Difference Between AK-47 and AK-74

It is an undeniable fact that weapons and arsenals are among such interesting topics which most of the people from all around the world like to discuss. Some sophisticated weapons like AK-47 and AK-74 are also not an exception to it.
Both AK-47 and AK-74 fall in the category of assault rifles. Although the category of both the rifles is identical but there are many disparities between them in terms of production history, specifications and features. The place of origin of both the rifles is the same i.e. Soviet Union but AK-47 is older in comparison of AK-74. It came into service in the year 1949, while AK-74 came into services in the year 1974. Both these rifles are in service at present.

Both AK-47 and AK-74 were designed by the same person but manufactured by Izhmash and Izhevsk Mechanical Works respectively. The weight of AK-47 rifle is 4.3kg (excluding the magazine). The weight of AK-74 will vary as per different models. The weight specifications for AK-74 are as follows:

• AK-74 – 3.03 kg (6.7 lb), AKS-74 – 2.97 kg (6.5 lb),
• AK-74M – 3.4 kg (7.5 lb) and AKS-74U – 2.5 kg (5.5 lb).
• The barrel length of AK-47 is 415 mm (16.3 inches). The barrel lengths for AK-74, AK-74M, AKS-74 are one and the same i.e. 415 mm (16.3 inches). The variation occurs in the case of AKS-74U ‘“ 210 mm (8.3 inches).

The cartridge of AK-47 is 7.62x39mm M43 and for AK-74 it is 5.45x39mm. Both these rifles are gas operated with a rotating bolt. The rate of fire with AK-47 will be 600 rounds/min, whereas with AK-74 the rate of fire will be 650 rounds/min (in case of, AK-74, AK-74M, AKS- 74). AKS-74U is far more sophisticated with 650-735 rounds/min.

The muzzle velocity of AK-47 is 715 m/s (2,346 ft/s), whereas for all the models of AK-74 (except AKS- 74U) it is about 900 m/s (2,953 ft/s). For AKS-74U, it is about 735 m/s (2,411.4 ft/s).

The features and feed system of AK-47 includes 30-round removable box (magazine). It is also compatible together with 40 round box as well as 75-round sophisticated drum magazines.

For AK-74 the feed system includes a removable box with 30- round proficiency & 45-round (RPK-74) separable box magazine. The features of this assault rifle include adjustable metallic parts, front post & rear nick mounted on a scaled tangent. For AKS -74U some special features like front cylindrical post & flip-up sights are provided.

Learn more about AK family of weapons.

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