Kalashnikov AK-12. Formerly called AK-200, it is the newest Russian assault rifle derived from the Soviet assault rifle AK-47 and was proposed for a possible general purpose for the Russian army. At the end of September 2013, the AK-12 was approved by the Russian army.
NPO Izmash, the largest manufacturer of Russian infantry light weapons and the father of the Kaláshnikov assault rifle family, launched in series the most modern version of this weapon, the AK-12, at the end of 2013. According to the head of the office of development of the company, Vladímir Zlobin, the tests of the new rifle finished between June and July of that same year.
Izmash was developing the AK-12 since mid-2011. The rifle retains the classic composition of the previous models; however, its designers say that this version is better in ergonomics, it has been reduced by 20% the force of recoil and has increased its accuracy in shot by bursts.
First tests
Preliminary tests of the new Kalashnikov were carried out at the TsNIITochMash (Central Scientific Institute for Precision Machine Construction). The tests will include behavior in very low and very high temperatures, in humidity, as well as dust tests and a drop of 1.5 meters on firm surface.
Shot selector
The new assault rifle, known as AK-12, is designed as a basic platform for the development of almost 20 different weapon modifications. The new AK-12 can be adapted for cartridges ranging from 5.45x39 mm to 7.62x51 NATO. Advanced technology and materials were used for the development of the new weapon, and more than ten new inventions will be used in the manufacture of various models of the Kalashnikov rifle.
Therefore, the AK-12 can become the basic model for future developments. The AK-12 assault rifle first presented to the public in June 2012 at the 2012 Engineer Technologies exhibition in Moscow. Like its predecessor, AK-12 is resistant to high and cold temperatures, as well as to sand and mud. One of the advantages of this model is that it is comfortable for lefties, since all the elements are accessible on both sides. Now you can adjust the length of the stock, which has been reflected positively in the speed of the aim and the accuracy of the fire.
Variants
The basic characteristic of the new rifle is its modularity. It will serve as a basic platform for the design of more than 20 modifications of weapons of short weapons of different use and caliber.
Kalashnikov AK-12 assault rifle is the gas operated weapon, selective fire by action of traditional type with long stroke gas piston and lock of falleba as Kalashnikov standard assault rifle. It has selector levers that are located above the pistol grip, on both sides of the rifle.
The AK-12 has three shooting modes: single shot, three and automatic fire. The mouth of the AK-12 has been designed to fire cannon grenades. The AK-12 is equipped with a new top cover with hinges. The cover is much stiffer than that of previous AK rifles. The weapon can be used by both left-handed and right-handed people, and can be easily operated with one hand. The weight of the new AK-12 assault rifle is around 3.3 kg.
Ammunition
The AK-12 will be housed in the traditional calibers 7.62x39mm and 5.45x39mm and available in 5.56x45mm from NATO. It is reported that all AK-47 / AKM journals will work with the AK-12.
accessories
The AK-12 assault rifle is also equipped with Picatinny rails on the top of the weapon and additional accessory rails on both sides to mount optics, and night views, grenade launchers, target indicators and other special equipment. The AK-12 has a folding stock, and a piece of heel adjustable in height.
Specifications
Ammunition
- 5.45x39mm - 5.56x45mm NATO - 7.62x39 - 7.62x51mm NATO
Technical data
Length: 0.945 mm (0.725 m folded stock) Weight: 3.3 kg Fire rating: 600 - 1000 RDS / min Magazine: 30 rounds
Designer country
Russia
Security
Selector of security to each side of the arms, four positions, S (Security), 1 single shot, 3 three, A (automatic)
Distance
Effective: 625 m Barrel length: 415 mm