AK-74

Description

The Kalashnikov family of weapons was the creation of Russian Mikhail Kalashnikov towards the end of World War Two. Although often disputed by the Soviet Union during the Cold War, the original AK-47 design was heavily influenced by the German Sturmgewehr MP/StG 44.

By the mid 1970’s most NATO countries had reduced the calibre of their assault rifles from 7.62 x 51mm down to 5.56 x 45mm, as it was deemed that modern infantry warfare was predominantly fought at close quarters and the need for such high powered/long range ammunition was only required for snipers and support weapons. As a result the Soviets were soon to follow suit and their infamous AK/AKM assault rifle was again subjected to a design overhaul.

This new model was designated the AK-74, unsurprisingly the most significant change was the reduced calibre, from the once steadfast Soviet 7.62 x 39mm, now down to 5.45 × 39mm. Other modifications were an enlarged extractor claw to aid extraction, a newly designed barrel and gas assembly, an enlarged muzzle break, a new shape of stock and a reinforced/resin coated magazine.

Like all other weapons within the Kalashnikov family, the AK-74 has seen extensive use since its introduction in 1974. Not only by Russia and it’s old Warsaw Pact allies, but also by scores of African/Middle Eastern nations, irregular forces, criminal organizations/cartels and terrorist groups from the IRA to ISIS.