View source for AK-74

{{Short description|1974 Soviet 5.45×39mm assault rifle}}
{{Distinguish|AK-47}}
{{More footnotes needed|date=April 2016}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=October 2021}}
{{Infobox weapon
| name               = AK-74
| image              = Ak74l.png
| caption            = Early AK-74 with magazine made of AG-4S polymer and laminated wood [[Stock (firearms)|furniture]]
| type               = [[Assault rifle]]
<!-- Type selection -->| service            = {{ubli|1974–present<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.izhmash.ru/eng/arc/021205.shtml |title=Presentation of the unique Kalashnikov small arms collection in the Moscow Kremlin Museum |date=2 December 2005 |website=[[Izhmash]] |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110804035337/http://www.izhmash.ru/eng/arc/021205.shtml |archive-date=2011-08-04}}</ref>| 1991–present (AK-74M)}}
| wars               = {{Tree list}}
*[[Soviet–Afghan War]]
*[[Lebanese Civil War]]
*[[Kurdish-Turkish conflict (1978–present)]]<ref name="PKK" />
*[[Lord's Resistance Army insurgency]]
*[[Sri Lankan civil war|Sri Lankan Civil War]]
*[[Afghan Civil War (1989–1992)]]
*[[Gulf War|Persian Gulf War]]
*[[Yugoslav Wars]]
**[[Croatian War of Independence]]<ref>{{cite news |title=Od nas 10, Arkanovci su 8 odmah poklali, a onda me rafalom iz podruma spasio Mladen Kerovec iz Sivice! |url=https://medjimurski.hr/od-nas-10-arkanovci-su-8-odmah-poklali-a-onda-me-rafalom-iz-podruma-spasio-mladen-kerovec-iz-sivice/#goog_rewarded |access-date=20 December 2025 |work=medjimurski.hr |date=4 August 2025 |language=hr}}</ref>
*[[Georgian civil war of 1991–1993|Georgian Civil War]]<ref>{{cite book |url=http://www.smallarmssurvey.org/publications/by-type/yearbook/small-arms-survey-2003.html |chapter-url= http://www.smallarmssurvey.org/fileadmin/docs/A-Yearbook/2003/en/Small-Arms-Survey-2003-Chapter-06-EN.pdf |chapter= Dangerous Supply: Small Arms and Conflict in the Republic of Georgia |title=Small Arms Survey 2003: Development Denied |publisher=[[Oxford University Press]] |year=2003 |author=[[Small Arms Survey]] |pages=197 |access-date=2018-08-29 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180829175229/http://www.smallarmssurvey.org/publications/by-type/yearbook/small-arms-survey-2003.html |archive-date=2018-08-29 |url-status=dead}}</ref>
*[[Transnistria War]]
*[[Afghan Civil War (1992–1996)]]
*[[Tajikistani Civil War]]
*[[East Prigorodny Conflict]]
*[[The Troubles]]<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.graphicnews.com/en/pages/00899/ak-74-kalakov |title=Arms cache may contain Russian – AKS-74 automatic rifles |first=Julie |last=Mullins |date=September 10, 1992 |website=Graphic News}}</ref>
*[[Burundian Civil War]]
*[[First Chechen War]]
*[[Batken Conflict]]
*[[Second Chechen War]]
*[[War in Afghanistan (2001–2014)|War in Afghanistan]]
*[[Iraq War]]<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.omnia.ie/index.php?navigation_function=2&navigation_item=b0c57d06aebc6ea7ea2a62aa2fbb88dd&repid=2 |title=The Commanding Officer assigned to Kilo/Company, 3rd Battalion, 23rd Marine Regiment (Kilo 3/23), US Marine Corps Reserve (USMCR), examines an 7.62mm AK-47 assault rifle at Blair Field in al Kut, Iraq, during Operation IRAQI FREEDOM |date=2003-08-21 |website=Omnia}}</ref>
*[[Russo-Georgian War]]
*[[Insurgency in the North Caucasus]]
*[[First Libyan Civil War]]
*[[Russo-Ukrainian War]]
**[[War in Donbas (2014–2022)|War in Donbas]]
**[[Russo-Ukrainian war (2022–present)]]
*[[Syrian Civil War]]
*[[War in Iraq (2013–2017)|War in Iraq]]
*[[Yemeni Civil War (2014–present)|Yemeni Civil War]]
**[[Saudi Arabian-led intervention in Yemen]]
**[[Saudi Arabian–Yemeni border conflict (2015–present)|Saudi Arabian–Yemeni border conflict]]
*[[2016 Nagorno-Karabakh conflict]]
*[[Islamic State insurgency in the North Caucasus]]
*[[Second Nagorno-Karabakh War]]
*[[2021 Kyrgyzstan–Tajikistan clashes]]
*[[2022 Kyrgyzstan–Tajikistan clashes]]
*[[2023 Azerbaijani offensive in Nagorno-Karabakh]]
{{Tree list/end}}
| designer           = [[Mikhail Kalashnikov]]
| number             = 5,000,000+<ref name="список">{{cite web |url=http://www.militaryparitet.com/nomen/russia/strel/ogneoru/data/ic_nomenrussiastrelogneoru/65/ |title=Автоматы |trans-title=Automatic Weapons |language=ru |website=Militaryparitet.com |access-date=16 November 2014 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20120301113034/http://www.militaryparitet.com/nomen/russia/strel/ogneoru/data/ic_nomenrussiastrelogneoru/65/ |archive-date=1 March 2012 |url-status=usurped}}</ref>
| spec_label         = 
| length             = {{plainlist|
*AK-74: {{convert|943|mm|in|abbr=on}}
*AKS-74 (stock extended): {{convert|943|mm|abbr=on|1}}
*AKS-74 (stock folded): {{convert|690|mm|abbr=on|1}}
*AK-74M (stock extended): {{convert|943|mm|abbr=on|1}}
*AK-74M (stock folded): {{convert|700|mm|abbr=on|1}}}}
| width              = AK-74M: {{convert|70|mm|in|abbr=on}}
| height             = AK-74M: {{convert|195|mm|in|abbr=on}}
<!-- Ranged weapon specifications -->| action             = [[Gas-operated reloading|Gas-operated]], [[gas-operated reloading#Long-stroke|long-stroke piston]], [[closed bolt|closed]] [[rotating bolt]]
| image_size         = 300
| origin             = [[Soviet Union]]
| is_ranged          = Yes
<!-- Service history -->| used_by            = See ''[[#Users|Users]]''
| design_date        = {{plainlist|
*AK-74: 1974
*AK-74M: 1991}}
| manufacturer       = [[Kalashnikov Concern]]<br />(formerly Izhmash)
| unit_cost          = 
| production_date    = {{plainlist|
*AK-74: 1974–1991
*AK-74M: 1991–present}}
| variants           = See ''[[#Variants|Variants]]''
<!-- General specifications -->| weight             = {{plainlist|
*AK-74: {{convert|3.07|kg|lb|1|abbr=on}}
*AKS-74: {{convert|2.97|kg|abbr=on}}
*AK-74M: {{convert|3.4|kg|abbr=on}}<ref>{{cite web |url=http://world.guns.ru/assault/rus/ak-74-e.html |title=AK74 / AKS74 / AK74M |date=2010-10-27 |website=Modern Firearms |access-date=16 November 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141025151032/http://world.guns.ru/assault/rus/ak-74-e.html |archive-date= 25 October 2014 |url-status=live}}</ref><br />without magazine
*30-round magazine: {{convert|0.23|kg|abbr=on}}
*6H5 bayonet: {{convert|0.32|kg|abbr=on}}}}
| part_length        = {{convert|415|mm|abbr=on|1}}
| cartridge          = [[5.45×39mm]]
| velocity           = {{convert|880|-|900|m/s|0|abbr=on}}<ref name="fas.org">{{cite report |url=https://fas.org/man/dod-101/sys/land/row/weg2001.pdf |title=OPFOR Worldwide Equipment Guide |date=September 2001 |publisher=[[TRADOC]] DCSINT Threat Support Directorate |location=[[Fort Leavenworth]], Kansas |via=fas.org |pages=1–3 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150425060129/http://fas.org/man/dod-101/sys/land/row/weg2001.pdf |archive-date=2015-04-25}}</ref><ref name="izhmash.ru">{{cite web |url=http://www.izhmash.ru/eng/product/ak74m.shtml |title=5.45 mm Kalashnikov assault rifles AK74M, AK105 |website=Izhmash |access-date=16 November 2014 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150221062623/http://www.izhmash.ru/eng/product/ak74m.shtml |archive-date=21 February 2015}}</ref>
| rate               = {{plainlist|
*'''Cyclic''': 650 rounds/min<ref name="izhmash.ru"/>
*'''Practical''': 100 rounds/min<ref name="fas.org"/>}}
| range              = {{plainlist|
*{{convert|500|m|yd|abbr=on}} (AK-74, AKS-74, AK-74M point target)
*{{convert|800|m|yd|abbr=on}} (AK-74, AKS-74, AK-74M area target)<ref name="fas.org"/>
}}
| max_range          = {{convert|3150|m|yd|abbr=on}}
| feed               = 30-round AK-74 and 45-round [[RPK#RPK-74|RPK-74]] detachable [[box magazine]], 60-round [[casket magazine]] and 96-round [[AK-12#RPK-16|RPK-16]] drum magazines
| sights             = Adjustable [[iron sight]]s, front post and rear notch on a scaled tangent
}}

The '''AK-74''' ({{langx|ru|Автомат Калашникова образца 1974 года|Avtomat Kalashnikova obraztsa 1974 goda|Kalashnikov assault rifle model 1974}}) is an [[assault rifle]] designed by small arms designer [[Mikhail Kalashnikov]] in 1974 as a successor to the [[AKM]]. It is chambered for the [[5.45×39mm]] cartridge, which replaced the [[7.62×39mm]] cartridge of [[Kalashnikov rifle|Kalashnikov's]] earlier automatic weapons for the [[Soviet Armed Forces]].

The rifle first saw service with Soviet forces in the [[Soviet–Afghan War]] from 1979.<ref name="Woźniak">{{cite book |last=Woźniak |first=Ryszard |date=2001 |title=Encyklopedia najnowszej broni palnej — tom 1 A-F |trans-title=Encyclopedia of the Latest Firearms — Volume 1 A-F |language=pl |location=Warsaw |publisher=[[Bellona Publishing House|Bellona]] |page=25 |isbn=978-8-31109-149-8}}</ref> The head of the Afghan bureau of the [[Inter-Services Intelligence]] (ISI), the [[intelligence agency]] of [[Pakistan]], claimed that the American [[Central Intelligence Agency]] (CIA) paid $5,000 for the first AK-74 captured by the [[Afghan mujahideen]] during the war.<ref name="Chivers2010">{{cite book |first=C. J. |last=Chivers |title=The Gun |url=https://archive.org/details/gun00chiv |url-access=registration |access-date=5 July 2013 |date=12 October 2010 |publisher=Simon & Schuster |isbn=978-1-4391-9653-3 |pages=[https://archive.org/details/gun00chiv/page/382 382]–383}}</ref>

{{As of|2026}}, most [[Post-Soviet states|countries of the former Soviet Union]] use the rifle. Licensed copies were produced in [[Bulgaria]] (AK-74, AKS-74 and AKS-74U), and in the former [[East Germany]] (MPi-AK-74N, MPi-AKS-74N, MPi-AKS-74NK).<ref name="Woźniak"/><ref name="Cutshaw">{{cite book |last=Cutshaw |first=Charlie |date=1998 |title=The New World of Russian Small Arms & Ammo |location=Boulder, Colorado |publisher=Paladin Press |page=92 |isbn=978-0-87364-993-3}}</ref><ref name="McNab">{{cite book |last=McNab |first=Chris |date=2001 |title=The AK47 |series=Weapons of War |location=[[Staplehurst]], UK |publisher=Spellmount Publishers |page=25 |isbn=978-1-86227-116-6}}</ref>

