AK-47 serial number 1 - 7.62x39mm. Important note: this is the original appearance of this prototype, in the form in which it, together with the rifles under serial numbers 2 and 3, was tested in December 1947 - January 1948. It was subsequently heavily modified in 1948 when it was used along with #2 for additional testing.
The AK-47 is a selective-fire (semi-automatic and automatic), gas-operated 7.62x39mm assault rifle, developed in the Soviet Union by Mikhail Kalashnikov. It is officially known in the Soviet documentation as 'Avtomat Kalashnikova' (Russian: Автомат Калашникова). Even after seven decades, the model and its variants remain the most popular and widely used assault rifles in the world because of their substantial, outstanding reliability under harsh conditions, low production costs compared to contemporary Western weapons, availability in virtually every geographic region and ease of use. These factors led the AK-47 to be named the "greatest combat rifle of all time" by the Military Channel. The AK-47 has been manufactured in many countries and has seen service with armed forces as well as irregular forces worldwide, and was the basis for developing many other types of individual and crew-served firearms. As of 2004, out of the estimated 500 million firearms worldwide, approximately 100 million belong to the Kalashnikov family, three-quarters of which are AK-47s.
NOTE: Please keep in mind that while "AK-47" is often a catch-all term for 7.62x39mm Kalashnikov rifles, most so-called "AK-47s" in movies - particularly American movies - are actually either Egyptian Maadi ARM copies of the highly improved AKM, or variants of the Chinese Norinco Type 56. Please check carefully to make sure that the rifle in question is a true AK-47 and not an AKM or a Chinese Type 56. When in doubt, it is probably safer to assume AKM or Type 56.carefully to make sure that the rifle in question is a true AK-47 and not an AKM or a Chinese Type 56. When in doubt, it is probably safer to assume AKM or Type 56.
ALSO NOTE: Since the 70s, the AK-74 and its update the AK-74M have been the standard-issue assault rifle of Russian armed forces. Therefore, all fictional depictions of 7.62x39 AK variants as a modern standard-issue Russian military weapon should be considered an anachronism until proven otherwise (for example, some special forces operators and front line soldiers have been known to arm themselves with available 7.62x39 AK rifles and light machine guns as a matter of personal choice).
Soviet/Russian Versions[]
AK-46[]
AK-46 prototype No. 1 - 7.62x39mm
The AK-46 (exact designation uncertain) is the common name for an experimental assault rifle by Mikhail Timofeyevich Kalashnikov on the basis of a self-loading carbine he developed in 1944, whose design would evolve into the AK-47. The rifle commission rejected this design in the second round of their tests, but Kalashnikov would radically revise his design and create the prototype "AK-47".
The AK-46's design had a certain resemblance to the mechanisms of the M1 Garand, specifically action with a short stroke of the gas piston located above the barrel and a rotating bolt.
There were three versions of the rifle, each slightly different from each other. The third in particular had a folding buttstock, similar to the later AKS-47.
Specifications[]
(Prototyped in 1946)
- Type: Assault Rifle
- Caliber: 7.62x39mm
- Feed System: 30-round box magazine
- Fire Modes: Semi-Auto/Full-Auto
Users[]
AK-47[]
Type 1 AK-47 with slab sided magazine - 7.62x39mm
Type 2 AK-47 with slab sided magazine - 7.62x39mm
Type 2 AK-47 - 7.62x39mm
Type 3 AK-47 with slab sided magazine - 7.62x39mm
Type 3 AK-47 with laminated stock - 7.62x39mm
Poly Technologies AK-47 - 7.62x39mm. This is the commercial clone of the Type 3 AK-47 and is the most used in American films and shows when showing the milled receiver AK-47.
Type 3 AK-47 built from US Receiver - 7.62x39mm. This is an Actual Screen used AK-47 from the film We Were Soldiers (built by Cinema Weaponry)
The name AK-47, as used in the English-speaking world, refers to the oldest production variants of Kalashnikov's assault rifle design, before the introduction of the AKM. These production weapons are officially designated as the AK in Soviet sources; the name "AK-47" in Russian sources instead only refers Kalashnikov's pre-production prototypes from 1947, which feature some differences from the finalized design. In Soviet sources, the AK-74 and its variants were the first to include the year in its original naming.
These early production AK variants are divided into several types:
- Type 1: The first production model, produced from 1948-1951. The Type 1 AK featured an early stamped receiver. It can be distinguished by a raised section of the stamped receiver underneath its charging handle, as well as a slightly differently shaped pistol grip.
- Type 2: The second production model, produced from 1951-1957. The Type 2 AK featured a milled receiver; while it was intended for the AK to use all stamped parts for cost reasons, the Soviet metalworking industry was simply not ready to do this at the time, and the high rejection rate of the early stamped AK receivers led to a switch to milling that lasted until the introduction of the AKM. It can be distinguished by a metal stock mounting bracket on its buttstock.
- Type 3: The third production model, produced from 1955-1959. The Type 3 AK is an improved version of the Type 2 AK, and also had a milled receiver. Most milled receiver AKs are derived from the Type 3 design. The Type 3 AK was phased out in 1959 by the improved stamped receiver AKM.
