Circle 10 AK just released an American-made parts kit for building AK-74s, and if the parts are made as well as they claim, it could be just what the U.S. 5.45 market needed.
Some Of The Other Things You Will Need To Complete Your AK-74:
Receiver
Riveting Tool
Trigger Guard Riveting Jig
Barrel Press Kit
12-Ton Press
Drill Press
Skills
The American AK market has been severely lacking 5.45×39 options for a while now. Complete AK-74s have stopped coming in for a variety of reasons, and the supply of surplus parts kits has seemingly dried up. The parts kits that do come in are very expensive and haven’t even included barrels since the ATF banned their importation in 2005. There are many new American AK-enthusiasts who wish that they had an AK-74 in their collection. For some time now the only available 5.45 AKs were from Palmetto State Armory, and while they made a noble effort the end result was unfortunately not up to Kalashnikov standards.
While American-made AKs have had a rocky past, and I remain skeptical of the quality of any AK that is not from an ex-communist dictatorship, this new parts kit from Circle 10 AK shows a lot of promise.
The full parts kit from Circle 10 AK.
Parts Quality
All parts included in this kit are new production and made in the U.S. Some of the parts are made in-house by Circle 10 AK themselves, while others have been outsourced.
The included 16” barrel has been chrome-lined, but the manufacturer is not listed. Some U.S.-made AK barrels have had issues in the past, so hopefully this one will prove to be of decent quality.
The most important parts of the rifle—the bolt, bolt carrier, and front trunnion—are all made from forgings. This is the proper method for making these components and is a good sign of their quality.
Forged parts are great news for this kit, but the overall quality of its components won’t be truly known until they have been built into complete guns and abused with thousands of rounds of fire.
Home-Built
Keep in mind that building an AK is nothing like assembling an AR. AKs require more tools and knowhow than most people have, and you should do research and gauge your skill level before embarking on a home-build project.
For those looking to learn, however, this is an ideal kit to do it on because it has no historical significance. If you’re going to make a mistake, it would be better for everyone if you did it on this new-production American kit rather than original Russian parts from the ‘70s.
The included rear trunnion is for a fixed stock, but the front trunnion has been drilled to accommodate a side-folder latch. It would only take a rear trunnion swap to build this kit into an AKS-74 or AK-74M style of rifle.
Russian AKS-74 with side-folding triangle stock. The Circle 10 AK kit could be built into something similar. Photo:Wikipedia
I am excited to see these new Circle 10 AK kits built out and tested. If their forged parts can withstand the high chamber pressures of 5.45 without issue, Circle 10 AK may have just provided for an excellent new option for American shooters looking to get into the AK-74 platform.
The parts kit has an MSRP of $849.95, but don’t forget to factor in the cost of hiring an experienced builder or of buying the tools needed to do it yourself.
For more information on Circle 10 AK, please visit circle10ak.com.
If you think the Draco is too big, and the Micro Draco is too small, then the Cugir Mini Draco should be just right.
What Is A Cugir Mini Draco?
7.62×39 AK Pistol
7.75-Inch Chrome-Lined Barrel
Made In Cugir, Romania
Non-Standard Handguards
Standard AK Iron Sights
A2 Birdcage Flash Hider
We’ve already discussed Cugir’s Standard Draco and Micro Draco AK pistols, and there isn’t too much more that can be said about their intermediate-length Mini Draco. Cugir-made AKs are known for being rugged, reliable machines regardless of their barrel length. In terms of build-quality, I consider all of their models to be equal.
So, with three great AK pistol options available from Cugir, the only thing you have to ask yourself before buying one is how small do you want to go?
Why The Mini Draco?
As with all things in weapons design, everything is a tradeoff. The Micro Draco is the king of compactness, but it comes at the cost of muzzle velocity and space to put your supporting hand. The standard Draco offers better ballistic performance and ergonomics but is not nearly as easy to stow away. The Mini Draco is the happy medium between these other two designs.
The Mini Draco has a slightly higher muzzle velocity than the Micro, and its handguards are larger as well. The shorter barrel and gas system compared to the standard model also makes the Mini much handier.
Standard Draco (top) versus Mini Draco (bottom).
Note that the included A2 flash hider adds a relatively significant amount of length to this little pistol. While this could be removed for extra compactness, 7.62×39 produces a lot of noise and muzzle flash when fired from a barrel this short so you will probably want to keep it on, if not replace it with an even more effective device.
Sights
Another advantage of the Mini Draco over the Micro is the sights. Micro Dracos have U-notch, Krinkov-esque sights on the dust cover that may be alright for quick-acquisition at close ranges, but the standard AK rear sight on the Mini will allow for much more accurate shooting.
7.62×39 loses minimal velocity out of short barrels, so the accuracy of the Mini Draco should still be sufficient to make good hits at medium ranges. Keep in mind that while the shorter barrel has little effect on mechanical accuracy, the shorter sight radius between the front and rear irons will result in lower practical accuracy when compared to a full-sized WASR or even a standard Draco.
The Mini Draco does not include a side-scope rail, so mounting optics will require a little more creativity.
Handguards
Like the Micro, the Mini Draco also has a non-standard handguard, only of a different style. While the Micro’s handguard is carved into a hand or finger stop-type shape, the Mini’s are much plainer. The Micro handguard’s unique shape helps to prevent the shooter from injuring themselves with the super short barrel, but it can also inhibit reloads. The fat lip on its rear end hangs over the receiver, and it has the potential to crush your finger while rocking out an empty mag. This is not a problem on the Mini Draco.
As far as options for replacing the handguards, it is possible to modify a standard AKM-pattern set to fit if you don’t mind a little woodworking.
There are also a few aftermarket Mini Draco handguard options as well, most of which are tactical in nature and provide real estate for mounting accessories or optics.
All Cugir AK pistols have the potential to be both fun range toys and effective personal defense weapons. Which model you select out of the three available sizes is purely dependent on personal preference and what you plan on using it for. Each Draco comes with its own advantages and disadvantages, so for those who can’t make up their minds the Mini Draco will offer the best of both worlds.
For more information on Mini Dracos, please visit the importer's site at centuryarms.com.
Imported from Turkey, the new Escort DF12 is a rugged, semi-auto 12-gauge with familiar handling and controls.
DF12 Specs:
12-Gauge, 3″ Magnum Chamber
18-Inch Barrel
8.9 Pounds
5+1 Capacity
5 Included Chokes (F, IM, M, IC, CYL)
Turkey is one of largest producers of shotguns in the world, and Hatsan USA imports many different models into the United States. Their popularity around the globe is partly due to their affordability, and while the Escort DF12 may not be the cheapest shotgun Hatsan has to offer, it’s easy to see where the extra money is going.
Escort DF12, black.
Rugged
The Escort DF12 is constructed from robust aircraft-grade metal alloy, with both the upper and lower receivers built tough enough to handle the hottest of 12-gauge magnum slugs. Its barrel has been hard chrome-plated to prevent oxidation and withstand wear.
The Cerakote finish offered in either black or FDE provides good resistance against the elements as well.
Versatile
The DF12 is chambered for 3-inch magnum shells, but Hatsan claims that it will reliably cycle 2 ¾-inch shells too. It includes a 5-piece choke system that can accommodate everything from slugs to birdshot.
These features enable the DF12 to be a suitable choice for hunting a variety of game as well as for trapshooting or home defense.
The DF12’s charging handle is also reversible, making it ideal for both left- and right-handed shooters.
Familiar Handling
Patterned after the most popular rifle in America, the DF12 should be easy to learn and use for anyone who is at all familiar with the AR-15. The included carry handle/rear sight assembly was directly copied from the AR, and its stock and pistol grip appear that they can be swapped out for standard aftermarket AR-15 parts as well.