==Design details==
The AK-74 was designed by А. D. Kryakushin's group under the design supervision of Mikhail Kalashnikov. It is an adaptation of the [[7.62×39mm]] [[AKM]] assault rifle and features several important design improvements.<ref name="Woźniak"/><ref name="ReferenceA">{{cite web |url=http://www.izhmash.ru/eng/arc/021205.shtml |title=Presentation of the unique Kalashnikov small arms collection in the Moscow Kremlin Museum |date=2 December 2005 |website=[[Izhmash]] |access-date=2014-11-16 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140221145947/http://www.izhmash.ru/eng/arc/021205.shtml |archive-date=2014-02-21 |quote=AK-74 – Kalashnikov assault rifle, caliber 5.45 mm. In 1967, pursuant to the [[Resolution of the CPSU Central Committee and the Council of Ministers of the Soviet Union|Resolution of the CPSU Central Committee and the USSR Council of Ministers]], a competition was organized to design an assault rifle fit to use the new 5.45-mm cartridge. The AK-74 was designed by А. D. Kryakushin's group under the designer supervision of M. T. Kalashnikov. Based on the competition results, this assault rifle was included in the inventory in 1974 as part of the 5.45-mm small arms complex. The cartridge used in the AK-74 weighs 1.5 times less as compared with the 7.62-mm cartridge. The soldier can carry 1.5 times more cartridges without increasing the weight of the portable reserve ammunition. In addition, the bullet speed of the 5.45-mm caliber is higher.}}</ref> These improvements were primarily the result of converting the rifle to the intermediate-calibre high velocity [[5.45×39mm]] cartridge. In fact, some early models are reported to have been converted AKMs, re-barreled to 5.45×39mm.<ref name="Kokalis">{{cite book |last=Kokalis |first=Peter G. |date=2001 |title=Weapons Tests and Evaluations: The Best of Soldier of Fortune |location=Boulder, Colorado |publisher=Paladin Press |page=45 |isbn=978-1-58160-122-0}}</ref> Compared with the preceding AKM, the AK-74 has better effective firing range, accuracy (a main development goal), and reliability. About 50% of the parts in the AK-74 and AKM are the same (including pins, springs and screws).<ref name="Woźniak"/><ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.military-today.com/firearms.pdf |title=Firearms E-book |date=2010 |page=25 |url-status=usurped |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150513120336if_/http://www.military-today.com/firearms.pdf |archive-date=2015-05-13 |quote=The AK-74 has improved firing accuracy over the AKM. This weapon retains all advantages and disadvantages of Kalashnikov design, including reliability, ruggedness, simplicity of operation and maintenance. This weapon does not jam or misfire in the worst conditions possible. Also, it has reliable extraction even with dirty chambers and cases. Its drawbacks are poor balance and ergonomics, as well as inferior firing accuracy to most Western weapons.}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.military-today.com/firearms/ak_74.htm |title=AK-74 - Assault rifle |url-status=usurped |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150109211538if_/http://www.military-today.com/firearms/ak_74.htm |archive-date=2015-01-09 |quote=The AK-74 has improved firing accuracy over the AKM. This weapon retains all advantages and disadvantages of Kalashnikov design, including reliability, ruggedness, simplicity of operation and maintenance. This weapon does not jam or misfire in the worst conditions possible. Also, it has reliable extraction even with dirty chambers and cases. Its drawbacks are poor balance and ergonomics, as well as inferior firing accuracy to most Western weapons.}}</ref>

===Operating mechanism===
[[File:AK-74 DA-ST-89-06610.jpg|thumb|left|The AK-74 stripped down to its major components]]

The rifle's operation during firing and reloading is identical to that of the AKM.<ref name="Woźniak_26">Woźniak, p. 26.</ref> After ignition of the cartridge primer and propellant, rapidly expanding propellant gases are diverted into the gas cylinder above the barrel through a vent near the muzzle. The build-up of gases inside the gas cylinder drives the long-stroke piston and bolt carrier rearward and a cam guide machined into the underside of the bolt carrier along with an ejector spur on the bolt carrier rail guide, rotates the bolt approximately 35° and unlocks it from the barrel extension via a camming pin on the bolt. The moving assembly has about {{convert|5.5|mm|abbr=on|1}} of free travel which creates a delay between the initial recoil impulse of the piston and the bolt unlocking sequence, allowing gas pressures to drop to a safe level before the seal between the chamber and the bolt is broken. Like previous Kalashnikov-pattern rifles, the AK-74 does not have a gas valve; excess gases are ventilated through a series of radial ports in the gas cylinder. Since the Kalashnikov operating system offers no [[primary extraction]] upon bolt rotation, the 5.45×39mm AK-74 bolt has a larger extractor claw than the 7.62×39mm AKM for increased extraction reliability.<ref name="Kokalis_46">Kokalis, p. 46.</ref> Other minor modifications were made to the bolt and carrier assembly.{{cn|date=June 2025}}

===Barrel===
[[File:Internal Troops of the Ministry for Internal Affairs (Russia) (494-28).jpg|thumb|left|An AK-74M muzzle device venting propellant gases]]

The rifle received a new barrel with a [[Chrome plating|chrome-lined]] bore and 4 right-hand grooves at a 200&nbsp;mm (1:7.87 in) or 37 calibers [[Rifling#Twist rate|rifling twist rate]]. The front sight base and gas block were redesigned. The gas block contains a gas channel that is installed at a 90° angle in relation to the bore axis to reduce bullet shear at the port hole. A pair of support brackets are cast into the gas block assembly and are used to attach a BG-15c or [[GP-25]] [[Underslung grenade launcher|underslung]] [[40 mm]] [[grenade launcher]]. Like the AK-47 and AKM, the muzzle is threaded for the installation of various muzzle devices such as the standard [[muzzle brake]] or a [[blank-firing adaptor]], while a spring-loaded detent pin held in the front sight post prevents them from unscrewing while firing. However the muzzle threads have been relocated to the front sight base for both easier and more economic replacement in case of thread damage. The distinctive standard-issue muzzle brake features a large expansion chamber, two symmetrical vertical cuts at the forward end of the brake and three non symmetrical positioned vent holes to counteract [[muzzle climb|muzzle rise and climb]] as well as lateral shift to the right much like the AKM's offset muzzle brake. A flat plate near the end of the brake produces a forward thrust when emerging exhaust gases strike its surface, greatly reducing recoil. The muzzle brake prevents backblast from reaching the firer, although it is reported to be harsh on bystanders as the muzzle gases are dispersed to the sides.<ref name="hogg">{{cite book |first1=Ian |last1=Hogg |first2=John |last2=Weeks |name-list-style=amp |date=2000 |title=Military Small Arms of the 20th Century |edition=7th |location=Iola, Wisconsin |publisher=Krause Publications |isbn=0-87341-824-7}}</ref> The standard-issue AK-74 muzzle brake has been subtly revised several times since the 1970s.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.k-var.com/compensator-us-made-for-ak-74-545x39-and-556x45-calibers-24x15mm-right-hand-threads |title=AK-74 Muzzle Brakes/Compensators |website=K-VAR Corp. |access-date=16 November 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190110073911/https://www.k-var.com/compensator-us-made-for-ak-74-545x39-and-556x45-calibers-24x15mm-right-hand-threads |archive-date=10 January 2019 |url-status=dead}}</ref>

===Sights===
====Iron sights====
The AK-74 uses an adjustable notched rear tangent [[iron sight]] calibrated in {{convert|100|m|yd|0|abbr=on}} increments from {{convert|100|to|1000|m|yd|0|abbr=on}}. The front sight is a post adjustable for elevation in the field. Horizontal adjustment requires a special drift tool and is done by the armoury before issue or if the need arises by an armourer after issue. The sight line elements are approximately {{convert|48.5|mm|in|1|abbr=on|lk=on}} over the bore axis. The "[[point-blank range]]" battle zero setting "''П''" standing for ''постоянная'' (constant/consistent/permanent) the 5.45×39mm AK-74 rear tangent sight element corresponds to a {{convert|400|m|yd|0|abbr=on}} zero, compared with the {{convert|300|m|yd|0|abbr=on}} zero for 7.62×39mm AKs.<ref name="Rottman">{{cite book |first=Gordon |last=Rottman |title=The AK-47: Kalashnikov-series Assault Rifles |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=qK9Nn-2xocUC&pg=PA42 |access-date=24 December 2011 |date=24 May 2011 |location=Oxford, UK |publisher=Osprey Publishing |isbn=978-1-84908-835-0 |page=42– |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140103131237/http://books.google.com/books?id=qK9Nn-2xocUC&pg=PA42 |archive-date=3 January 2014 |url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://russianoptics.net/400mzero.html |title=Using a 400 meter zero with 5.45x39 |date=2010 |website=RussianOptics.net |access-date=16 November 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141129074754/http://russianoptics.net/400mzero.html |archive-date=29 November 2014 |url-status=live}}</ref> For the AK-74 combined with the 7N6 or 7N10 service cartridges the 400 m battle zero setting point-blank range limits the [[External ballistics#Bullet drop|apparent "bullet rise"]] within approximately {{convert|-5|to|+38|cm|in|1|abbr=on}} under the line of sight. At the corresponding {{convert|440|m|yd|0|abbr=on}} maximum point-blank range the bullet will have dropped to approximately {{convert|-21|cm|in|1|abbr=on}} relative to the line of sight. Soldiers are instructed to fire at any target within this range by simply placing the sights on the center of mass (the belt buckle, according to Russian and former Soviet doctrine) of the enemy target. Any errors in range estimation are tactically irrelevant, as a well-aimed shot will hit the torso of the enemy soldier.<ref name="Rottman" />

====Optical sights====
[[File:51AirborneRegiment50.jpg|left|thumb|USP-1 (1P29) Universal sight for the AK-74 and other small arms]]
While most Russian and [[Commonwealth of Independent States|CIS]] armed forces use the AK-74 in its basic configuration with iron sights, many magnified and non-magnified optical sights are available for designated marksmen and other special purpose troops in their respective militaries.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://russianoptics.net/545.html |title=5.45x39 Optics |website=RussianOptics.net |access-date=27 March 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150403072755/http://russianoptics.net/545.html |archive-date=3 April 2015 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://russianoptics.net/reddot.html |title=Red Dot and Collimator Optics |website=RussianOptics.net |access-date=27 March 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150325081740/http://russianoptics.net/reddot.html |archive-date=25 March 2015 |url-status=live}}</ref>

For the 5.45×39mm AK-74, the East German '''Zeiss ZFK 4×25''', '''[[USP-1|USP-1 (1P29)]]''', Belorussian [[BELOMO|BelOMO]] '''PO 3.5×21P''', '''PO 4×24P''' and the [[1P78 Kashtan]] dedicated side rail mounted optical sights were developed. These optical sights are primarily designed for rapid target acquisition and first round hits out to 400 m, but by various means these optical sights also offer [[bullet drop compensation]] (BDC) (sometimes referred to as [[elevation (ballistics)|ballistic elevation]]) for aiming at more distant targets. The BDC feature compensates for the effect of [[gravity]] on the [[bullet]] at given distances (referred to as "[[bullet drop]]") in flat fire scenarios. The feature must be tuned for the particular ballistic trajectory of a particular combination of gun and [[cartridge (firearms)|cartridge]] at a predefined [[muzzle velocity]] and [[air density]]. Since the usage of standardized ammunition is an important prerequisite to match the BDC feature to the [[external ballistics|external ballistic]] behaviour of the employed projectiles, these military optical sights are intended to assist with field shooting at varying medium to longer ranges rather than precise long range shots.

The standard Russian side rail mounted optical sight was the 4×26 '''1P29''' Universal sight for small arms. It was copied from and hence similar to the British [[SUIT (sight)|SUIT]] (Sight Unit Infantry, Trilux). When mounted the 1P29 sight is positioned centered above the receiver at a height that allows the use of the iron sights. It weighs 0.8&nbsp;kg, offers 4× magnification with a field of view of 8° and 35&nbsp;mm eye relief. The 1P29 is issued with a canvas pouch, a lens cleaning cloth, combination tool, two rubber eyecups, two eyecup clamps and three different bullet drop compensation (BDC) cams for the AK-74/[[AN-94]], [[RPK-74]] and [[PK machine gun]]. The 1P29 is intended for quickly engaging point and area targets at various ranges and is zeroed for both windage and elevation at {{convert|400|m|yd|0|abbr=on}}. On the right side of the field of view a [[stadiametric rangefinder]] is incorporated that can be used to determine the distance from a {{convert|1.5|m|ftin|1|sp=us}} tall object from {{convert|400|to|1200|m|yd|0|abbr=on}}. The [[reticle]] is an inverted aiming post in the top half of the field of view and is [[tritium]]-illuminated for low-light condition aiming.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://russianoptics.net/1p29.html |title=1P29 4.0x Magnification |website=RussianOptics.net |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131204093402/http://russianoptics.net/1p29.html |archive-date=2013-12-04}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.npzoptics.com/catalog/sights_for_small_arms/1p29/ |title=1P29 Universal sight for small arms |website=NPZ Novosibirsk Instrument-Making Plant |access-date=16 November 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131206131752/http://www.npzoptics.com/catalog/sights_for_small_arms/1p29/ |archive-date=2013-12-06 |url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://ra.spetsnaz.su/wiki/1P29 |title=1P29 |website=ra.spetsnaz.su |access-date=16 November 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141129032437/http://ra.spetsnaz.su/wiki/1P29 |archive-date=2014-11-29 |url-status=dead}}</ref>