It is noteworthy that the U.S. government had a ban on all weapons imported from Warsaw Pact nations during the Cold War years (1947-1989). Communist nations which were not part of the Warsaw pact, such as Yugoslavia and Mainland China, were allowed to negotiate trade agreements with the U.S., thus the influx of Chinese AK type rifles and Yugoslavian AKs (Zastava). The Maadi ARMs (the US version of the MISR) were allowed because Egypt was never a Communist country nor a member of the Warsaw Pact. But, as a result of this, virtually no U.S. movie has a real original AK-47 prior to a certain date. The exceptions are, custom build ups after the mid 1990s when original AK-47 rifle kits were available (as was done on We Were Soldiers, using original blueprints and US-made milled receivers), and movies filmed overseas where foreign movie armorers had no such restrictions. This is particularly true for films made in Israel and some parts of Europe.
This is not the case now, with the current crop of films made outside the U.S., mostly in the newly democratic Eastern European nations (Bulgaria, Hungary, Romania, Poland, Czech Republic, etc.) However, Russia has firmly blocked the export of their old AK-47 surplus guns outside of the country, having distributed most of them to client nations and guerrillas throughout the world in the previous five decades. So the AK-47 one 'thinks' one sees may very well be a Poly Technologies Legend series AK (from China) or another AK Variant.
As an additional note, early production AKs used the slab sided magazine featured in Kalashnikov's original design, and the ribbed magazine design was introduced later.
Specifications[]
(1949 - Present)
- Type: Assault Rifle
- Caliber: 7.62x39mm
- Weight: 8.5 lbs (3.9 kg) empty, 10.5 lbs (4.8 kg) loaded
- Length: 34.3 in (87 cm)
- Barrel length: 16.4 in (41.6 cm)
- Muzzle velocity: 2,350 ft/s (715 m/s)
- Feed System: 10, 20, 30, 40-round box magazine, 75 or 100-round drum magazine
- Fire Modes: Semi-Auto/Full-Auto
Users[]
AKS-47[]
Type 1 AKS-47 - 7.62x39mm
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Type 3 AKS-47 - 7.62x39mm
Type 3 AKS-47 with stock folded - 7.62x39mm
Poly Tech Model AK-47S Semi-Automatic Carbine - 7.62x39mm
The AKS-47 is a variant of the AK-47 where the rear-trunion is altered with a swiveling mechanism to allow for the under-folding stock. The AKS may feature any of the three AK-47 receiver types. Very few original Russian versions of this rifle were ever allowed into the U.S. Market. The vast majority of milled receiver underfolders seen in American movies were Chinese Norinco Rifles or Chinese Polytech legend series (which was by far the most accurate Chinese clone of the original AK 47 to date). Original Russian AK (especially the milled versions) were most common in movies and tv shows filmed OUTSIDE of the USA.
Specifications[]
(1949 - Present)
- Type: Assault Rifle
- Caliber: 7.62x39mm
- Weight: 6.5 lbs (3 kg)
- Length: 37 in (94 cm) (stock extended), 27.6 in (70 cm) (stock folded)
- Barrel length: 16.3 in (41.5 cm)
- Feed System: 30-round box magazine
- Fire Modes: Semi-Auto/Full-Auto
Users[]
AKM[]
AKM - 7.62x39mm
Maadi ARM - 7.62x39mm. This Egyptian clone of AK is often seen in American movies.
Romanian AKM with synthetic furniture - 7.62x39mm
AKM with GP-25 grenade launcher - 7.62x39mm / 40mm
The AKM is the improved version of the AK-47, featuring a number of refinements such as a stamped receiver (as opposed to the milled receiver of the original Type 2 and Type 3 AK-47), a slant compensator on the tip of the barrel (to reduce recoil), an improved gas tube (without vents), and use of lighter materials to reduce weight and simplify construction.
Most of the AKMs seen in Hollywood movies are actually Egyptian Maadi MISR copies, which were sold in the U.S. as the ARM in the 1980s - such weapons were first procured by Stembridge Gun Rentals for Red Dawn and subsequently re-used in numerous other motion pictures. The Maadi is almost identical to the original Soviet-built AKM, save for the markings, and is nearly impossible to tell apart.
Specifications[]
(1959 - Present)
- Type: Assault Rifle
- Caliber: 7.62x39mm
- Weight: 7.9 lbs (3.6 kg)
- Length: 34.6 in (88 cm)
- Barrel length: 16.3 in (41.5 cm)
- Feed System: 10, 20, 30, 40-round box magazines, 75 or 100-round drum magazine
- Fire Modes: Semi-Auto/Full-Auto
Users[]
AKMS[]
AKMS - 7.62x39mm
Custom AKMS with shortened barrel, similar to the one seen in Terminator 3: Rise of the Machines, Pineapple Express, Rambo and Taken - 7.62x39mm. The configuration shown here has parts from the AKMS and the Norinco Type 56-1.
Basically the same as the AKM, but the rear-trunion is altered with a swiveling mechanism to allow for the under-folding stock. The AKMS nomenclature also indicates that the rifle is not a milled receiver variant and has the AKM style of gas block, top cover, barrel assembly, front sight, and appropriate forearm furniture.
Specifications[]
(1959 - Present)
- Type: Assault Rifle
- Caliber: 7.62x39mm
- Weight: 8.4 lbs (3.8 kg)
- Length: 34.6 in (88 cm) (stock extended), 25.8 in (65.5 cm) (stock folded)
- Barrel length: 16.3 in (41.5 cm)
- Feed System: 30-round box magazine
- Fire Modes: Semi-Auto/Full-Auto
Users[]
AK-101[]
AK-101 - 5.56x45mm
AK-101 with GP-30 grenade launcher - 5.56x45mm / 40mm
AK-101 with railed handguard - 5.56x45mm
Modern Russian full-size 5.56x45mm NATO AK rifle based on the AK-74M for export.
