View source for RPK-74

== Design ==
{{Main|AK-74|RPK}}
The RPK-74 was derived from the AK-74 rifle, with modifications that mirror those made to the AKM to create the RPK.

The RPK-74 also uses a longer and heavier chrome-plated barrel, which has a new gas block with a gas channel at a 90° angle to the bore axis, and a ring for the cleaning rod. 

The RPK-74 is also equipped with a folding bipod and a different front sight tower. The muzzle is threaded for a [[flash suppressor]] or blank-firing device.

The rear stock trunnion was strengthened and the magazine well was reinforced with steel inserts.

Additionally, the RPK-74 has a modified return mechanism compared to the AK-74, which uses a new type of metal spring guide rod and recoil spring. The rear sight assembly, forward handguard and receiver dust cover were all retained from the RPK.

=== Feeding ===
The RPK-74 feeds from a 45-round steel or polymer box magazine, interchangeable with magazines from the AK-74,<ref name="TLRPK2">{{Cite web |last=Thompson |first=Leroy |date=19 September 2017 |title=Russia's RPK-74 LMG: A Faithful Servant Since 1974 |url=https://www.tactical-life.com/firearms/rifles/russian-rpk-74-gun/ |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20230201095625/https://www.tactical-life.com/firearms/rifles/russian-rpk-74-gun/ |archive-date=February 1, 2023 |website=Tactical Life}}</ref> and is designed to be charged from [[stripper clips]]. 

Drum magazines similar to those used on the previous RPK models were tested during its development phase, but were discontinued in favor of the 45-round box magazine. However, recently the production of a 97-round drum has started. 

This drum was designed to be used with the [[AK-107]] but can also be used in any 5.45×39mm weapon with compatible magazines, such as the RPK-74 and RPK-74M. They were also testing with experimental conventional drums, a [[prototype]] 100-round belt fed drum magazine was also created. 

The RPK-74 attaches into the regular magazine well, but the cartridges are stored on a 100-round belt inside a box. A feed system removes them from the belt and puts them in a position where they can be loaded through the regular magazine well. This system is actuated by a lever from the magazine that clips around the charging handle. It is unknown if this ever went into service.

=== Accessories ===
Standard equipment includes eight magazines, six stripper clips (15 rounds per clip), a speedloader guide, cleaning rod, cleaning kit, sling, oil bottle and two magazine pouches.<ref name="TLRPK2" /> Some variants do not come with the cleaning kit option.