), the automatic rate of fire is 600 rounds per minute, and the gun feeds out of standard 30- to 40-round AK-74/RPK-74 magazines. Basically, the new Vepr is the AK-74 in bullpup configuration.

However, the new Ukrainian gun had several advantages over its Soviet counterpart. Combined with the fact that the Vepr uses the 5.45×39 cartridge that already has a low impulse, the bullpup configuration produces better accuracy when fired in full-auto mode.

The gun became more manageable at that rate. The Vepr kept the performance characteristics of its full-length cousins but offered a far more compact package. One may ask, why isn’t everybody converting their AKs to bullpup configuration? There are several reasons.

The Groza-1 is chambered for the 7.62x39mm cartridge and was designed for use by Russian special operation troops.
The Groza-1 is chambered for the 7.62x39mm cartridge and was designed for use by Russian special operation troops.

In the bullpup configuration, the Avtomat lost its balance. This takes getting used to when firing. The ejection of spent casings to the right, with typical AK “gusto,” makes it impossible for a lefty to use this gun. Even when a right-handed shooter uses it, the face is way too close to the ejection port. Inhaling the powder gases caused irritation in the shooter’s throat and eyes. Not the most pleasant feeling.

The magazine change is cumbersome to say the least. Unlike AR-style magazine retention, where the mag is simply pushed into the mag-well, the AK mag has to be rocked into retention, not an easy thing to do under one’s armpit. The sight line (sight radius) had been shortened, negatively affecting long-range accuracy.

However, any modern optical or collimator sight takes care of that. When scrutinizing the Ukrainian Vepr, one must remember that shooters can get used to the new configuration and become proficient with magazine changes, leaving only the one serious shortcoming—the location of the ejection port in relation to the shooter’s face.

In addition to the gun’s layout, changes were made to the controls. Immediately noticeable is the placement of the charging handle. It has been moved ahead over the barrel and it is no longer reciprocal, i.e., it remains in place when the gun is fired. The charging handle could be placed on either side for right- or left-handed operation. The safety lever on the Vepr is a lateral button that is located above the trigger, which is an improvement compared to the standard AK.

R6712_AK-47-Evolution-AK-Bullpup-3

However, a more important design element of the Vepr is the fact that handguards and other components are not affixed to the barrel, making it almost a floating barrel if not for the gas block. This design feature played a significant role in improving the accuracy of the gun.

The early models of Vepr were equipped with sights taken directly from the AK, but as the sighting line was reduced due to a change in the weapon’s layout, it was decided to replace standard AK “U”-slot rear sights with a diopter or “peephole” type. Both sights are mounted high and both fold out of the way of reflex, collimator or optical sights. The Vepr Avtomat is configured to accept a wide range of such aiming devices.

Initially, the Vepr was developed to accept the grenade launcher similar to the Russian Groza complex. This way one would designate the Vepr as a complex and not just an Avtomat. Unfortunately, the standard GP-25 grenade launcher was not compatible with the gun in bullpup configuration. A special modification had to be developed.

It turns out that, with the grenade launcher installed, the gun is more stable when firing. Its balance becomes more evenly distributed, although the weight of the gun is increased. An interesting detail is that when the grenade launcher is installed, the Avtomat’s safety also becomes the grenade launcher safety. This totally makes sense.

In the end, the Ukrainian-built Vepr Avtomat is just another version of the AK-74. I’m sure its creators would argue until red in the face that it is the next step in the AK development, citing how they were able to improve accuracy and reduce the dimensions.

The Russian OC-14 Groza shooting complex is produced in very limited numbers and destined for Russia’s special operations operatives, who can configure it to the mission at hand.
The Russian OC-14 Groza shooting complex is produced in very limited numbers and destined for Russia’s special operations operatives, who can configure it to the mission at hand.

But, you don’t need to be Samuel Colt or John Browning to see that it’s just the same gun dressed in prettier rags. Also, with positives like accuracy and reduced dimensions, the Vepr also inherited all the bullpup configuration shortcomings, like cumbersome magazine changes and rear-heavy balance, among others.

I read somewhere that Vepr creators claimed the Vepr had fewer parts than its AK predecessor. Well, again, no special education required to see that their claim is erroneous. They removed the stock and the lower and upper handguards, and added a massive butt plate, cheek piece, trigger linkages, two-piece lower handguard, gas tube cover and folding sights. Basic mathematics is not in their favor.

Today, Vepr Avtomats see service along with standard-configuration Soviet-built AK-74s in the hands of the Ukrainian armed forces. However, they are not widely used or issued to the regular infantry troops. Use of the Vepr is reserved to where its compactness is a requirement.

The rest of the troops have to be content with Mr. Reliable AK-74 Kalashnikov Avtomat. It was always easier and cheaper to grab a ready and proven gun from the warehouse than to create and mass-produce something new. Today, the Vepr project is suspended.

Editor’s Note: This excerpt is from AK-47: Survival and Evolution of the World’s Most Prolific Gun, available now at GunDigestStore.com.

AK-74: Soviet Blaster for the 5.45x39mm Cartridge

Developed in 1970, the AK-74 in 5.45x39mm was the Soviets' answer to the U.S. Army’s M16 in 5.56mm NATO.

History of the AK-74:

  • In the early 1970s, the Soviets needed a smaller-caliber cartridge to answer the U.S. M16 in 5.56mm.
  • Following tests, the AK-74 was adopted in 1974. Based on the AKM, its production base was already established.
  • Variants included the AK-74 and AKS-74 (folder) Avtomats and the RPK-74/RPKS-74 (folder) light machine guns, plus a shortened AK-74U.
  • Compared to the 7.62 AK-47, the AK-74’s accuracy of automatic fire was improved by almost two times, the accuracy of single fire by approximately 50 percent.
A new family of AKs firing low-impulse 5.45X39mm ammunition was adopted for service in 1974.
A new family of AKs firing low-impulse 5.45X39mm ammunition was adopted for service in 1974.

Though the Russians may claim that they were working on the low-impulse, sub-caliber, ultimately it was an American designer that spurred the next and perhaps most dramatic stage of AK evolution.

The AK-74, Kalashnikov Avtomat, caliber 5.45mm (GRAU index 6P20) was developed in 1970 by Mikhail Kalashnikov himself and adopted by the Soviet armed forces in 1974. It is the further development of the AKM. The development of the AK-74 is associated with the transition to a new low-pulse cartridge, the 5.45x39mm.

The new guns were first used in Afghanistan during the Soviet–Afghan campaign, then in all conflicts in post-Soviet territory. Currently, the AK-74 Avtomat is in service with the Armed Forces of most countries of the former Soviet Union. It’s a legendary gun with an incredible history full of doubts and intrigues when even its creator was against it. That is its story.

Despite the fact that the AK had very good tactical and technical characteristics, there was a constant feeling of the need to reduce the caliber of the main combat weapons for the modern motorized infantry.

Replacing the automatic Stechking pistol that was in service with tank, APC and artillery crews, the AKS-74U shorty was a logical choice due its commonality with the main battle rifle, the AK-74, with coolness factor to boot.
Replacing the automatic Stechking pistol that was in service with tank, APC and artillery crews, the AKS-74U shorty was a logical choice due its commonality with the main battle rifle, the AK-74, with coolness factor to boot.

There has been a tendency among Soviet firearms designers and engineers to search for an optimal caliber for modern small arms. By the mid–1950s, the advantages of sub-caliber ammunition were clearly evident. Reduction in powder positively impacted the recoil impulse, which in turn lead to better accuracy, especially in the full-auto rate of fire.

The overall positive test results laid the ground for creation and release of tactical/technical requirements for new types of automatic infantry weapons of smaller caliber. Soviet designers were faced with the task of designing and developing an Avtomat or automatic carbine for the new low-impulse cartridge.