The current Russian standard side rail mounted optical sight for the AK-74M is the 2.8×17 '''1P78 Kashtan''', an aiming optic similar to the American [[Advanced Combat Optical Gunsight|ACOG]].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://russianoptics.net/545.html |title=Dedicated 5.45x39 Optics |website=RussianOptics.net |access-date=16 November 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141129074515/http://russianoptics.net/545.html |archive-date=29 November 2014 |url-status=live}}</ref> When mounted the 1P78 sight is positioned centered above the receiver. It weighs 0.5&nbsp;kg, offers 2.8× magnification with a field of view of 13° and 32&nbsp;mm eye relief. The 1P78 comes in several versions for the AK-74 (1P78-1), [[RPK-74]] (1P78-2), [[AKM]] (1P78) and [[RPK]] (1P78-3). The 1P78 is intended for quickly engaging point and area targets at various ranges and is zeroed for both windage and elevation at {{convert|400|m|yd|0|abbr=on}}. A [[stadiametric rangefinder]] is incorporated that can be used to determine the distance for a soldier sized target from {{convert|400|to|700|m|yd|0|abbr=on}}. The [[reticle]] consist of a main 400 m "chevron" (^), a {{convert|500|m|yd|0|abbr=on}} holdover dot and smaller additional holdover chevrons for {{convert|600|m|yd|0|abbr=on}} and {{convert|700|m|yd|0|abbr=on}} and is [[tritium]]-illuminated for low-light condition aiming.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://russianoptics.net/1P78Kashtan.html |title=1P78 Kashtan 2.8× Magnification |website=RussianOptics.net |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131207062335/http://russianoptics.net/1P78Kashtan.html |archive-date=2013-12-07}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.npzoptics.com/catalog/sights_for_small_arms/1p78/ |title=1P78 rifle sight |website=NPZ Novosibirsk Instrument-Making Plant |access-date=16 November 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131210142739/http://www.npzoptics.com/catalog/sights_for_small_arms/1p78/ |archive-date=2013-12-10 |url-status=dead}}</ref>

===New features===
[[File:Russian naval infantryman on an FTX in Poland during BALTOPS 2003 (June 2003).jpg|thumb|right|A [[Naval Infantry (Russia)|Russian marine]] on exercise with the AKS-74 variant featuring plum-colored polymer furniture]]

The AK-74 was equipped with a new buttstock, handguard (which retained the [[AKM]]-type finger swells) and gas cylinder. The stock has a shoulder pad different from that on the AKM, which is rubber and serrated for improved seating against the shooter. In addition, there are lightening cuts on each side of the buttstock. The buttstock, lower handguard and upper heatguard were first manufactured from [[laminates|laminated]] [[plywood|wood]], this later changed to a synthetic [[fiberglass]]-reinforced [[polyamide 6]] colored with "kaprozol brown 4K" disperse dye, the color of which is usually referred to as "Russian [[plum (color)|Plum]]". The introduction of the new material was slow and impeded by very stringent hardness requirements of the military which no Western polymer furniture was able to satisfy as of 1980.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://warspot.ru/21012-boevye-polimery-dlya-ak|title=Боевые полимеры для АК|website=warspot.ru|date=17 March 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230104084413/https://warspot.ru/21012-boevye-polimery-dlya-ak |archive-date=4 January 2023 }}</ref>

The AK-74 gas tube has a spring washer attached to its rear end designed to retain the gas tube more securely. The lower handguard is fitted with a leaf spring that reduces play in the rifle's lateral axis by keeping the wood tensioned between the receiver and the handguard retainer. The receiver remains nearly identical to that of the AKM; it is a U-shaped {{convert|1|mm|abbr=on|2}} thick [[sheet metal|sheet]] [[steel]] pressing supported extensively by pins and rivets. The internal guide rails on which the bolt carrier travels are [[Stamping (metalworking)|stamped]] and [[Spot welding|spot welded]] to the inside of the receiver housing. Minor changes were made to the front barrel and rear stock trunnions as well as the magazine well. All external metal surfaces are coated with a glossy black enamel paint.

===5.45×39mm cartridge===
{{Main|5.45×39mm}}

[[File:AK-74 5.45x39mm wound ballistics.gif|thumb|left|AK-74 5.45×39mm wound ballistics]]

Relatively small sized, light weight, high velocity military service cartridges like the 5.45×39mm allow a soldier to carry more ammunition for the same weight compared with their larger and heavier predecessor cartridges, have favourable maximum [[point-blank range]] or "battle zero" characteristics and produce relatively low [[bolt thrust]] and [[free recoil]] impulse, favouring light weight arms design and automatic fire accuracy.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.quarryhs.co.uk/Assault.htm |title=Assault Rifles and Their Ammunition: History and Prospects |first=Anthony G. |last=Williams |date=November 2014 |website=Military Guns & Ammunition |access-date=16 November 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171105042707/http://quarryhs.co.uk/Assault.htm |archive-date=5 November 2017 |url-status=live}}</ref> Tests measured the free recoil energy delivered by the 5.45×39mm AK-74 rifle at {{convert|3.39|J|ftlb|abbr=on|2}}, compared with {{convert|7.19|J|ftlb|abbr=on|2}} delivered by the 7.62×39mm in the AKM.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.thefreelibrary.com/The+Russians+are+coming!+The+Russians+are+coming!+Or+maybe+the+Polish.-a0182033227 |title=The Russians are coming! The Russians are coming! Or maybe the Polish |first=Holt |last=Bodinson |work=[[Guns (magazine)|Guns]] |date=1 September 2008 |access-date=16 November 2014 |via=The Free Library |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141020151119/http://www.thefreelibrary.com/The+Russians+are+coming!+The+Russians+are+coming!+Or+maybe+the+Polish.-a0182033227 |archive-date=20 October 2014 |url-status=live}}</ref>

Early 5.45×39mm ballistics tests demonstrated a pronounced tumbling effect with high speed cameras.<ref>{{cite journal |url=http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_qa3912/is_200112/ai_n9010648/pg_3 |title=Terminal ballistics of the Russian AK 74 assault rifle: Two wounded patients and experimental findings |first1=Želimir |last1=Korać |first2=Dubravko |last2=Kelenc |first3=Danko |last3=Mikulić |first4=Dragan |last4=Vuković |first5=Janko |last5=Hančević |name-list-style=amp |doi=10.1093/milmed/166.12.1065 |journal=[[Military Medicine (journal)|Military Medicine]] |volume=166 |issue=12 |pages=1065–1068 |date=December 2001 |pmid=11778406 |access-date=2007-09-25 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080310025623/http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_qa3912/is_200112/ai_n9010648/pg_3 |archive-date=2008-03-10 |url-status=dead|doi-access=free }}</ref> Some Western authorities believed this bullet was designed to tumble in flesh to increase wounding potential. At the time, it was believed that [[flight dynamics|yawing]] and [[cavitation]] of projectiles were primarily responsible for tissue damage. [[Martin Fackler]] conducted a study with an AK-74 assault rifle using live pigs and [[ballistic gelatin]]; "The result of our preset test indicate that the AK-74 bullet acts in the manner expected of a full-metal-cased military ammunition – it does not deform or fragment when striking soft tissues".<ref>{{cite journal |url=http://ammo.ar15.com/project/Fackler_Articles/ak74_wounding_potential.pdf |title=Wounding Potential of the AK-74 Assault Rifle |first1=Martin L. |last1=Fackler |first2=John S. |last2=Surinchak |first3=John A. |last3=Malinowski |first4=Robert E. |last4=Bowen |name-list-style=amp |journal=[[The Journal of Trauma]] |date=March 1984 |volume=24 |issue=3 |pages=263–266 |doi=10.1097/00005373-198403000-00014 |pmid=6708147 |access-date=2007-09-25 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090219104944/http://ammo.ar15.com/project/Fackler_Articles/ak74_wounding_potential.pdf |archive-date=2009-02-19 |url-status=dead}}</ref> Most organs and tissue were too flexible to be severely damaged by the temporary cavity effect caused by yaw and cavitation of a projectile. With the 5.45&nbsp;mm bullet, tumbling produced a temporary cavity twice, at depths of {{convert|100|mm|abbr=on|1}} and {{convert|350|mm|abbr=on|1}}. This is similar to (but more rapid than) modern 7.62×39mm ammunition and to (non-fragmenting) [[5.56×45mm NATO]] ammunition.

===Magazines===
The original steel-reinforced 30-round AK-74 detachable box magazine was similar to that of the AKM, except for minor dimensional changes required by the 5.45×39mm cartridge.
These magazines discolour over time from yellowish to [[Rust (color)|rust-coloured]] shades, and are often mistakenly identified as being made of [[Bakelite]] (a [[phenolic resin]]), but were actually fabricated from two-parts of AG-4S molding compound (a [[glass-filled polymer|glass-reinforced]] phenol-formaldehyde binder impregnated composite), assembled using an [[epoxy resin]] adhesive.<ref>{{cite magazine |url=http://www.arsenalinc.com/usa/imgs/articles/BulgarianAK.pdf |title=Kalashnikovs 3 of the best |first=Peter G. |last=Kokalis |magazine=[[Shotgun News]] |volume=59 |issue=12 |date=May 2005 |access-date=10 April 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150923173907/http://www.arsenalinc.com/usa/imgs/articles/BulgarianAK.pdf |archive-date=23 September 2015 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.thefirearmblog.com/blog/2016/09/18/guest-post-brief-history-kalashnikov-magazine-part-2-synthetic-magazines/ |title=A Brief History of the Kalashnikov Magazine Part 2: Synthetic Magazines |date=18 September 2016 |website=The Firearm Blog |access-date=2020-01-28|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20230404072910/https://www.thefirearmblog.com/blog/2016/09/18/guest-post-brief-history-kalashnikov-magazine-part-2-synthetic-magazines/|archive-date=April 4, 2023}}</ref><ref>{{cite journal |title=Elastic characteristics of AG-4S glass-reinforced plastic under short-time and long-time loads |doi=10.1007/BF00867112 |volume=2 |journal=Polymer Mechanics |pages=188–190 |last=Grezin |first=V. M. |issue=2 |date=March 1966 |bibcode=1966PoMec...2..188G |s2cid=135895271}}</ref><ref name="Kokalis_49">Kokalis, p. 49.</ref> Noted for their durability, these magazines did however compromise the rifle's camouflage and lacked the small horizontal reinforcing ribs running down both sides of the magazine body near the front that were added on all later AK-74 magazine generations.<ref name="Kokalis_49" /> 

A second generation steel-reinforced dark-brown (color shades vary from [[maroon]] to [[Plum (color)|plum]] to near black) 30-round magazine was introduced in the early 1980s, fabricated from [[Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene|ABS]] plastic. The third generation steel-reinforced 30-round AK-74 magazine is similar to the second generation, but is darker colored and has a matte nonreflective surface finish. With the introduction of the AK-74M the fourth generation of steel-reinforced matte true black nonreflective surface finished 30-round AK-74 magazines was introduced. All AK-74 magazines have a raised horizontal rib on each side of the rear lug to prevent their use in a 7.62×39mm AK. The magazines can be quickly recharged from [[stripper clip]]s. The empty weight of a 30-round AK-74 [[Magazine (firearms)|box magazine]] is {{convert|230|g|abbr=on}}. The 45-round plastic box magazine of the [[RPK-74]] [[light machine gun]]<ref>{{cite web |url=http://home.comcast.net/~shooter2_indy/ak74_mag_guide.html |title=A Guide to 5.45mm Kalashnikov Magazine Types |date=2007 |website=The Shooter Gallery |access-date=16 November 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141106124453/http://home.comcast.net/~shooter2_indy/ak74_mag_guide.html |archive-date=6 November 2014 |url-status=dead}}</ref> is also interchangeable with that of the AK-74. The empty weight of a 45-round RPK-74 box magazine is {{convert|300|g|abbr=on}}. Further 60-round and later 50-round quad-stack 5.45×39mm [[casket magazine]]s were developed.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://russianoptics.net/AK74_50rd.html |title=AK74 Quad Stack 50 round magazine |website=RussianOptics.net |access-date=2015-09-20 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150529044338/http://russianoptics.net/AK74_50rd.html |archive-date=2015-05-29 |url-status=live}}</ref>

