The AK-47 & Soviet Weapons

132 Pages·2015·46.34 MB·English

AK-47
LAST OF THE ORIGINALS
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SOVIET WEAPONS
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KALASHNIKOV 7.62 SVT
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RUSSIA’S FIRST
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•
Arsenal SLR-104FR 5.45 SPETSNAZ
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The Life Of
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FROM THE EDITOR
PUBLISHER
Stanley R. Harris
EXECUTIVE PUBLISHER
Virginia Commander
GROUP PUBLISHER
Shirley Steffen
ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER
+ Karin Levine
EDITOR AT LARGE
2015 Michael O. Humphries
Image courtesy Maxim Popenker
MANAGING EDITOR
Linas Cernauskas
o here we find ourselves, at the third annual edition of AK-47 & Soviet Weapons
CREATIVE DIRECTOR
magazine. There have been two very significant losses to the AK community James Allocca
since our last issue was published. First and foremost, we lost Mikhail Timofeyev-
COVER DESIGN
ich Kalashnikov—the founder and creator of the revered AK family of weapons. Rory Slifkin
Passing away on December 23rd, 2013, at the age of 94, Kalashnikov left behind a ASSISTANT EDITOR
Ryan Pasquale
legacy that will continue well beyond his years here on earth. He will be sorely missed.
The other significant loss to the AK community is politically based—namely our ac- EDITORIAL ASSISTANT
Richard Ortega
cess here in the United States to high-quality, Russian-made firearms. In 2014, Presi-
dent Barack Obama signed Executive Order 13661 “Blocking Property of Additional PRODUCTION DIRECTOR
Spiro Maroulis
Persons Contributing to the Situation in Ukraine.” The purported purpose of this action
was to help discourage Russia from continuing an active role in the current conflict in CIRCULATION DIRECTOR
Tim Hannon
the Ukraine. The result was a direct ban on the importation of these Russian-made
firearms. Despite the wishes of most U.S. shooters and collectors, this order took direct SOCIAL MEDIA DIRECTOR
Claudia Bricu
action against the group known as “Concern Kalashnikov” (formerly Izhmash) and
ADVERTISING PRODUCTION MANAGER
prohibited the further importation of its firearms here in the United States.
Danielle Correa
In discussing this situation with RWC Group, the exclusive importer of Concern
ADVERTISING REPRESENTATIVE
Kalashnikov firearms here in the United States, this magazine received the following Leticia Henry
statement: “As of July 16, 2014, no further imports of the beloved Saiga rifles, shotguns
ADVERTISING COORDINATOR
and other fine sporting firearms from Izhmash were to be allowed into the United Emily Lee
States.” However, a follow-up conversation with a contact at RWC revealed that the
WEB COORDINATOR
company “In early 2015 will begin U.S. production of AK type firearms, staying true Nicole Barron
to their Russian heritage.” I suggest we keep a close eye on this company and what it
DIGITAL DIRECTOR
might have to offer. Kim Shay
While we must face this unfortunate reality, AK enthusiasts can take solace in the
COVER PHOTO
fact that the AK market here in this country is still very strong and vibrant despite this Steve Woods
setback. Through the production of domestically manufactured (and, in some cases,
Send editorial queries to
sourced) firearms, the U.S. consumer still has many options from which to choose.
[email protected]
And it is important to remember that while AK-47 & Soviet Weapons magazine is
HARRIS TACTICAL GROUP
based on Russia’s revered creations that were developed and nurtured during the can be reached at:
tenure of the USSR and beyond, it also happily considers the many siblings and Phone: [phone]; Fax: [phone]
distant cousins of the AK family from around the world. From Soviet-directed designs www.tactical-life.com
[email protected]
born in Eastern Europe to those inspired and influenced by Kalashnikov’s crowning
achievement, this magazine considers them all. It is also not limited to only rifles, For subscriptions, single copies, back issues,
or gift orders, please call us at 800-866-2886.
but also covers handguns, shotguns and the other more idiosyncratic creations that
exist in the same spheres as Kalashnikov’s classic creation.