The “bump” to accelerate work in this direction was the appearance of the 5.56mm-caliber M16 rifle in the U.S. Army. The positive experience of using a small caliber cartridge by the Americans in Vietnam forced the Soviets to begin work on development of a similar cartridge for their automatic infantry guns.

As soon as the new ammunition was available and accepted by the Soviet military, it was decided to develop a new family of small arms for the new cartridge.

The new low-impulse high-velocity 5.45X39mm 7N6 round (right) next to the standard AK 7.62X39mm M43.
The new low-impulse high-velocity 5.45X39mm 7N6 round (right) next to the standard AK 7.62X39mm M43.

In 1964, the engineers compiled a draft of tactical and technical requirements for a new Avtomat project. The official requirements for the new family of small arms were issued to all firearms designer’s bureaus and organizations in 1966.

Work began in earnest in 1967 to develop a weapon for the new low-impulse, sub-caliber cartridge. By early 1968, ten Avtomats were offered for competitive testing, from which two were selected for the final military tests: yet again, the Kalashnikov Avtomat and Konstantinov CA-006 rifle.

It must be noted that most rifles submitted for trials were of highly advanced designs. The main goal of the new weapon was to significantly improve performance of the existing 7.62mm AKM Avtomat, with emphasis placed on accuracy.

Most rifles that were submitted for evaluation featured so-called “balanced automatic action.” This meant additional weight would travel in the opposite direction to the bolt carrier to counterbalance the recoil and reduce its effect on the gun’s stability.

The N76 bullet construction was unconventional. The air pocket in the front caused this projectile to behave erratically on impact.
The N76 bullet construction was unconventional. The air pocket in the front caused this projectile to behave erratically on impact.

This type of counterbalance is very complicated, negatively affecting the reliability of the gun and making the gun more expensive to produce. The only weapon of the conventional design was the A-3 entry by Kalashnikov’s team. The sample they presented for testing was more or less the old AKM Avtomat, adapted for the new 5.45mm ammunition.

During testing, the main battle unfolded between the Konstantinov CA-006 and the Kalashnikov A-3 Avtomats. As I mentioned before, the product of Kalashnikov’s team A-3 was a deep modification of the AKM, the main battle rifle of the Soviet armed forces.

In the automatic system of the gun, a traditional scheme, only the bolt and barrel were re-designed to accommodate the new 5.45mm ammunition. The Izhevsk Avtomat did not demonstrate overwhelming superiority over its rival during the tests.

However, the Kalashnikov gun had one important advantage: it had an established and proven production base. The design of the AKM was simple and completely integrated into the production cycle of not one but two arsenals (Izhevsk and Tula).

It was familiar to the troops. The cost of development and the ability to quickly establish mass production at the height of the Cold War played a decisive role in choosing an A-3 Avtomat. In addition, the new Kalashnikov sub-caliber gun was lighter than its competitor.

Based on the results of the competition, once again it was decided to adopt the rifle of Kalashnikov design. By decree of the Council of Ministers of January 19, 1974, and the Order of the Minister of Defense of the USSR, the Soviet Army adopted a unified automatic caliber firearm complex of 5.45mm caliber, which received the AK-74 designation for the year of its acceptance.

AK-74 upgrades included a switch from Bakelite material to glass-filled polyamide plum-color plastic in production of the magazines. Here are Bakelite (left) and plum plastic (right) AK-74 magazines.
AK-74 upgrades included a switch from Bakelite material to glass-filled polyamide plum-color plastic in production of the magazines. Here are Bakelite (left) and plum plastic (right) AK-74 magazines.

Ultimately, apart from the 5.45mm Kalashnikov Avtomat (with designation AK-74 and GRAU index of 6P20), the entire family of infantry weapons was adopted for service with the Soviet armed forces. The new armament complex included the AK-74 and AKS-74 (folder) Avtomats and the RPK-74/RPKS-74 (folder) light machine guns. A little later, in 1979, a shortened AK-74U (Avtomat Kalashnikov sample 1974 Shortened) was also adopted.

The two main versions that began to be supplied to the troops were the AK-74 with fixed laminate wood stock, and the AKS-74 with stamped-steel skeletonized folding stock.

It is worth mentioning that the new folding stock on the AKS-74 folded to the left side instead of under the gun. This allowed the stock to be shortened to fall in line with the fixed-stock dimensions. This was impossible with underfolders, which had to clear the magazine and nestle around the lower handguard.

The AK-74 design, just as with its AK predecessors, was subject to tweaking and small alterations, even during mass production. In a way, the AK-74 was going through an evolution of its own. When first released in 1974, the new gun was “dressed” in a slightly modified set of AKM laminate wood furniture.

By the late 1970s, the original AK-74 Avtomat laminate furniture was very different from the first models. The handguards were “scalloped” and the “skinnier” buttstock had a more defined cone and two lightning grooves.

At the same time, to keep up with modern times, the Soviets were working on a plastic substitute. In the early 1980s, the first models appeared dressed in plum-color composite furniture. Attempts were made early on to replace expensive and technologically heavy laminate components with composite.

The Bulgarian AKK-74 is the closest copy of the Soviet AK-74, often distinguished by the solid wood furniture that was at one point in time painted. Later models even came in the Soviet plum-color composite furniture.
The Bulgarian AKK-74 is the closest copy of the Soviet AK-74, often distinguished by the solid wood furniture that was at one point in time painted. Later models even came in the Soviet plum-color composite furniture.

Bakelite was rejected due to poor heat diffusion in the handguards and for being too brittle. The only Bakelite component that survived was the iconic AK pistol grip. In 1986, the new plum set of furniture was made of an impact-resistant glass-filled thermoset AG-4B polyamide composite.

The gun’s furniture is not the only component that went through the mini-evolution. The 45-degree gas block inherited from the AKM Avtomat was replaced with the 90-degree one on later models. The infamous AK-74 muzzle brake’s construction changed to make it cheaper to produce.

Instead of one-piece construction with laser-cut zigzag front gas ports, the newer model was constructed of two pieces where the baffle was welded into the main body of the brake to block the expansion chamber, leaving two radial slits on both sides.

To reduce the probability of mechanical damage to the top cover of the receiver, its mounting was reinforced. The design of the return spring guide rod was changed with the addition of the locking “lip.” This would allow users to retain the top cover on the gun when shooting grenades from the GP-25 or GP-30 under-barrel grenade launchers.

The AK-74’s orange Bakelite 30-round magazines were replaced by the plum-colored polyamide ones. Here I want to add that there was a wide color spectrum of magazines, from milky brown to outright dark red.

Though very different from the AK-74, the Bulgarian AR rifles, with a milled receiver and underfolding stock, employed many AK-74 internal components. Top to bottom: Arsenal AR (5.56x45mm), Arsenal AR-F (7.62x39mm) and Arsenal AR-F (5.56x45mm).
Though very different from the AK-74, the Bulgarian AR rifles, with a milled receiver and underfolding stock, employed many AK-74 internal components. Top to bottom: Arsenal AR (5.56x45mm), Arsenal AR-F (7.62x39mm) and Arsenal AR-F (5.56x45mm).

One more important component that evolved was the AK-74 bayonet. Although, I’m not sure if I would call what happened to the bayonet an evolution. In my opinion, it was changed for the worse. The original AK-74 bayonet was issued with later models of AKM rifles, especially the ones that were made by the Tula arsenal.

The new model had a rigid Bakelite scabbard that was lighter and did not require a rubber insulation sleeve. The bayonet’s Bakelite handle was redesigned and had two additional features.

