Pump-Action AK: Romanian PAR-3 (How Not to be an "Assault Weapon")

Published on August 10, 2024
Duration: 18:36

This guide details the disassembly of the Romanian PAR-3, a unique pump-action AK variant. The video, presented by Ian McCollum of Forgotten Weapons, highlights how this modification allowed the rifle to bypass US import restrictions. The disassembly process involves removing the dust cover, recoil spring, bolt carrier, gas tube, and the specialized pump linkage. McCollum's expertise in firearms import laws and mechanical modifications is evident throughout the explanation.

Quick Summary

The Romanian PAR-3 is a pump-action AK variant created to bypass the 1994 US Assault Weapons Ban. It features a manually operated pump action instead of semi-automatic fire, allowing import with military-style features. Chambered in 5.56x45mm, it uses standard AK magazines but is criticized for awkward ergonomics.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction and Regulatory Context
  2. 01:48Mechanism and Design
  3. 03:18Markings and Caliber
  4. 05:13Disassembly and Internals
  5. 09:32Import History and Pricing
  6. 12:11Range Testing

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Romanian PAR-3 and why was it created?

The Romanian PAR-3 is a pump-action variant of the AK rifle, specifically designed by Romarm/Cugir and imported by Century Arms International to bypass the 1994 US Assault Weapons Ban. By converting the action to pump-action, it was no longer classified as a semi-automatic firearm, allowing its import with military-style features.

How does the PAR-3's pump-action mechanism work?

The PAR-3's gas system is removed, and a pump-action slide is installed. To fire, the user must manually rack the pump handle. This action ejects the spent casing and chambers a new round, making it a manually operated firearm rather than semi-automatic.

What are the key technical specifications of the Romanian PAR-3?

The PAR-3 is chambered in 5.56x45mm (.223 Remington), features a thin-profile, non-threaded barrel, and accepts standard AK magazines, including 10 or 30-round capacities. It was originally imported around 2002 with an MSRP of $360.

Why was the PAR-3 not very popular despite its unique design?

The PAR-3 suffered from clunky and awkward ergonomics. The pump handle was noted as being small, slippery, and positioned too far forward, making it less practical and comfortable to operate compared to other available firearms at the time.

Related News

All News →

More Gunsmithing & DIY Videos You Might Like

More from Forgotten Weapons

View all →