The included stock features an adjustable comb height, allowing for a proper sight picture regardless of whether you are running irons or a red dot. Picatinny rails on top of the receiver and handguards provide for ample space to mount an optic, and the railing underneath the handguard is ideal for the included angled foregrip or any other accessories.
DF12 handguard with included angled foregrip.
This shotgun includes a lot of extra modularity and features not seen on similar semi-auto, magazine-fed designs, and it even comes with flip-up fiber optic TruGlo sights. It ships with a 5-round magazine in the box, and 2-rounders are also available for purchase. These may be fine for hunting, but for a shotgun that seems to have been designed with tactical applications in mind it would be nice if larger mags were available as well.
Assuming that the Escort DF12 is as reliable as advertised, this seems like a decent shotgun for an MSRP of $699.99.
For those who want a Draco with a bit more style, look no further than the WBP Mini Jack or Lynx.
What Are WBP AK Pistols?
7.62x39mm
10.2-Inch Chrome-Lined Barrel
Two Available Variants
Made In Rogów, Poland
AKs from WBP have been growing in popularity over recent years as other imported AK options have dwindled. Available, foreign-made AKs in the U.S. are currently limited to three manufacturers—Cugir, Zastava, and now WBP. Cugir and Zastava have longer histories, but WBP has shown a lot of promise for a relatively new company getting into AK production. So far, their guns have garnered a reputation of being just as reliable and functional as any AK from a more established military arsenal. The cherry on top is that WBP guns have a nicer fit and finish than most other AKs on the market, too.
WBP Mini Jack
Variants
There are two AK pistol models currently imported from WBP, the Mini Jack and the Lynx. The Mini Jack is the more classic, traditional model with wooden handguards, while the Lynx is the tactical variant.
The Mini Jack is essentially WBP’s pistol version of their Fox rifles. Besides the shorter barrel length, the Mini Jack only differs from the Fox in a few ways. The Mini Jack has a combination gas block and front sight, with a proportionally shorter gas piston. Unlike the Fox, the Mini Jack has no way to mount the uniquely Polish FB Radom rail system. It does include a standard-pattern side scope rail for mounting optics, however.
As the tactical model, the Lynx has the same guts as the Mini Jack but comes with black polymer furniture instead of wood, and segments of Picatinny on top for mounting optics in lieu of a side scope rail. The Picatinny rails are found on the rear sight block and gas tube, and have been aligned to allow for the seamless mounting of optics. Keep in mind that because the rear sight has been entirely replaced with Picatinny rail, there are no usable iron sights on the Lynx.
The Lynx also features an enhanced safety selector and magazine release for easier manipulation.
Both the Lynx and the Mini Jack have a barrel threaded for 14×1 LH muzzle devices, but a barrel nut has been spot welded on for legal importation. Removing this weld is easy and legal and will allow for the mounting of most common AK brakes and flash hiders.
WBP Lynx
Pistol Brace Or SBR?
Unlike ZPAP92s, WBP AK pistols are not pre-drilled to accommodate a variety of brace options. If you wish to put a brace on your Mini Jack or Lynx it will require either modifications to the rear of the receiver or the use of a simpler brace mounting option, like something from SB Tactical which attaches above the pistol grip.
Either of these pistols could be converted to an SBR as well, but their rear trunnion makes for an extra interesting option. WBP also sells select-fire AKs to military and police forces around the world, and one of their available models is an under-folder Mini Jack variant. Under-folders require a special rear trunnion, and that same trunnion is used in their semi-auto Mini Jacks that are sold in America.
Assuming that you have jumped through the ATF’s hoops to do so legally, an SBR’d Mini Jack could be converted to an under-folder without swapping the rear trunnion—something that can’t be said about any other AK pistol import.
The addition of either a brace or a stock will make any AK pistol far more practical than one without one, especially when trying to use an optic.
WBP Mini Jack, factory select-fire underfolder model.
Both the WBP Mini Jack and the Lynx are fine AK pistol options. They offer a nicer fit and finish than Cugir-made guns, and the Lynx’s tactical rail options provide for a more modern AK platform out of the box than anything else on the market. You will have to decide whether the features found on WBP AK pistols justify the higher price than their competitors’ options.
Nice finish and plenty of features—but does the Polish WBP Fox measure up to more established countries' AKs?
What’s a WBP Fox?
Semi-Automatic AKM-Pattern Rifle In 7.62×39
Chrome-Lined 16-Inch Barrel
Made By WBP In Rogów, Poland
Standard AK Scope Rail On Side Of Receiver
Mounting Option For FB Radom Beryl Rail System
As discussed in our previous article on WBP, they are a newer company that has been making complete AK rifles for just over 10 years. They began as a commercial enterprise, giving them less of a proven track record than state-run military arsenals like Cugir or Zastava. That being said, WBP has a relationship with the famous FB Radom plant, and some WBP components like barrels are even manufactured by FB. WBP has exported select-fire and sporter AK variants to customers across the world, for both commercial and military purposes. The WBP Fox is their semi-auto, sporter AK model that is currently being imported and sold by Arms Of America.
Whats In A Name?
There’s a story behind how the Fox got its name. In WBP’s earlier days, when they were mostly supplying AKs to the Polish commercial market, they received a unique request from a fox hunter. This customer wanted one of their AKs, but in a configuration that he viewed as ideal for hunting foxes—with a side scope rail and a thumbhole stock.
When WBP began designing the AK they planned to export to the United States, they ended up with a similar configuration to what the fox hunter asked for. The American market also wanted the scope rail, and the thumbhole stock was required for legal importation. Reminded of that hunter's request, they named this rifle the Fox.
Fit And Finish
WBP guns look and feel better than AKs from Cugir. They are generally assembled with more care, meaning nicer rivets, no canted sights, and nothing comes pre-scratched. The black powder-coat finish is much more visually appealing than Cugir’s Parkerization as well.
The bolt carrier on the WBP Fox is left in the white, however. This looks nice to some but it provides less protection than one that has been finished, even when it's as crude as Cugir's.
Optics Options
WBP Foxes also have more options for mounting optics than most other AKs. They not only come with a standard-pattern side scope rail but also with a special Beryl-style rear trunnion and rear sight block to accommodate an FB Radom rail system. This style of rail can be purchased separately, and while it’s not historically appropriate for an AKM-pattern gun, it is uniquely Polish. These rail systems can be seen in service with Polish armed forces on their 5.56 Beryl rifles.
One quirk with any imported gun, but especially with AKs, is 922r compliance. This is mostly something that importers and sellers have to worry about, but the result is you will have to make a choice when purchasing a WBP Fox—do you want a Polish gas piston or Polish wood furniture?
What 922r essentially means is that semi-auto rifles and shotguns—ones deemed “not being particularly suitable for or readily adaptable to sporting purposes”—may not be imported. There's a workaround for this law, using a certain amount of American-made components. Hence the reason why AKs sold stateside vary from the versions sold in their home countries.
The WBP Foxes being sold by Arms Of America come in a few different flavors, but they are mostly identical besides the furniture. Several of the options come with American-made furniture, meaning that the gas piston is legally allowed to be of Polish origin. Some other variants instead come with Polish furniture, so one more part elsewhere had to be made in America. In this case, that component is the gas piston made by CNC Warrior. Some people have claimed to have experienced issues with these American pistons, but others seem to have had no problem with them. Personally, I’d still prioritize the Polish piston since it is integral to the weapon's function, unlike the furniture.
WBP Fox “Classic” with Polish furniture.
