5 Rifles Inspired AK47

Introduction to the AK47 and Its Inspirations

The AK47, designed by Mikhail Kalashnikov, is one of the most recognizable and widely used rifles in the world. Its durability, reliability, and ease of use have made it a favorite among military forces and civilians alike. The AK47’s design has inspired numerous other firearms, incorporating its principles into new and innovative rifle designs. This article will explore five rifles that were inspired by the AK47, highlighting their unique features and how they compare to the original.

The AK47: A Brief Overview

Before diving into the rifles inspired by the AK47, it’s essential to understand what makes the AK47 so popular. The AK47 is a selective-fire rifle, meaning it can switch between semi-automatic and fully automatic fire modes. It uses a gas-operated piston system, which provides reliable cycling of the action, even in harsh environments. The rifle’s simplicity, combined with its ruggedness and relatively low production costs, has contributed to its widespread adoption.

Rifles Inspired by the AK47

Several rifles have been designed with the AK47’s principles in mind, offering improvements or unique twists on the original design. Here are five examples:

• Type 56 (China): The Type 56 is a Chinese-made variant of the AK47, produced under license from the Soviet Union. It features a similar design to the AK47 but with some minor modifications, including a different pistol grip and a folding bayonet.
• Zastava M70 (Yugoslavia/Serbia): The Zastava M70 is a Yugoslavian/Serbian rifle that draws heavily from the AK47’s design. It offers several improvements, including a more ergonomic grip and a muzzle brake to reduce recoil.
• IMI Galil (Israel): The IMI Galil is an Israeli rifle that combines elements of the AK47 with other design influences. It features a folding stock, a bipod for stability, and a gas regulator to improve reliability in adverse conditions.
• SAIGA-12 (Russia): The SAIGA-12 is a Russian shotgun that, while not a direct copy of the AK47, incorporates many of its design elements. It is a semi-automatic shotgun designed for hunting and sporting purposes, showcasing the versatility of the AK47’s action in a different caliber.
• MPi-KM (East Germany): The MPi-KM is an East German variant of the AK47, produced during the Cold War era. It features several unique modifications, including a different stock design and a rail for mounting optics.

Comparison of Features

Each of these rifles offers something unique, whether it’s an improvement over the original AK47 design or an adaptation for specific needs. Here’s a brief comparison of their key features:

Rifle	Country of Origin	Fire Mode	Caliber	Notable Features
Type 56	China	Selective-fire	7.62x39mm	Folding bayonet, underfolding stock
Zastava M70	Yugoslavia/Serbia	Selective-fire	7.62x39mm	Ergonomic grip, muzzle brake
IMI Galil	Israel	Selective-fire	5.56x45mm, 7.62x51mm	Folding stock, bipod, gas regulator
SAIGA-12	Russia	Semi-automatic	12 gauge	Gas-operated, folding stock
MPi-KM	East Germany	Selective-fire	7.62x39mm	Unique stock design, optics rail

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

The AK47’s influence on firearms design is undeniable, with its principles being applied in various contexts around the world. From the Chinese Type 56 to the Israeli IMI Galil, each of these rifles showcases how the core design of the AK47 can be adapted, improved, and innovated upon. Whether for military use, hunting, or sporting purposes, the legacy of the AK47 continues to shape the development of new firearms, ensuring its impact will be felt for generations to come.