The Kalashnikov is one of the most well-known and widely-used weapons in history. More than 75 million of the Russian assault rifles have been produced since it entered service in 1949. And while AK’s are renowned for their simplicity and durability, the 64 year old line is long overdue for a design update. But can modern materials and production techniques really build a better AK?
The new AK-12 will feature nearly two dozen design improvements over its predecessor while retaining the rifle’s versatility and reliability. It will be available to military forces in both light and heavy versions. The Light variant will be able to fire 5.45×39, 5.56×45, 6.5 Grendel and 7.62×39 rounds while the Heavy version will shoot 7.62×51 NATO rounds. Both variants will feature three select-firing modes similar to the American M-16—single shot, three round burst, full auto—rather than the AK’s binary semi- or full-auto options. What’s more, the old right-handed fire-select switch has been replaced with an ambidextrous selector lever. The magazine release, ejector port, and cocking handle can all be adapted for righties or lefties alike.
This will be interesting.
An updated AK variant in 6.5 Grendel. Now THERE is an appealing new purchase.
I already want one, just because Senator Feinstein doesn’t want me to have it.
Yeah, but half of the gunnies will hate it because it’s a bullpup(o’course the other half will love it for the same reason)…