WBP Foxes seem like very nice rifles, but they are expensive as far as AKMs go. As it stands, I trust the reliability of a Cugir or Zastava AK more than a WBP simply because they’ve been at it longer. WBP guns show a lot of promise and I’m keeping an open mind about them going into the future; I could easily see WBP someday becoming a staple of the American AK market.
If you want a reliable AK with a proven track record, a WASR will suit your needs for several hundred dollars less. If you want your AK to be prettier and feature some unique Polish traits, however, a WBP could be just what you’re looking for.
For more information on WBP, please visit wbprogow.com.
KE Arms has released a budget version of their WWSD carbine called the Civil Defense Rifle or CDR. It follows the same design principles that went into the original project but with some omissions to cut costs.
What The CDR Tries To Accomplish:
Project how Eugene Stoner would have evolved the AR-15 with modern materials.
Utilizes a polymer lower and pencil profile barrel to cut weight.
Based on the WWSD rifle, but with fewer amenities to cut its price tag.
The Original WWSD
The What Would Stoner Do carbine was the brainchild of YouTubers Ian McCollum and Karl Kasarda. The idea first came to them while shooting an original configuration M16A1, and the rifle’s balance and low weight reminded them of what an AR15 truly should feel like as intended by Eugene Stoner. Part of what made the AR platform so revolutionary for its time was its use of modern manufacturing techniques and materials like aluminum and polymer. Some aspects of the AR were limited by contemporary manufacturing methods, such as the pencil-profile barrel that originally had subpar heat-treating.
KE Arms Civil Defense Rifle.
Now that technology has had time to catch up to the design, the developers of the WWSD decided to take things to what they viewed as the logical conclusion of Stoner’s mindset, expanding the carbine’s use of polymers and other modern materials like carbon fiber.
At the core of the design is the new KP-15 monolithic polymer lower receiver from KE Arms. While attempts at polymer lowers have mostly resulted in failure in the past, the KP-15’s design has supposedly corrected any strength issues plaguing the material. So far it seems the KP-15 is a great improvement over previous plastic lowers, having survived strenuous full-auto endurance tests. The new lower helps reduce the carbine’s overall weight, one of Stoner's primary goals when he designed the AR.
The Civil Defense Rifle
The WWSD concept piqued many shooters’ interests, but at an MSRP of $1,699.99 it was a bit pricey for such a novel concept. A large contributor to that price tag was the development and setup cost of molding a new polymer lower, something that was integral to the WWSD concept. Because of this, the KP-15 lower is also included on the new Civil Defense Rifle.
Because so much of the cost stems from this new lower, the Civil Defense Rifle still has an MSRP of $1249.99 despite being the “budget” version. Both versions are sold exclusively through Brownells.
The Civil Defense Rifle is very similar in form and function to the original WWSD, but omits certain “luxury” features to cut the cost by about $450. The resulting CDR is a rifle that's almost as nice as a WWSD, but is marginally heavier and slightly less ambidextrous.
Is It Worth It?
The WWSD project was certainly an interesting thought experiment. I agree with its general premise—if Stoner were alive today, he would have used the most modern techniques and materials available to design his rifle to be as lightweight and handy as possible. But at what cost?
The WWSD carbine’s MSRP is actually comparable to that of a Colt AR-15 Sporter in the 1960s after adjusting for inflation. While the government may have been willing to spend that much for the most cutting-edge tech, ARs did not catch on with civilian shooters until decades after this.
You will have to decide whether the WWSD or CDR bring enough to the table to justify the price tag for you. In my opinion, they don’t. I think the greatest improvement found in either of these designs is the return to a pencil-profile barrel. One of the first changes made to the M16 after its adoption was the switch to a heavier profile barrel to allow for more sustained fire without shifting the point of impact. With modern heat treatment techniques, pencil barrels like the 16” Faxon used in the WWSD and CDR can achieve the same thing while retaining their slimmer profile.
I don’t deny that the other features of the CDR are improvements as well, but I would argue that a pseudo-M16A1 or CAR-15 clone using a modern Faxon pencil barrel will be almost every bit as handy and usable as either of the new designs utilizing a KP-15 lower, and they will cost less too. Personally, I’d rather abide by what Stoner actually did than what some speculated he would have done. But what the hell do I know? I’m an AK guy.
For more information on KE Arms, please visit kearms.com.
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Go Small With These 8 Economical AR Pistol Options
The Zastava M91 is a scaled-up AK from Serbia that's design was inspired by the famous Soviet SVD. It is a reliable and accurate rifle, but is it worth the price tag?
What’s An M91?
Designated Marksman Rifle Based On AK Action
Chambered For 7.62x54r
Current Issue DMR For Serbian Armed Forces
Presently Available Import From Zastava Arms
Many people are infatuated with the iconic appearance of the Soviet SVD Dragunov, and it's easy to see why. It is one of the most recognizable firearms in movies and video games, and it has been a part of the public consciousness since at least the Vietnam War. One could almost say that the SVD is unmistakable, but that’s not true. The SVD’s design is so prolific that it has been copied more than once, and people often do mistake these copies for the real thing. One of these SVD-inspired weapons is the Zastava M91, and while it may not be a genuine Dragunov, it's about as close as most people can get to one without putting a lien on their house.
M91 with original wooden furniture. Photo:Wikipedia
Not An SVD
It's important to note that while the Zastava M91 and Cugir PSL are distinct designs from the SVD, both rifles were inspired by it in concept and appearance.
Like the SVD, Zastava M91s were designed as designated marksmen or sniper rifles for use with armed forces. They are both semi-automatic and chambered for the full-power 7.62x54r cartridge, and come outfitted with magnified optics. They both feed from 10-round detachable box magazines, but the magazines are not interchangeable between designs.
When Yevgeny Dragunov designed the SVD, he made it aesthetically similar to Kalashnikov rifles in order to remain thematically consistent with the rest of the Soviet arsenal. The internal design was completely different, however. The SVD utilizes a short-stroke gas-piston system, and the differences are apparent once the weapon is field-stripped. The Zastava M91 on the other hand is truly an AK at heart. Its action is a long-stroke piston system, the same as a normal AK but scaled up for the more powerful cartridge. This major difference in design means an M91 will never be quite as mechanically accurate as an SVD, but will have a comparatively more robust and simple action. That being said, both designs are sufficiently accurate and reliable for their intended roles.
M91 In Military Service
Adopted in 1992, the M91 replaced the Zastava M76 rifle in Yugoslavian/Serbian military service. It has seen action from the Yugoslav Wars to current conflicts in the Middle East. Over time, its design has been updated from the original SVD-styled wooden furniture to a more modern, synthetic design with Picatinny rails on the handguard.
The adoption of the M91 and its subsequent design changes were part of a larger push towards modernization being implemented by the Serbian Army.
M91, as imported by Zastava.
Zastava's Import
The M91 is currently imported and sold by Zastava Arms USA. It comes with the modern-style synthetic furniture and includes a 4X24 POSP scope that mounts via a Yugo-stye scope rail. Its barrel is chrome-lined and just a bit over 24 inches long. M91s are imported with a tack-welded muzzle nut that can be removed for the installation of 14×1 LH threaded flash hiders.
M91 gas regulator and railed polymer handguards.
It also features an adjustable gas regulator to help tune the system for any kind of ammunition or environment.
Worth It?
With an MSRP of $3,499.99, this is an expensive AK variant. It is also far cheaper than any genuine SVD that could be had on the second-hand market, so it's up to you to decide how badly your SVD-itch needs scratching. The M91 is a fine rifle, but speaking strictly about performance I’m not sure if it’s worth the price tag. There are more accurate and cheaper rifles available, with more practical features and chambered in more common calibers. If you’re shopping for something to get into precision rifle competitions with, you’ll be better off looking elsewhere.
