Swedish Paratrooper Prototype: AK Fm/57

Published on July 30, 2025
Duration: 10:51

This guide details the disassembly of the Swedish AK Fm/57 prototype, focusing on the unique internal bolt carrier mechanism. It highlights the short-stroke gas piston system and the specialized sheet metal spring designed to keep the bolt in battery. The information is presented with the high authority and technical detail expected from Forgotten Weapons' Ian McCollum.

Quick Summary

The AK Fm/57 is a rare Swedish prototype automatic carbine developed by Eric Wallberg, featuring a short-stroke gas piston system and a unique bolt carrier with an internal sheet metal spring. Despite being designed during the 7.62 NATO transition, this prototype is chambered in 6.5x55mm Swedish. It competed in trials but was ultimately unsuccessful, with Sweden adopting the H&K G3 (AK4).

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to the AK Fm/57
  2. 00:53Design and Development
  3. 01:40Swedish Rifle Trials Context
  4. 02:47Stock and Grip Features
  5. 03:21Receiver Markings and Dating
  6. 05:41Gas System and Caliber
  7. 08:03Internal Bolt Carrier Mechanism
  8. 09:26Trial Conclusion and Legacy

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the AK Fm/57?

The AK Fm/57 is a rare Swedish prototype automatic carbine developed by Eric Wallberg at Carl Gustafs. It was an entrant in the late 1950s trials that ultimately led to Sweden adopting the H&K G3 as the AK4.

What caliber is the AK Fm/57 prototype?

Interestingly, this specific AK Fm/57 prototype, despite being developed during Sweden's transition to 7.62 NATO, remains chambered in the traditional 6.5x55mm Swedish caliber. This was a common practice during trial phases to evaluate new designs with existing ammunition.

What is unique about the AK Fm/57's gas system and bolt carrier?

The AK Fm/57 features a short-stroke gas piston system and a unique bolt carrier containing an internal sheet metal spring. This spring applies downward pressure on the bolt, likely to ensure it stays securely in battery during the cycling process, a distinctive feature not found on other Ljungman variants.

What was the outcome of the Swedish rifle trials involving the AK Fm/57?

The AK Fm/57 did not win the trials. While Eric Wallberg refined the design, Sweden ultimately selected the H&K G3 in 1964, which was adopted as the AK4. The AK Fm/57 remains a significant artifact of Swedish firearms development history.

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