Specifications[]
(1994 - Present)
- Type: Assault Rifle
- Caliber: 5.56x45mm NATO
- Weight: 7.9 lbs (3.6 kg)
- Length: 37.1 in (94.3 cm) (stock extended), 27.6 in (70 cm) (stock folded)
- Barrel length: 16.3 in (41.5 cm)
- Feed System: 30-round box magazine; 45-round magazine from the RPK-201 also compatible
- Fire Modes: Semi-Auto/Full-Auto
Users[]
AK-102[]
AK-102 - 5.56x45mm
The AK-102 is a modern AK based on the AK-74M that is the carbine version of the AK-101.
Specifications[]
(1990s - Present)
- Type: Carbine
- Caliber: 5.56x45mm NATO
- Weight: 6.6 lbs (3 kg)
- Length: 32.4 in (82.4 cm) (stock extended), 23.1 in (58.6 cm) (stock folded)
- Barrel length: 12.4 in (31.4 cm)
- Feed System: 30-round box magazine
- Fire Modes: Semi-Auto/Full-Auto
Users[]
AK-103[]
AK-103 with cleaning rod removed - 7.62x39mm
Modern Russian full-size 7.62x39mm AK rifle, based on AK-74M.
Specifications[]
(1994 - Present)
- Type: Assault Rifle
- Caliber: 7.62x39mm
- Weight: 7.5 lbs (3.4 kg)
- Length: 37.1 in (94.3 cm) (stock extended), 27.6 in (70 cm) (stock folded)
- Barrel length: 16.3 in (41.5 cm)
- Feed System: 30-round box magazine
- Fire Modes: Semi-Auto/Full-Auto
Users[]
AK-104[]
AK-104 - 7.62x39mm
The AK-104 is a modern AK that is the carbine version of the AK-103, based on AK-74M.
Specifications[]
(1994 - Present)
- Type: Carbine
- Caliber: 7.62x39mm
- Weight: 6.6 lbs (3 kg)
- Length: 32.4 in (82.4 cm)
- Barrel length: 12.4 in (31.4 cm)
- Feed System: 30-round box magazine
- Fire Modes: Semi-Auto/Full-Auto
Users[]
AK-108[]
Full-sized AK-107 variant chambered in 5.56x45mm NATO, using the Balanced Automatics Recoil System (BARS) similar to the AEK-971.
AK-108 - 5.56x45mm
AK-109[]
7.62x39mm variant of the AK-107/AK-108.
AK-109 - 7.62x39mm
Foreign Copies & Derivatives[]
Norinco Type 56[]
Norinco Type 56, early milled receiver model with bayonet - 7.62x39mm
Norinco Type 56, milled receiver model without bayonet - 7.62x39mm. This is the "sanitized" (M22-code) export version made with no factory markings and the selector markings in the latin alphabet (L for full-auto and D for semi-auto).
Norinco Type 56 with bayonet - 7.62x39mm
Norinco Type 56 - 7.62x39mm. Rather than having the underfolder pig sticker Bayonet assembly, this has the standard Bayonet lug underneath the gas block as the AKM and later variants.
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Norinco Type 56-1, early model with milled receiver - 7.62x39mm
Norinco Type 56-1, early model with milled receiver and plastic fittings - 7.62x39mm
Norinco Type 56-1 - 7.62x39mm
Norinco Type 56-2 - 7.62x39mm
Norinco Type 56 with Chinese 75 Round Drum Magazine - 7.62x39mm
The Chinese Type 56 assault rifle (manufactured by China North Industries Corporation, or Norinco) is by far the most commonly-seen AK derivative utilized in Hollywood productions, both film and television. These are frequently seen used as a substitute for Russian AKs in many films, as the Russians never sold a civilian AK model in the U.S. (or Europe) during the latter half of the 20th century. Most of the movie prop rental houses in Hollywood had dozens if not hundreds of Chinese AKs - mostly the Type 56s (7.62x39mm version) or the similar Type 84s (5.56x45mm version). These were usually semi-automatic civilian versions (commonly designated "AK47S" or "AKS47" by the importers), in many cases converted to full-auto by Class III manufacturers.
History in Cinema: Prior to 1982, importing firearms and equipment from 'communist' nations was illegal at the federal level in the United States. In 1983 the list of prohibited countries from which to receive weapons from (for the civilian market) was amended due to special trade agreements signed between the USA and China & Yugoslavia. Around the same time, Egypt managed to bypass the "commie gun ban' by offering their MISR (the ARM or the civilian version of the soviet AKM) to the west being that Egypt was a non communist nation, making the weapon under license. After 1983, the flood gates opened, with AKs and SKS variants being available to the USA until the first import ban in 1989 (a political response to the Stockton Schoolyard shooting of 1989). But the vast majority of American movie armories AKs came from this time span where Chinese weapons were easily obtainable. After the fall of the wall and the Soviet Union in 1990, the Cold War era LAW banning import of weapons from Communist nations (for the most part) was no longer relevant. Then Americans started seeing AK variants from Romanian, Bulgaria, Hungary, Poland and any other former warsaw pact nation that decided to sell their weapons to the US Market. The import of AK and SKS variants from Eastern European nations was later banned by then president Obama.
There are three main variants of the Type 56 - the standard Type 56, which has a fixed stock, the Type 56-1, which has an under-folding stock, and the Type 56-2, which has a side-folding stock. Most fixed-stock Type 56 rifles have an under-folding spike bayonet, known as the "pig sticker"; this rifle is often seen in movies about the Vietnam War, and is correct for NVA throughout most of the conflict. Quite a few of the Type 56s seen in movies also have AKM-style slant compensators fitted; this was a common feature on semi-auto Type 56s exported to the U.S., but NOT the full-auto military model.
