The AK-47

The AK-47, officially known as the Avtomat Kalashnikova (Russian: Автомат Калашникова, lit. 'Kalashnikov automatic rifle'; also known as the Kalashnikov or just AK), is an assault rifle chambered for the 7.62×39mm cartridge.

Developed in the Soviet Union by Russian small-arms designer Mikhail Kalashnikov, it is the originating firearm of the Kalashnikov or "AK" family of rifles. After more than seven decades since its creation, the AK-47 model and its variants remain one of the most popular and widely used firearms in the world.

Design work on the AK-47 began in 1945. It was presented for official military trials in 1947, and, in 1948, the fixed-stock version was introduced into active service for selected units of the Soviet Army. In early 1949, the AK was officially accepted by the Soviet Armed Forces and used by the majority of the member states of the Warsaw Pact.

Origin: Soviet Union, 1949

Manufacturer(s): Izhamash- Soviet Union

Caliber: 7.62x39mm

Action: Gas Operated; Rotating Bolt

Rate of Fire: 775rpm

Weight: 9.48lbs

Barrel Length: 16.34 inches