Does Russia’s Newest Combat Rifle Kinda Suck?

Published on April 5, 2022
Duration: 18:02

Brandon Herrera, a recognized expert on the AK platform, provides a critical review of Russia's AK-12 (2018 Model). He details its features, including the folding stock and railed handguard, while highlighting significant design concerns such as selector lever override and a flexible handguard that compromises accessory zero. The review suggests the AK-12, while an evolution, falls short of being a world-class modern combat rifle.

Quick Summary

Brandon Herrera, an expert on the AK platform, critically reviews Russia's AK-12 (2018 Model). He highlights significant design flaws, including a selector lever that can override its stop and a flexible polymer handguard unsuitable for accessories requiring a consistent zero, concluding it's a missed opportunity for a world-class rifle.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to the AK-12
  2. 00:26History of the AK Platform
  3. 02:07The AK-12 Development Program
  4. 03:10Features of the 2018 AK-12
  5. 04:15AK-12 Magazine Innovations
  6. 05:49Design Flaws: Stock and Trigger
  7. 07:17The Selector Override Issue
  8. 08:39Handguard and Zeroing Problems
  9. 10:46Aftermarket Comparisons (Zenitco & SAG)
  10. 12:50Final Verdict

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main criticisms of Russia's AK-12 (2018 Model)?

The primary criticisms of the AK-12 (2018 Model) include a selector lever that can override its stop, potentially disabling the trigger, and a flexible polymer handguard that compromises the zero of mounted accessories like lasers or optics.

How does the AK-12's handguard perform?

The AK-12's polymer handguard is noted for significant flex under minimal pressure. This flexibility makes it unsuitable for mounting accessories that require a consistent zero, such as aiming lasers or infrared devices.

What are the advantages of the AK-12 magazine?

The AK-12 magazine features steel reinforcement for durability, a window for round count visibility, and a 'full' indicator peg. Its flat bottom is designed for improved stability when shooting prone.

Is the AK-12 considered a world-class modern combat rifle?

According to reviewer Brandon Herrera, an expert on the AK platform, the AK-12 represents a missed opportunity. While an improvement over the AK-74M, it falls short of being a truly world-class modern combat rifle due to its design flaws.

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