Besides being a wire cutter, the bayonet could now also be used as a hammer and a pick. To do so, one needed to press the muzzle ring/handguard into the opening of the scabbard; the steel butt of the bayonet’s handle became a hammer and the blade a pick, with the scabbard being the handle.

Final bayonet design modification was made when the plum-colored AK-74 was adopted for service. The new bayonet had a spear-type double-edged dagger-like blade, with the handle and scabbard made from the same dark plum-color glass-filled polyamide as the new rifle’s furniture. This version of the AK bayonet lost its hammer and saw functions but retained wire-cutting ability.

The Polish 5.45mm Kalashnikov Avtomat, Kbk wz.88 Tantal, is a true AK-74, with several unique features. The elongated muzzle device adapted for launching rifle grenades is still a very effective muzzle brake.
The Polish 5.45mm Kalashnikov Avtomat, Kbk wz.88 Tantal, is a true AK-74, with several unique features. The elongated muzzle device adapted for launching rifle grenades is still a very effective muzzle brake.

The design of the new Avtomat included the following components and assemblies:

  • Barreled action (receiver, front trunnion and barrel)
  • Top receiver cover
  • Front and rear sights
  • Bolt and bolt carrier
  • Muzzle brake
  • Gas tube with upper handguard
  • Trigger group
  • Lower handguard and buttstock
  • Magazine

[H3]Main Differences in Design and Innovation[/H3]
The main difference between the new Avtomat and its predecessor is the long and massive muzzle brake. This innovation, together with the reduction in caliber, allowed engineers to significantly reduce the recoil and improve the gun’s accuracy, especially when shooting in full-auto.

The Polish 5.56mm shortened carbine KbS wz.96 Mini-Beryl is simply the Onyks Avtomat chambered in 5.56x45mm NATO caliber with modern handguards and stock.
The Polish 5.56mm shortened carbine KbS wz.96 Mini-Beryl is simply the Onyks Avtomat chambered in 5.56x45mm NATO caliber with modern handguards and stock.

Although the compensator contributed to a significant decrease in recoil and thus increased accuracy, at the same time it significantly worsened the sound characteristics of the rifle. The powder gas now escaped not straight out of the muzzle, but out the sides, amplifying the sound of the shot.

The AK-74 design has basic components, assemblies and mechanisms identical to those of the original Kalashnikov design. The new rifle has nine assemblies unified with the AKM. Throughout the AK-74, 52 parts are identical to those on the AKM. The total volume of parts unification of the new Avtomat with the AKM was more than 70 percent.

This is clearly evident during the assembly and disassembly of the AK-74. All metal parts are protected from corrosion with a special paint-like coating. The main design changes were more external, with some minor inner-working elements. The fire controls of the new Kalashnikov remained unchanged. Many components of the AK-74 are made from casting blanks.

The barrel of the Avtomat is manufactured by means of rotary forging, during which the barrel and chamber are formed to a smaller caliber. All production was aimed at adapting a new model of the AK-74 to the production facilities of arsenals that had previously produced AKs and RPK machine guns of older modifications.

Apart from its fixed-stock version, the PM Md.86 was also configured as a folder. It retained the front grip typical for a Romanian AK.
Apart from its fixed-stock version, the PM Md.86 was also configured as a folder. It retained the front grip typical for a Romanian AK.

The new gun inherited the front and rear sighting system, consisting of the front post sight that can be adjusted for elevation and windage for sighting purposes, and the range-adjustable rear sight. Some models of the Avtomat are equipped with side rails for use with optical and night sights. The GP-25 or GP-30 underbarrel grenade launcher can be installed on all versions of the AK-74. As before, the AK-74 is issued with the standard bayonet.

The AK-74’s accuracy of automatic fire was improved in comparison with the AKM by almost two times; the accuracy of single fire by approximately 50 percent.

Ranges of fire are:

  • At single ground and air targets — 500 meters (~547 yards)
  • At group ground targets — 1,000 meters (~1,094 yards)

Range of direct (flat) shot:

  • At chest size target — 440 meters (~481 yards)
  • At full size humanoid silhouette — 625 meters (~684 yards)

Accuracy requirements for the AK-74:

  • All four bullet impacts must fit into a circle with a diameter of 15cm (~6 inches) at a distance of 100 meters (~110 yards).
  • The average POI (Point of Impact) must deviate from the POA (Point of Aim) by no more than 5cm (~2 inches) in any direction.

Note, again, that these were the parameters for accuracy for automatic rate of fire.

Later models of the AK-74 sported glass-filled polyamide composite furniture of dark plum color.
Later models of the AK-74 sported glass-filled polyamide composite furniture of dark plum color.

AK accuracy is checked by firing a single shot at a test target or a black rectangle 35cm (~18 inches) high and 25cm (~10 inches) wide affixed on a 0.5×1-meter (20×24-inch) white board. The accuracy check is done at the range of 100m, from the prone position with a rest, with no bayonet and with regular bulk 7N6 cartridges. The rear sight is set at “3.”

The method used takes into account the average deviation of impacts from the centerline of grouping and must consist of at least 50 percent of all impacts. The total includes the deviations of the bullets and the average impact points.

In general, there was a significant improvement in the accuracy relative to the AKM and even more so in comparison with the AK-47. As an example, here are the AK-74 accuracy results when looking at the total median deviation at a distance of 800m (vertical and horizontal respectively) compared to other rifles:

  • AK-47 — 76cm and 89cm (30 and 35 inches)
  • SKS — 47cm and 34cm (18 1/2 and 13 1/2 inches)
  • AKM — 64cm and 90cm (25 and 35 1/2 inches)
  • AK-74 — 48cm and 64cm (19 and 25 inches)

This excerpt is from AK-47: Survival and Evolution of the World’s Most Prolific Gun.

AK-12: Is This The Final AK?

The AK-12 has improved ergonomics and modularity over the AKM, AK-74 and AK-74M.

  • Introduced in 2012, the AK-12 is the latest AK-47 variant, though even it has evolved to today’s version.
  • Improvements include better ergonomics, less recoil, faster cooling and can be loaded one-handed.
  • The latest AK-12 uses an AR-style telescoping stock.
  • Thanks to the import ban, the author made an AK-12 clone based on an I.O., Inc. prototype rifle.
  • The author’s replica used parts from FAB Defense, Brownells, Geissele Automatics, Legion USA and K-Var Corp.
The new and perhaps final version of the AK-12 is very different from the gun the Russians unveiled in 2012.
The new and perhaps final version of the AK-12 is very different from the gun the Russians unveiled in 2012.

As the AK evolution continues, it will reach critical mass when drastic gun re-design must occur to guide further development of the AK. The AK-12 Avtomat is the newest version of the Kalashnikov-designed rifle, created in 2012. It is a promising product developed by the Kalashnikov Concern at its Izhevsk Plant.

The main feature of the AK-12 is improved ergonomics and modularity in comparison with its predecessors, the AKM, AK-74 and AK-74M. According to the gun designers, they improved the service life, reliability and accuracy of the gun.

The AK-12 demonstrates excellent characteristics during initial testing. It has less recoil, better cooling, is lighter and shorter, and can be reloaded with one hand. That’s why in 2015 the AK-12 Kalashnikov Avtomat was adopted and will be used as the main personal weapon for the Russian individual soldier equipment complex Ratnik.

The newer version of the AK-12 in its design was brought back to the original Kalashnikov system. However, it now also included most of the ergonomic, handling and modular features of the previous model.
The newer version of the AK-12 in its design was brought back to the original Kalashnikov system. However, it now also included most of the ergonomic, handling and modular features of the previous model.

Is it the same AK-12 they demonstrated in 2012? Not really. In fact, not at all.

