What Rifle Does the Russian Army Use?
The Russian military has a long history of using various rifles, from the iconic AK-47 to the more modern AK-12. In this article, we’ll delve into the current standard-issue rifle used by the Russian army and explore some of the most popular options.
The AK-12: The Current Standard-Issue Rifle
The AK-12 is the standard-issue assault rifle used by the Russian military. It’s a gas-operated, magazine-fed rifle that fires 5.45x39mm rounds. The AK-12 is an upgraded version of the AK-74M, which was used by the Russian military for many years. The AK-12 has several improvements over its predecessor, including a new gas system, a improved trigger mechanism, and a more ergonomic design.
Key Features of the AK-12
- Caliber: 5.45x39mm
- Action: Gas-operated, magazine-fed
- Muzzle velocity: 850 m/s (2,800 ft/s)
- Effective range: 500 meters (1,640 ft)
- Weight: 3.3 kg (7.3 lbs)
- Length: 930 mm (36.6 in)
Other Rifles Used by the Russian Army
While the AK-12 is the standard-issue rifle, the Russian military also uses other rifles for specific purposes. Here are a few examples:
- AK-74M: The AK-74M is an upgraded version of the AK-47 and was used by the Russian military for many years. It’s still used by some units today.
- AKS-74U: The AKS-74U is a compact version of the AK-74M and is used by special forces and other units that require a more portable rifle.
- Saiga-12: The Saiga-12 is a 12-gauge shotgun that’s used by the Russian military for close-quarters combat and other specialized roles.
Comparison to Other Rifles
The AK-12 is often compared to other rifles used by other military forces around the world. Here are a few examples:
| Rifle | Caliber | Action | Muzzle velocity | Effective range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AK-12 | 5.45x39mm | Gas-operated, magazine-fed | 850 m/s (2,800 ft/s) | 500 meters (1,640 ft) |
| M16 | 5.56x45mm | Gas-operated, magazine-fed | 950 m/s (3,100 ft/s) | 600 meters (1,970 ft) |
| AK-47 | 7.62x39mm | Gas-operated, magazine-fed | 735 m/s (2,410 ft/s) | 400 meters (1,310 ft) |
Conclusion
The AK-12 is the standard-issue rifle used by the Russian military, and it’s a reliable and effective weapon for a variety of tasks. While it may not be as well-known as some other rifles, it’s an important part of the Russian military’s arsenal and is used by troops around the world. Whether you’re a military enthusiast or just interested in firearms, the AK-12 is definitely worth learning more about.