The Yugo M72 RPK: The Most Slept On AK Ever...but why?

Published on April 26, 2026
Duration: 22:50

This video provides an in-depth review of the Yugo M72 RPK, highlighting its unique features and historical context. It details the differences between the M72 and the Soviet RPK, focusing on barrel construction, receiver design, furniture, and magazine compatibility. The presenter also discusses the growing popularity of Yugo pattern AKs in the current firearms community, attributing it to factors like kit availability, unique aesthetics, and Zastava USA's product offerings.

Quick Summary

The Yugo M72 RPK is a unique AK variant that shares the 7.62x39mm caliber and bipod with the Soviet RPK but features distinct Yugo design elements. Key differences include a shorter, thicker barrel with cooling fins, an M70B1 stock, and unique handguards. It was not designed for rifle grenades, setting it apart from other Yugo AKs. Its growing popularity is driven by affordable parts kits, distinctive aesthetics, and Zastava USA's product diversity.

Chapters

  1. 00:10Introduction to the Yugo M72 RPK
  2. 01:36Origins of the Yugo M72
  3. 02:29M72 Adoption and Design
  4. 02:54Key Differences from Other M70s
  5. 04:21Barrel and Cooling Fins
  6. 05:14Muzzle Threads and Front Sight
  7. 05:42Stock and Rear Trunnion Differences
  8. 06:11Bipod Design and Implications
  9. 06:28Magazine Situation and Capacity
  10. 08:45Examining the M72 Kit Build
  11. 09:31Receiver Features and Construction
  12. 10:28Unique Safety Lever Notches
  13. 10:37Patina and Honest Presentation
  14. 11:31Unique Yugo AK Features
  15. 11:44M72 Handguard Differences
  16. 12:37Weight Comparison
  17. 12:53Identical to M70B1 from Trunnion Back
  18. 13:30Top Cover Notch for Push Button
  19. 14:31Rear Sight Leaf Features
  20. 15:22Why Yugo AKs Are Becoming Popular
  21. 15:51Availability and Cost of Kits
  22. 17:07The Appeal of Trench Art
  23. 17:46Zastava USA's Impact
  24. 20:28The Aesthetic of Yugo AKs
  25. 21:40M72 vs. Soviet RPK Conclusion

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the Yugo M72 RPK different from the Soviet RPK?

The Yugo M72 RPK, while sharing the 7.62x39mm caliber and bipod, features a shorter but thicker barrel with cooling fins, an M70B1 stock and rear trunnion, and unique two-vent handguards. It was also not designed for rifle grenades, unlike many other Yugo AKs.

Why are Yugo pattern AKs like the M72 becoming more popular?

Yugo pattern AKs are gaining popularity due to the affordability and availability of parts kits compared to other AK variants. Their unique aesthetics, including distinctive furniture and receiver bulges, along with Zastava USA's diverse product offerings, also contribute significantly.

Does the Yugo M72 RPK use standard AK magazines?

Yes, the Yugo M72 RPK uses the same 7.62x39mm magazines as the Soviet RPK and other AKM-pattern rifles. However, Yugoslavia primarily produced 30-round magazines and is not known for manufacturing 40-round extended magazines for this platform.

What is the historical context behind the Yugo M72 RPK?

Developed after WWII, Yugoslavia sought a squad automatic weapon similar to the Soviet RPK. The M72 was adopted in 1972 as a 'homebrewed' version, not a licensed copy, designed to use standard infantry rifle ammunition and magazines while serving as a light machine gun and anti-aircraft weapon.

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