The development of the new machine started in June 2011 under the leadership of the well-known chief designer of Izhmash, Vladimir Viktorovich Zlobin. It was entirely an Izhmash initiative.

The new AK was based on the work and experience accumulated over the last 10 years. In 2011, the prototype was completed and testing of the fifth-generation Avtomat with the name AK-12 began. The AK-12 is designed to replace the previous versions of the AK-103, AK-74M, AK-74 and early AKM, AKMS and all other AKs still in service.

For the first time, the AK-12 was shown to the public in January 2012, hence its index “12.” The main goals in the development of the AK-12 were to:

  • Increase the universality of the gun.
  • Improve the ergonomic characteristics.
  • Preserve and possibly improve the gun’s main performance characteristics (accuracy of fire, survivability, reliability in different modes).
To match the look and most importantly the functionality of the AK-12 stock and pistol grip, the author used the FAB Defense M4-AK P folding plastic AR tube, MagPul’s CTR stock and a FAB Defense AG-47S grip.
To match the look and most importantly the functionality of the AK-12 stock and pistol grip, the author used the FAB Defense M4-AK P folding plastic AR tube, MagPul’s CTR stock and a FAB Defense AG-47S grip.

The Russian government was not eager to provide any support to development of the new Avtomat, citing the success of old AKs. So, they didn’t. During the period of 2013 and 2014, the AK-12 encountered some opposition from the Russian military under the pretext of many shortcomings, so state financing of the trials was denied. Nevertheless, on February 21, 2015, the Ministry of Defense evaluated the characteristics of the newly upgraded AK-12.

As a result, it was adopted as the main weapon for the Ratnik individual equipment complex, alongside its more expensive and heavier competitor, the A-545. It also received a preferential role over the balanced automatics Avtomat.

In 2015, after preliminary tests, the fifth-generation Avtomat, already adopted for service, got a number of upgrades. The highlighted deficiencies were not critical to the design and would be corrected within a year. After the new Avtomat was tested again and passed the government tests with flying colors, its arrival in the Russian armed forces was slotted for 2016.

The FAB Defense AKL-47/74 handguards proved to be a pretty good match for the AK-12 guards.
The FAB Defense AKL-47/74 handguards proved to be a pretty good match for the AK-12 guards.

The AK-12 has the following tactical and technical characteristics:

  • Caliber: 5.45x39mm
  • Length: 730/940 mm (29.75/37 inches) with stock folded/unfolded
  • Weight (without cartridges): 3.2 kg (7.1 lbs.)
  • Barrel length: 415mm (16.3 inches)
  • Bullet velocity: 900m/s (2,952 fps)
  • Rate of fire: 650 rds/min.
  • Max. aiming range: 1,000 m.
  • Max. effective range: 600 m.
  • Magazine capacity: 95 rounds for drum magazine, 30 or 60 rounds for box-type mags
  • Firing modes: automatic, fixed 3-shot burst and single shot

All of this is in line with its previous model. You do not have to be an experienced firearms designer or famous gunsmith to see that the new AK-12, though it is a clearly a new weapon type, is still an AK. In fact, it appears to be a compromise between the original AK-12 and the modernization kit.

It appears to have the standard AK-74 stamped receiver, which encompasses the standard trigger and bolt groups. It takes a slight departure from the norm in a copy of the Krebs enhanced safety lever, which is not what the highly publicized original AK-12 had. There is no button mag release. Instead, the regular AK latch is used.

The AR-style telescopic stock is installed instead of the multi-functional stock of the original gun. The stock-folding mechanism is identical to the AK-74. My very own AKS had the same one 30 years ago. The pistol grip is more ergonomic, and similar to one from Israel’s FAB Defense or CAA.

The Russian-made Red Heat AK dust cover provided by Legion USA with full-length Picatinny rail section in combination with original Russian safety/selector lever were a spot-on match.
The Russian-made Red Heat AK dust cover provided by Legion USA with full-length Picatinny rail section in combination with original Russian safety/selector lever were a spot-on match.

The top cover is hinged, using completely new mounting and retention mechanisms, but similar to the modernization kit nonetheless. The rear sight block is modified and no longer supports the rear sight. Instead, it is now used for the top cover hinge and to retain the upper handguard more firmly.

The rear sight block is now removable and can be installed anywhere along the Picatinny rail that runs the entire length of the top cover and aligns perfectly with the section atop the upper handguard. The upper handguard has two mounting spots for small Picatinny rail sections, one on each side. The matching lower handguard has the rail at the bottom. The length of the handguards is about the same of those on the AK-74 with exception of the upper.

The differences begin forward of the handguards. Although the gas tube appears to have the same length and similar design, minus the upper handguard brackets, the gas block is a different story. It is a gas/front sight block combination of new design. It is higher than the standard AK and has the gas chamber going all the way forward, where it is topped with a gas regulator. The accessory lug is at the bottom of the combination block for mounting a grenade launcher.

The muzzle of the upgraded AK-12 is tipped with a threaded block that sports a detent pin and bayonet lug. The gun uses two different muzzle devices. One is a modified version of the AK-74 brake and the other is similar to that of the Polish Tantal rifle.

It is slimmer than the original AK-74 brake and much longer. According to AK-12 designers, this was done for use with foreign rifle grenades. I like the idea. I also think that the Polish Tantal muzzle brake is very effective.

The earlier version of the AK-12 muzzle device was a departure from the standard AK-74 type brake. It resembled the Polish Tantal device, affording the ability to launch rifle grenades.
The earlier version of the AK-12 muzzle device was a departure from the standard AK-74 type brake. It resembled the Polish Tantal device, affording the ability to launch rifle grenades.

That’s it. That’s what the AK evolved into. I don’t know why the Russians didn’t go with the original AK-12 design and instead settled for this one. Most likely, it was a question of funds needed for retooling the plant and more complicated (read more expensive) manufacturing process. However, I rather like it.

It is intimately familiar to AK fans, it has all the features that a modern gun should have, it’s lightweight and looks like a comfortable rifle. In addition, if you believe the designers, it is a better shooting AK than its predecessors. I would not mind owning one.

However, since there is no possibility of the AK-12 in its Saiga livery ever making it here, I have to build one.

Building Your Own AK-12

By now you know I had to see if the latest solutions employed by the Kalashnikov Concern’s gun designers could be replicated. I had to build one of my own to find out if it handles or shoots as claimed.
I once more embarked on the exciting journey of replicating something I cannot have otherwise.

My biggest challenge initially was to find a donor gun in the proper caliber. There were two ways to do this. One was to find a complete gun with gas/front sight combination in 5.45x39mm. The other was to get a standard AK-74 and press off the gas block and front sight and replace them with the combo. I spent a week looking around and considering my options.

The later version of the AK-12 sported a familiar muzzle device, though slightly modified for flash and sound suppressor installation.
The later version of the AK-12 sported a familiar muzzle device, though slightly modified for flash and sound suppressor installation.

The solution was an I.O., Inc., prototype rifle. The new rifle the company was working on was a combination of its M214 rifle and the AK-74. The new rifle had a combination block and threaded barrel. Exactly what I needed.

Having obtained a donor rifle, it was time to collect the rest of the components. By analyzing images of the new Russian AK-12, I came up with a list. Yet again, I tapped into FAB Defense, Brownells, Geissele Automatics, Legion USA and K-Var Corp. as sources for the needed components. Additionally, I anticipated some actual gunsmithing work would need to be done to finish this project.

As always, I started with the buttstock because it is the easiest thing to replace. By looking at the new AK-12 stock, I could not help but notice that it bears an uncanny resemblance to MagPul’s CTR model. Telescopic and folding features for the AK-12 were easier to copy. Out of consideration for weight, I went with the FAB Defense plastic joint M4-AK P folding tube and MagPul CTR stock, once more provided by Brownells.