The niche that the M91 fills in the US market is not one of performance, but style. This rifle is for those who want to LARP as an Eastern European sniper but can’t afford a real Russian or Chinese Dragunov. If that sounds like you, the M91 is a well-made and reliable rifle to do it with.
Effectively shooting with a handheld light is, well, a handful. Jamie Caldwell offers some techniques to get a grip on the challenge.
Best-case scenario, you’ll have a weapons light directly attached to your defensive handgun. In reality, this won’t always be the case. Maybe running this type of setup is too bulky for your carry profile or your gun doesn’t happen to sport an accessory rail. Whatever the case, a weapons light might prove a bridge too far. Then what’s the solution for low-light situations?
Well, unless you wear your night-vision nogs everywhere after dark, it's time to learn to shoot with a handheld light. Honestly, as former special operator and current instructor with 1-Minute Out Jamie Caldwell points out in the above video, it’s easier said than done. At issue, is how to shed light while maximizing the ability to get hits. The difficulty in this comes from the fact the support hand in most techniques is off the gun, essentially forcing much more inaccurate one-hand shooting.
Now, the key point here is “most techniques” because there are some which allow a fundamental two-hand grip. Caldwell demonstrates one, where the light is clutched between two of the support-hand fingers while gripping the gun. It’s a solid system, though it takes some practice to make it an efficient tactic. For some, especially those with smaller hands, it may even prove prohibitive.
This leads us to another point, not every lighting technique will work for every shooter. In addition to the methods Caldwell covers, shooters should do their homework and investigate other ways to deploy a handheld light. Then they should experiment and find what works best for them. Not every system is compatible with every shooter, it takes time and effort to parse out how to light up a target, then effectively engage it.
Taming recoil and preventing wear, the SureFire OBC-556 makes for a more pleasant AR pistol, SBR or even carbine.
How Does The OBC-556 Work:
The bolt carrier group slows down cycle rate through a number of design changes.
Cam slot angles and timing changed so it takes longer for the bolt to unlock.
Dead-blow weight added into the rear of the carrier to slow the BCG's momentum.
Shorter “H” buffer creates a longer travel distance.
Short barrels, as in AR pistols, are en vogue. And SBRs are all the rage, for those who can get them. They do, however, have problems. Basically, they require such a sharp gas input to jolt the system into working that they can be harsh in recoil. Adding in a heavier buffer helps, but sometimes you need more. Enter SureFire and their Optimized Bolt Carrier.
The OBC-556 was designed by Jim Sullivan, who was the guy who debugged the initial AR-15 for Eugene Stoner and Armalite. I had a chance to visit him a while back (a story for another time) and got the lowdown on the OBC, which he was doing with and for SureFire.
The SureFire OBC-556 comes with everything you need: complete bolt-carrier group, buffer, and spring.
The OBC slows down your ARs cyclic rate by means of three design changes Sullivan put into it. First, he went into the cam slot on the carrier and changed the angles and timing on that, so the carrier has to work harder and takes longer to unlock the bolt. Second, he put a dead-blow weight into the rear of the carrier, so the carrier movement has to “pick up” the weight as it cycles. That slows it down some more. And third, in conjunction with a stronger buffer spring, he installed an “H” buffer, but one that’s shorter. To accommodate the shorter buffer, the gas key is shorter (so it won’t hit the rear ring of the receiver, another story to tell at a later time) and travels longer.
The end result is a bolt that takes longer to unlock, moves slower because of the added weight, and travels a longer distance, which also adds time. Your AR pistol, SBR, and even carbine or rifle shoot softer. And since the bolt takes more time to travel, this gives your magazines a better chance to lift the cartridge stack and have the top round firmly pinned against the feed lip on its side, ready to feed as the bolt comes forward.
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Go Small With These 8 Economical AR Pistol Options
You’re thinking, “This is all well and good, but does it really make a difference?” Well, that depends. If your AR is a bit marginal, or it gets cranky when it gets dirty, then yes. If you find weather changes can mean reliability changes, then yes again. If your AR has been utterly reliable in all situations, with all ammo, and never failed—then I really can’t say this will improve on that. But … it won’t make it worse.
To test the changes, I took advantage of an opportunity: a day with a select-fire AR lower. No, not an M16/M4, because it didn’t leave the factory that way, but a “papered” select-fire lower—an R&D project by a local manufacturer.
I tested it with two uppers, an M4 clone from Bravo Company and an 11.5-inch SBR upper, also a product of BCM. I used two types of ammunition, Federal XM193 and Hornady Frontier .223 Rem., both 55-grain FMJ, because they’re common.
You’ll know which AR has the SureFire in it—the company won’t let you down there. Or in function, either.
The M4 upper, with a “H” buffer (normal in a lot of ARs) ran at 800 rpm with XM193, and 763 rpm with the Hornady. Using the SureFire OBR, the XM193 ran at 702 rpm, and the Hornady was 696 rpm. That’s a 12 percent and 9 percent reduction in cyclic rate, respectively.
The 11.5-inch upper has XM193 running at 797 rpm and the Hornady at 775 rpm. With the SureFire OBC installed, the rates were 705 and 688 rpm, respectively. Again, 12 percent and 11 percent reductions.
The OBC also reduced cyclic rates when I installed various suppressors on those uppers, which is where such a setup can really shine. Yes, it was a fun day. Yes, I have a long list of volunteers.
Now, this goodness—indeed, any goodness—does not come free. The OBC-556 has a retail price of $399. However, a box-stock bolt-carrier assembly will run you anywhere from $150 to $225 plus the buffer and spring, and that’s before you go and get any extras such as platings or exotic alloys. So, the SureFire bump isn’t as big as it appears at first blush.
Once you’ve built a few ARs, you might find that you need or want an improvement. SureFire certainly has that for you. And if you’re putting a suppressor on your AR pistol, then the SureFire OBC-556 is a must-have.
For more information on the OBC-556, please visit surefire.com.
Editor's Note: This article originally appeared in the October 2021 issue of Gun Digest the Magazine.
WBP AK rifles and pistols are some of the only available imported AKs in the US right now. Are they on par with the likes of Zastava and Cugir? Or are they merely commercial-grade AKs with an inflated reputation?
Who Is WBP?
Commercial AK manufacturer from Rogów, Poland.
Have supplied commercial and military customers.
Two basic models of WBP AKs currently imported by Arms Of America.
Less common than Zastava or Cugir AKs, and command a higher price.
While Poland obviously has a long history of producing Kalashnikov rifles due to their membership in the Warsaw Pact, WBP is not directly part of that history.
WBP Jack select-fire rifle.
Based out of Rogów, Poland, WBP began as a refurbisher of AK rifles for the Polish commercial market. They started producing individual parts as needed to supplement their refurbishing business until they eventually had the capacity to manufacture nearly complete rifles.
They are a relatively new kid on the AK block, having produced complete AKM rifles for just over 10 years now. Unlike Zastava in Serbia or Cugir in Romania, WBP is not a state-run military arsenal. For Poland that honor goes to FB Radom, a name you’ve likely heard before. FB Radom is the Polish government’s primary producer of military rifles, having made everything from licensed AK-47 and AKM copies to AKs of their own design like the Tantal and Beryl (as well as other non-AK weapons).
While WBP may be not be a historical, state-run factory, it does have an active relationship with FB Radom. This lends them credibility over other commercial AK manufacturers who are completely on their own. So, now that WBP guns are some of the only available imported AKs on the US market, what should you know about them?