The easiest way to tell when an AK-type rifle seen in a movie or TV show is a Chinese Type 56 is by looking at the front sight; Chinese AKs have a distinctive full-circle ("hooded") front sight that no other AKs (excluding the Romanian AK Draco carbines) have.
Users[]
Norinco Type 84S[]
Norinco Type 84S - 5.56x45mm
Norinco Type 84S-1 Underfolder Model with 16" barrel - 5.56x45mm
Norinco Type 84S "Target" Rifle - 5.56x45mm. Basically a standard Norinco Type 84S with a slightly longer barrel. This variant was ready for market just as the 1989 US import ban was implemented, so it is mostly seen in Canada. It has an 18.5" barrel and was very rarely seen in the U.S. Gun market.
Norinco Type 84S-1 "Match" Rifle - 5.56x45mm. Norinco was stuck sitting on a pile of 21" RPK barrels chambered for 5.56mm when the door slammed shut on U.S. imports in 1989. Norinco saved money by mating their 21" long RPK-style barrels to their stockpile of 84S Folding Stock receiver bodies and thus exported the Type 84S Match to countries such as Canada and Australia. Canada would suffer their own import ban on 'frightening looking guns' in 1995. Australian gun owners would suffer such a fate in 1997.
The Type 84 rifle is nearly identical to the Chinese Type 56 (seen above), but it is chambered in 5.56x45mm /.223 Remington and manufactured entirely for export. The civilian variants are known as Type 84S, and are semi-automatic only (full auto Type 84s are far rarer than the Type 84S though). It is often seen impersonating the AK-74 in movies and TV shows (particularly Stargate: SG1, where it is carried by Russian SG teams).
The Type 84 was exported and sold with an AK birdcage flash hider and had a deep polished factory blue. Several other variants of the 84S Rifle (that are mostly unfamiliar to American Gun Owners) were victims of the 1989 Import Ban that barred most new 'assault rifles' from entering the United States. These rifles were thus mostly exported to Canada and Australia, and as a result, appeared in television shows or movies that were filmed in those countries. Listed here are two of the variants seen in Canadian or Australian television (the Target and the Match versions). If it were not for Canadian or Australian movie armorers, most Americans would never have known these variants existed.
Users[]
Norinco MAK-90[]
Norinco MAK-90 - 7.62x39mm
"Post-ban" version of the Norinco Type 56, made for import for use as a civilian sporting rifle. As such, the MAK-1990 was manufactured in semi-automatic mode only, the rear sight was ground down and the bayonet lugs were ground off. Most rifles are fitted with a 'thumbhole' stock and were manufactured with both milled and stamped receivers. Originally, these rifles were sold for around $180 and were looked down on as "cheap" rifles, but have since been regarded as fine rifles and have gone up in price greatly.
Specifications[]
(1990 - 1994)
- Type: Assault Rifle
- Caliber: 7.62x39mm
- Weight: 8.3 lbs (3.7 kg)
- Length: 35.1 in (89.2 cm)
- Barrel length: 16.3 in (41.5 cm)
- Feed System: 10, 30-round box magazine
- Fire Modes: Semi-AutoUsers
Zastava M70[]
Zastava M70A with milled receiver, underfolding stock and rifle grenade sights. - 7.62x39mm
Zastava M70B1 with stamped receiver - 7.62x39mm
Zastava M70AB2 - 7.62x39mm
Zastava M70AB2 - 7.62x39mm (non-standard pistol grip). The military version of the M70AB2 underfolder rifle has a black plastic pistol grip as seen in the image above. However all of the Zastava M70AB2 rifles imported in the U.S. by Mitchell Arms had the wooden pistol grip seen in this photo. So a wooden pistol grip is indicative of a 'Mitchell Arms' rifle.
The Zastava M70 was the Yugoslavian variant of the Russian AK-47 (later AKM), however, it utilized a strengthened lower receiver, more akin to the RPK than the AK-47/AKM. It also has other design variations which make it immediately recognizable from its Russian cousin. M70 has grenade launcher sights (see talk page for detailed images) that when raised cut off gas flow to the piston allowing use of blanks for grenade launching; the rear trunion has a plunger to lock the receiver cover to prevent loss when used with a grenade launcher. Flip-up sights are standard equipment for optional night use: two dot rear and one dot front filled with phosphorescent material. M70 magazines are standard AK-47 type, but have a follower that blocks the bolt open when empty (much like the 30 round M1 Carbine magazine follower). The forearm is distinctly longer and has 3 cooling vents.
Some of the variants also have finned barrels to aid in heat dispersion. It was made by Zavodi Crvena Zastava (Red Banner Plant), now Zastava Oružje / Zastava Arms in a Yugoslavian (now Serbian) city of Kragujevac.
It was most widely used and seen in the Yugoslav Wars of the 1990s. Yugoslavia also sold them to many countries such as Iraq (which produced a licensed copy known as the Tabuk, which lacked the grenade-launching sight) and Kuwait.