TO THE READERS: Be advised that there may be
Bear in mind this fact as well: This magazine is not simply some dusty, old history products represented in this magazine as to which the
sale, possession or interstate transportation thereof may
book dedicated to the nuances of each and every step of the AK’s life (although that
be restricted, prohibited or subject to special licensing
fascinating topic is thoroughly considered within its pages), but is also intended as a requirements. Prospective purchasers should consult the
local law enforcement authorities in their area. All of the
guide for today’s AK enthusiast. From reviews of tactical training classes that help information in this magazine is based upon the personal
experience of individuals who may be using specific tools,
you wring out the most performance from your AK to round-ups of the newest and
products, equipment and components under particular
greatest accessories to top custom builders and manufacturers churning out conditions and circumstances, some or all of which may
not be reported in the particular article and which this mag-
amazing products, this magazine is just as much for shooters as it is collectors. azine has not otherwise verified. Nothing herein is intended
to constitute a manual for the use of any product or the
If you take a look at the cover of this issue, you will see two incredible examples of
carrying out of any procedure or process. This magazine
what is available on the market today. On the left you have the Arsenal SLR-104FR, and its officers and employees accept no responsibility for
any liability, injuries or damages arising out of any person’s
a 5.45x39mm side-folding-stocked rifle that is inspired by the cutting-edge Russian attempt to rely upon any information contained herein.
AK-74M. To its right is a classic-style Romanian md. 65 underfolder that is the result THE AK-47 & SOVIET WEAPONS is published
annually by Harris Publications, Inc., 1115 Broadway, New
of a custom parts kit build with In Range, Inc. and Apex Gun Parts. These are just two
York, NY 10010. Single copy price: $9.95 in USA, $10.95
examples of what you will find within the pages of this issue. But don’t take my word in Canada. Submissions of manuscripts, illustrations and/
or photographs must be accompanied by a stamped, self-
for it. Take a look for yourself and see what you find in this, our newest issue of AK-47 addressed envelope. The publisher assumes no responsi-
& Soviet Weapons magazine. We truly enjoyed compiling all this information and hope bility for unsolicited material. Copyright © 2014 by Harris
Publications, Inc. All rights reserved under International
that you enjoy reading it as much as we did putting it together. Thank you again. and Pan American Copyright Conventions. Reproduction
in whole or in part without written permission of the
—Michael O. Humphries
publisher is strictly prohibited. Printed in the USA.
4 THE AK-47 & SOVIET WEAPONS
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1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1
+
2015
8
4
FROM THE EDITOR
The AK-47 & Soviet Weapons 2015.
8 ON THE COVER
ARSENAL SLR-104FR by Michael O. Humphries
Compact 5.45x39mm sidefolder inspired by the classic AK-74M!
14 ON THE COVER
ROMANIAN MD. 65 7.62MM by Michael O. Humphries
Custom build of a classic underfolder with Apex Gun Parts and In Range!
24
COVERT FIREPOWER by Maxim Popenker
28
Suppressed 9x39mm tactical rifles of Russia’s elite Spetsnaz forces.
28
AMERICAN TACTICAL GSG AK-47 by Todd Burgreen
Worthy rendition of its infamous big brother in a cost-effective .22 rimfire package!
32
CZECHPOINT VZ. 58 TACTICAL 556 by Paul Scarlata
Czech-born 5.56mm warrior blends classic lines with modern upgrades!
38
CUSTOM YUGO M92 by David Bahde
Short-barreled 7.62x39mm build delivers classic AK lines and outstanding reliability.
32 46
BIRTH OF THE AK by Maxim Popenker
The Kalashnikov rifle’s path from concept to worldwide military icon.
50
POLISH AKM 7.62x39MM by Michael O. Humphries
Atlantic Firearms’ classically styled Kalashnikov!
56
ARAK AK-74 5.45MM by David Bahde
This Bulgarian-sourced rifle offers time-tested design and amazing performance!
AK BUYER’S GUIDE ★★★★★
50
20
Stocks, Grips & Foregrips
42
Optics, Sights & Lasers
68
Rails, Mounts & Handguards
90
Magazines & Drums
112
Miscellaneous Accessories
130
Reference Books
1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1
46
1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1
62
M+M INDUSTRIES M10-762 by Jorge Amselle
A rugged, Romanian-based AK that delivers 7.62x39mm performance!
72
SECOND-GENERATION AK by Frank Iannamico
The evolution and history of the Kalashnikov milled receiver.
76 56
MASTER YOUR AK by David Bahde
SureFire Institute brings modern-day training to the timeless Kalashnikov design.
80
INTERARMS HUNGARIAN AKM by Denis Prisbrey
Cold War-era 7.62x39mm brings the classic AK-63 design to our shores!
