Kalashnikov machinegun - one for the Armed Forces

A single Kalashnikov machine gun is not just a powerful, but also very maneuverable, comfortable weapon. Easy to learn the use is due to the similarity of a number of nodes with the automatic machine of all the same Kalashnikov. This is one of the reasons why it is in service not only in the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation, but also in other countries of the world. In addition, the advantages can be attributed also to the relatively small size and weight and high accuracy of fire. Tape left-handed power and replaceable barrel can allow shooting without interruption.

History of creation and commissioning

After the Second World War, Soviet engineers faced the problem of creating a universal and modern weapon on tape feed. It should have been a powerful machine gun, which would have the advantages of manual. The latter include maneuverability and ease of use. It was decided to create a single machine gun, which would become the basis of armament. Until this time, from 1943 until 1961, SG-43 and RAP were in use, requiring modernization and replacement. Then a new single Kalashnikov machine gun was adopted, and another similar model developed by Sokolov and Nikitin competing with him. The new system used in this weapon was fundamentally different from that of previous analogs. The main differences between the PCs are simpler manufacturing and reliable maintenance, because it is very important that even in the rain the gun remains combat-ready.

Device and automation

The Kalashnikov machine gun is automatic, which is based on the principle of complete removal of the powder gases after a shot through the side holes located in the wall of the trunk. Just under the last one there is a gas chamber, and not from the side. It has three main fixed positions of the regulator. The trunk distinguishes its mount in the receiver, it is quick-detachable, which facilitates the assembly / disassembly of the machine gun, as well as its replacement. A foldable handle makes it easier to separate. Improved heat dissipation is provided by additional longitudinal ribs. The flame arrester in the original factory version was conical, but later replaced by a more efficient cylindrical one. The Kalashnikov machine gun has almost the same cartridge gate as the machine gun. Locking is done by turning it. An important element of the automation of the PC is the shutter frame, which is connected to the piston rod. In the channel there is a return-fighting spring. Even with intensive shooting, the handle remains stationary, as it is not firmly connected with the bolt frame. The trigger is adapted for exceptionally continuous fire. Directly to the receiver are attached butt and pistol grip, in the first there is everything necessary for cleaning and lubrication of the gun. The ribbon is fed to the left, the box with them is attached from below. The Kalashnikov modernized machine gun differs from the original with only a smaller mass.

Varieties

The main variations of this machine gun are related to the purpose. A standard PC installed on a tripod is called "machine". And if a bracket is used, for example on an armored personnel carrier, then the gun is called "armored vehicles", or "PCB". The machine itself makes shooting easier, making the machine gun more mobile. The PCB also includes bipods and buttstocks, this is necessary in case of using the gun outside the armored personnel carrier. There is another version - a Kalashnikov tank machine gun, which is used in armored vehicles with a turret. It has an electrospin and a heavier barrel.