Milspec Standards
Despite not being a state-run factory built during the Soviet days, WBP makes a serious effort to match the quality of established AK “brands”. While its first guns were purely for the commercial market, WBP has supplied various armed forces across the globe. Militaries, police, and security contractors from the Middle East, Asia, and Africa have purchased WBP select-fire AKs. While they are not the issued service weapon of any nation’s army, they are certainly used in areas of unrest.
Theoretically, some of these guns could have been floating around hotspots and seeing action for over 10 years now. While impressive, the real test of a Kalashnikov’s quality is whether those same rifles will be in working order 50-plus years from now, something that is commonplace for Soviet-produced AKs. Plenty of old Polish AKs made by FB Radom have survived through to the present day as well, so their quality should not be in question. Considering that WBP guns use barrels produced by FB Radom, that means that at least one component is of true Mil-Spec quality.
It is true that many misunderstand the quality implied by the term Mil-Spec. People often use it without understanding that it means “as cheap as possible while still being good enough,” because that’s how governments operate. While many commercially available AR-15s far surpass Mil-Spec in terms of quality, the same is generally not true for AKs. Because original AKs were produced in state-run arsenals, exclusively for military use, the rifle's reliability is essentially synonymous with Mil-Spec. There are some notable exceptions to this, like later-production Iraqi AKs. But as a rule of thumb Mil-Spec is better than commercial in the AK world.
The relationship between WBP and FB Radom is a two-way street. Not only do WBP guns use FB barrels (amongst other components), but WBP has also produced some parts for FB Radom guns as well. As FB Radom is a supplier of military contracts, the parts WBP produces for them are proofed in-house by a government inspector. While the WBP commercial guns are not proofed this way, it is safe to assume many of their components are made to the same level of quality.
Speaking of inspections, WBP does some of their own. They claim that each individual rifle is test-fired 30 times at the factory, far above the average of two or three. This is a positive, as it means they have about 28 more chances to catch a malfunction if there is one. It is also slightly concerning, or at least has the potential to be. Test firing a weapon this many times is unusual, and I can’t help but wonder if this practice arose due to an unacceptable number of defective rifles leaving the factory beforehand. Perhaps they are just being overzealous about defending their fledgling reputation. Either way, their rigorous testing should ensure you don’t end up with a lemon.
WBP also puts each new design through a 15,000-round endurance test. While that is only a fraction of the round count a true AK should be able to survive, this testing is much more than what most other commercial manufacturers perform.
Availability
WBP guns are currently imported exclusively through Arms of America. Like all other imported AKs, once they are stateside they undergo a conversion to bring them to standard spec. This process includes opening the magazine well from single-stack to double-stack, among other things.
There are two main AK configurations from WBP: WBP Fox rifle and Mini Jack pistol. They are both basic AKM pattern guns available with a variety of furniture options.
While their numbers have ramped up the past couple of years, WBP AKs are nowhere near as prominent as either Zastava or Cugir guns. When they do come in stock, they typically sell out within several minutes due to high demand and low availability. Their price has been incrementally rising with each batch sold, and the last price-hike caused several to begin wondering if WBPs are still a good value.
WBP Mini Jack Pistol, imported by Arms of America.
They are very photogenic AKs for sure. They have a military-style black painted finish and a bolt carrier that’s been left in the white. The wood furniture made by Atlantic pairs with it nicely to give the rifle a classic Soviet AK look. But are aesthetics enough to justify the hefty price tag? Their performance so far seems on par with any other imported AK. In and of itself, this is a big achievement for a company with commercial roots. But for those looking for a reliable AKM pattern rifle, WASRs are more available, cheaper, and come with the decades-long reputation of Cugir. They are also uglier than WBPs.
If you are willing to pay a few hundred dollars more for an AK with a nicer finish but a less-proven track record, then a WBP may be just the AK for you. It’s a bet on a horse that may end up losing or may end up winning. Years from now WBP guns may rank as objectively higher quality than WASRs. Until that day, American AK buyers will still have to make their choice between the tried and true Romanian beasts of burden and these new, pretty Polish options from WBP.
For more information on WBP, please visit wbprogow.com.
Note: Due to WBP being a new company, there is not a wealth of information available on them. One of the only valuable sources is YouTuber and AK expert William “Misha” Trotter, who interviewed a WBP employee over email and published the answers in a 2018 video. Some of the information here was learned through that video, so thank you to Misha for that and for all his other great work as well.
Vortex Optics’ newest variable power rifle scope, the Venom 5-25×56 FFP, aims to provide shooters with a high-quality, competition ready optic that’s both budget and learner friendly.
Features Of The Venom 5-25×56 FFP:
5-25 Power Magnification
56mm-Diameter Objective Lens
34mm Tube
RevStop Zero System
First Focal Plane EBR-7C Reticle
Vortex Optics is known for making rifle scopes that are of higher quality than their prices would suggest. While there are several reputable manufacturers of optics, Vortex brings affordability and an unconditional lifetime warranty to the table as well. Their new Venom 5-25×56 FFP is no different. This scope is shockproof, waterproof, and nitrogen gas purged to ensure that the shooter’s view through the lenses remains immaculate.
Scaling Reticle
The FFP in the scope’s name stands for First Focal Plane, meaning that the reticle scales in size as the magnification level is adjusted. The Venom 5-25×56 FFP’s magnification can be adjusted between 5x to 25x zoom, and the FFP feature keeps the reticle large and visible enough throughout for accurate, long-range shooting.
Accurate Holdovers
The Venom 5-25×56 FFP’s reticle is Vortex’s new EBR-7C, which features technical information for quickly calculating holdovers at any magnification level. The optic is available with either MOA or MRAD measurements on the reticle. A throw lever is also included for even faster zoom adjustments. The larger 34mm tube provides ample space for turret travel, enabling a high level of adjustment for things like bullet drop.
EBR-7C Reticle
Return To Zero
Being able to quickly return to zero can be crucial during competition use. When on the clock you want to be able to start dialing in for your next target as soon as possible. Without a quick return to zero feature, this process is much more arduous. Thankfully, the Venom 5-25×56 FFP features Vortex’s RevStop zero system, which enables the shooter to return their scope to exactly where it was previously zeroed. If competing with someone whose scope lacks this feature, you could already be calculating your next holdover while they’re still fumbling with dials.
The Venom 5-25×56 FFP follows the Vortex tradition of optics that combine premium features with ease of use and affordability. With an MSRP of $699.99, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a scope that can reach out beyond 1000 yards for less.
Just like with their Kalashnikovs, the Yugoslavians put their own twist on a famous Soviet weapon when they developed their M57 Tokarev pistol. Widely available both as original military surplus and new production, these guns are more than just historical relics.
Zastava Tokarevs That Can Be Found Stateside:
Surplus M57, Blued, 7.62 Tok.
New M57A, Blued, 7.62 Tok.
New M57A, Chrome, 7.62 Tok.
New M70AA, Blued, 9mm
New M70AA, Chrome, 9mm
Tokarevs of any variety may be the most popular foreign military surplus handgun in the United States. They have been imported for a long time, and the sheer scale of their production numbers meant that they were extremely affordable. While some variants, like original Russian TTs, were more collectible and demanded a higher price, clones from places like China, Poland, and Yugoslavia were cheap enough for many to buy them as beaters or glove box guns. While the surplus Tokarevs have dried up some in recent years, as surplus tends to do, Zastava is still manufacturing and importing two new production variants on the classic design- The M57A and the M70AA.
