Izhmash Kalashnikov modernized assault rifle AKM (AK-47)

Designed by Mikhail Kalashnikov, AKM Kalashnikov modernized assault rifle, cal. 7.62mm is an individual weapon intended to neutralize the enemy manpower. The assault rifle is equipped with the knife-bayonet to engage the enemy manpower in hand-to-hand fighting. The assault rifle is capable of delivering both automatic and single-shot fire. Automatic fire is the main method of firing: fire may be delivered in short bursts (up to 5 shots), in long bursts (up to 10 shots), and continuously. Cartridge to be used: with steel-core bullet, with tracer bullet, with increased penetration bullet. The assault rifle features a stamped and riveted receiver, a cycle retarder increasing the fire accuracy. Use of U-shaped steel stamped and riveted receiver instead of the AK-47's milled steel receiver resulted in weight reduction of 2.2 lb. Additional weight reduction is made by use of hollowed wooden stock. Soviet Army started to use AKM in 1959 and it was officially replaced in Soviet service by the AK-74 in the late 1970s.