The AK Family

General Overview

In military applications, the AK-47 is a select-fire weapon first introduced in 1947 by Mikhail Kalashnikov. In civilian applications, AK rifles are semi-automatic only, and probably the most frequently targetted in media and political gun-ban campaigns.

Although frequently confused with the AK-47, SKSes are not related.

For a good overview of the history behind this rifle, check the Wikipedia article. GunWiki is primarily concerned with how-to's, not history books.

Notable variants of the AK

• AK-47, chambered in the traditional 7.62x39mm
• AK-74, a 5.45x39mm version
• Saiga rifles and shotguns, civilian 'sporting' versions
• PSL, a Romanian variant chambered in 7.62x54r. Also known as the 'Romak' or 'Romanian Dragunov', although it has no relation to a Dragunov beyond its caliber and overall appearance.
• RPK, the SAW-like variant.
• Century Arms' PAR-1, a pump-action variant. RecModsParOne covers a few suggested mods for it.

On Manufacturers and Importers

• Armory USA's Imported Bulgarian AK's, from ShooterDave
• Information about Common AK-47 Markings

AK-related technical articles

• Saiga vs AK: Design Differences
• Installing a Harris bipod on a Saiga
• Installing a Kushnapup Stock onto a Saiga Shotgun

Building an AK

• Choosing the Receiver and Parts Kit
• Demil'ing a parts kit
• Ensuring your planned build complies with 922(r) Pertains to Americans only
• List of needed tools
• Preparing your parts kit for installation.
• Assembling your parts kit on your receiver.
• Installing the Fire Control Group on your receiver.
• Finishing your completed rifle; verifying fit and function.

-- SeanNewton - 24 Jul 2007