Just like the earlier model AK-12 and the modernization kit, the new gun’s pistol grip is essentially a copy of CAA’s ergonomic grip, the G47. FAB Defense was gracious enough to provide its AG-47S grip for the project; it is similar in design and fits perfectly on the gun.

In the end, the author was successful in cloning the newest Russian AK Avtomat. The clone gun appears to have a longer barrel. This was dictated by the location of the gas port on the original Bulgarian barrel.
In the end, the author was successful in cloning the newest Russian AK Avtomat. The clone gun appears to have a longer barrel. This was dictated by the location of the gas port on the original Bulgarian barrel.

I had to ponder which handguards to use on my AK-12 clone this time. The new Russian AK has handguards that are matching in length and parallel, with rails at the top and bottom. The clue came from the way the side rail sections mount the handguards.

The AK-12’s Picatinny side rails mount to the upper handguard, instead of the more traditional way to the lower. FAB Defense makes its AKL-47/74 guards with the same mounting option. After taking a closer look at these handguards I thought they were very similar to the originals. I got the FAB Defense handguards and installed them on my gun using standard AK brackets and hardware. I chose the dark earth color for my accessories to most closely resemble the original.

The next step turning the I.O., Inc., gun into the newest Russian AK was the hinged top cover. As previously noted, I have considerable experience with these and used them on previous builds. My preferred railed top cover was the Parabellum AKARS.

Except this time I wanted something else. My search revealed the Russian Red Heat AK dust cover with rail from Legion USA. It installed into the rear side leaf hinge and dropped into place as if it was an original part. Once on the gun, I noticed that it matched the upper handguard rail height perfectly. My rifle was starting to look like the original AK-12. Nevertheless, there was still plenty to do.

It was not possible to match the new gun’s entire list of features, like the adjustable gas system or additional accessory lug. However, the author came pretty darn close.
It was not possible to match the new gun’s entire list of features, like the adjustable gas system or additional accessory lug. However, the author came pretty darn close.

One more part that came from Legion USA was the Russian version of the Krebs Enhanced Safety lever. I thought I would stay as authentic as I could and used it on my clone along with the Geissele ALG AK High Energy Hammer Spring and the two-zone compression return spring.

I decided to try a different trigger group for the AK-12 this time. I opted for the FIME Group’s (affiliated with K-Var Corp. and Arsenal USA) FM-922US trigger group. It was a drop-in replacement and had the look of the regular AK trigger, but with definite performance improvement.

The main body of the gun was done with the updates and, from the front sight/gas block back, it looked pretty close to the AK-12 Avtomat.

It was time for gunsmithing. I needed to find a block with detent pin and bayonet lug that would be pressed over the threaded barrel. Also, there was the matter of which muzzle brake to use. After a search, I decided to go with Polish Tantal parts. The Tantal’s front sight had the bayonet lug and detent pin I needed. All I had to do was cut it, grind it and press it on. The Tantal muzzle device is highly effective as a brake and happens to be one of my favorite brakes.

Choosing a gun for the AK-12 build was a challenge. Needing an AK-74 with front sight/gas block combination, the solution came in the form of I.O., Inc.’s hybrid of a Bulgarian kit-built AK-74 and the M214 rifle.
Choosing a gun for the AK-12 build was a challenge. Needing an AK-74 with front sight/gas block combination, the solution came in the form of I.O., Inc.’s hybrid of a Bulgarian kit-built AK-74 and the M214 rifle.

Additionally, there was an issue with the gun’s open sights. Since I had to remove the original rear sight, I had to find a substitute to go on top of the receiver cover with one caveat, it had to be very low. There was only one that I knew about, the TWS peephole sight, and I got it.

The front sight also presented a problem that required some milling. The original I.O. front sight had a circle hood over the sight post. The higher-sitting handguards and a rail on the top of the receiver cover rendered the original sight useless. I needed to mill the top off the sight to provide more room for the post.

With my unfinished gun and with several parts in tow, I headed to the Erie Ordnance Depot (EOD) shop in Portage, Northern Ohio. Jim Weishuhn, owner of EOD, is a master gunsmith I often call upon when I reach the limits of my gunsmithing abilities. Having a full shop, he often helps me with my projects.

This time was not different. We cut the Tantal front sight, creating a detent pin block, ground it into shape and pressed it on the barrel of my AK-12 clone, past the threaded tip exposing enough thread to install a muzzle brake.

Jim pinned the block in place with a working detent pin. Next, he machined an opening in the enclosed front sight hood, making it more suitable for front sight adjustment and better looking. With the gun nearly complete, we moved on to the two muzzle brakes. All we had to do was modify the tips of both brakes to mimic the Russian parts. After Jim machined both muzzle brakes, all that was left was to refinish the modified parts of the gun.

I.O. Inc.’s rifle had two very important features: the front sight/gas block combination and the 14mm left-hand thread at the muzzle.
I.O. Inc.’s rifle had two very important features: the front sight/gas block combination and the 14mm left-hand thread at the muzzle.

It was done. Stepping back and looking at my creation, I was very satisfied with the way the AK-12 looked. It looked very close to the original. I did try to use most of the accessories in Dark Earth color to match the Russian AK-12, but stopped short of painting the whole gun, instead retaining the option of reconfiguring it later.

Nevertheless, my AK-12 felt light and had an aura of “niftiness” about it. I have shouldered it several times and it felt almost intuitive. The ergonomics were improved and, at the same time, it retained the AK familiarity. Other than that, it looked and felt like a foreign gun and it also looked and felt like an AK. It cycled very well with no hang- ups. All controls worked as they should, and the two-stage FIME Group trigger group felt very crisp. The only question was, would it shoot and would it shoot well?

At the range, I set up at 50 yards, as I was more interested in the gun’s function than accuracy. I would check that later. For the first series of tests I installed the modified AK-74 brake to see if there was a difference between the standard AK-74 and my newly minted clone.

First shots did not disappoint. The clone worked great and, in the best AK-74 tradition, was easy to shoot with no appreciable recoil.

Not only did the author’s AK-12 clone closely resemble the Russian Avtomat, it also shot exceptionally well.
Not only did the author’s AK-12 clone closely resemble the Russian Avtomat, it also shot exceptionally well.

I switched the muzzle devices, installing the modified Tantal brake. With the Polish-design brake, the next series of shots was surprising. The gun was noticeably smoother and its already almost negligible recoil was reduced even further. I was impressed to say the least. So far, the gun was working well. Of course, I could not compare it the original. However, assumptions could be made. And, if the Russians did similar internal upgrades as I’d done, the new AK-12 is better than the AK-74M.

I’m not putting myself in the same group with Russian firearm designers, engineers and gun makers. Even though I’m a mechanical engineer, I don’t know the intricacies of thete firearm design. All I can do is wrap my head around the mechanics of it, add some physics principles, and try to replicate a result, sort of a “proof of a concept,” if you will.

So, as far as I was concerned, it worked. My AK-12 clone looked very similar to the Russian AK-12 Avtomat and shot exceptionally well, enough for me to adopt it as one of my work rifles.

At the range, I continued to test my new gun. I used its open sights to see if it would produce a decent group and it did. All 30 rounds nestled in a tight group at the 1 o’clock spot, approximately 1 inch off the bull’s eye of the target. At 100 yards, my group opened up some, but was still way within my expectations.

In my hands, I had a gun that not only looked and felt great, but also worked well.

After installing a generic red-dot sight, I went to work on steel silhouette targets set up at 50 and 100 yards. It was a pleasure to put it mildly. The AK-12 clone’s meager recoil allowed me to maintain a dot on the target while firing at all times and at both distances.

