AK-12 Proposed Design Improvements and Changes
The AK-12 is a modern iteration of the iconic Kalashnikov that has undergone significant changes since its inception. Designed to meet Russian Army needs, the AK-12 features several enhancements to improve its functionality and adaptability. Kalashnikov Concern has diligently worked on the finalized version of the AK-12, reflecting a commitment to continual refinement over the years. In line with this dedication, the organization is developing further iterations of the AK-12, culminating in the 2023 model, focusing on operational feedback from military use. These prospective advancements may enhance ergonomics and overall performance in diverse combat environments.
While researching, I came across third-party designs aimed at improving the AK-12. One notable proposed feature is the last-round bolt hold-open follower, referenced by patent number RU 2723931 C1. This is not a new concept for AKs, though Russian AKs never picked it up. While this may appear a simple fix, it is a critical addition. This feature notifies the operator when the gun has fired its last round, prompting them to reload. It is an efficient solution because it eliminates the issue of hearing a click when the operator needs to focus on hearing the weapon fire. Implementing this feature would involve swapping the followers while utilizing the existing magazines. This feature may later influence new requirements for future weapons to require a bolt catch; this feature was an original feature in the initial 2012 AK-12 but was later nixed.
Another third-party proposed modification is a short-stroke piston system kit. This kit would convert the AK-12 into a short-stroke-operated system by replacing the carrier with a proprietary carrier assembly and a spring and piston assembly. This system would improve suppressor use for those built with traditional baffle designs: reduced gas blowback and cleaner operation. A modern low back pressure design, such as the Dead Air Silencers Wolverine, Resilient Suppressors Putnik, or Huxwrx Ventum 762, would completely negate this need.
Lynndon Schooler is an open-source weapons intelligence professional with a background as an infantryman in the US Army. His experience includes working as a gunsmith and production manager in firearm manufacturing, as well as serving as an armorer, consultant, and instructor in nonstandard weapons. His articles have been published in Small Arms Review and the Small Arms Defence Journal. https://www.instagram.com/lynndons
More by Lynndon Schooler
Comments
Join the conversation
Yugoslavia had already made AK magazines that could hold the bolt, but the army later abandoned the idea, apparently thinking it was not worth it. This type of Yugo AK magazines are still sold in the civilian market.
Yes, this type of Yugo AK magazine will automatically release the bolt when the magazine is removed. It doesn't do much other than alert the shooter that they've run out of ammo.
But unless you are looking for a subtle speed advantage in a competition, I personally think that pulling the bolt handle by hand to load the chamber will not cause too much trouble in actual combat compared to the AR-style bolt release button.
In fact, this is also helpful for training new recruits and simplifying operations, because you only need to tell them that after loading the magazine, they just need to pull the bolt handle, and there is no need to tell them what the bolt release button is used for.
The Chinese have also long produced a short-stroke AK, called the Type 81. Because of the ban on importing Chinese guns, it is difficult to see them in the United States. Canadians imported some in the past, but Canada’s gun laws have changed recently, and I don’t know where those Chinese Type 81 rifles have gone.
The Forgotten Weapons Channel and Alex from TFB TV have both introduced the Type 81 Rifle imported into Canada.
I have heard some records of Type 81 being used in Indochina, especially in the Burmese civil war, and exported to Sri Lanka, and they have received good reviews. But maintenance is more troublesome than the traditional long-stroke AK.