AK-47 - Variants

Variants

Kalashnikov variants include:

• AK-47 1948–51, 7.62×39mm – The very earliest models, with the Type 1 stamped sheet metal receiver, are now very rare.
• AK-47 1952, 7.62×39mm – Has a milled receiver and wooden buttstock and handguard. Barrel and chamber are chrome plated to resist corrosion. Rifle weight is 4.2 kg (9.3 lb).
• AKS—Featured a downward-folding metal stock similar to that of the German MP40, for use in the restricted space in the BMP infantry combat vehicle, as well as by paratroops.
• RPK, 7.62×39mm – Hand-held machine gun version with longer barrel and bipod.
• AKM, 7.62×39mm – A simplified, lighter version of the AK-47; Type 4 receiver is made from stamped and riveted sheet metal (see schematic above). A slanted muzzle device was added to counter climb in automatic fire. Rifle weight is 3.1 kg (6.8 lb) due to the lighter receiver. This is the most ubiquitous variant of the AK-47.
• AKMS, 7.62×39mm – Folding-stock version of the AKM intended for airborne troops. Stock may be either side- or under-folding
• AK-74 series, 5.45×39mm
• AK-101/AK-102 series
• AK-103/AK-104 series
• AK-107/AK-108 series
• AK-12
• Saiga semi-automatic rifle – AK variant for hunting and civilian use. Built on AK receiver with hunting style stock and hand guard in .223/5.56×45, 7.62×39, 5.45×39, .308 Winchester
• Saiga semi-automatic shotgun – AK variant for hunting and civilian use. Built on AK receiver with hunting style stock and hand guard in 12-Gauge, 20-Gauge, and .410-Bore.
• KSK shotgun – A new version of AK variant military using shotgun

Usually the AKn was introduced in year 1900+n.