Here it is, the author’s very own, the latest in the AK Evolution species, the AK-12 that he built mostly in his basement, with a little help from friends.
Here it is, the author’s very own, the latest in the AK Evolution species, the AK-12 that he built mostly in his basement, with a little help from friends.

Rapid semi-auto fire was an easy task. The gun felt like something you want to fire on the move during a carbine course or competition. I love the fact that I was able once more to build a gun that closely mimics the appearance and possibly the performance of the newest Russian Avtomat, and I did it with parts available in the U.S. at reasonable prices.

Is the AK-12 the last AK, the last link in its evolution? I don’t know. In fact, no one does. As the “Old Guard” gun makers die off or retire, more and more voices in Russia today call for a completely new firearms system. It is time to replace the ancient technology, they say.

I’m not sure I agree with them. One part of me, the engineering part, agrees. I would always love to see something new and different. But, would I stake my life on it? That’s where my other side takes over, the practical side, the soldier side, the reasonable side.

Why would anybody want to replace a gun platform that has been in service for 80 years? Maybe I let the Russian in me take over with its trademark conservatism. If it’s not broke, don’t fix it, I say.

Editor’s Note: This excerpt is from AK-47: Survival and Evolution of the World’s Most Prolific Gun, available now at GunDigestStore.com.

How To: Properly Sight In The AK

Shooting an AK, or any gun for that matter, is only fun if you hit your targets. And to hit intended targets, one must know how to properly sight in the AK.

  • The AK's aiming system has an adjustable front sight and a fixed rear that has a provision for range adjustment.
  • The rear sight ranging system consists of a spring-loaded cylinder that slides on a sight leaf and can be positioned on pre-set marks representing 100-meter adjustments.
  • All sighting-in procedures are performed on the front sight only with a sight adjustment tool.
  • Elevation is adjusted by screwing the front post in or out; windage is adjusted by shifting the cylinder in which the sight post is screwed.
  • Elevation is adjusted first, moving the post up for a POI that is high and down for POI that is low.

The AK aiming system contains an adjustable front sight and a non-adjustable rear sight that has a provision for range adjustment. If one takes a look at the front sight of an AK, it appears like a straightforward post sight with protective hood. The post is screwed into the cylinder that is pressed into the front sight block. Both the threads on the sight post and the cylinder will come into play a bit later.

The rear AK sight is a conventional “U” slot type and made out of a solid piece of steel. It is hinged on the rear sight block of the rifle and has gradations representing 100-meter range adjustments. A spring-loaded cylinder slides on the rear sight leaf and can be positioned at any of the pre-set marks, elevating the sight to adjust for the desired range.

For example, if the target is set at 400 meters, the rear sight cylinder is moved to the position marked “4.” There is also a setting marked “П” or “P” for some of the European AK models or “D” for some Chinese. This represents the “Permanent” or “Battle” setting that falls somewhere between 300-400 meters, which is considered to be an average engagement range.

AK sighting guide.

To aim an AK rifle one simply shoulders it and sights the aiming eye over the top of the gun. The shooter can close or squint the other eye. Most advanced shooters keep both eyes open during firing. In the case of novice shooters, the idle eye should be taken out of action by closing it or squinting.

Using a small and smooth movement with cheek firmly resting on the gun’s stock and the stock itself firmly pressed into the shooter’s shoulder, the front and rear sight have to be positioned in such a way that the front sight post is even with the rear sight’s upper edge and is centered in the middle of the “U” slot.

All that’s left to do is position the aligned sights over a clearly visible target. The proper way to aim with the AK is to position the sights or point of aim (POA) at the lower edge of the 12-inch round target set at 100 meters. This should produce hits or point of impact (POI) at the center of target. If the deviation between POA and POI is more then 6 inches vertically, i.e., it is less or more than 6 inches or any distance away from the vertical centerline, the AK rifle needs to be sighted in.

All of the sighting-in procedures are performed on the front sight only. Elevation or vertical adjustment is done by screwing the front post in or out using a sight adjustment tool provided in the gun’s tool kit.

The windage, or horizontal adjustment, is done by shifting the cylinder into which the front sight post is screwed. Note that all of the front sight adjustments for the purpose of sighting in a rifle are done in the direction of deviations. i.e., if the gun shoots low, the front sight needs to be lowered or screwed in, and it needs to be raised or unscrewed if the POI is high.

It is the same with the windage adjustments. If all of the hits impact too far left, the post must be moved left to bring POI to the center. The sighting of the AK can be done without any special tool except those provided with the gun.

The spring-loaded ranging system on the AK's rear sight.

First, the elevation is adjusted by installing a target at the 100-meter range and moving the rear sight elevation adjustment cylinder to the setting “1.” After a series of shots, the vertical POI deviation from POA is established. If it is outside of prescribed parameters, the adjustment is made by screwing in or lowering the front sight post for low impacts, and unscrewing or lifting the post for high impacts.

All the adjustments should be made in very small increments and remembering the geometrical progression effect. Each time the adjustment is made, it has to be verified by a series of shots to check the proper adjustment.

With elevation set, it is now time to adjust the windage, or make horizontal corrections. This is achieved by moving a cylinder side-to-side, depending on the desired result. The cylinder is press-fitted into the front sight block and does move freely. There are special AK front sight adjustment tools that can be purchased relatively cheaply.

However the front sight windage adjustment can be done in the field using a spent casing as a ramrod and heavy object (rock, piece of wood) as a hammer.

The AK's front post being adjusted for elevation.

For that, the rifle is laid on a flat and hard surface in such a way that the tip of the muzzle and hood of the front sight are resting on the surface. With the bottom (primer side) of the spent casing placed on the side of the adjustment cylinder, the casing is tapped with a hammer (rock or wood) until the cylinder moves.

All of the windage adjustments should be done in very small increments. After each adjustment, the accuracy of the rifle should be checked. Most AK rifles have scale markings in the front side (muzzle side) of the front sight block and windage cylinder. The front sight block is marked with centerline and the cylinder with a series of vertical lines. After the sighting is complete, the position of the cylinder markings in relation to the block centerline is noted and should be memorized.

Now the AK rifle is ready for regular operation as described in its Military Training Manual.

This article is an excerpt from the Gun Digest Shooter's Guide to AKs.

Great Aluminum AK Handguards

AK Handguards -1

Check out these great aluminum AK handguards to turn your Kalashnikov rifle into a more tactical firearm.

Although the plastic hand guards with Picatinny rails would work fine on just about any AK rifle, the thing to remember is that plastic, like any material, is subject to fatigue and stress when under load. It will break, crack, melt, chip, or disintegrate at much less stress and load parameters than metal, including aluminum.

The reason the original Russian polyamide hand guards could take more abuse is simply because they were steel-reinforced. For AK shooters who would like a more rigid mounting option that still involves the hand guards, there are several products made out of aluminum that offer just that.

Because the lack of elasticity in metal is simply the nature of the beast, almost all metal or aluminum AK hand guards require a mechanical mounting on the gun. They have to be securely bolted in place for a rigid installation because the upper part of the set that replaces the original AK upper hand guard is usually affixed to the lower hand guard with bolts. And since the lower hand guard is bolted to the gun, the aluminum hand guard system, as a general rule, offers a far better platform for mounting optical sights on the upper rail.

I have already highlighted several aluminum hand guard options in the “Mounts” section of this book, but I wanted to describe them in detail so that the reader gets a better idea how to install them and how they fit the AK rifle.

AK Handguards - MI UniversalThe first handguard I would like to cover is Midwest Industries’ AK47/AK74 Universal Hand guards in Quadrail. I have been using this rail and its variations for years now. It is a solid piece of equipment that once installed, will last for a long, long time.