86
THE CHINESE TYPE 81 by Maxim Popenker
China’s 7.62x39mm answer to the Soviet AKM series of weapon systems!
94
SOVIET SPEC-OPS PISTOLS by Maxim Popenker
Suppressed covert pistols built to give the Red Army the edge in the Cold War! 62
98
10 HYBRID WARRIORS by Robert A. Sadowski
Weapon systems that combine the best of the East and West into one package!
102
KREBS 7.62 SPEEDLOAD 2 by Dr. Martin D. Topper
Revolutionary Russian-based AK optimized for lightning-fast reloads!
108
HELMETS OF THE DDR by Peter Suciu
Warsaw Pact relics designed for the evolving East German military after WWII.
116
TOKAREV SVT-40 by W. Darrin Weaver 80
Soviet 7.62x54R built to bring heavy-duty firepower to the battlefields of World War II!
120
CATAMOUNT FURY II by David Bahde
AK-pattern shotgun from Century Arms delivers potent 12-gauge firepower on target!
124
RK-59 PISTOL by Leroy Thompson
The Hungarian secret police’s pocket-sized 9x18mm!
128
THE AK ARCHITECT by Maxim Popenker
Considering the life and works of Mikhail Kalashnikov.
124
1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1
128
ARSENAL
SLR-104FR

BY MICHAEL O. HUMPHRIES
w
hile the 7.62x39mm AK manufacturing techniques (namely plastics
may be the most rec- and aluminum), and would also fire cartridges
that approached downrange lethality from a
ognizable of the Kalash-
totally different perspective. The low-impulse
nikov series of rifles, its
5.56mm cartridge offered a light-recoiling round
often-overlooked younger
propelled at an extremely high velocity, offering
brother—the 5.45x39mm
greater ammunition load capacity due to its
AK-74—is an outstanding
lighter weight as well as enhanced control dur-
warrior in its own right.
ing fully automatic fire.
And thanks to the efforts of Arsenal, Inc. At the same time the as M16 made its de-
here in the United States, we now have but on the battlefields of Vietnam, the Soviets
a Bulgarian-American variant in its SLR- were already in the midst of their own efforts
104FR that gives U.S. shooters a chance to modernize the AK-pattern rifle. The AK
to own their own version of the venerable had been enhanced and updated in the late
Russian AK-74M version of the design. 1950s in the Avtomat Kalashnikova Modern-
For those unfamiliar with the history of izirovanniy (AKM), which perfected a stamped
the AK-74 series of rifles, its birth coin- steel receiver for the design and introduced a
cides with that of another modern military laminated stock set. The result was a lighter,
warrior—the U.S. M16. When the M16 stronger and lower-cost version of the AK.
appeared in the 1960s, it sent shockwaves
The 5.45x39mm Arsenal SLR-104FR
through the world’s military small arms
provides U.S. consumers with
community. Preceding the birth a civilian-legal rifle that
of this design, most small closely approximates a
Russian AK-74M.
arms were made of
wood and
steel,
and were Despite the
designed to lob a rea- advantages provided by
sonably heavy projectile at a the AKM, the Soviet defense in-
reasonably fast speed. dustry still saw a need for a next
However, with the appearance generation of weapon—and the
of the M16 designed to fire the appearance of the M16 acceler-
5.56x45mm cartridge, a new ated its efforts. After examining
era of firearms design was born. captured examples of the M16
Now firearms could employ and its new cartridge, the
ultra-modern Soviets de-
materials and termined that
8 THE AK-47 & SOVIET WEAPONS
Images courtesy Arsenal, Inc.
ARSENAL
SLR-104FR

Compact 5.45x39mm sidefolder inspired by the classic AK-74M!
developing a new, equally revolutionary small arm to
directly compete with the M16 was unfeasible. How-
ever, they did decide that updating the proven AKM
was a viable alternative. So, a program to develop
the next generation of the AK was set into motion.
It’s All Relative
A close examination of the AKM in this new light
determined that a modernized chambering would
be the most logical next step. While the 7.62x39mm
M43 cartridge had been an undeniable success,
it was showing its age since its
birth in the 1940s. However, the
Soviets needed to develop a
new cartridge that would easily
work in an AKM-style design
without requiring too much
redesigning.
