[IDEX 2025] The New AK-12/15K and AK-12/15SK Rifles
As the AK-12 assault rifles evolve, new models have been introduced to cater to modern trends favoring shorter rifles for urban operations. Recently, Kalashnikov Concern launched the compact models AK-12/15K and AK-12/15SK. These rifles were showcased alongside the entire AK-12 family at the International Defense Exhibition and Conference (IDEX) 2025.
The latest additions to the AK-12 family maintain all the essential features of the original AK-12 but in a more compact design. Given Russia's experiences with urban and trench warfare during the Russo-Ukraine War, shorter rifles are increasingly suited to these specific needs.
All firearms go through developmental stages, and any initial issues are typically resolved in various versions of newer iterations. The AK-12 is no exception to this process; different adopted versions of the AK-12 include upgrades and fixes for previously encountered problems. Significant changes were made to the AK-12 program leading up to its adoption in 2015.
The first design of the AK-12 underwent only minor modifications until the Russo-Ukraine conflict in 2022, prompting more rapid and urgent changes than during peacetime. One of the most noticeable upgrades is the rear sight. This improvement introduced a peep aperture sight, which many consider a positive development. Additionally, the sight was moved to the rear of the receiver, and ambidextrous safety was introduced as part of these enhancements.
I was not granted permission to enter the main Kalashnikov Concerns exhibit area to show a better shot of the AK-12K and AK-12SK. Photo by Lynndon Schooler.
The AK-12K has an 11.4-inch (290 mm) barrel, while the AK-12SK has an even shorter barrel at 8.9 inches. For comparison, the full-size AK-12 features a 16.3-inch (415 mm) barrel. This lineup presents an interesting alternative, particularly considering the AM-17 barrel length of 9.1 inches (230 mm). The AK-12SK is a modern replacement for the well-known AKS-74U, which remains in use by the security forces of the Russian Ministry of Internal Affairs.
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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
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If 5.56 is like 5.45, having a barrel less than 9 inches is a very bad idea for AK-12SK. You're reducing the velocity by a massive amount.