The lower portion is rigidly attached to the barrel of the rifle and the upper part bolted to the lower. The beauty of the Midwest Industries AK hand guard system is that shooters can choose an optic specific upper instead of the 1913 rail. There are several variations to accommodate the most popular optical or collimator sights and their copies. There are several variations of the original Quadrail hand guards now that the company released over the years. All had to do with different ways to install the “mission specific” 1913 rails instead of the integrated quad rail, thus reducing the weight and size of the hand guards.

There is an SS model that smaller two-inch rail sections can be attached to using screws. The SS model was followed by the more advanced KeyMod hand guard, and later an M-LOK version.

I have tested all of these and they are good-to-go no matter which one is chosen. They all attach the same way and accept the same top covers that are interchangeable. The Midwest Industries AK47/AK74 Universal hand guards do not require any irreversible modification to the gun and can be removed and replaced at will. The AK front sling ring stays untouched. However, most of the Midwest Industries AK hand guards come with built-in QD sling attachment.

AK Handguards - 3The Midwest Industries’ AK47/AK74 Universal Hand guards offer pretty good flexibility for mounting accessories on an AK. However, their longer AK47/AK74 Extended Hand guards offer even more.

Unlike the Universal hand guards the extended ones do require the permanent modification to the AK’s lower hand guard retainer. Again, it has to do with the front sling attachment that must be removed. I said it before and I will say it again: the benefits far outweigh the small mod to remove a redundant part. Apart from the standard quad rail configuration, the extended hand guards come in SS and KeyMod versions.

In addition, Midwest Industries offers several variations of their AK hand guards to fit just about any AK rifle model that is available on the market today. Having had a chance to work with these I would consider them to be second-to-none and among the absolute best AK accessories.

As I’ve mentioned before, Krebs Custom offers two types of their own AK hand guards. The Krebs Quad-Rail Fore-End for standard AK rifles is similar to aluminum hand guards with integrated Picatinny rails from other manufacturers, but with one exception: Krebs Custom has come up with a very solid attachment to the gun that does not involve the barrel.

AK Handguards - 4The Krebs Quad-Rail hand guard is a very good option for an AK rifle. However, for those who don’t like the “cheese grater” effect of the quad rail hand guard, Krebs Custom has released their latest AK-U.F.M. AK hand guards. These are perhaps one of the best aluminum AK aftermarket hand guards available today. The AK-U.F.M. hand guards install on the rifle similarly to the Quad-Rail and sits solidly on the rifle. The accessory rails attaches to the hand guards with the KeyMod mounting system on the side and the bottom.

The top part of the hand guard, however, has a four-inch integrated 1913 rail. The new AK-U.F.M. AK hand guards from Krebs have rounded corners and feel just right in the shooter’s hand. The smooth and slick form makes even an ancient AK rifle look like a modern fighting carbine. The hand guards’ KeyMod system offers a necessary flexibility for mounting mission-specific accessories. The Krebs Custom’s AK-U.F.M. hand guards are definitely one of the best aluminum AK hand guard solutions available on the market today.

The last option for an aftermarket AL aluminum hand guard replacement comes from Troy Industries with their AK47 Bottom Short Rail. Troy’s rail is a one-piece replacement for a lower hand guard and works with either the AK’s original upper hand guard or an aftermarket replacement.

I have already described Troy Industries’ AK47 Top Rail as a replacement for the AK’s gas tube in the “Mounts” section of this book. Together, the top and bottom rails make a complete and very flexible hand guard mounting solution for any AK.

The Troy AK47 Bottom Rail is made entirely from aluminum. It is long enough so when installed on the gun it goes from the front of the receiver all the way forward past the gas block covering it. With the added length, this hand guard not only provide an adequate space to mount any combination of tactical implements, but it also gives the shooter more gripping surface, which AKs usually lack to begin with.

The hand guard itself is rounded in its cross section, mimicking (to the point) the longer rounded AR hand guards. The shape and length of it is conducive to improved handling of the rifle, resulting from a better grip. The necessary rail-mounting holes are provided along the entire length of the hand guard. This allows any number of rail sections in different sizes to be installed if the need arises. Although this is a longer hand guard it does not require any permanent modifications to the rifle. It installs in minutes in place of the AK original lower hand guard using the same retention system. It comes with an Allen key wrench to tighten the tension on the hand guard retaining bracket. No other tools are necessary.

There are other options that come from small and large manufacturers of AK accessories. The ones I have described above are the ones I have personal experience with. Whichever option is selected, the shooter must make sure that practicality is driving his or her decision on what accessory to use on the AK rifle.

Editor's Note: This article is an excerpt from the Gun Digest Shooter's Guide to AKs.

The AK: Rifle for the Motherland

AK-3The history behind one of the world’s most storied rifles.

The appearance of the AK Rifle on the world stage was spurred not by the ambition of some government, but by the drive of one soldier to help his Motherland. It was in the hospital while recovering from wounds sustained in combat that Tank Corps Sergeant Mikhail Kalashnikov first had the idea to create an entirely new infantry rifle. After talking to many wounded infantry soldiers, the aspiring designer drew a picture of many shortcomings with Soviet small arms that were carried into combat against well-armed and equipped enemies.

He wanted to create a gun that would give his Motherland an advantage on the battlefield. Unlike many firearms designers, Kalashnikov was driven with only one desire: to make a contribution to his country’s victory over Nazi Germany.

AK-2
Kalashnikov’s first working gun was assembled at the railroad depot in Kazakhstan. It looked nothing the AK we know today.

He started work on his new gun in 1943 in Kazakhstan, where he was recovering from his wounds. It was there, and not in Tula or Izhevsk Arsenals, where the AK rifle got its roots. Later came years of trial-and-error, configurations and re-configurations, with relocation to the Degtyaryov Machine Plant in the city of Kovrov, before the very first AK sample was presented for testing in 1946.

Meanwhile, the Germans were delivering a new rifle of their own to the battlefields of WWII, The MP 43 (Machinenpistole Model 1943), or later renamed by the Fuhrer himself, Stg .44 (Sturmgewehr Model 1944), the world’s first assault rifle.

The new rifle, created by Hugo Schmeisser, did not employ any new technological principals or concepts. After all, the concept of a battle rifle capable of full automatic fire and chambered for a less powerful cartridge compared to the conventional rifle caliber belonged to the Russian designer Vladimir Fyodorov and his automatic rifle.

Adapted for service with the Russian Imperial Army, the Avtomat Fyodorova (Fyodorov Automatic) chambered in the lighter 6.5x50mm Arisaka cartridge, was put into mass production in 1915 and saw service in WWI, the Bolshevik Revolution, the Russian Civil War and the Soviet “Winter” War against Finland.

However, the true breakthrough for the new Stg .44 gun was the design and development of a new intermediate rifle cartridge, the 7.92x33mm Kurtz. This laid the basis for the development of virtually all modern carbine cartridges, including the infamous Soviet 7.62x39mm Model 1943, or as it is known, the M43 round. Another of Schmeisser’s achievements was the creation of a reliable rifle that could be built out of stamped steel and supplied to the troops quickly and in large numbers.

The decision to transition all the main small arms in the Soviet Union to an intermediate cartridge was made while WWII was still raging. Such a cartridge had been created by 1943, and shortly thereafter the development of the entire family of small arms began, including a self-loading carbine (SKS), the automatic assault rifle, and a light machine gun (RPD).

Several designers and designer teams entered the assault rifle development competition, and among them was young sergeant Mikhail Timofeyevich Kalashnikov, who at that time was already working on his new rifle.

AK-1
The Fyodorov Automatic Rifle fired the smaller 6.5X5mm Arisaka rifle cartridge and was capable of full-automatic fire.

