AKS 74

Published on September 3, 2018
Duration: 15:44

This video provides a detailed overview of the AK-74 rifle, its development as a replacement for the AK-47, and its technical specifications. The presenter, with apparent expertise, discusses the 5.45x39mm cartridge's effectiveness, the rifle's design changes from the AK-47 including the muzzle brake and gas port, and variations like the AKS-74 with its side-folding stock. The video also touches on the historical adoption and current use of the AK-74 and its ammunition.

Quick Summary

The AK-74, developed in 1974, replaced the AK-47 by adopting the 5.45x39mm cartridge. This smaller, high-velocity round features a unique projectile design with an air space in the tip, causing it to yaw and tumble upon impact for enhanced effectiveness against human targets. The rifle also incorporates a muzzle brake for recoil reduction and a straight vertical gas port.

Chapters

  1. 00:04Introduction to the AK-74
  2. 00:16Development Context: Vietnam War & 5.56mm
  3. 00:37Soviet Claims & AK-74 Introduction
  4. 00:585.45x39mm Cartridge Details
  5. 01:34Projectile Construction & Terminal Ballistics
  6. 02:10Afghanistan & Mujahideen Use
  7. 02:24Examining the AKS-74 (Afghan War Era)
  8. 02:38Rifle Build Details (Mesa Kinetic Research)
  9. 02:56AKS-74 Side Folding Stock
  10. 03:10AK-74 vs. AK-47 Design Differences
  11. 03:17Standard AK-74 Fixed Stock & Weight Reduction
  12. 03:42Receiver Differences
  13. 03:48Bakelite Grip & Magazines
  14. 04:12Modern AK-74M Polymer Magazines
  15. 04:26Romanian Steel Magazines
  16. 04:40Barrel & Gas Block Modifications
  17. 05:15The AK-74 Muzzle Brake
  18. 05:31Recoil Characteristics
  19. 05:47Cleaning Rod & Stock Options
  20. 05:54Sight Modifications for Flat Trajectory
  21. 06:30Cartridge Effectiveness: Penetration vs. Human Target
  22. 07:08Barrier Penetration Considerations
  23. 07:17Side Folding Stock Functionality
  24. 07:35Compactness for Vehicle Use
  25. 07:39AK-74M Modern Stock Design
  26. 08:02US Intelligence & AK-74 Discovery
  27. 08:19Global Adoption & Popularity
  28. 08:34Limited Popularity in Asia/Middle East
  29. 08:51Absence in Gulf Wars
  30. 09:03China's Cartridge Choices
  31. 09:16Geographic Confinement of 5.45x39mm
  32. 09:22Current Use & NATO Conversions
  33. 09:32Stock Material Trends
  34. 09:40AK-74 Introduction to the US Market
  35. 09:47Romak Imports & Thumbhole Stocks
  36. 09:56Ammunition Availability
  37. 10:18Ammunition Brands (Wolf, Silver Bear)
  38. 10:27Surplus Ammunition & ATF Reclassification
  39. 10:50Armor-Piercing Ban Impact
  40. 11:10Shift to Full Metal Jacket Rounds
  41. 11:21Polyformants Coating
  42. 11:29Original vs. Current Ammunition Value
  43. 11:40Steel Casing Dominance
  44. 11:48Reason for Steel Cases (Extraction Dynamics)
  45. 12:13Personal Acquisition Story (New York to Texas)
  46. 12:29Vince Buckles' Reputation
  47. 12:41Range Test Preview
  48. 12:47Test Firing the AKS-74
  49. 14:30Video Conclusion & Call to Action

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary difference between the AK-74 and the AK-47?

The primary difference is the caliber. The AK-74 replaced the AK-47 by adopting the smaller, high-velocity 5.45x39mm cartridge, scaled down from the 7.62x39mm, offering a flatter trajectory and different terminal ballistics.

What is the purpose of the muzzle brake on the AK-74?

The muzzle brake on the AK-74 is specifically designed to counter recoil, contributing to a very smooth shooting experience with virtually no felt recoil. It does not reduce flash; in fact, it enhances it.

Why is 5.45x39mm ammunition almost exclusively steel-cased?

5.45x39mm ammunition is predominantly steel-cased due to the high pressures involved. Using brass cases carries a significant risk of rim separation during extraction, a dynamic inherent to the AK-74's operating system.

What makes the 5.45x39mm projectile unique?

The 5.45x39mm projectile features a steel core, a bimetal or steel jacket, and a distinctive air space in the tip. This design causes the bullet to yaw and tumble rapidly upon impact, enhancing its effectiveness against human targets.

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