The result was the
5.45x39mm cartridge, which
shared a similar overall length
to that of the 7.62x39mm and
followed the same “intermediate” car-
tridge design concept of its older sibling.
As a result, it would be much easier to
adapt the 5.45mm to the AKM platform.
The new cartridge propelled a 50- to
60-grain projectile at around 3,100
feet per second, placing it in the same
neighborhood of performance as the Unidentified
West’s 5.56x45mm. soldier armed
with what
This left Soviet engineers facing the
appears to be
development of a new rifle for the new car- an AK-74M,
guarding a
tridge. Not looking to unnecessarily redesign
Ukrainian
the wheel (and frankly incapable at that time naval base
in Crimea.
of matching the West’s mastery of modern
materials and manufacturing), the new AK-
74 was a logical and relatively conservative
adaptation of the AKM. The earliest models
from the mid-1970s retained the laminated
Big Stock photo
★ ★ ★ ARSENAL SLR-104FR
The receiver features a hook at its forward
left portion designed to engage the stock
assembly when folded. Note the optic rail.
“ The new
AK-74M …
The rear sight is a standard AK-style sliding The post front sight, elevation and windage
tangent assembly that is ranged out to 1,000 adjustable, is protected by dual steel wings that
took everything the
meters for the 5.45mm cartridge. are designed to protect it from impact.
Soviet’s had learned
wood stock system and similar overall di- The new AK-74M (with the “M” standing
about producing the mensions and weight of the AKM. What for “modernized”) took everything the Sovi-
was changed externally was the addition et’s had learned about producing the AK-74
AK-74 and combined of a new large, cylindrical muzzle brake, and combined it into a single new platform.
a horizontal groove along the buttstock Externally, it would appear to many to be
it into a single
and composite-bodied magazines. Also, simply an AK-74 with a synthetic stock set
the gas block of the AKM was eventually (with the recognizable horizontal groove in
new platform. ”
modified from its original 45-degree angle the buttstock), but closer examination would
to that of a sharper 90-degree angle to re- reveal much more.
duce bullet shearing. With the AK-74M, a full-profile synthetic
The AK-74 proved to be a solid update buttstock was designed that would fold
of the proven AKM, with it delivering exactly along the left side of the receiver. When ex-
what the Soviet engineers intended—a tended, the stock looked like any standard
small-caliber weapon that did not alter the full-profile buttstock. The result was a rifle
SPECIFICATIONS positive characteristics of the parent de- that featured the good ergonomics of a full-
sign. Basically, it built on the strengths of profile buttstock, but with the compactness
ARSENAL, INC.
the AKM while adding the new capabilities of a folding-stock gun when needed.
SLR-104FR the Soviet military desired. The AK-74 went While the right side of the buttstock
on to serve in Afghanistan, and siblings of featured the familiar 74-style horizontal
the design began to pop up in the satellite groove, the left side of stock had a large
CALIBER: 5.45x39mm
states of Eastern Europe. rectangular recess to allow room for the
BARREL: 16.25 inches side-mounted optic rail. A release button for
The Next, Next Generation
the stock was located at the rear left corner
OA LENGTH: 27.5-37 inches
A notable next step in the evolution of the receiver. One simply pressed in the
WEIGHT: 6.4 pounds came during the tumultuous year of 1991, button and the stock would fold along the
when the Soviet empire finally collapsed. left side of the receiver and be captured by
STOCK: Synthetic, side-folding
From its introduction in the mid-1970s an exposed hook at the forward left end of
SIGHTS: Sliding tangent notch rear,
through to this era, the AK-74 had been the receiver. To release the stock, there was
winged post front
developed into numerous variants and a push button in the ribbed buttplate (below
ACTION: Semi-auto upgrades. AKS-74 rifles with skeletonized the cleaning kit storage door) that would re-
steel stocks were developed for more com- lease the stock for opening.
FINISH: Moly resin coating
pact dimensions. Also, as the Soviet’s mas- Other changes established with the new
CAPACITY: 30+1
tery of modern materials improved, the AK- AK-74M was a return to a non-ribbed top
MSRP: $1,099 74 was updated with enhancements such cover, which set it apart from the AKM-style
as synthetic stock sets that offered lighter top cover of earlier guns, and a redesigned,
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
weights than earlier laminated stock sets. two-piece muzzle brake. The AK-74M was
10 THE AK-47 & SOVIET WEAPONS
Images courtesy Arsenal, Inc.