The transition to mainly plastic magazines and the relatively small sized, light weight, high velocity 5.45×39mm cartridge yielded a significant weight reduction and allows a soldier to carry considerably more rounds for the same weight compared with the previous Soviet AK-47 and AKM and later 7.62×39mm chambered AK platform assault rifles.<ref name="ReferenceA" />
{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Rifle
! Cartridge
! Cartridge weight
! Weight of empty magazine
! Weight of loaded magazine
! Max. {{convert|10.12|kg|lbs|abbr=on}} ammunition load*
|-
| [[AK-47]] <small>(1949)</small>
| [[7.62×39mm]]
| 16.3 g (252 gr)
| slab-sided steel<br />{{convert|430|g|lbs|abbr=on}}
| 30-rounds<br />{{convert|916|g|lbs|abbr=on}}<ref name="Dockery 2007 102">{{cite book |last=Dockery |first=Kevin |title=Future Weapons |year=2007 |page=102 |location=New York City |publisher=[[Berkley Caliber]] |isbn=978-0-425-21750-4}}</ref>
| 11 magazines for 330 rounds<br />{{convert|10.08|kg|lbs|abbr=on}}
|-
| [[AKM]] <small>(1959)</small>
| 7.62×39mm
| 16.3 g (252 gr)
| ribbed stamped-steel<br />{{convert|330|g|lbs|abbr=on}}
| 30-rounds<br />{{convert|819|g|lbs|abbr=on}}<ref name="scribd2">{{cite web |url=https://www.scribd.com/doc/38483061/Ak-47-Technical-Description-Manual |title=AK 47 Technical Description Manual |website=Scribd.com |date=2010-09-30 |access-date=2012-08-23 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120328103151/http://www.scribd.com/doc/38483061/Ak-47-Technical-Description-Manual |archive-date=2012-03-28 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="Dockery, Kevin 2007 p. 102">Dockery (2007), p. 102.</ref>
| 12 magazines for 360 rounds<br />{{convert|9.83|kg|lbs|abbr=on}}
|-
| [[AK-103]] <small>(1994)</small>
| 7.62×39mm
| 16.3 g (252 gr)
| steel-reinforced plastic<br />{{convert|250|g|lbs|abbr=on}}
| 30-rounds<br />{{convert|739|g|lbs|abbr=on}}<ref name="scribd2" /><ref name="Dockery, Kevin 2007 p. 102" />
| 13 magazines for 390 rounds<br />{{convert|9.61|kg|lbs|abbr=on}}
|-
|| AK-74 <small>(1974)</small>
| [[5.45×39mm]]
| 10.7 g (165 gr)
| steel-reinforced plastic<br />{{convert|230|g|lbs|abbr=on}}
| 30-rounds<br />{{convert|551|g|lbs|abbr=on}}<ref name="Dockery, Kevin 2007 p. 102" /><ref name="izhmash1">{{cite web |url=http://www.izhmash.ru/eng/product/akm.shtml |title=AKM (AK-47) Kalashnikov modernized assault rifle, caliber 7.62mm |website=[[Izhmash]] |date=2001-09-02 |access-date=2012-08-23 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141006092719/http://www.izhmash.ru/eng/product/akm.shtml |archive-date=2014-10-06}}</ref>
| 18 magazines for 540 rounds<br />{{convert|9.92|kg|lbs|abbr=on}}
|}
<small>Note: All, 7.62×39mm AK magazines are backwards compatible with older AK variants.<br />Note *: 10.12&nbsp;kg (22.3&nbsp;lb) is the maximum amount of ammo that the average soldier can comfortably carry. It also allows for best comparison of the three most common 7.62×39mm AK platform magazines and the 5.45×39mm AK-74 magazine.</small>

===Accessories===
{{Main|6KH4 bayonet|6KH5 bayonet|GP-25}}
[[File:Ak74gp35.jpg|thumb|A non-functional model of the АК-74 assault rifle fitted with an airsoft replica of the [[GP-25|GP-25 grenade launcher]] (the launcher is made by the Chinese company [[Double Bell]]). Notice the added recoil-reducing shoulder pad.]]

Accessories supplied with the military version of the rifle include a 6H4 or 6H5 type [[bayonet]], a quick-loading device, three spare magazines, four 15-round [[stripper clip]]s, maintenance kit, cleaning rod and sling. 

The bayonet is installed by slipping the muzzle ring around the flash hider and latching the handle down on the bayonet lug under the front sight base. The 6H5 AK-74 bayonet introduced in 1983 represents a further refinement of the 6H4 AKM bayonet. It introduced a radical blade cross-section, that has a flat milled on one side near the edge and a corresponding flat milled on the opposite side near the false edge.<ref name="worldbayonets.com">{{cite web |last=Cobb |first=Ralph E. |date=2013-12-29 |title=AK Bayonets 101 – The Four Basic Types |url=http://worldbayonets.com/Misc__Pages/ak_bayonets/ak_bayonets.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150324190800/http://worldbayonets.com/Misc__Pages/ak_bayonets/ak_bayonets.html |archive-date=2015-03-24 |access-date=2015-03-17 |work=Worldbayonets.com |at=AK74 Bayonet}}</ref> The blade has a new spear point and an improved one-piece molded plastic grip making it a more effective fighting knife.<ref name="worldbayonets.com" /> It also has saw-teeth on the false edge and the usual hole for use as a wire-cutter.<ref name="worldbayonets.com" />

==Variants==
The AK-74 series is also available in several "night-fighting" configurations, equipped with a side dovetail rail for mounting optical sights. These variants, the '''AK-74N''', '''AKS-74N''' and '''AKS-74UN''' can be used in conjunction with NSPU and NSPU-3 ([[1PN51]])<ref>{{cite book |script-title=ru:Изделие 1ПН51 Техническое Описание И Инструкция По Эксплуатации |trans-title=Product 1PN51 Technical Description and Operating Instructions |date=January 1992 |page=11 |language=ru}}</ref> night sights, as well as optical sights such as the [[USP-1]] (1P29). The variants designated AK-74N2 and AKS-74N2 can use the multi-model night vision sight NSPUM ([[1PN58]]).<ref>{{cite book |date=February 1991 |pages=5, 13 |language=ru |script-title=ru:Изделие 1ПН58 Техническое Описание И Инструкция По Эксплуатации|trans-title=Product 1PN58 Technical Description And Operating Instructions}}</ref>

===AKS-74===
[[File:AKS-74.png|thumb|The AKS-74. Designed for airborne infantry and equipped with a folding shoulder stock]]
The '''AKS-74''' ("S"—[[Russian language|Russian]]: {{lang|ru|складной}}; ''Skladnoy'', or "foldable"), is a variant of the AK-74 equipped with a side-folding metal shoulder stock, designed primarily for use with [[Airborne forces|air assault]] [[infantry]] and developed alongside the basic AK-74. Unlike the [[AKM#Variants|AKMS]]'s somewhat fragile underfolding stock (modeled after the [[MP 40]] [[submachine gun]] stock), the AKS-74 stock is fabricated from stamped sheet metal struts, [[machine press]]ed into a "U" shape and assembled by punch fit and welding.

The stock has a triangular shape; it lacks the folding shoulder pad found on the AKMS stock and is folded to the left side of the receiver. The hinged stock is securely locked in its extended position by a spring-loaded button catch located at the rear of the receiver. When folded, the stock is held closed by a spring-loaded capture hook situated on the left side at the front of the receiver housing. A rear-mounted sling swivel is also provided on the right side at the beginning of the stock frame. It retains the pistol grip reinforcement plate the AKMS used, though due to the less complex rear trunnion, only has one riveting hole in place of the three on the AKMS.

===AK-74M===
[[File:Ak-74-withmagazine.jpg|thumb|The AK-74M]]

In 1991, the Izhmash factory in the city of [[Izhevsk]] began full-scale production of a modernised variant of the AK-74—the '''AK-74M''' ("М"—{{langx|ru|Модернизи́рованный|Modernizírovanny|translation=modernised}}) assault rifle that offers more versatility compared with its predecessor. Apart from several minor improvements, such as a lightened bolt and carrier assembly to reduce the impulse of the gas piston and bolt carrier during firing, the rifle features a new [[Fiberglass|glass-filled]] [[polyamide]] stock that retains the shape of the original AK-74 fixed laminated wood stock, but side-folds to the left like the skeletonised AKS-74 buttstock. As a result, pistol grip reinforcement plates that were once exclusively used on the folding stock variants are standard on all AK-74Ms. Additionally the AK-74M<ref>https://en.kalashnikovgroup.ru/catalog/boevoe-strelkovoe-oruzhie/avtomaty/avtomat-kalashnikova-ak74m</ref> features an improved muzzle device with extended collar and threads to reduce play and a machine cut beneath to allow easier cleaning rod removal, a reinforced smooth dust cover and a redesigned guide rod return spring retainer that allows firing the GP-25, GP-30 and GP-34 underslung grenade launchers without having to use the previously necessary additional receiver cover fastener. To reduce production costs, barrel hardware, such as the front sight base and gas block, are dimple pressed on to the barrel instead of pinned on (commercial semi-auto variants are still pinned on to maintain user serviceability).

Other economic changes include omission of lightening cuts on the front sight block and gas piston as well as a stamped gas tube release lever, replacing the milled one. The bullet guide and bolt guide were also separated, with the bolt guide becoming a simple bump held in place on the left side of the receiver with an additional rivet (often called a "bump rivet" because of this) making it easier to replace in case of wear. Each AK-74M is fitted with a side-rail bracket for mounting optics that is a simplified version of the 74N mount with less machining cuts. The AK-74M would have been adopted by the Soviet Union as the standard service rifle, and has been accepted as the new [[service rifle]] of the [[Russian Federation]].

====AK-74M Obves  - UUK (Universal Upgrade Kit)====
[[File:Комплект модернизации "Обвес".jpg|thumb|Upgrade set ''Обвес'' for the AK-74M and [[AK-100 (Rifle family)|AK-100 rifle family]]]]

An AK-74M universal upgrade kit consisting of a new safety, dust cover and furniture featuring improved ergonomics and [[Rail Integration System|rails]] to attach accessories like aiming optics, [[optoelectronic]] sights, laser sights, weapon lights and vertical fore grips and a new muzzle device had its official debut on 9 May 2015 in Moscow as part of the [[2015 Moscow Victory Day Parade]].<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.rbth.com/news/2015/05/07/kalashnikov_to_show_off_upgraded_ak-74m_at_victory_day_parade_45825.html|title=Kalashnikov to show off upgraded AK-74M at Victory Day parade |website=[[Russia Beyond]] |agency=[[TASS]] |date=7 May 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200729044532/https://www.rbth.com/news/2015/05/07/kalashnikov_to_show_off_upgraded_ak-74m_at_victory_day_parade_45825.html |access-date=9 May 2015|archive-date=29 July 2020 }}</ref>
The Kalashnikov Concern has further developed three sets of additional equipment for the modernization of [[5.45×39mm]] and [[7.62×39mm]] chambered [[Kalashnikov rifle|AK-pattern]] assault rifles for normal military units, reconnaissance units, and special forces units.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.rostec.ru/en/news/4516453 |title=An improved Kalashnikov rifle will be on display at the Victory Day Parade |work=[[Rostec]] |date=6 May 2015 |access-date=9 May 2015 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20150511180352/http://www.rostec.ru/en/news/4516453 |archive-date=11 May 2015 |url-status=live}}</ref>

In 2015, the Kalashnikov Concern announced a contract with the Russian Ministry of Defence to deliver upgrade kits for their AK-74M assault rifles.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://blog.predatorbdu.com/2015/06/russian-armed-forces-upgrade-kit-for-ak.html |title=Russian Armed Forces Upgrade Kit for AK-74M |date=June 17, 2015 |website=PredatorBDU.com |access-date=May 18, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160624182051/http://blog.predatorbdu.com/2015/06/russian-armed-forces-upgrade-kit-for-ak.html |archive-date=June 24, 2016 |url-status=dead}}</ref>{{Clear}}

=== AKS-74U ===
{{Main|AKS-74U}}

In 1973, a design competition (codenamed "Modern"—Модерн) was started<ref>By Soviet TTT (тактико-технические требования) order number 008407 from 19.17.1973.<!-- Invalid date --></ref> for the adoption of a fully automatic [[carbine]].