In 1946 Kalashnikov and his team, alongside other participants, submitted a sample of his automat to the competitive evaluation, where it demonstrated very good results.

For the second stage of the competition that took place in 1947, Kalashnikov reworked his rifle, and in the modified form it was recommended for acceptance by the Armed Forces. After initial army tests in 1949, Kalashnikov’s automatic rifle was officially accepted as “7.62mm Kalashnikov’s Automatic Rifle model 1947,” or more simply, AK (sometimes in addition designate AK-47). In its original form the AK-47 had a combination receiver assembled from stamped and milled parts, however that design proved to be insufficiently rigid, so the AK-47 went into mass production with a fully milled receiver.

One of the myths connected with the AK is that Kalashnikov “copied” the AK from the German WWII assault rifle known as the Stg.44. At first glance, the external configuration of the AK and the Stg.44 is similar, as is the concept of the automatic weapon firing an intermediate cartridge. Similar barrel outlines, front sights and gas tubes are caused by the utilization of similar gas systems invented long before Schmeisser and Kalashnikov.Other than mere appearance, however, these rifles couldn’t be more different. It is quite probable that Mikhail Kalashnikov knew about the Stg.44, however it is also obvious that the creation of his rifle was guided by other known samples and systems. Kalashnikov’s main achievement (or his team’s, to be exact) was optimum configuration of already known and proven solutions into one uniform working machine that met all the requirements.

Later, the original Kalashnikov design saw several changes. Due to production expense, the milled receiver was ditched in favor of a more economical and lighter stamped one. A muzzle brake compensator was added and the bayonet-knife was redesigned.

AK-5
China was the first “friendly” country that received a license to manufacture its own AK.

Everyman’s Rifle
The inherent reliability, simplicity of production, and the simplicity of operation saw a huge demand for the new rifle. By the 1950s, the entire 1.5 million-strong Soviet Armed Forces were armed with AKs. After signing the Warsaw Pact that united militaries of all the socialist states in Europe, the need arose to standardize the way combined forces were armed and how they fought.

At the same time, scores of new AK rifles were already being supplied to communist China. Arming the Warsaw Pact allies put a strain on the Soviet firearm industry, so the decision was made to start licensing other countries to build their own AK rifles. This move would ultimately provide the necessary relief to increase domestic production and grow the import of AKs to the USSR “friendlies” around the world.

Proliferation of the AK throughout the world was done both ways: in the form of the ready weapon, and in the form of licenses to manufacture with all necessary documentation, tooling, and technical assistance.

AKs were manufactured in Bulgaria, Hungary, East Germany, Egypt, Iraq, China, Romania, North Korea, India, Finland, and Cuba. Even greater numbers were simply “given” to numerous other countries, basically anyone who would, even in passing, mention sympathy to the Marxist-Leninist ideology. The post-Soviet Union era saw the continuation of those licensing practices, with factories built in Venezuela, Libya, and Malaysia.

AK-10
In Africa the AK has become the main battle rifle for every armed group both government and tribal.

The spread of this iconic weapon is so wide that it is almost impossible to imagine an armed conflict today without an AK playing first fiddle in it. The rifle had seen service in every conflict in every theatre, from Korea to the present. Every so-called revolutionary group in South America, every anti-colonial movement in Africa in the 60s and 70s, every anti-west organization in the Middle East in the 80s, every Balkan conflict in the 90s, Iraq, Afghanistan, Al-Qaida, and ISIS, all are forever associated with AK rifles.

Many countries’ armed forces use the Kalashnikov rifle or one of its variants as their main battle rifle. In fact, more men and women in uniform carry AKs today than any other rifle, bar none. No other rifle even comes close.

Kalashnikov’s rifle has, to some extent, served as an example for design and development of such systems as Valmet (Finland), INSAS (India), Galil (Israel) and the SIG SG-550 (Switzerland). Commercial semi-automatic variants of the AK rifle enjoy considerable popularity in Russia and abroad, especially here in the US.

A truly prolific weapon, the AK in one form or another has been and continues to be sold by the millions. It is estimated that over 70 million rifles have been produced and sold worldwide.

This article is an excerpt from the Gun Digest Shooter's Guide to AKs.

Simpler is Better: The AK’s Design

ak-lead-2

The design of an AK is pretty simple and does not represent a huge technological breakthrough in firearm technology. But how they work together to produce the desired result is what really mattered in the creation of Mikhail Kalashnikov’s masterpiece.

Design
This inherent reliability was achieved by the spacing of the components, with a receiver allowing the contaminants to “fall” though the gun or accumulate for some time before they started to impede the normal operation of the gun. Utter simplicity of operation was also a main goal, and it was achieved by mimicking a conventional rifle configuration, which made it easy to re-train existing soldiers and train new recruits on a rifle that can be mastered within days.

Operating System
The AK operating system is based on a long-stroke gas piston driven back by the powder gases compressing the main recoil spring that in turn feeds the round out of a box-type magazine, chambering it and locking a two-lug bolt. The AK bolt locking is achieved by rotation, unlike in the Stg .44, which used tilting. The guide rails on the inside of the receiver enable the rotation of the bolt within a bolt carrier.

Barrel
The hammer-forged barrel with four right-hand grooves at a 240mm or 1-in-9.45 inch rifling twist rate and chrome-lined bore is pressed into the front trunnion block. Most of the commercial models that are imported into the US from Russia have chrome-lined military-spec barrels. The same could be said for European models, depending on the country of origin. Most of the US-made AK barrels are not chrome-lined; however, other forms of corrosion prevention are employed. The barrel has a gas port drilled in the top to align with a gas block that is pressed on and pinned in place. The original design had a 45-degrees port to vent powder gases to cycle the rifle.

Sights
Originally, on the first model of the AK-47 the hood had a tube shape to enclose the sight post entirely, with an opening on top to allow for elevation adjustment. Later models up to this day have a “U” shaped hood that was first employed by the Soviets in the '50s as part of modernizing the AK rifle. This move made casting simpler and eliminated two milling steps to make the process cheaper.

The sighting system for the AK was borrowed from the standard military two-sight alignment system where the elevation-adjustable “U” shaped rear sight is aligned around the “fixed” front sight. The leaf spring-tensioned rear sight is hinged on the top of the “rear sight” block, and it has graduations from 1-10 in single-digit increments representing 100 meters. i.e. 1-100 meters and 10-1000 meters.

Most of the major systems of the AK rifle have been invented and tried before. It is a simple long-stroke gas-operated system.
Most of the major systems of the AK rifle had been invented and tried before. It is a simple long-stroke gas-operated system.

Furniture
When the AK-47 was first adapted for service with the Soviet Armed Forces it had furniture made of hardwood, but cost-cutting measures switched that to birch laminate. This move achieved a double benefit: It was much cheaper because the material was plentiful, and it was much more rigid and could withstand more abuse. Advances in plywood production allowed for an infinite supply of components, as it did not require a careful selection for the wood used.

Later attempts were made to replace all of the rifle’s wood furniture with composite parts. Early Bakelite technology was widely employed throughout the firearms industry, and the Soviets jumped on the Bakelite bandwagon as well. However, Bakelite proved to be an excellent heat conductor and was abandoned in favor of laminate wood, with the exception of the pistol grip and bayonet handles and scabbard.

Finally, in the early '80s, the first AK-74 had its furniture replaced with “plum” colored glass-filled plastic, and not before 1990 would the first all-black plastic-clad AKs appear, and in the process giving the AK more of a modern look. The majority of the Kalashnikovs built in the US now have some sort of black polymer furniture.

This article is an excerpt from Gun Digest Shooter's Guide to AKs (edited for length).

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