Modifications to the AK-12
BY Herschel Smith
Firearms manufacturer Kalashnikov has unveiled an upgraded AK-12 assault rifle, with modifications based on the weapon’s use in the war on Ukraine.
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As part of the upgrade, the rifle’s two-round burst mode was excluded from the latest design, because it didn’t increase the weapon’s efficiency significantly and complicated its layout, according to TASS.
The other changes were aimed at making the rifle easier to operate.
The AK-12 has several mounting platforms that allow the installation of additional gear, such as sights, a front handle, a flashlight, a laser designator, as well as devices for noiseless and flameless fire, according to TASS.
Interesting. They’ve added (I assume) a better flash hider, and made the rifles suppressor-capable. They appear to have added capability for modularization with points of connection for illumination, lasers, etc., perhaps also better capability for optics mounting (although no picture is provided so I can’t be sure).
They’ve also removed the capability for two-round burst. This isn’t surprising. My son never used the 3-round burst capability of the M4 in Iraq. The only time he used full auto capability was with the SAW. Lightweight rifles with full auto capability interfere with the main function of the semi-automatic rifle, i.e., being a battle rifle.
Full auto guns are area suppression weapon systems, and need the heavier barrel to keep from melting, the open-bolt system for cooling, etc. That runs contrary to the concept of the battle rifle and the appurtenant doctrine.