Surplus M57 pistol, notice the non-original safety that has been added. Photo:Wikipedia
The Original M57
Tokarevs are a functional copy of John Browning’s early automatic pistol designs. Externally they resemble a Browning 1903, and internally they are very similar to a 1911’s short-recoil tilting-barrel action. Chambered for 7.62x25mm, these single-action pistols saw heavy use in WWII by the Soviets and continued to see use by their allies and guerrilla forces afterward up through today.
They were produced by several countries, and all were nearly identical to the original Russian design besides one: the Yugoslavian M57. Adopted in 1957, Zastava’s Tokarev copy once again mixed things up from the original Soviet design. The M57 is the only Tokarev clone to have a 9-round magazine rather than an 8-rounder, and the grip is appropriately longer to compensate for this. While the unique features of Yugoslavian Kalashnikovs were not always necessarily improvements, the changes they made to their Tokarev are an objective improvement.
Not only does the M57 gain an extra round in the magazine, bringing the total capacity to 10 rather than the usual 9, but the extended pistol grip is also much more ergonomic than the Soviet-pattern clones that often leave part of the shooter’s hand hanging off the bottom. With the longer grip, the M57 begins to feel much more like a 1911 in the hand than the stubbier Tokarevs ever could.
All original military Tokarev designs utilized a half-cock safety, with no other controls on the gun beside a slide-release lever and magazine-eject button. Notably, the magazine release is positioned in the Western style, near the trigger guard where the thumb naturally rests. Most handguns of European design, including the later Soviet Makarov, feature a magazine release on the heel of the pistol-something which is foreign to many American shooters.
Due to the 1968 Gun Control Act, all imported auto-loader handguns are required to have a manual safety, so the Tokarev’s original half-cock wouldn’t cut it. This led to the addition of a variety of aftermarket safeties being installed on these guns to make them legal for sale. Unfortunately, most of these unoriginal safeties are terrible and some even impede the function of the gun. Some can be removed but will leave a small hole in the frame where it was once installed.
7.62 Tokarev
7.62x25mm is well-respected as far as antiquated cartridges go. Surplus and new production ammo is widely available (or at least it was during more normal times), and its bottlenecked design gives it better performance than most would predict. 7.62 Tokarev was derived from the 7.63x25mm cartridge, which was commonly used in C96 Mausers. The Soviets took this cartridge and only slightly modified it for their own use, with the most notable difference being 7.62 Tokarev being loaded much hotter. For this reason, 7.62 Mauser can be fired from a Tokarev pistol, but 7.62 Tokarev should never be fired from a Mauser.
While this other ammo type can be used in a pinch, it defeats much of the point of the hotter 7.62 chambering. Part of the reason why 7.62 Tokarev is so loved is because of the ballistic qualities that it gains from the higher-pressure load. It is quite a high velocity for a handgun cartridge, lending itself to not only good accuracy but some better penetration capabilities as well. It is not “armor-piercing” ammo, and mileage may vary depending on the exact load and armor being tested, but you can find videos online showing 7.62 Tokarev successfully passing through level IIIA soft armor.
One of Zastava’s imports of current-production Tokarevs. The M57A is identical in function and caliber to the original M57, but with the addition of a slide-mounted safety at the factory. This allows them to be legally imported and sold without modification. While in my opinion the original half-cock safety was good enough and the addition of a manual safety was an unfortunate molestation of the design, laws are laws and the Zastava-designed safety is much better than the aftermarket abominations found on surplus guns. While surplus Tokarevs often have extra character from their wear, the current M57 imports feature very nice, deep bluing and will be mechanically sounder than those which have potentially had hundreds of rounds put through them.
M57A, blued version. Notice the new factory-installed safety.
The M70AA
This version is Zastava’s current production import of their M70A pistol which was adopted in about 1970. The only difference between the M70A and the M57 was the caliber, chambered for 9mm Luger rather than the original 7.62x25mm. The M70AA is simply the updated version of their 9mm Tokarev with the addition of a manual safety for importation purposes. It is otherwise identical to the M57A besides the switch to the more prolific caliber. The magazine still holds 9-rounds, but it is not interchangeable with 7.62 M57 mags.
M70AA, chrome version.
While I love the historical novelty of genuine military surplus, if you are in the market for a Tokarev as a shooter, Zastava’s new production guns are the best choice to make. They do not suffer from the addition of a shoddy aftermarket safety like most surplus variants have, and it will come in brand-new condition. The larger grip and extended magazine also make the Zastava variants more desirable. With the option between the original caliber and 9mm, available in both blued and chromed versions, either will make a great choice for a shooter or collector looking for a functional pistol with a lot of historical charm.
The Mepro MOR Pro is a combination device that houses visible and IR lasers within a single optic with features that make it suitable for both daytime and nighttime use.
Features Of The Mepro MOR Pro
Red Dot Reflex Sight
Passive And Active Reticle Illumination
Four Reticle Options
Red Visible Laser
Green Visible Laser
IR Laser
Advanced Mepro MOR Pro Reflex Sight.
Meprolight is an Israeli-based manufacturer of military and tactical equipment with a long history of real-world use. Their newest red dot sight available to the civilian market is no different, having seen use by the IDF and other special forces groups across the world. The Mepro MOR Pro has the potential to halve the number of gadgets hanging off your rifle. By combining a red dot reflex sight with an IR laser aiming device, the two most common weapon accessories used by special forces groups have been merged into a single unit. This is not only a more efficient use of space, it also brings more weight off the barrel where IR laser units are typically mounted.
Always Powered
The Mepro MOR Pro is powered by four independent energy sources to ensure the reticle is visible no matter what. In daytime environments, the reticle is powered by fiber optics which gather surrounding light. During low light and nighttime use, it is self-illuminated using tritium and/or AA batteries, depending on the reticle’s brightness level which can be manually adjusted. If any of the systems fail, the power source is automatically switched to a working one to keep your weapon functional. The reticle has four options available, a dot, a bullseye, a triangle, and an X.
One Zero
The red dot reticle, IR laser, and visible lasers are all slaved to the same zeroing device. This means that zeroing one of them zeroes all of them. Zeroing all systems independently would be a nightmare and a waste of ammo, so this feature is crucial for the Mepro MOR Pro’s smooth operation.
Durable
Designed as a military optic, the MOR Pro had to be tough. Meprolight claims it can operate “under all weather and temperature conditions.” While it would be impressive to see that put to the test in the Arctic or Death Valley, Meprolight’s promotional video where they dunk it into a bucket of dirty water was proof enough for me that it is adequately robust.
All the systems work in conjunction with one another to allow seamless transitions between day and night operations in any environment. It’s no wonder that the Mepro MOR Pro has been seeing increased use with special forces units around the globe considering that it is such a versatile device. It was clearly designed not only for government use but government purchase as well, with a street price of over $1,000 per unit. With that kind of price tag, this optic isn’t for everybody, but not everybody needs an IR laser either. If you foresee yourself going bump in the night anytime soon though, this might just be the perfect complementary pairing for your NODs.
Granted, folks love the Tikka T3x for several reasons—not the least the Finnish rifle doesn’t dent the pocketbook and overperforms its price point. There’s another facet to the infatuation with the bolt-action generally not consider outside of true Tikka geeks. You can modify them to no end and aftermarket parts are as common as bluegrass in front yards. Still, the subsidiary of Sako aims to please the off-the-rack crowd as much as possible, thus continues to turn out new riffs on the class rifle.
For 2021, Tikka has introduced three new T3x models: T3x Super Varmint, T3x Lite Roughtech Ember and T3x Varmint Hunter. Each is a twist on existing models but provided a more dialed-in variation for shooters on the search for just the perfect rifle for their tastes. And while they do have some intriguing wrinkles, they all share some of the major features common to all T3x rifles. This is good because they’re the assets that make Tikka a hit.