Soviet planners drew from the unsolicited design [[AO-46 (firearm)|AO-46]] built in 1969 by [[Peter Andreevich Tkachev]], which weighed only 1.9&nbsp;kg. The TTT specifications required a weight no greater than {{convert|2.2|kg|abbr=on|1}}, a length of {{convert|75|cm|abbr=on|1}}/{{convert|45|cm|abbr=on|1}} with the stock unfolded/folded, and an effective firing range of {{convert|500|m|yd|abbr=on|0}}. The competition was joined by designs of [[Mikhail Kalashnikov]] (PP1), [[Igor Stechkin]] ([[TKB-0116]]), [[Sergei Gavrilovich Simonov|S. G. Simonov]] ([[AG-043]]), [[A. S. Konstantinov]] ([[AEK-958]]), and [[Yevgeny Dragunov]] (who called his model "MA"). Kalashnikov also presented an additional design (A1-75) which differed from PP1 by having a modified muzzle for flash and noise suppression.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.thefirearmblog.com/blog/2016/04/27/krinks-never-aksu-trial-rifles/ |title=The Krinks that never were, AKSU trial rifles |date=27 April 2016 |website=The Firearm Blog |access-date=2016-08-09 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160802012952/http://www.thefirearmblog.com/blog/2016/04/27/krinks-never-aksu-trial-rifles/ |archive-date=2016-08-02 |url-status=live}}</ref>

In 1977, the [[GRAU]] decided to adopt Kalashnikov's model, which was largely a shortened AKS-74, because its performance was no worse than the competition, and promised significant production cost savings by utilizing existing equipment for the AK-74 line. A final round of large scale testing with Kalashnikov's model was performed by airborne divisions in the [[Transcaucasian Military District]] in March 1977. The AKS-74U ("U"—[[Russian language|Russian]]: {{lang|ru|укороченный}}; ''Ukorochenniy'', or "shortened") was officially adopted in 1979, and given the official, but seldom used [[GRAU#Designation scheme|GRAU designation]] 6P26.<ref>Monetchikov, pp. 165–177.</ref> Production stopped in 1993.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.thefirearmblog.com/blog/2016/02/12/experimentation-use-and-variants-of-the-russian-aks74u/ |title=Experimentation, use, and variants of the Russian AKS74U |date=12 February 2016 |website=The Firearm Blog |access-date=2016-08-09 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160802191934/http://www.thefirearmblog.com/blog/2016/02/12/experimentation-use-and-variants-of-the-russian-aks74u/ |archive-date=2016-08-02 |url-status=live}}</ref>

The AKS-74U bridges the tactical deployment gap between a [[submachine gun]] and an [[assault rifle]]. It was intended for use mainly with [[special forces]], airborne infantry, rear-echelon support units, helicopter and armored vehicle crews. It has been augmented and replaced by various submachine guns, and the less compact [[AK-105]] carbine in Russian military service. It is commonly used by law enforcement; for example, each urban police foot patrol is issued at least one.{{citation needed|date=August 2022}}

[[File:AK74andAKS74U.jpg|thumb|left|AK-74 (top) and AKS-74U]]

The AKS-74U's compact dimensions were achieved by using a short {{convert|206.5|mm|abbr=on|1}} barrel (this forced designers to simultaneously reduce the gas piston operating rod to an appropriate length). Due to the shortening of the operating mechanism, the [[cyclic rate]] rose slightly to around 700 rounds per minute.<ref name="AKS-74U">{{Cite web |title=5.45 мм автомат Калашникова обр.1974 укороченный АКC-74У |url=https://history.gpk.gov.by/history/weapons-equipment/avtomaty/5-45-mm-avtomat-kalashnikova-obr-1974-ukorochennyy-akc-74u/ |access-date=2023-08-13 |website=История белорусской пограничной службы |archive-date=13 August 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230813010014/https://history.gpk.gov.by/history/weapons-equipment/avtomaty/5-45-mm-avtomat-kalashnikova-obr-1974-ukorochennyy-akc-74u/ |url-status=dead }}</ref> In order to effectively stabilize projectiles, the barrel's twist rate was increased from 200&nbsp;mm (1:7.87 in) or 37 calibers [[Rifling#Twist rate|rifling twist rate]] to 160&nbsp;mm (1:6.3 in) or 29.6 calibers rifling twist rate to adapt the AKS-74U for muzzle velocities of {{convert|720|m/s|abbr=on|0}} and higher. A new gas block was installed at the muzzle end of the barrel with a [[muzzle booster]], which features an internal expansion chamber inside the cylindrical section of the booster while the conical end acts as a nozzle to increase net pressure inside the gas chamber by supplying an increased amount of propellant gases from the barrel. The chrome-lined muzzle booster also burns any remaining propellant, which would normally reduce muzzle blast. However, due to the extremely short barrel and conical end of the booster, the muzzle blast is nevertheless extremely large and visible. The muzzle device locks into the gas block with a spring-loaded detent pin and features two parallel notches cut into the edge of the flash hider cone, used for unscrewing it using the cleaning rod. Unlike most Kalashnikov variants there is no provision to store the cleaning rod under the barrel. The front sight was integrated into the gas block/forward sling loop.

The sight height above the bore axis is also approximately {{convert|3|mm|abbr=on|1}} higher than the AK-74, due to the combined front sight/gas block, rear sight configuration. The AKS-74U has a different rear sight composed of a U-shaped flip sight on the top cover instead of the standard sliding notch tangent rear sight. This rear sight has two settings: "''П''{{-"}} standing for ''постоянная'' (constant) corresponding to a {{convert|350|m|yd|0|abbr=on}} "point-blank range" battle zero setting and "4-5" (used for firing at distances between {{convert|400|-|500|m|yd|abbr=on|0}}).<ref>{{cite web |url=http://gunsru.ru/rg_avtomat_aks-74u_eng.html |title=AKS-74U Kalashnikov shortened assault rifle |publisher=Firearms Russia |access-date=16 November 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141102192400/http://gunsru.ru/rg_avtomat_aks-74u_eng.html |archive-date=2 November 2014 |url-status=dead}}</ref> The rear sight is housed in a semi-shrouded protective enclosure that is riveted to the receiver's spring-loaded top cover. This top cover hinges from a barrel trunnion (hinging where the rear sight on a normal AK74 is located), pivoting forward when opened, which also works to unlock the gas tube cover. Both the gas tube and handguard are also of a new type and are wider and shorter than the analogous parts in the AKS-74.

For the AKS-74s combined with the 7N6 or 7N10 service cartridges the 350 m battle zero setting limits the [[External ballistics#Bullet drop|apparent "bullet rise"]] within approximately {{convert|-5|to|+42|cm|in|1|abbr=on}} relative to the line of sight. Soldiers are instructed to fire at any target within this range by simply placing the sights on the center of mass (the belt buckle) of the enemy target. Any errors in range estimation are tactically irrelevant, as a well-aimed shot will hit the torso of the enemy soldier.

[[File:Interpolitex 2010 (337-50).jpg|thumb|An AKS-74U with various Zenitco accessories installed]]

The AKS-74U is significantly more maneuverable in tight [[close quarters combat|quarters]] than the AKS-74; however, the significant decline in [[muzzle velocity]] to {{convert|735|m/s|abbr=on|0}} resulted in a {{convert|100|m|yd|abbr=on|0}} reduction in effective range to {{convert|400|m|yd|abbr=on|0}} (the effective hitting distance for a "running"-type silhouette target was reduced from {{convert|625|m|yd|abbr=on|0}} to {{convert|360|m|yd|abbr=on|0}}). The AKS-74U cannot mount a bayonet or standard under-barrel grenade launcher. However, a suppressed 30&nbsp;mm BS-1 grenade launcher was developed specifically for that platform that fires a high-explosive dual purpose (HEDP) grenade. The grenades for the BS-1 are launched by special blank cartridges that are inserted into the grenade launcher via a detachable magazine. The majority of AKS-74U carbines were manufactured at the Tula Arms Factory rather than [[Izhmash]]. There were some accessories produced for the AKS-74U including a plastic thigh holster and (shorter than standard) 20-round AK-74 type magazines. The rifle utilizes a proprietary 25&nbsp;mm wide sling that differs from the standard 35&nbsp;mm AK sling also in construction. The AKS-74U also exists in a version featuring modernized synthetic furniture made from a black, [[Fiberglass|glass-filled]] [[polyamide]]. The AKS-74U was also used as the basis for several other unique weapons, including the [[bullpup]] [[OTs-14 Groza]] specialist carbine which is now in limited service in the Russian military, and the [[Gepard (submachine gun)|Gepard]] series of multi-caliber submachine guns (none of which evolved past prototype stage).

In the United States, the AKS-74U is sometimes called a "Krinkov".<ref>{{Cite web |last=Pike |first=Travis |date=2021-12-24 |title=What is a Krinkov?: A Guide to the AKS-74U |url=https://www.pewpewtactical.com/krinkov-aks-74u/|access-date=2022-08-22 |publisher=Pew Pew Tactical |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230227193859/https://www.pewpewtactical.com/krinkov-aks-74u/ |archive-date=27 February 2023 |language=en-US}}</ref> The origin of this term is uncertain. A hypothesis was circulating that the name came from the [[Mujahideen]] who supposedly had captured a high-ranking Soviet officer armed with an AKS-74U, and that they had named it after him. However, investigation by [[Patrick Sweeney (gunsmith)|Patrick Sweeney]] could not confirm this hypothesis, for no Soviet officer with a resembling name was captured in Afghanistan.<ref name="Sweeney2009">{{cite book |url=https://www.scribd.com/book/368483827/The-Gun-Digest-Book-of-the-AK-SKS-A-Complete-Guide-to-Guns-Gear-and-Ammunition |title=The Gun Digest Book of the AK & SKS: A Complete Guide to Guns, Gear and Ammunition |publisher=Gun Digest Books |isbn=978-0-89689-678-9 |page=236 |first=Patrick |last=Sweeney |author-link=Patrick Sweeney (gunsmith) |date=2009-01-13 |access-date=2016-01-05}}</ref> US journalist [[C. J. Chivers]] reported that the gun was nicknamed "the Osama" in jihadist circles, after [[Osama bin Laden]] was photographed next to an AKS-74U.<ref name="Chivers2010" /> Research by The Firearm Blog published in 2016 suggests that the name "Krinkov" is a Pashtun invention that came to the United States with accounts of the Mujahideen.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.thefirearmblog.com/blog/2016/01/18/krinkov-the-definite-origin/ |title=Krinkov: The definite origin |date=2016-01-18 |website=The Firearm Blog |access-date=18 January 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160120195254/http://www.thefirearmblog.com/blog/2016/01/18/krinkov-the-definite-origin/ |archive-date=20 January 2016 |url-status=live}}</ref>

The AKS-74U is approximately {{convert|3|oz|abbr=on}} lighter than the NATO equivalent [[XM177]], and {{convert|10.2|in|abbr=on}} shorter with the stock folded.

==== AKS-74UB ====
The '''AKS-74UB''' ("B"—[[Russian language|Russian]]: {{lang|ru|бесшумный}}; ''Besshumniy'' or "silent") is a sound-suppressed variant of the AKS-74U adapted for use with the PBS-4 [[Sound suppressor|suppressor]] (used in combination with [[Speed of sound|subsonic]] [[5.45×39mm#Special purpose cartridges|5.45×39mm ''7U1'']]  Russian ammunition).<ref name="Cutshaw_192">Cutshaw, pp. 19-20.</ref>

== Foreign production ==

=== Azerbaijian ===
The AK-74M is manufactured under license by the [[Ministry of Defence Industry of Azerbaijan]].<ref>{{cite web |last=Suleymanov |first=Rashad |date=7 July 2011 |title=Azerbaijan starts serial production of AK-74M assault rifles basing on Russian license |url=http://en.apa.az/news.php?id=151080 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110823115115/http://en.apa.az/news.php?id=151080 |archive-date=2011-08-23 |access-date=2011-08-14 |website=Azeri Press Agency}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |date=12 July 2011 |title=Azerbaijan begins AK-74M production |url=http://www.upi.com/Business_News/Security-Industry/2011/07/12/Azerbaijan-begins-AK-74M-production/UPI-47161310488428/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110712214556/http://www.upi.com/Business_News/Security-Industry/2011/07/12/Azerbaijan-begins-AK-74M-production/UPI-47161310488428/ |archive-date=12 July 2011 |access-date=2013-05-21 |website=United Press International}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |date=7 July 2011 |title=Azerbaijan starts production of Kalashnikovs |url=http://news.az/articles/politics/40014 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120318005149/http://news.az/articles/politics/40014 |archive-date=18 March 2012 |access-date=2013-05-21 |website=News.az}}</ref>

=== Bulgaria ===
Locally produced AK-74, AKS-74 and AKS-74U were used by the [[Bulgarian Armed Forces]]. They were phased out in the military in favor of the older [[AK-47]] and [[AKM]] rifles, presumably because of the wider availability of [[7.62×39mm|7.62x39mm]] in Bulgaria. 