The Zastava M70 was produced in the following variants:
- M70 - milled receiver, fixed stock
- M70A – milled receiver, underfolding stock
- M70A1 – milled receiver, underfolding stock, mount for night or optical sights
- M70B1 – stamped receiver, fixed stock
- M70AB2 – stamped receiver, underfolding stock
- M70AB3 – stamped receiver, underfolding stock, rifle grenade sight removed and replaced with a GP-25 40mm underbarrel grenade launcher
- M70B1N – stamped receiver, fixed stock, mount for night or optical sights
- M70AB2N – stamped receiver, underfolding stock, mount for night or optical sights
- Variants M70B, M70AB and M70AB1 also exist, but they are rare and their specifications are unclear.
Specifications[]
(1970 - Present)
- Type: Carbine
- Caliber: 7.62x39mm
- Weight: 8.2 lbs (3.7 kg)
- Length: 0 in (0 cm) (stock extended), 0 in (0 cm) (stock folded)
- Barrel length: 16.3 in (41.5 cm)
- Feed System: 30-round box magazine
- Fire Modes: Semi-Auto/Full-Auto
Users[]
Zastava M85[]
Zastava M85 - 5.56x45mm NATO
The Zastava M85 is a compact carbine manufactured by the Yugoslavian Zastava company, similar to the AKS-74U, albeit in 5.56x45mm NATO, with an underfolding stock instead of a side-folder, and a three-holed handguard.
Specifications[]
- Type: Carbine
- Caliber: 5.56x45mm NATO
- Weight: 7.7 lbs (3.5 kg)
- Length: 31.5 in (80 cm), 21.3 in (54 cm) (stock folded)
- Barrel length: 10 in (25.4 cm)
- Feed System: 30-round box magazine
- Fire Modes: Semi-Auto/Full-Auto
Users[]
Zastava M92[]
Zastava M92 - 7.62x39mm
Zastava M92 pistol - 7.62x39mm
Very similar to the Zastava M85 but chambers 7.62x39mm instead of 5.56x45mm. Note the curved magazine.
Specifications[]
( - )
- Type: Carbine
- Caliber: 7.62x39mm
- Weight: 7.7 lbs (3.5 kg)
- Length: 31.5 in (80 cm), 21.3 in (54 cm) (stock folded)
- Barrel length: 10 in (25.4 cm)
- Feed System: 30-round box magazine
- Fire Modes: Semi-Auto/Full-Auto
Users[]
Zastava M21[]
Zastava M21S - 5.56x45mm
The Zastava M21 is a family of modern 5.56x45mm firearms developed by Zastava Arms as a replacement for the older M70 series of rifles. The M21 is currently the standard service rifle of the Serbian military, and is also used by security services in Bosnia-Herzgovina, Iraq and Cameroon.
The Zastava M21 is produced in the following variants:
- M21 A - standard full-length rifle (M21 ABS includes picatinny rail system for the mounting of attachments).
- M21 S - compact short-barrelled variant of the M21 (M21 SBS includes picatinny rail system for the mounting of attachments).
- M21 C - carbine variant of the M21.
Specifications[]
( 2004 - )
- Type: Rifle, Carbine
- Caliber: 5.56x45mm
- Weight: 9.1 lbs (4.2 kg)
- Length: 39.4 in (100 cm), 29.5 in (75 cm) (stock folded)(M21 A), 36 in (91.5 cm), 26.2 in (66.6 cm) (stock folded) (M21 S), 32.5 in (82.5 cm), 22.6 in (57.5 cm) (stock folded) (M21 C)
- Barrel length: 10 in (25.4 cm) (M21 A), 14.8 in (37.5 cm) (M21 S), 12.8 in (32.5 cm) (M21 C)
- Feed System: 30-round box magazine
- Fire Modes: Semi-Auto/Full-Auto
Users[]
Zastava LKP PAP[]
Zastava LKP PAP - 7.62x39mm
The Zastava LKP PAP (Serbian: Polu-automatska puška, "Semi-automatic rifle") is a series of sporting rifles manufactured by the Yugoslavian Zastava company, which designed to comply with US firearms import laws.
Specifications[]
- Type: Semi-automatic rifles
- Caliber: 7.62x39mm (PAP M70), 7.62x51mm (PAP M77), 5.56x45mm (PAP M85)
- Weight: 7.9 lbs (3.6 kg)
- Length: 37 in (94 cm)
- Barrel length: 16.3 in (41.5 cm)
- Feed System: 10-round box magazine
- Fire Modes: Semi-Auto
Users[]
PM md. 63/65/90[]
PM md. 63 (AIM) - 7.62x39mm
PM md. 65 (AIMS) with cleaning rod removed - 7.62x39mm
PM md. 90 - 7.62x39mm
PM md. 90 with 75-round drum magazine - 7.62x39mm
The Romanian clones of the AKM and AKMS are known as PM md. 63 and PM md. 65. They are identifiable by their distinctive vertical foregrip integrated into the handguard. The foregrip of the PM md. 65 notably slants backwards to accommodate for the underfolding stock. In the west, they are better known under their export names, AIM and the AIMS, which are often applied to export versions of later Romanian AKs, even if they don't officially use these names.
In 1986, Romania adopted the 5.45mm PA md. 86, which featured a side-folding stock similar to the East German MPi-KMS. A few years later, the PM md. 90 was developed. Essentially a 7.62mm version of the PA md. 86, the PM md. 90 is more or less identical to the md. 63 except for being equipped with the same side folding stock as the md. 86.
The PA md. 97 is a 5.56mm version of the md. 86 developed in 1997. The PA md. 2000 is a modernized version with synthetic furniture chambered in 5.56mm.
Carbine versions for all of the aformentioned rifles exist. Export versions of these are collectively grouped under the AIMR name (see below).