At The Heart
Overall, accuracy is one of the big selling points of the T3x, which starts with an excellent action. Closed top, the actions tend to resist flex more than the nearly ubiquitous open-top action found in the T3x’s price range. This feature alone has made it a go-to option for long-range shooters with tight purse strings, but hunters also appreciate the rifle’s on-target nature. To that end, evolving the system from the T3 to the T3x, Tikka opened the receiver more making it easier to load one round at a time. Mating it with a cold-hammer-forged barrel, identical in process to how Sako manufacturer’s they’re tubes, creates quite a foundation.
To this, the T3x also offers a slew of other worthwhile features including a snappy adjustable trigger, detachable box magazine, Picatinny optics rail on most models, metallic bolt shroud (the T3’s was polymer) and steel recoil lug (aluminum on the T3). Additionally, at least on certain models, Tikka integrated several modular features, particularly on the stock, such as interchangeable pistol grips and fore-end. This isn’t universal. Finally, though not uniform across the catalog, the T3x generally boasts a much nicer bolt handle than comparable rifles, giving it much better handling characteristics.
Tikka T3x Super Varmint
A long favorite and flexible T3 model, Tikka has finally introduced the Super Varmint to the T3x line. The stock is what gets hunters and precision shooters drooling alike. Fully adjustable for length of pull (via spacers) and comb height, the rifle modifies to fit any shooter. Additionally, the synthetic stock is a Roughtech model, which has tactile texturing to its surface, giving you a better grip no matter the weather conditions. Other notables include a 23.7-inch heavy varmint profile barrel, 5/8-24 threaded muzzle, two-stage trigger and fluted bolt with an oversized knob. The T3x Super Varmint is available in .223 Remington, .22-250 Remington, .243 Winchester, 6.5×55 SE, .270 Winchester, 7mm-08 Remington, 7mm Remington Magnum, .308 Winchester, .30-06 Springfield, 6.5 Creedmoor and 6.5 PRC.
Tikka T3x Lite Roughtech Ember
Designed for the utmost ease in the field, the T3x light has been a favorite of backcountry hunters and shooters who require a nimble iron. As its name implies, the Roughtech Ember enhances the platform with Tikka’s grippy stock finish. Furthermore, the gunmaker shaves a few more ounces outfitting the rifle with a fluted stainless-steel barrel. Tikka has yet to release the weight of the rifle—in addition to other specs—but if it follows the like of the T3x Lite, it will prove light. The older model tips the scales at between 6.4 and 6.6 pounds, depending on caliber. As to the Roughtech Ember’s chamberings, that’s behind the veil too. Expect it to follow the original Lite with offerings in .223 Remington, .22-250 Remington, .243 Winchester, .270 Winchester, 7mm-08 Remington, 7mm Remington Magnum, .308 Winchester, .30-06 Springfield, .300 Winchester Magnum, 6.5 Creedmoor, .270 Winchester Short Magnum, .300 Winchester Short Magnum and 6.5 PRC.
Tikka T3x Varmint Hunter
On the surface, the T3x seems fairly self-explanatory—the T3 with the T3x upgrades and thrown into a walnut stock. You’re not wrong and if it ended there Tikka would have a pretty solid classic-looking varmint system. Drill down into the heavy varmint barrel, however, and there’s some pretty dandy stuff going on with its small-bore chambers—namely twist rates. Both the .223 Remington and .22-250 Remington come with multiple twist rates, the latter caliber a bit more exciting given in addition to the typical 1:14” twist, it is also available with a 1:8” twist. Pretty rare in production rifles and brimming with potential. The faster twist means the rifle can stabilize heavier bullets, in the 80-grain neighborhood; given the .22-250 has ample case capacity of the caliber the Varmint Hunter could flirt with shooting a country mile. Outside the small-bore options, the rifle is also available in .222 Remington, .243 Winchester, 6.5×55 SE, 7mm-08 Remington, 7mm Remington Magnum, .308 Winchester, .30-06 Springfield, .300 Winchester Magnum, 6.5 Creedmoor and .270 Winchester Short Magnum.
For more information on Tikka's T3x rifles, please visit tikka.fi/en-us.
The ZPAP85 is Zastava’s AK pistol offering in 5.56x45mm. It is one of the only currently imported 5.56 AK variants available and serves up some potential advantages over traditional 7.62 AKs.
What Is A ZPAP85?
Semi-Auto AK Pistol In 5.56x45mm
Made In Serbia
Based On Zastava M85
Krinkov-Style Rear Sight
Much of what can be said about the ZPAP85 is also true for the ZPAP92, which we already covered. We’ll hit the high points of the ZPAP85 here but for more information and history check out our article on the ZPAP92.
Zastava ZPAP85
Capitalist Cartridge For A Commbloc Carbine
Of the two currently imported Zastava AK pistols, the distinct feature of the ZPAP85 is its caliber. The ZPAP85 is chambered for 5.56x45mm NATO, unlike the ZPAP92 which is in the classic 7.62x39mm. There are pros and cons to this caliber choice, and careful consideration should be taken before purchasing any 5.56 AK to make sure it’s right for you.
An obvious advantage to the 5.56 chambering is the lighter recoil impulse. A shooter of any skill level will be able to shoot tighter groups and do it faster with a 5.56 AK when compared to the chunkier 7.62 versions. Keeping your sights on target is objectively easier when firing a projectile with less mass.
The 5.56 cartridge is also higher velocity and flatter shooting than 7.62×39, lending itself to increased accuracy. Normally 5.56 also has excellent wounding capabilities, but here we get to our first downside of the ZPAP85. 5.56 gains its excellent wound-producing capabilities from velocity rather than mass. The projectile was designed to yaw, deform or fragment when entering soft tissue at above ~2,500 FPS, creating larger or multiple wound channels and cavitation. As its lethality is dependent on velocity, 5.56 becomes less effective out of shorter barrels. A 10-inch AR barrel firing M855 only barely achieves 2,500 FPS at the muzzle, meaning the round’s chances of upsetting significantly drop after 25-50 yards. 7.62×39’s velocity is not nearly as affected by barrel length, giving it relatively consistent performance independent of the platform.
It is important to recognize that the difference in performance between a ZPAP85 and a 5.56 gun with a 16-inch barrel is much more substantial than the difference between a 16-inch ZPAP and a ZPAP92. That being said, 5.56 out of a 10-inch barrel is certainly still lethal and can be more than adequate in a CQB role, especially when factoring in the potential for faster follow-up shots.
Another potential advantage of 5.56 is dependent on the individual. Being as we live in America, home of the AR-15, most shooters have more 5.56 stored away than any other caliber. Getting into a new caliber can be daunting, especially with the prices and availability right now. For those looking for an AK to shoot who already have thousands of 5.56 rounds stockpiled, having an AK in the same caliber is alluring. Keep in mind, however, that you will also likely need more magazines, which leads us to yet another downside of 5.56 AKs.
Even if you already have the ammo, if you buy a ZPAP85 you will probably also want more than the one mag that is included with the gun. 5.56 AK mags are the least common and most expensive AK mags of the three most common calibers- 7.62, 5.45, and 5.56. They are available, but you will spend more time finding them and pay more for them than you would for a surplus AKM or AK-74 mag.
ZPAP85 5.56 magazine.