Some were inherited by the [[Ministry of Interior (Bulgaria)|Ministry of Interior]] but were "banned from police use" in the 90s.<ref>{{Cite web |last=pari.bg |date=1994-01-31 |title=Забраненият убиец |url=https://www.dnevnik.bg/print/arhiv_pari/1994/02/01/1375230_zabraneniiat_ubiec/ |access-date=2025-03-16 |website=www.dnevnik.bg |language=bg}}</ref>

=== Romania ===
{{Main|Pușcă Automată model 1986}}

The AK-74 is manufactured locally in Romania as the [[PA md. 86]].<ref name="popenker" />

=== North Korea ===
{{Main|Type 88 assault rifle}}

The AK-74 is manufactured locally in North Korea as the Type-88.<ref>{{cite magazine |date=June 2012 |title=North Korean Small Arms (Democratic People's Republic of Korea) |url=https://smallarmsreview.com/display.article.cfm?idarticles=1108 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190202212301/https://smallarmsreview.com/display.article.cfm?idarticles=1108 |archive-date=2019-02-02 |access-date=2019-02-03 |magazine=Small Arms Review |volume=16 |issue=2}}</ref> Sources suggest that it was made with technical assistance from China.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Iannamico |first=Frank |date=September 11, 2018 |title=DPRK's AKs: Inside the Shadowy World of North Korean AK Rifles |url=https://www.tactical-life.com/firearms/rifles/north-korean-ak-rifles/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200819203028/https://www.tactical-life.com/firearms/rifles/north-korean-ak-rifles/ |archive-date=19 August 2020 |website=Tactical Life}}</ref>

=== East Germany ===
In East Germany, the AK-74, AKS-74 and AKS-74U were manufactured locally as the MPi-AK-74N, MPi-AKS-74N, and MPi-AKS-74NK.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Автомат (штурмовая винтовка) серии MPi-K / MPi-AK |trans-title=Automatic (assault rifle) MPi-K / MPi-AK series |url=http://weaponland.ru/load/avtomat_shturmovaja_vintovka_serii_mpi_k_mpi_ak/10-1-0-31 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170501171257/http://weaponland.ru/load/avtomat_shturmovaja_vintovka_serii_mpi_k_mpi_ak/10-1-0-31 |archive-date=2017-05-01 |access-date=2017-02-20 |website=Weaponland.ru |language=ru}}</ref>

==Post-AK-74M developments and successors==
===AK-100 series===
{{Main|AK-100 (Rifle family)}}

The modernised variant of the AK-74 — the AK-74M — was used as the technical basis for the new Russian [[AK-100 (rifle family)|AK-100]] family of Kalashnikov firearms:

{| class="wikitable"
!Chambering
!Assault rifle
!Carbine
|-
|[[5.56×45mm NATO]]
|[[AK-101]]
|[[AK-102]]
|-
|[[7.62×39mm]]
|[[AK-103]]
|[[AK-104]]
|-
|[[5.45×39mm]]
|[[AK-74M]]
|[[AK-105]]
|-
|[[9×39mm]]
|[[OTs-12 Tiss]]
|[[AK-9]]
|}
<small>Even with the differences in the above table all of these firearms are made to similar specifications.<ref name="weaponsystems.net" /></small>

These original AK-100 series firearms were introduced in 1994 and are categorized by all having black polymer [[handguard]]s, folding polymer [[Stock (firearms)|stocks]], and use of AK-74M internal systems. Parts are highly interchangeable.<ref name="weaponsystems.net">{{Cite web |url=https://old.weaponsystems.net/weaponsystem/AA04%20-%20AK-100.html |title=AK-100 |date=2014 |website=Weaponsystems.net|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230309065432/https://old.weaponsystems.net/weaponsystem/AA04%20-%20AK-100.html |archive-date=9 March 2023 }}</ref> The AK-101, AK-102, AK-103 and AK-104 are destined primarily for export, while the AK-105 was developed for replacing the shorter barreled AKS-74U. The AK-105 is used by the Russian Army and Ministry of Internal Affairs.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.military-today.com/firearms/ak_100_series.htm|title=AK-100 series - Assault rifle |url-status=usurped|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221121031902if_/https://www.military-today.com/firearms/ak_100_series.htm |archive-date=21 November 2022}}</ref>

Additionally, the 5.45×39mm [[AK-107]], 5.56×45mm NATO [[AK-108]] and 7.62×39mm [[AK-107|AK-109]] assault rifles were developed. These have a technically differing balanced recoil system to reduce felt recoil and muzzle rise. This balanced recoil system designed by Yuriy K. Alexandrov for Kalashnikov-pattern rifles is a significant change to the [[Kalashnikov rifle|Kalashnikov]] operating system of the 1940s. The operating system of these new rifles was derived from the [[AL-7]] experimental rifle of the early 1970s. Since their development, these rifles met little commercial success.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.rbth.com/science-and-tech/333038-why-ak-107-never-became-service-weapon |title=Why the AK-107 never became a Russian service weapon |first=Igor |last=Rozin |date=25 November 2020 |website=Russia Beyond|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221020174022/https://www.rbth.com/science-and-tech/333038-why-ak-107-never-became-service-weapon |archive-date=20 October 2022 }}</ref>

==== AK-200 series ====
The [[AK-100 (rifle family)#AK-100M/200 series|AK-100M/AK-200 rifle family]] was initially conceived around 2009 as an improved variant of the basic AK-100 series. Most improvements centered on ergonomic improvements and mounting systems for accessories. The development of the AK-200 family was stopped around 2011, but resumed around 2016. In 2017, Kalashnikov unveiled the modernised versions of the AK-100 family of rifles.  The AK-200 series are based on the AK-100 series and the [[AK-12]]. They can be chambered in [[5.45×39mm]], [[5.56×45mm NATO]] and [[7.62×39mm]], and use a barrel and gas system assembly similar to that of the [[AK-74M]]/AK-100 rifle family. Improvements added from the AK-12 include [[Picatinny rail]]s, a new pistol grip, a new adjustable buttstock and a new flash hider.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.thefirearmblog.com/blog/2018/06/08/kalashnikov-concern-introduces-ak-200-series-of-rifles/|title=Kalashnikov Concern Renames the 100M-Series of AK Rifles to 200-Series|website=thefirearmblog.com|date= 8 June 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221005000743/https://www.thefirearmblog.com/blog/2018/06/08/kalashnikov-concern-introduces-ak-200-series-of-rifles/ |archive-date=5 October 2022 }}</ref> They feed from 30-round magazines, and are compatible with drum magazines from the [[RPK]] and RPK-74.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://modernfirearms.net/en/assault-rifles/ak-200-2/|title=200 series Kalashnikov assault rifle: AK-200, AK-201, AK-202, AK-203, AK-204, AK-205 (Russia)|website=modernfirearms.net|date=7 June 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181105184910/http://modernfirearms.net/en/assault-rifles/ak-200-2/ |archive-date=5 November 2018 }}</ref> After 2017 these arms were assigned AK-200 series designations.

{| class="wikitable"
!Chambering
!Assault Rifle
!Carbine
|-
|[[5.45×39mm]]
|[[AK-200]]
|[[AK-205]]
|-
|[[5.56×45mm NATO]]
|[[AK-201]]
|[[AK-202]]
|-
|[[7.62×39mm]]
|[[AK-203]]
|[[AK-204]]
|}

As of 2018, the AK-200 series rifles are offered for export sales and for domestic law enforcement users in Russia.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.armyrecognition.com/february_2019_global_defense_security_army_news_industry/rosoboronexport_starts_promoting_a_new_series_of_kalashnikov_assault_rifles.html|title=Rosoboronexport starts promoting new series of Kalashnikov assault rifles|date=8 February 2019|website=armyrecognition.com|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220208055536/https://www.armyrecognition.com/february_2019_global_defense_security_army_news_industry/rosoboronexport_starts_promoting_a_new_series_of_kalashnikov_assault_rifles.html |archive-date=8 February 2022 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.thefirearmblog.com/blog/2018/09/19/russian-national-guard-orders-new-ak-200-series-rifles/|title=Russian National Guard Orders New AK-200 Series Rifles|date=19 September 2018|website=thefirearmblog.com|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221113000042/https://www.thefirearmblog.com/blog/2018/09/19/russian-national-guard-orders-new-ak-200-series-rifles/ |archive-date=13 November 2022 }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.armyrecognition.com/march_2019_global_defense_security_army_news_industry/russian_national_guard_modernizes_firearm_vehicle_and_boat_inventory.html|title=Russian National Guard modernizes firearm, vehicle and boat inventory &#124; March 2019 Global Defense Security army news industry &#124; Defense Security global news industry army 2019 &#124; Archive News year|website=www.armyrecognition.com|date=15 March 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221205041644/https://www.armyrecognition.com/march_2019_global_defense_security_army_news_industry/russian_national_guard_modernizes_firearm_vehicle_and_boat_inventory.html |archive-date=5 December 2022 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.thefirearmblog.com/blog/2019/02/26/rosoboronexport-starts-promoting-the-new-kalashnikov-ak200-series/|title=Russia Starts Promoting the New Kalashnikov AK200 Series|date=26 February 2019|website=thefirearmblog.com|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230301081134/https://www.thefirearmblog.com/blog/2019/02/26/rosoboronexport-starts-promoting-the-new-kalashnikov-ak200-series/ |archive-date=1 March 2023 }}</ref>

===AK-12===
{{Main|AK-12}}

In 2010, the '''AK-12''' series of proposed prototype models were unveiled. They differed in weight, introduced a new recoil compensation technology and improved ergonomics. The rear iron sight element was rail-mounted and moved to the back of the upper receiver to lengthen the sight line, and the full length of the weapon featured a Picatinny rail for mounting accessories such as aiming optics on top. The hand guard features Picatinny rails on both sides and its underside for mounting accessories like tactical lights, laser sights and grenade launchers. Throughout its development and evaluation stage the multiple modifications were applied to meet Russian military standards, as well as to improve upon the "range of defects" that were discovered on prototype models and to address concerns regarding the cost of earlier prototypes. In September 2016 the prototype models were replaced by the final production models of the AK-12 (chambered in 5.45×39mm) and AK-15 (chambered in 7.62×39mm) assault rifles.

Parallel developments are the RPK-16 light machine gun and the AM-17 compact assault rifle (both chambered in 5.45×39mm). The AK-12, [[AK-12#AK-15|AK-15]] and RPK-16 technically strongly resembles the AK-74M, AK-100 series and RPK-74M than the earlier prototypes and the arms manufacturer Kalashnikov concern hopes they will replace these Russian service guns.

In late 2016 it was reported the AK-12 production model was undergoing troop trials with the Russian Army, where it competes against the Degtyarov [[AEK-971|A-545]] balanced action assault rifle in [[Ratnik (program)|Ratnik program]] trials. The AK-12 completed its operational testing and passed military field tests in June 2017, paving the way to Russian Army adoption, potentially under the [[Ratnik (program)|Ratnik program]].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://tass.com/defense/952393 |title=Russia completes trials of newest assault rifle for 'soldier of the future' combat gear |date=20 June 2017 |website=TASS |access-date=6 July 2017 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://archive.today/20170706001215/http://tass.com/defense/952393 |archive-date=6 July 2017}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.defenseworld.net/news/19772/Kalashnikov_AK_12_Assault_Rifle_Passes_Field_Trials |title=Kalashnikov AK-12 Assault Rifle Passes Field Trials |date=5 July 2017 |website=Defense World |access-date=6 July 2017 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://archive.today/20170706001458/http://www.defenseworld.net/news/19772/Kalashnikov_AK_12_Assault_Rifle_Passes_Field_Trials%23.WV2A-9LLfK4 |archive-date=6 July 2017}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.janes.com/article/72007/ |title=AK-12 assault rifle passes field tests |last=Wilk |first=Remigiusz |date=4 July 2017 |website=IHS Jane's 360 |access-date=6 July 2017 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://archive.today/20170706001404/http://www.janes.com/article/72007/ak-12-assault-rifle-passes-field-tests |archive-date=6 July 2017}}</ref> Both AK-12 and AK-15 completed testing in December 2017. In January 2018 it was announced that the AK-12 and AK-15 have been adopted by the Russian military.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.thefirearmblog.com/blog/2018/01/30/breaking-russian-army-adopts-ak-12-ak-15-aek-971-aek-973-rifles-military-service-real-time/ |title=BREAKING: Russian Army Adopts AK-12, AK-15, AEK-971, and AEK-973 Rifles for Military Service (For Real This Time) |date=30 January 2018 |website=The Firearm Blog |access-date=9 February 2018 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20180604181524/http://www.thefirearmblog.com/blog/2018/01/30/breaking-russian-army-adopts-ak-12-ak-15-aek-971-aek-973-rifles-military-service-real-time/ |archive-date=4 June 2018 |url-status=live}}</ref>

==Users==
<!--READ FIRST: The users list is a list of countries, armed forces, or other groups using the weapon. An individual user does not qualify for inclusion in the list. This section is for cited entries only. Please do not add entries into this list without a citation from a source. All entries without a citation will be removed. Thank you.-->

