The AK-47 Rifle is a 7.62 mm
assault rifle developed in the Soviet Union by
Mikhail Kalashnikov. The rifle comes in two
versions: the fixed stock AK-47 and the AKS-47
variant.
Design work on the AK began in 1944. In 1946 the
rifle was presented for official military trials, a
year later the fixed stock version was introduced
into service with select units of the Red Army.
The AK-47 Rifle was officially accepted by the
Soviet Armed Forces in 1949. The AK-47 Rifle was
also used as a basis for the development of
countless many other types of individual and
crew-served firearms. It was one of the first true
assault rifles and, due to its durability and ease
of use, remains the most widely used assault rifle
in the world. More AK-type rifles have been produced
than any other assault rifle.
The AK is simple, inexpensive to
manufacture, and easy to clean and maintain. Its
ruggedness and reliability are legendary. The large gas
piston, generous clearances between moving parts, and
tapered cartridge case design allow the gun to endure
large amounts of foreign matter and fouling without
failing to cycle. This reliability comes at the cost of
accuracy, as the looser tolerances do not allow the
precision and consistency that are required of more
accurate firearms. Reflecting Soviet infantry doctrine
of its time, the rifle is meant to be part of massed
infantry fire, not long range engagements. The average
service life of an AK-47 Rifle is 20 to 40 years
depending on the conditions to which it has been
exposed.
For more AK Rifle information, visit
AK Rifle Vault. |
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