The M85
In Yugoslavian military service, the M85 carbine was derived from the M80 rifle, the 5.56 version of their prolific M70. Like we discussed in our ZPAP92 article, both of these carbines were the Yugoslavian response to the Soviet development of the AKS-74U, which was their submachine gun/PDW version of the AK-74. These weapons were intended for use by vehicle crews and other soldiers who may benefit from the extra compactness.
This variant is not as prolific in global conflicts or military service as the M92 due to its caliber and is mainly a commercial export weapon at this point.
All major details of the ZPAP85 are identical to the ZPAP95. They are both made using Zastava’s newest generation of 1.5mm thick stamped receivers and bulged front trunnions. They both have chrome-lined 10-inch barrels, hinged top covers, and Krinkov-style rear sights. Neither have a scope rail, and both are threaded for a 26×1.5 LH pitch. Besides the caliber, the only other significant difference between the two is the ZPAP85’s lack of a pre-drilled rear trunnion.
The ZPAP92’s rear trunnion comes pre-drilled and ready to accept a variety of brace or sling mounting hardware sold by Zastava, and I do not understand why the ZPAP85 does not as well. There are plenty of other AK brace mounting options available, some that require permanent modification to the gun and others that do not, so regardless you will be able to find one that works for you even if it requires a little extra drilling.
I am only aware of two other 5.56 AK pistols that have been imported into the United States-the Bulgarian Arsenal SAM7K series, and Polish Mini Beryls from FB Radom. While these are both still technically current imports, they are also both rarer and more expensive than the ZPAP85. While there may be some desirable aspects of the Arsenal and FB Radom guns, Zastava’s ability to provide a consistent flow of AKs at a relatively competitive price point has ensured their position in the market above the Bulgarian or Polish manufacturers.
If you are in the market for a 5.56 AK and money is of no issue, the other options are worth checking out, but for most people, the ZPAP85 will be their best and likely only choice. The ZPAP85 is undoubtedly a fine firearm, but its quirks prevent it from reaching the popularity of classic 7.62 AKs like the ZPAP92. If you are a first-time AK buyer, I’d recommend getting something else. But if you are looking to expand your AK collection into a new caliber, the ZPAP85 is a high-quality and available option.
Looking for a new iron or piece of kit to enhance the one you already own? Check out these seven new bits of guns and gear to grow your firearms wish list. This month, it's custom and collectible guns.
No discussion of collectable guns is complete without an 1873 Single Action Army of some sort. Taylor’s & Company has a doozy joining its roster for 2021: the Gunfighter Defender. Essentially modeled on the original Gunfighter, the six-gun is outfitted with the Runnin’ Iron model’s lowered and wider spur, for a faster cocking time and better handling for mounted shooting. Additionally, Taylor’s & Company opted for 1860 Army grips, longer and wider than the traditional Navy type, making it more comfortable for larger hands. They’re walnut too—that, along with color-case hardened frame, gives the gun real throwback appeal. Available in .357 Magnum/.38 Special and .45 Colt, the Gunfighter Defender has a competitive edge with plenty of Old West flare. MSRP: Starting at $654
Mossberg Gold Reserve Sporting Series
Heirloom looks at a working gun’s price. What’s not to love about Mossberg’s new over/under shotgun line. In all, there are three models in three gauges—12- and 20-gauge and .410 bore—including two top-end options—the 30-inch barrel Black Label and adjustable-stock Super Sporting. No matter the choice, the Gold Reserve delivers, especially in aesthetics. Rich scrollwork on polished silver or blued receivers capped off with jeweled actions and attractive gold inlays on the underside add class to the guns. The embellishment is further enhanced by an attractive stick of Grade A black walnut, cut-checkering on the grips and forend to boot. Rounding out the package are vent-rib barrels, fiber-optic front bead, shell ejector and set of five extended chokes. MSRP: Starting at $983
Browning Buck Mark Plus Vision UFX
A custom Buck Mark? Not quite. But the Plus Vision UFX is so purpose-built that it certainly flirts with the designation. Among the lightest option in the famed straight blowback rimfire line, the 27-ounce semi-auto is dialed in for fast and accurate action. Giving the nimble .22 LR an extra gear is a tensioned outer aluminum sleeve cutting down on the 5.9-inch barreled pistol’s bulk. Furthermore, Browning machines the sleeve, not only cutting weight but giving the Plus Vision better heat dispersion qualities. Did we mention it has a threaded muzzle (1/2”-28 TPI), so it’s suppressor ready? Though, if you don’t run a can, the factory-installed muzzle brake erases any muzzle flip. MSRP: $719
SK Customs: ‘The Mana’
In Polynesian culture, Mana is the spiritual life-force energy that permeates the universe. SK Customs captures this mystical power perfectly in a divine custom Government-sized Colt 1911. Highly polished royal blue slide and frame are accented with superbly etched Polynesian motifs, 24-karat gold inlaid to give it one-of-a-kind appeal. Further offsetting this incredible pistol, ivory scrimshaw owl grips and a diamond-studded front sight. SK doesn’t stop there, gold-plating all the hardware, including magazine release, grip screws, barrel bushing and hammer. And the gun is built to perform too, with a high-polished stainless steel national match barrel. Only 200 of this master work have been created. Who are the lucky collectors who will add one to their trove of treasures? MSRP: N/A
Uberti USA Hardin 1875 No. 3 2nd Model Top-Break
Enough drooling on the magazine already. It’s called the Hardin, and it’s spectacular. Named after the famed Texas gunslinger John Wesley Hardin, Uberti’s Schofield replica maintains the iconic six-gun’s lines with a dash of modern flare. Namely an eye-catching color-case hardened frame and striking blue-steel barrel, wrapped up with deep black simulated horn grips. It’s a right pretty addition to any cowpoke’s collection. Available in .45 Colt and .357 Magnum/.38 Special, it’s also an easy pistola to feed, so plan on hours of enjoyment. While Hardin was a Colt man most of his career, he was known to wield an 1875 from time to time and with great effect. For certain, if he was around today, he wouldn’t turn up his nose as his newly minted namesake revolver. MSRP: $1,479
Volquartsen Mamba-X
When it comes to a winning margin, Volquartsen leaves no stone unturned. With the Black Mamba-X, it’s the sighting system, more precisely how it mounted, that gives the .22 LR pistol a gold-medal edge. A multiple-hole mounting system on the slide allows competitors the perfect placement of a red dot for lightning-fast sight acquisition. They’re universal too, meaning whatever you run works on top of the LLV-4X 4.5-inch Competition Upper—from Burris all the way through Vortex and everything in between. The Mamba is familiar to handle too, thanks to Volquartsen building the pistol on the iconic Ruger MK IV frame. Accurized with 2.5-pound trigger break, the system is easy to slip into and excel with. MSRP: $1,342
Masterpiece Arms 9mm DS9 Hybrid Pistol
Is there a more aptly named company than Masterpiece Arms? Everything that rolls off its lines is a stroke of genius, including its latest souped-up race gun. A wide-body, double-stack 1911 pistol line from Freedom Gunworks, MPA tweaks and messages the DS9 Hybrid to run as fast as it looks. Built from pure barstock and billet steel—no MIM, castings or forgings here—the 9mm is made for rough play and precision performance. In addition to uncompromising frame-to-slide match-up and an accuracy-enhancing bull barrel, MPA utilizes nothing but high-end components. Koenig hammer, sear and disconnect, Wolff Springs custom machined aluminum trigger shoe and a true one-piece toolless guide rod—the whole nine yards. A 2-pound trigger break, crisp as autumn, and absolute control leaves little doubt the handmade DS9 is worth every penny. MSRP: $2,999
Editor's Note: This article originally appeared in the May 2021 issue of Gun Digest the Magazine.
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