Users[]
AIMR[]
First model AIMR with crutch style stock and 20 round magazine - 7.62x39mm. The original Romanian designation for this rifle is the PM md. 80.
AIMR - 7.62x39mm. The original Romanian designation for this rifle is the PM md. 90 cu țeavă scurtă (short barrelled).
AIMR (JMAC Customs civilian replica) - 5.45x39mm. The original Romanian designation for this rifle is the PA md. 86 cu țeavă scurtă (short barrelled).
AIMR - 5.56x45mm. The original Romanian designation for this rifle is the PA md. 97 cu țeavă scurtă (short barrelled).
Romanian AK Draco Pistol - 7.62x39mm. This is a US import variant of the AIMR and can be identified by its lack of a stock, a plain handguard without palmswell and 2 position selector switch.
Romanian AK Draco Carbine - 7.62x39mm. This is a Draco pistol fitted with a PA md. 86 folding stock to replicate the original AIMR, however it still lacks the palmswell hanguard and 3 position selector switch.
AK Draco 9mm Carbine - 9x19mm
AK Mini Draco Pistol - 7.62x39mm
AK Micro Draco Pistol - 7.62x39mm
AIMR is the collective export designation for all Romanian AK-based carbines, regardless of caliber. The majority feature the distinctive side folding PA md. 86 stock and a straight AKM type handguard (the exception being the first model PM md. 80 which has a unique folding stock and an AIM style vertical grip handguard), and all have a 12 inch barrel with the front sight mounted directly to the gas block. They are fitted with barrel threads onto which can be fitted either a standard barrel nut, or a unique birdcage flash hider.
A variant of the AIMR with smooth handguards and the stock removed chambered in 7.62x39mm or 5.56x45mm was imported into the US as the "Champion Pistol". Later the designation of "Draco Pistol" was given to 7.62x39mm weapons, with "Champion Pistol" now referring to only 5.56x45mm weapons.
Specifications[]
(1980 - Present)
- Type: Carbine
- Caliber: 7.62x39mm, 5.45x39mm or 5.56x45mm
- Barrel length: 12 in (30.5 cm)
- Feed System: 30-round box magazine
- Fire Modes: Semi-Auto/Full-Auto
Users[]
Romanian WASR[]
WASR-2 - 5.45x39mm
WASR-3 - 5.56x45mm
WASR 10/63 - 7.62x39mm
The Wassenaar Arrangement Semiautomatic Rifles (WASR) are semi-automatic versions of the Romanian PM md. 63 with stamped receivers, intended for the United States market. Although originally constructed from older surplus spare parts for Romanian military AKs, newer WASRs are built from newer parts, some of which are American-made to comply with import restrictions. Although originally constructed with a single stack magazine well to comply with American import restrictions, once the rifles are imported into the United States, distributors cut out the magazine well to allow traditional double stack AK magazines. There are a number of different variants chambered in different calibers; 7.62x39mm (WASR-10), 5.45x39mm (WASR-2), and 5.56x45mm (WASR-3). A WASR can easily be spotted in a film by its distinctive stamped receiver that does not contain the standard AK dimples.
Users[]
MPi-K/MPi-KmS[]
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7,62-mm-Maschinenpistole „Kalaschnikow" (MPi-K) both sides - 7.62x39mm. Note: Early versions of the MPi-K has the design of front sight is different.
The MPi-K/MPi-KmS are East German license-manufactured versions of the AK/AKS. It was introduced in 1958, put into regular service in 1961, and was subsequently replaced by the MPi-KM from 1964.
One of the features of MPi-K is the absence of a cleaning rod and a socket in the buttstock for a pencil case with accessories, since instead of them a cleaning kit of the Karabiner 98k pattern was used. However, the original AK kit later was considered more effective (in particular, the ramrod could allow knocking out a stuck shell), and was introduced on the subsequent MPi-KM.
Users[]
MPi-KM/MPi-KMS-72[]
MPi-KM - 7.62x39mm. This is externally different from later MPi-KM-72 by the wooden lower hand grip. This configuration were common in 1966-1972.
MPi-KM-72 - 7.62x39mm
MPi-KMS-72 - 7.62x39mm
The MPi-KM/MPi-KMS-72 are East German license-manufactured versions of the AKM/AKMS. It was introduced in 1961 and entered to regular service from 1964. Early version of the MPi-KM rifle had wooden furniture and was similar to the original AKM, but later models have distinctive stippled brown pistol and top hand grips (from 1965), and buttstocks (from 1966). In 1970 were designed the updated models, introduced into service in 1972, under the designations MPi-KM-72 and MPi-KMS-72. The MPi-KMS-72 also has a side folding single strut "coat hanger" stock, a feature which is shared with the later Romanian rifles. It is worth noting that the MPi-KMS-72 was the first version of the new rifle with a folding buttstock, taken into service, the earlier MPi-KMS (similar to the original AKMS) was not adopted.
Since 1984, they have been replaced by the MPi AK-74. After the German reunification, all variants of the MPi were removed from service, with most rifles being sold as surplus to the militaries of such countries as Finland and Turkey.
Note: The chance of seeing a 100% original East German MPi-K series of rifle in a movie or television show is extremely unlikely. Most of the "East German" AKs that are seen in visual media are regular AKMs using East German Parts kits.
