AK-47 Assault Rifle

The AK-47 is probably one of the most reliable battle rifles ever produced, with about 30 million in service around the world. It is undeniably the most widely distributed battle rifle. Originally designed by Russian inventor Mikhail Timofeevich Kalashnikov, the number of various Kalashnikov models, clones and copies is staggering. However, the rifle's function remains the same across all the variations.

The AK-47 evolved into what is called the AKM by virtue of improved production & design and was further enhanced to become the late production model, the AK-74 in 5.45 x 39mm.

Maj. Steven Ross, executive officer, HMLA-367, MAG-36, 1st MAW, USMC fires a Russian AK47, Camp Hansen, Okinawa, 20 December 2002
Maj. Steven Ross, executive officer, HMLA-367, MAG-36, 1st MAW, USMC fires a Russian AK47, Camp Hansen, Okinawa, 20 December 2002.

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Table of Kalashnikov AK-47 Information and Specifications

Kalashnikov AK-47 Assault Rifle
Kalashnikov AK-47 Assault Rifle.

Manufacturer Avtomat Kalashnikov, USSR
Years Produced 1947 - present
Ammunition 7.62 x 39mm Soviet
Magazine Capacity 20, 30 or 100 rounds
Cyclic Rate of Fire 700 rpm
Gun Length 34.2"
Barrel Length 16.34"
Gun Weight 9.5 pounds
Rifling 6 groove, right hand

An Iraqi Army recruit fires an AK-47 rifle at the Iraqi Army Basic Training Academy, November 2005
An Iraqi Army recruit fires an AK-47 rifle at the Iraqi Army Basic Training Academy, November 2005.

NATO team inspects AK-47 Assault Rifle
NATO team inspects AK-47 Assault Rifle.

Recommended Books about the AK-47 Assault Rifle

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