[[File:AK-74 Users.svg|thumb|439x439px|A map with AK-74 users in blue and former users in red]]
*{{flagcountry|Afghanistan}} Nicknamed the "Kalakov".<ref name="Krinkov: The definite origin">{{cite web |url=http://www.thefirearmblog.com/blog/2016/01/18/krinkov-the-definite-origin/ |title=Krinkov: The definite origin |website=The Firearm Blog |date=2016-01-18 |access-date=2016-11-30 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161205043907/http://www.thefirearmblog.com/blog/2016/01/18/krinkov-the-definite-origin/ |archive-date=2016-12-05 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="jones2009">{{cite book |last=Jones |first=Richard D. |date=January 27, 2009 |title=Jane's Infantry Weapons 2009/2010 |edition=35th |location=[[Coulsdon]], UK |publisher=[[Jane's Information Group]] |isbn=978-0-7106-2869-5}}</ref>
* {{flag|Angola}}<ref name="jones2009" />
* {{flag|Armenia}}: AK-74 used by [[Armed Forces of Armenia]] but being replaced by the AK-12 and AK-15.<ref name="jones2009" />
* {{flag|Azerbaijan}}:<ref name="jones2009"/> AK-74M manufactured under license by the [[Ministry of Defence Industry of Azerbaijan]].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://en.apa.az/news.php?id=151080 |title=Azerbaijan starts serial production of AK-74M assault rifles basing on Russian license |first=Rashad |last=Suleymanov |date=7 July 2011 |website=Azeri Press Agency |access-date=2011-08-14 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110823115115/http://en.apa.az/news.php?id=151080 |archive-date=2011-08-23 |url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.upi.com/Business_News/Security-Industry/2011/07/12/Azerbaijan-begins-AK-74M-production/UPI-47161310488428/ |title=Azerbaijan begins AK-74M production |website=United Press International |date=12 July 2011 |access-date=2013-05-21 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110712214556/http://www.upi.com/Business_News/Security-Industry/2011/07/12/Azerbaijan-begins-AK-74M-production/UPI-47161310488428/ |archive-date=12 July 2011 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Azerbaijan starts production of Kalashnikovs |url=http://news.az/articles/politics/40014 |website=News.az |date=7 July 2011 |access-date=2013-05-21 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120318005149/http://news.az/articles/politics/40014 |archive-date=18 March 2012 |url-status=dead}}</ref>
* {{flag|Belarus}}<ref name="jones2009"/>
* {{flag|Burundi}}: Used by Burundian rebels.<ref name ='SAS 2007 6'>{{cite book |url=http://www.smallarmssurvey.org/publications/by-type/yearbook/small-arms-survey-2007.html |chapter-url=https://www.smallarmssurvey.org/sites/default/files/resources/Small-Arms-Survey-2007-Chapter-06-EN.pdf |chapter=Armed Violence in Burundi: Conflict and Post-Conflict Bujumbura |title=The Small Arms Survey 2007: Guns and the City |publisher=[[Cambridge University Press]] |year=2007 |author=[[Small Arms Survey]] |page=204 |isbn=978-0-521-88039-8 |access-date=2018-08-29 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180827001033/http://www.smallarmssurvey.org/publications/by-type/yearbook/small-arms-survey-2007.html |archive-date=2018-08-27 |url-status=live}}</ref>
* {{flag|Chad}}<ref name="jones2009" />
* {{flag|Cyprus}}: AK-74M used by the [[Cypriot National Guard]].<ref name="Review">{{cite magazine |url=http://www.smallarmsreview.com/display.article.cfm?idarticles=1301 |title=The 100-Series Kalashnikovs: A Primer |first=N.R. |last=Jenzen-Jones |magazine=Small Arms Review |volume=16 |issue=3 |date=September 2012 |access-date=2019-03-06 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190306235358/http://www.smallarmsreview.com/display.article.cfm?idarticles=1301 |archive-date=2019-03-06 |url-status=live}}</ref>
* {{flag|Cuba}}: Standard issue assault rifle.<ref name="vegas">[http://www.juventudrebelde.cu/cuba/2016-11-17/los-jovenes-en-la-vanguardia-defensiva/ Los jóvenes en la vanguardia defensiva]</ref>
* {{EGY}}: AK-74M used by [[El-Sa'ka Forces]].<ref>McNab, Chris (2002). ''Modern Military Uniforms''. p. 145.</ref>
* {{flag|Estonia}}<ref name="jones2009" />
* {{flag|Georgia}}: In use alongside the [[M4 carbine]] in service in Georgia. Being phased out by AR-15 platform rifles.<ref name="jones2009"/>
* {{flag|Greece}}: AK-74M <ref name="jones2009" />
* {{flag|Guatemala}}: AKS-74U<ref name="jones2009"/>
* {{flag|Ivory Coast}}<ref>{{cite book |title=Identifier les sources d'approvisionnement: Les munitions de petit calibre en Côte d'Ivoire |url=http://www.smallarmssurvey.org/fileadmin/docs/C-Special-reports/SAS-SR21-CotedIvoire-FR.pdf |first=Holger |last=Anders |date=June 2014 |publisher=[[Small Arms Survey]] and [[United Nations Operation in Côte d'Ivoire]] |isbn=978-2-940-548-05-7 |page=15 |language=fr |access-date=2018-09-05 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181009093415/http://www.smallarmssurvey.org/fileadmin/docs/C-Special-reports/SAS-SR21-CotedIvoire-FR.pdf |archive-date=2018-10-09 |url-status=dead}}</ref>
* {{flag|Kazakhstan}}<ref name="jones2009" />
* {{flag|Kyrgyzstan}}<ref name="jones2009" />
* {{flag|Laos}}: Seen during the 50th National Day military parade.{{cn|date=February 2026}}
* {{flag|Latvia}}<ref name="jones2009" />
* {{flag|Lebanon}}: Used by [[Internal Security Forces|Police]].<ref name="mcmanners2003">{{cite book |last=McManners |first=Hugh |date=2003 |title=Ultimate Special Forces |location=New York City |publisher=DK Publishing, Inc |isbn=0-7894-9973-8}}</ref>
* {{flag|Lesotho}}<ref name="Beyond Blue Helmets">{{cite book |title=Beyond Blue Helmets: Promoting Weapons and Ammunition Management in Non-UN Peace Operations |first=Eric G. |last=Berman |publisher=[[Small Arms Survey]]/MPOME |date=March 2019 |url=http://www.smallarmssurvey.org/fileadmin/docs/U-Reports/SAS-MPOME-Report-WAM-Non-UN-Peace-Ops.pdf |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190603103636/http://www.smallarmssurvey.org/fileadmin/docs/U-Reports/SAS-MPOME-Report-WAM-Non-UN-Peace-Ops.pdf |url-status=dead |archive-date=June 3, 2019 |page=43}}</ref>
* {{flag|Libya}}<ref name="jones2009" />
* {{flag|Lithuania}}: AKS-74 and AK-74M.<ref name="jones2009" />
* {{flag|Madagascar}}<ref name="jones2009" />
* {{flag|Moldova}}<ref name="jones2009" />
* {{flag|Mongolia}}<ref name="jones2009" />
* {{flag|Myanmar}}: Some received from Russia, possibly supplied for trials<ref>{{cite magazine |title=The military rifle cartridges of Burma/Myanmar |first=Paul |last=Scarlata |magazine=[[Shotgun News]] |url=https://www.thefreelibrary.com/The+military+rifle+cartridges+of+Burma%2FMyanmar.-a0288876068 |date=May 2012 |access-date=2018-11-27 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181128075329/https://www.thefreelibrary.com/The+military+rifle+cartridges+of+Burma%2FMyanmar.-a0288876068 |archive-date=2018-11-28 |url-status=live}}</ref>
* {{flag|Nigeria}}<ref name="jones2009" />
* {{flag|North Korea}}:<ref name="Weapon">{{cite book |title=North Korea Country Handbook 1997, Appendix A: Equipment Recognition |chapter=AK-74 Assault Rifle |page=A-75 |author=US Department of Defense |chapter-url=https://fas.org/nuke/guide/dprk/nkor.pdf |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20000816185605/http://www.fas.org/nuke/guide/dprk/nkor.pdf |archive-date=2000-08-16 |url-status=live}}</ref> Manufactured locally as the [[Type 88 assault rifle]].<ref>{{cite magazine |title=North Korean Small Arms (Democratic People's Republic of Korea) |magazine=Small Arms Review |volume=16 |issue=2 |date=June 2012 |url=https://smallarmsreview.com/display.article.cfm?idarticles=1108 |access-date=2019-02-03 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190202212301/https://smallarmsreview.com/display.article.cfm?idarticles=1108 |archive-date=2019-02-02 |url-status=live}}</ref> Sources suggest that it was made with technical assistance from China.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Iannamico |first=Frank |title=DPRK's AKs: Inside the Shadowy World of North Korean AK Rifles |url=https://www.tactical-life.com/firearms/rifles/north-korean-ak-rifles/|date=September 11, 2018 |website=Tactical Life|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200819203028/https://www.tactical-life.com/firearms/rifles/north-korean-ak-rifles/ |archive-date=19 August 2020 }}</ref> Initially used steel magazines before plastic versions were adopted.{{sfnp|Mitzer|Oliemans|2020|p=31}} Helical-based magazines used for the Type 88 first appeared publicly back in 2014.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://armamentresearch.com/north-korean-helical-ak-magazines/ | title=North Korean Helical AK Magazines - Armament Research Services (ARES) | date=4 February 2014 }}</ref>
* {{flag|Pakistan}}<ref name="jones2009" />
* {{flag|Romania}}: Manufactured locally as the [[PA md. 86]].<ref name="popenker">{{cite web |url=http://world.guns.ru/assault/as02-e.htm |title=Kalashnikov AK-74, AKS-74 and AK-74M assault rifles (USSR/Russia) |website=Modern Firearms |access-date=16 November 2014 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100914205748/http://world.guns.ru/assault/as02-e.htm |archive-date=14 September 2010}}</ref>
* {{flagu|Russia}}: The AK-74M is currently the main service rifle in the [[Russian Ground Forces|Russian Army]],<ref name="popenker"/> and being supplemented by the newer [[AK-12]].<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://tass.com/defense/987424 |title=Advanced Kalashnikov assault rifles accepted for service in Russian troops |date=29 January 2018 |website=TASS |access-date=2018-02-03 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180204041828/http://tass.com/defense/987424 |archive-date=2018-02-04 |url-status=live}}</ref>
* {{flag|Rwanda}}<ref name="jones2009" />
* {{flag|Somalia}}: AK-74 and AK-74M <ref name="jones2009" />
* {{flagdeco|Syrian opposition}} [[Syria]]: AK-74, AKS-74 and AK-74M<ref name="Calibre Obscura">{{Cite web|url=https://www.calibreobscura.com/idlibi-innovation-bullpup-kalashnikovs-of-syria/|title=Idlibi Innovation: Bullpup Kalashnikovs of the Syrian Conflict|date=1 April 2019|website=www.calibreobscura.com}}</ref>
* {{flag|Tajikistan}}<ref name="jones2009" />
* {{flag|Turkmenistan}}: AK-74 and AKS-74 used by [[Turkmenistan Ground Forces]] but being replaced by the [[Beretta ARX160]].<ref name="jones2009" />
* {{flag|Ukraine}}<ref name="jones2009" />
* {{flag|Uzbekistan}}<ref name="jones2009" />
* {{flag|Yemen}}<ref name="jones2009" />
* {{flag|Zambia}}<ref name="jones2009" />