Users[]
AKM-63/AMD-65[]
AKM-63 - 7.62x39mm
AMD-65 - 7.62x39mm
AMD-65 with wood furniture - 7.62x39mm
The AKM-63 and AMD-65 (Automata Módosított Deszantfegyver; loosely "Automatic Modified Paratrooper Weapon") are Hungarian variants of the AK-47, manufactured by FÉG. Hungary originally adopted a domestically manufactured milled receiver AK as the AK-55. In the early 60s, the Hungarian Army decided to modernize their rifles into the AKM-63. The AKM-63 featured a distinctive perforated sheet metal handguard, a stamped receiver, a foregrip, and was manufactured in either wood or polymer furniture. The AKM-63 was further modified into the AMD-65 in 1965, which was a compact version with a shorter barrel and side folding stock, intended for paratroopers and vehicle crews. The AMD-65 is the most famous variant of the Hungarian AKs.
Specifications[]
(1963 - )
- Type: Assault Rifle
- Caliber: 7.62x39mm
- Weight: 7.1 lbs (3.2 kg) (AMD-65)
- Length: 33.3 in (84.7 cm) (AMD-65, stock extended), 24.6 in (62.4 cm) (AMD-65, stock folded)
- Barrel length: 12.5 in (31.7 cm) (AMD-65)
- Feed System: 30-round box magazine
- Fire Modes: Semi-Auto/Full-Auto
Users[]
AMM/AMMS[]
AMMS - 7.62x39mm
SA-85M - 7.62x39mm
FEG SA-85 Underfolder - 7.62x39mm
In the late 1970s, the Hungarian government decided to improve and develop a new rifle for simplification, unification with their allies, and exportability. The confusingly-named AK-63 was adopted in 1977 as the standard Hungarian infantry rifle. Two versions of the AK-63 were produced, the AK-63F with a fixed stock, and the AK-63D with an underfolding stock. The two weapons were adopted as the AMM and AMMS (spelt AMMSz in Hungarian) respectively. Another variant, the AK-63MF, was a modernized version of the AK-63D with telescopic stock and Picatinny rail. A rare semi-auto only version of the AK-63F, known as the SA-85M, was made for export to the lucrative US civilian market, which was affected by the 1989 ban.
The Hungarian AK-63 is almost completely identical to the Soviet AKM. The main differences between the two is that the AK-63 rifles retains the distinctive straight pistol grip of the AKM-63, and that the handguard of the AK-63 lacks the palm swells of the Soviet AKM. The wood also has has a bright, laminated blond finish like the AKM-63.
AMM stands for Automata Kalasnyikov Modernizált Magyarosított, which loosely means "Hungarianized AKM".
Users[]
FÉG NGM-81[]
FÉG NGM-81 with original PKM style flash hider - 5.56x45mm
The Hungarian FÉG NGM-81 was a domestic rifle based on the indigenous Hungarian AK, but built for export. For that reason, it was chambered in 5.56x45mm, though some 5.45x39mm variants exist. The Rifle was built between 1981-1990. The original rifles were only offered with a fixed butt and a wooden fore-end, made in the same Hungarian Blonde wood as the SA-85M export rifle. The folding stock version of this rifle was called the NGV-81.
Due to Cold War prohibitions against Combloc weapons within the U.S. (except those exempted by treaty), the vast majority of the export NGM-81 rifles went to Europe and Africa. Most versions omit the large PKM style flash hider, opting instead for the standard AK-47 style muzzle nut. The FÉG NGM rifle was noteworthy in that it kept the AK-47/Type 56 style of gas block system, with the gas relief holes in the gas tube, not the gas block (as is the case with the AKM and later style rifles). The Gas block itself and the front sight is the AKM style in shape and the rifle takes a Hungarian stamped metal 5.56mm magazine similar but not identical to the Wieger style AK magazine.
Users[]
Bulgarian Arsenal AR[]
Arsenal AR - 7.62x39mm
Arsenal AR-F - 7.62x39mm
Arsenal AR-1F - 7.62x39mm
Arsenal AR-SF - 7.62x39mm
Arsenal AR-SF - 5.56x45mm NATO
Arsenal AR-M1 - 5.56x45mm NATO
Arsenal AR-M1F - 7.62x39mm
Arsenal AR-M4SF - 5.56x45mm NATO
Bulgarian Arsenal AR M7F - 7.62x39mm
The Arsenal AR is the name given to the Bulgarian manufactured AK clone (Built by the Bulgaria gunmaker ARSENAL JSCo.). These modern day copies of the AK-47 have milled receivers and are chambered in 7.62x39mm and 5.56x45mm in various configurations. As time goes on, Arsenal JSCo. builds more variants for export as civilian, military and law enforcement models.
Specifications[]
(2000 - Present)
- Type: Assault Rifle
- Caliber: 5.56x45mm NATO, 7.62x39mm, 5.45x39mm
- Feed System: 30-round box magazine
- Fire Modes: Semi-Auto/Full-Auto
Users[]
Radom-Hunter[]
Radom Hunter - 7.62x39mm
The Radom Hunter is a Polish "sporterised" version of the AKM. The Hunter can be seen with proprietary sight-mount/receiver cover or, more common, the standard AKM side rail.
Specifications[]
(1987 - 2000)
- Manufacturer: Fabryka Broni Radom.
