The Enigmatic Iraqi Tabuk AKs w/ Miles Vining

Published on December 7, 2020
Duration: 26:17

The Iraqi Tabuk rifle is a variant of the Yugoslavian Zastava M70 pattern, manufactured in Iraq starting in 1980. While sharing the M70's distinctive features like unique rear trunnions and a grenade cutoff sight, Iraqi versions often have Arabic markings and distinct grip serrations. The Tabuk was not the universal Iraqi army standard but often a status symbol for elite units. A sniper variant also exists, chambered in 7.62x39mm with an extended barrel and scope mount.

Quick Summary

The Iraqi Tabuk rifle is based on the Yugoslavian Zastava M70 pattern, manufactured in Iraq from 1980. It features distinct Arabic markings on its grenade sight and unique grip serrations, differentiating it from Yugoslavian counterparts. The Tabuk was often a status symbol, not universal army issue.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to the Iraqi Tabuk
  2. 02:20Yugoslavian Design Influence
  3. 03:35Identifying Iraqi vs. Yugoslavian Components
  4. 05:32Production Variations and Myths
  5. 08:30The Tabuk Sniper Rifle
  6. 10:51Serial Numbers and Lot Codes
  7. 13:40Live Fire Demonstration
  8. 17:46Tabuk Sniper Performance

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Iraqi Tabuk rifle based on?

The Iraqi Tabuk rifle is fundamentally based on the Yugoslavian Zastava M70 pattern. While not domestically designed, it was manufactured in Iraq starting in 1980 through a military-industrial relationship with Yugoslavia.

How can I identify an Iraqi Tabuk versus a Yugoslavian M70?

Key identification points include Arabic letters (Dal and Shin) on the grenade launcher sight of Iraqi Tabuks, versus English letters (K and D) on Yugoslavian models. Iraqi pistol grips also have distinct serrations and molding marks.

Was the Tabuk the standard Iraqi army rifle?

No, the Tabuk was not the universal standard arm of the Iraqi army. Iraq imported many AKs from other countries, and the Tabuk was often a status symbol or reserved for elite units like the Republican Guard.

What are the key features of the Tabuk Sniper rifle?

The Tabuk Sniper rifle is chambered in 7.62x39mm and features a long barrel with a flash hider, a skeletonized stock, an RPK-style rear sight, and a scope rail for optics like Zrak or PSO-type scopes.

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