===Former users===
[[File:German soldiers bearing MPi-AKS-74N.jpg|right|thumb|German soldiers with MPi-AKS-74N rifles. Germany inherited East German-made AK-74 variants after [[German reunification]].]]
* {{flag|Artsakh}}<ref>{{cite book |title=Civil wars of the world: major conflicts since World War II |date=2007 |publisher=ABC-CLIO |location=Santa Barbara, Calif |isbn=978-1-85109-920-7 |page=149 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=ROTNEAAAQBAJ |access-date=27 October 2025}}</ref>
* {{flag|Bulgaria}}: AK-74, AKS-74 and AKS-74U used by the [[Bulgarian Armed Forces]], produced locally. Phased out in the military in favor of the older [[AK-47]] and [[AKM]] rifles, presumably because of the wider availability of [[7.62×39mm|7.62x39mm]] in Bulgaria. Some were inherited by the [[Ministry of Interior (Bulgaria)|Ministry of Interior]] but were "banned from police use" in the 90s.<ref>{{Cite web |last=pari.bg |date=1994-01-31 |title=Забраненият убиец |url=https://www.dnevnik.bg/print/arhiv_pari/1994/02/01/1375230_zabraneniiat_ubiec/ |access-date=2025-03-16 |website=www.dnevnik.bg |language=bg}}</ref>
* {{flag|Chechen Republic of Ichkeria}}: AK-74, AKS-74 and AK-74M.<ref name="jones2009" />
* {{flag|Croatia}}:<ref>{{cite report |url=https://salw-guide.bicc.de/pdf/countries/100/croatia.min.en.pdf |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201025181428/https://salw-guide.bicc.de/pdf/countries/100/croatia.min.en.pdf |archive-date=2020-10-25 |url-status=live |title=SALW Guide: Croatia, Country report |publisher=[[Bonn International Centre for Conflict Studies]]}}</ref> MPi-AKS-74N used by [[Croatian Armed Forces]], obtained from Germany.
* {{flag|East Germany}}: Manufactured locally as the MPi-AK-74N, MPi-AKS-74N, and MPi-AKS-74NK.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://weaponland.ru/load/avtomat_shturmovaja_vintovka_serii_mpi_k_mpi_ak/10-1-0-31 |title=Автомат (штурмовая винтовка) серии MPi-K / MPi-AK |trans-title=Automatic (assault rifle) MPi-K / MPi-AK series |language=ru |website=Weaponland.ru |access-date=2017-02-20 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170501171257/http://weaponland.ru/load/avtomat_shturmovaja_vintovka_serii_mpi_k_mpi_ak/10-1-0-31 |archive-date=2017-05-01 |url-status=live}}</ref> 171,925 AK-74s in 1991.<ref name ='SAS 2001'>{{cite book |url=http://www.smallarmssurvey.org/publications/by-type/yearbook/small-arms-survey-2001.html |chapter-url=http://www.smallarmssurvey.org/fileadmin/docs/A-Yearbook/2001/en/Small-Arms-Survey-2001-Chapter-02-EN.pdf |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120526235758/http://www.smallarmssurvey.org/fileadmin/docs/A-Yearbook/2001/en/Small-Arms-Survey-2001-Chapter-02-EN.pdf |archive-date=2012-05-26 |url-status=live |chapter=Half a Billion and Still Counting: Global Firearms Stockpiles |title=Small Arms Survey 2011: Profiling the Problem |publisher=[[Oxford University Press]] |year=2015 |author=[[Small Arms Survey]] |ref={{harvid|Small Arms Survey 2001}} |page=75 |access-date=2018-08-29 }}</ref>
* {{flag|Germany}}: In storage.
* {{flag|Soviet Union}}: First used during the [[Soviet–Afghan War]] in 1979.<ref name="marchington2004">{{cite book |last=Marchington |first=James |date=2004 |title=The Encyclopedia of Handheld Weapons |location=Miami|publisher=Lewis International |isbn=1-930983-14-X}}</ref>

===States with limited recognition===
* {{flag|Abkhazia}}<ref>{{cite web |author=Bemil |url=http://bemil.chosun.com/nbrd/gallery/view.html?b_bbs_id=10044&num=113073 |script-title=ko:신생 압하지야공화국 군의 퍼레이드 |trans-title=Parade of the forces of the new Abkhaz Republic |language=ko |website=[[The Chosun Ilbo]] |date=2008-10-17 |access-date=2017-08-05 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170806022353/http://bemil.chosun.com/nbrd/gallery/view.html?b_bbs_id=10044&num=113073 |archive-date=2017-08-06 |url-status=live}}</ref>
* {{DNR}}<ref name="ARES">{{cite web |url=https://armamentresearch.com/Uploads/Research%20Report%20No.%203%20-%20Raising%20Red%20Flags.pdf |title=Raising Red Flags: An Examination of Arms & Munitions in the Ongoing Conflict in Ukraine |first1=Jonathan |last1=Ferguson |first2=N.R. |last2=Jenzen-Jones |name-list-style=amp |date=November 2014 |website=[[Armament Research Services]] (ARES) |access-date=26 October 2021|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20230404035759/https://armamentresearch.com/Uploads/Research%20Report%20No.%203%20-%20Raising%20Red%20Flags.pdf|archive-date=April 4, 2023}}</ref>
* {{flag|Luhansk People's Republic}}<ref name="ARES"/>
* {{flag|South Ossetia}}<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.rferl.org/a/russia-south-ossetia-army-incorportation/28379998.html|title=Caucasus Report: Putin Green Lights South Ossetian Units In Russian Army|first=Liz|last=Fuller|newspaper=Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty |date=20 March 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230125050238/http://www.rferl.org/a/russia-south-ossetia-army-incorportation/28379998.html |archive-date=25 January 2023 |url-status=live|via=www.rferl.org}}</ref>
* {{flag|Transnistria}}<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.oryxspioenkop.com/2020/09/transnistria-shows-off-military.html|title=The Victory Day Parade That Everyone Forgot|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220709195309/https://www.oryxspioenkop.com/2020/09/transnistria-shows-off-military.html |archive-date=9 July 2022 }}</ref>

===Non-state users===
* [[File:Aum_symbol.svg|22px]] [[Aum Shinrikyo]]: Some manufactured by the cult.<ref>{{Cite web | url = https://www.jiji.com/sp/d4?p=ojk428-jlp05755197&d=d4_mili| title = 押収銃器 | publisher = [[Jiji Press]]| access-date = 2024-03-04}}</ref> Only one was completed before police raided their covert manufacturing facilities.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.moj.go.jp/psia/aumarchive/keyword/ | title=キーワードで知る }}</ref>
* {{flag|Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant}}: Used by Islamic State terrorists (also seen in many Islamic State Propaganda videos)<ref>{{Cite web |date=2015-02-19 |title=From Russia with Love, Syria's AK-74Ms |url=https://www.bellingcat.com/news/mena/2015/02/19/from-russia-with-love-syrias-ak-74ms/|access-date=2021-02-28 |website=[[Bellingcat]] |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221216080053/https://www.bellingcat.com/news/mena/2015/02/19/from-russia-with-love-syrias-ak-74ms/ |archive-date=16 December 2022 }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2019-04-30 |title=IS leader appears in video for first time in 5 years |url=https://apnews.com/article/ea84ec09dcd74b0e9de73a164d6d2cc0 |access-date=2021-02-28 |website=AP News}}</ref>
* {{flagicon image|Flag of Kurdistan Workers' Party.svg}} [[Kurdistan Workers' Party]]<ref>{{cite web |last1=Noir |first1=War |title=Weapons Used and Captured by the PKK in 2021 |url=https://www.militantwire.com/p/weapons-used-by-the-pkk-in-2021 |website=www.militantwire.com |access-date=7 February 2026 |language=en}}</ref><ref name="PKK">{{cite tweet |author=War Noir |user=war_noir |number=1746958509491564628|title=#Turkey / N. #Iraq 🇹🇷🇮🇶: #PKK released video of their attack on TAF position which resulted in death of several soldiers of Commando Brigade. The group used several AK-74 rifles with a rare AGM Rattler TS50-640 thermal scope. MPT-55 rifles and a PKM machine gun captured. |language=en |date= 15 January 2024|access-date=4 February 2024 |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/JaGN3|archive-date=4 February 2024|url-status=live}}</ref>
* {{flagicon image|Tamil Tiger flag.png}} [[Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam]]: Used during the [[Sri Lankan civil war|Sri Lankan Civil War]] between 1983 and 2009.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.scribd.com/document/102984735/Dossier-on-LTTE-Weapons |title=Dossier on LTTE Weapons {{!}} Military Technology {{!}} Projectile Weapons |website=Scribd |access-date=2018-09-17|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20221123065501/https://www.scribd.com/document/102984735/Dossier-on-LTTE-Weapons|archive-date= November 23, 2022}}</ref>
* [[Lord's Resistance Army]]<ref name='SAS 2006 11'>{{cite book |url=http://www.smallarmssurvey.org/publications/by-type/yearbook/small-arms-survey-2006.htm |chapter-url=http://www.smallarmssurvey.org/fileadmin/docs/A-Yearbook/2006/en/Small-Arms-Survey-2006-Chapter-11-EN.pdf |chapter=Fuelling Fear: The Lord's Resistance Army and Small Arms |title=Small Arms Survey 2006: Unfinished Business |publisher=[[Oxford University Press]] |year=2006 |author=[[Small Arms Survey]] |page=283 |isbn=978-0-19-929848-8 |access-date=2018-08-29 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180830005010/http://www.smallarmssurvey.org/publications/by-type/yearbook/small-arms-survey-2006.html |archive-date=2018-08-30 |url-status=dead}}</ref>
* [[File:Provisional Irish Republican Army Badge.svg|20px]] [[Provisional IRA]]<ref>{{Cite web |title=AK-74 Kalakov infographic |url=https://www.graphicnews.com/en/pages/00899/ak-74-kalakov|access-date=2022-11-11 |website=Graphic News |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230105004153/https://www.graphicnews.com/en/pages/00899/ak-74-kalakov |archive-date=5 January 2023 |language=en}}</ref>

==See also==
{{Portal|History|Soviet Union|Russia}}
* [[M16 rifle]]
* [[Comparison of the AK-47 and M16#AK-74 vs M16A2|Comparison of the AK-74 vs. M16A2]]
* [[Pușcă Automată model 1986]]

==Notes==
<!-- This article uses [[Wikipedia:Footnotes]]. Please use this format when adding references to material in the article. External links added directly to this section will be swiftly deleted without notice. -->
{{Reflist}}

===References===
* {{cite book |last=Cutshaw |first=Charlie |year=1998 |title=The New World of Russian Small Arms & Ammo |publisher=Paladin Press |location=Boulder, Colo. |isbn=978-0-87364-993-3}}
* {{cite book |last=Kokalis |first=Peter |year=2001 |title=Weapons Tests and Evaluations: The Best of Soldier of Fortune |publisher=Paladin Press |location=Boulder, Colo. |isbn=978-1-58160-122-0}}
* {{cite book |last=McNab |first=Chris |year=2001 |title=The AK47 (Weapons of War) |publisher=Spellmount Publishers |location=Staplehurst, UK |isbn=978-1-86227-116-6}}
* {{cite book |last1=Mitzer |first1= Stijn |last2=Oliemans |first2=Joost |date= 2020|title=The Armed Forces of North Korea: On the Path of Songun|publisher=Helion and Company|isbn=978-1910777145}}
* {{cite book |last=Walter |first=John |year=2006 |title=Rifles of the World |edition=3rd |publisher=Krause Publications |location=Iola, Wis. |isbn=978-0-89689-241-5}}
* {{cite book |last=Woźniak |first=Ryszard |year=2001 |pages=25–29 |title=Encyklopedia najnowszej broni palnej – tom 1 A-F |publisher=Bellona |location=Warsaw, Poland |isbn=978-83-11-09149-8 |language=pl}}
* {{cite book |last=Monetchikov |first=Sergei |script-title=ru:История русского автомата |trans-title=The History of Russian Assault Rifle |year=2005 |publisher=[[Military Historical Museum of Artillery, Engineers and Signal Corps]] |location=St. Petersburg |isbn=978-5-98655-006-0 |language=ru}}

==External links==
{{Commons and category|AK-74|AK-74}}
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20150402153725/http://kalashnikovconcern.ru/en/product/product_88.html Kalashnikov Concern/Izhmash—manufacturer's website 5.45 mm Assault Rifle AK74M]
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20100109141220/http://www.tulatoz.ru/en/milaksu74.html Tula Arms Plant—makers of the AKS-74U carbine]
* [http://modernfirearms.net/assault/rus/ak-74-e.html Modern Firearms – AK-74/AKS-74/AK-74M]
* [http://modernfirearms.net/assault/rus/aks-74u-e.html Modern Firearm – AKS-74U]
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20170826030806/http://www.zastava-arms.rs/sr/militaryproduct/automat-m92 Zastava M92]
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20230404035800/http://sovposters.ru//2009/12/21/062231_ak74m.jpg Technical data, instructional images and diagrams of the AK-47M {{in lang|ru}}]
* [http://russianguns.ru/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/2501606.jpg russianguns.ru] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160808034506/http://russianguns.ru/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/2501606.jpg |date=2016-08-08}}
* [https://archive.org/details/DDRMaschinenpistoleAK74UndLeichtesMaschinengewehrPPK74BeschreibungUndNutzung198549S.Scan 1985 East German AK-74 and RPK-74 Manual]

{{AK47 derivatives}}
{{Personal defense weapons}}
{{Modern Russian Infantry Weapons}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:AK-74}}
[[Category:Weapons and ammunition introduced in 1974]]
[[Category:5.45×39mm assault rifles]]
[[Category:Infantry weapons of the Cold War]]
[[Category:Kalashnikov derivatives]]
[[Category:Military equipment introduced in the 1970s]]
[[Category:Rifles of the Cold War]]
[[Category:Assault rifles of the Soviet Union]]
[[Category:Kalashnikov Concern products]]
[[Category:Assault rifles of Russia]]
[[Category:Long stroke piston firearms]]