- Type: Hunting Rifle
- Caliber: 7.62x39mm
- Weight: 11.4 lbs (5.2 kg)
- Length: 40 in (101.5 cm)
- Barrel length: 20 in (50.8 cm)
- Capacity: 5 (Or any AK-type magazine)
- Fire Modes: Semi-Auto
Users[]
AKU-94[]
Maadi ARM in AKU-94 bullpup kit - 7.62x39mm
AK variant in AKU-94 bullpup kit with polymer magazine - 7.62x39mm
The AKU-94 is a bullpup conversion kit for the AK type rifle, originally created and sold by American company K-VAR Corporation. Both the European style AKs (like the Romanian AKs or Egyptian Maadis) and the Chinese style of AK rifle (Type 56) can fit into the kit. In the Mid-2000s, KVAR stopped making and selling the AKU-94 conversion kit. All remaining kits were purchased by Century Arms International, and subsequently used to 'spruce up' AK rifles with a futuristic bullpup look. Currently various imported AK rifles (mostly WASRs) with kit installed, is sold by Century Arms International. This bullpup configuration retains the standard barrel length but the design makes the AK rifle more compact making it more suitable for close quarters battle.
Specifications[]
( - )
- Type: Assault Rifle
- Caliber: 7.62x39mm
- Feed System: 30-round box magazine
- Fire Modes: Semi-Auto/Full-Auto
Users[]
"AKMSU"[]
"AKMSU" in the National Firearms Centre, with thumbhole foregrip and an AKMS-style stock, fitted with a bakelite magazine - 7.62x39mm. This model has a muzzle brake containing an expansion chamber, required for the correct cycling.
Converted AKM pistol - 7.62x39mm. This is a blank adapted full auto transferable AKM pistol that was converted into a Krinkov via parts kit. Guns just like this one have been used in Tropic Thunder, Three Kings, and numerous other movies and TV shows.
Converted AKM pistol with RIS handguard - 7.62x39mm
The AKMSU is a chopped and shortened version of the AKM, in the same vein as the AKS-74U. The weapon is very rare, and the origin of the weapon is very strongly disputed. Some sources describe the weapon as a rare prototype carbine intended for Russian airborne troops, before being found to be inconvenient to use and phased out by the AKS-74U. Other sources, including most Russian sources, say the weapon does not exist, never made in any capacity by the Soviet Union, and any chopped and shortened AKM carbines are foreign-made custom models.
One alleged genuine AKMSU is in the possession of National Firearms Centre (of the Royal Armouries) in Leeds, United Kingdom, gifted to them in 2005 by UK's MOD Pattern Room; the Pattern Room received the weapon in June 1986. This model is identified to have been a custom model made from a Type 56 receiver and AKS-74U parts (with the rivet positions at the rear of the receiver being one telling sign that it is originally a Type 56), and is often cited as originating from the Khyber Pass. Given that the only alleged genuine AKMSU is conclusively identified as a custom model, no genuine Russian AKMSUs are known to exist, supporting the idea that the term does not describe a production weapon.
The name AKMSU is regularly cited as "Автомат Калашникова Mодернизированный Складной Укороченный", or "Kalashnikov's shortened modernized assault rifle with a folding stock". The origin of the name "AKMSU" is ultimately uncertain, due to Russian sources disowning the weapon. It's possible that the name was first attached to the National Firearms Centre model, and was spread through firearm encyclopedias and airsoft replicas.
Despite the muddied history of the "genuine AKMSU", AKMSU-like firearms (i.e. 7.62x39mm AK derivatives resembling the AKS-74U in overall form) do exist as production weapons outside of Russia. The Bulgarian Arsenal AR-SF, Romanian AIMR, and Yugoslavian/Serbian Zastava M92 all fit the description to some extent.
On IMFDB, "AKMSU" currently designates custom modified AKM carbines that exist in recognizable quantities in Hollywood productions, such as Three Kings, Tropic Thunder, Bad Boys II, etc. These are full-size AK variants that have been converted with Krinkov parts kits; many feature side-folding AKS-74U-style stocks.
Users[]
AK-Alfa[]
AK-Alfa with 16.3" barrel, 90 degree gas block and Hartman MH1 reflex sight - 7.62x39mm
AK-Alfa with 12.4" barrel, 45 degree gas block, KeyMod forend and MH1 reflex sight - 7.62x39mm
The AK-Alfa is a modernized version of the AK design made by Kalashnikov USA/Israel (CAA). The core of its design is actually based on the Saiga rifle series, a semi-automatic rifle series based on the AK design.
Specifications[]
(2016 - Present)
- Type: Assault Rifle, Battle Rifle (7.62x51mm)
- Calibers: 7.62x39mm M43, 5.56x45mm NATO, 7.62x51mm NATO
- Barrel lengths: 16.3 in (41.5 cm), 12.4 in (31.4 cm)
- Length (with 16.3" barrel): 37.4 in (95 cm), 27 in (68.5 cm) with stock folded
- Weight (with 16.3" barrel): 7.7 lbs (3.5 kg) empty
- Capacity: 30-round box magazine, AK-47 type magazines (7.62x39mm)
- Fire Modes: Semi-Auto/Full-Auto
Users[]
Century Arms C39 V2[]
Century Arms C39 V2 - 7.62x39mm
The Century Arms C39 V2 is an American AKM clone with milled receiver design made by Century Arms.
Specifications[]
(2014 - Present)
- Type: Assault Rifle, Pistol, SBR,
- Calibers: 7.62x39mm M43
- Barrel lengths: 16.5"
- Length 37.25"
- Weight 8.05lbs
- Capacity: 30-round box magazine, AK-47 type magazines (7.62x39mm)
- Fire Modes: Semi-Auto
Users[]
.22 LR Caliber Versions[]
Adler-Jäger AP-80[]
An Italian-made AK replica that first debuted in the 1980s, seen in productions filmed in Europe and chambered in .22 LR.
Adler-Jäger AP-80 - .22 LR