Though modern perception of Chinese made products is generally poor, or of cheap quality, nothing could be further from the truth in regards to Chinese manufactured AK pattern rifles, known as the "Type 56".   History of Chinese of AK-47s After the development of the AK (AK-47), the Soviet Union shared its small arms technology with many countries of similar ideologies. Almost every country in the Warsaw Pact licensed and produced AK-47s and in 1955, China joined the party and also made a deal with the Soviet Union to develop Kalashnikovs as well as the popular SKS r ..read more

If you’ve spent any amount of time in the AK world, you have no doubt run into the 5.45 master race. I was drawn in by stories of the Afghan war and the havoc the 5.45x39 would reap on soft targets. The idea of a soft shooting and devastating AK cartridge was very appealing. Once the move was made to ban the import of surplus 7N6 ammo from Russia, it became the forbidden fruit that I had to have. Fast forward to 2018. I finally got my hands on an AK-74. The rifle was built by Riley Defense off a Bulgarian kit. I was very excited to take the rifle out the first time and see what all the hype wa ..read more

Few rifles are as iconic as the AK-47. It is the most widely used rifle on the face of the earth and has been used by America’s enemies and allies alike. While some see the rifle as a symbol of terror, others see it as a symbol of defense and vigilance; so much so that the country of Mozambique has chosen to feature the AK-47 on its nation’s flag. As famous, or possibly infamous, as the AK platform rifles might be, there is a rich history of innovation success on the battlefield that few other rifles hold.   The Beginnings During the closing years of WWII, the Soviet army took note of the ..read more

In 1945, Mikhail Kalashnikov began design on what would arguably become the most prolific, identifiable, iconic, and most produced weapons platform in history, the Avtomat Kalashnikova, known today as the AK-47.  Variants of the Kalashnikov have been produced by over 30 countries around the world and utilized in nearly every conflict since its introduction.  From the original Type 1 design to the many nations and factories who have varied it with their own influence, the rich history of the platform is beyond captivating and undeniable.  If you are equally fascinated with the ic ..read more

Looking for some great additional reading and wonderful AK resources?  Well, look no further.  Not listed in any particular order, but curated all in one place just for you, we have compiled this great list of popular reads!  If your on the hunt for Kalashnikov literature, you will enjoy every one of the books listed below!!!   The Grim Reaper (Frank Iannamico) Often referred to as the "Bible" of AK books, The Grim Reaper is the most definitive study on Kalashnikov pattern rifles to date boasting over 1,100 printed pages covering the AK rifle, as well as its variants manufa ..read more

Interesting Facts and Tidbits about the Kalashnikov AK-47   1.   Incorrect Naming  The term AK-47 is the incorrect nomenclature.  It is actually called the "AK" for Avtomat Kalashnikov (Automatic Kalashnikov) or simply "Kalashnikov" named after its designer Mikhail Kalashnikov.  The number "47" refers to the year the original design was introduced, but was never part of the actual designations.  The "AK" designation refers to the original Type 1 (original stamped receiver), Type 2 (original milled receiver), and Type 3 (milled receiver) designs.  All oth ..read more

Bulgaria, the once renowned arms supplier of the Soviet Union has gained a lot of notoriety because of its weapon manufacturing capabilities, especially the Kalashnikov variants. From massive world powers like India, to rebels and terrorist organizations all over the world, Bulgarian Kalashnikov variants have made their way into some of the most influential conflicts since its inception.  Let's take a look at the history and impact of the Bulgarian Kalashnikov variants on the world and the US consumer firearms market. History In the 1950s, when the Soviet Union was at its peak, the Bulg ..read more

  As we know, getting a correct and direct Soviet/Russian built AKM is nearly impossible in the United States due to decades of political turmoil between the two nations. However, there is a slight glimmer of hope for those who desire an authentic Kalashnikov. The Egyptian Maadi is a rifle that, for all intents and purposes, is an attainable and correct AKM that has been imported as a complete rifle to the United States. While these are still difficult to come by, they are out there and can be found with enough patience and money. How the AKM came to Egypt Following WWII, Egypt was left ..read more

  History In 1984, approximately one year after the import of the Clayco AKS, the second of the Chinese "pre-ban" AK's began importation to the United States.  The rifles were imported by Golden State Arms Distributors Inc. (G.S.A.D.) based out of Manhattan Beach CA.  These rifles are commonly referred to as the GSAD. Golden State Arms Distributors Inc. was established by Mr. Erik Berry in July of 1984 in the back of Beach Cities Armoury in Manhattan Beach CA. for the purpose of importation and distribution.  Beach Cities Armoury was one of several successful retail stores ..read more

  History The Clayco Sports AKS, often referred to simply as the "Clayco", was the first Chinese manufactured AKS to be imported to the United States, and only the second AK to be imported behind the Egyptian Steyr Maadi, imported about a year prior.   In 1980, the United States granted most-favored-nation (MFN) status to China increasing its trade relations with the world and ultimately paving the way for the importation of Chinese AK rifles.  In 1983, a company called Clayco Sports, in Clay Center Kansas imported the first samples of Chinese AK's, designate ..read more