The Kalashnikov assault rifle is a legendary weapon, known not only in Russia, but throughout the world. Its reliability, simplicity of design and combat characteristics made it one of the most common types of small arms. However, for owners of civilian weapons, hunters, collectors or simply curious citizens, the question often arises: how much does an AK with cartridges weigh?? This parameter is important for planning trips, transportation, and also for understanding the physical load during long-term wearing.
The weight of the machine depends on many factors: model (AK-47, AK-74, AK-12), cartridge type (5.45×39 mm, 7.62×39 mm), barrel and butt material, as well as additional equipment (magazines, bipods, optical sights). In this article, we will analyze the weight characteristics of the most popular modifications, learn how to calculate the total weight with ammunition, and give practical advice on optimizing the load.
Basic weight of a Kalashnikov assault rifle without cartridges
Let's start with the "bare" weight of the weapon - that is, without magazines, cartridges and additional accessories. This parameter varies depending on the model and materials. For example, classic AK-47 (1947 model) weighs more than modern versions due to the use of steel parts, while AK-12 Lightweight due to polymer elements.
Below are the average values for the most common modifications:
- 🔫 AK-47 (7.62×39 mm): 4.3 kg - a classic model with a wooden butt and a steel barrel.
- 🔫 AKM (upgraded, 7.62×39 mm): 3.14 kg - lightweight version with stamped steel receiver.
- 🔫 AK-74 (5.45×39 mm): 3.3 kg - standard weight for a military model with a plastic butt.
- 🔫 AK-12 (5.45×39 mm): 3.3 kg — a modern modification with improved ergonomics and polymer parts.
- 🔫 AK-103 (7.62×39 mm): 3.4 kg — export version, compatible with NATO cartridges.
Please note: weight may vary slightly depending on manufacturer and year of manufacture. For example, AK-74M (modernized) weighs 100–150 grams less due to the shortened barrel and folding butt.
Ammo weight: how to calculate ammunition
Cartridges are the main “load” when transporting a machine gun. Their weight depends on the caliber, type of bullet (regular, tracer, armor-piercing) and case material. Average values are usually used for calculations:
- 💥 Patron
7.62×39 mm(standard for AK-47/AKM): 16–18 g. - 💥 Patron
5.45×39 mm(for AK-74/AK-12): 10–12 g. - 💥 Patron
5.56×45 mm(NATO, used in AK-101/102): 11–13 g.
Standard store for AK-74 accommodates 30 rounds, and for AK-47 - also 30, but due to the larger caliber the total weight of the ammunition will be higher. For example:
- 📦 Store AK-74 (5.45×39, 30 rounds): ~360 g (30 × 12 g).
- 📦 Store AK-47 (7.62×39, 30 rounds): ~540 g (30 × 18 g).
Important: empty magazine weight is approx. 250–300 g (depending on the material - steel or plastic). So a complete store for AK-74 will weigh ~610–660 g, and for AK-47 — ~790–840 g.
For long hikes, use tape or unloading belts with pockets for magazines - this will distribute the load evenly over the body and reduce fatigue.
Total weight of the machine gun with full ammunition
Now let's combine the weight of the weapon and ammunition. Let's consider two-way scenarios: one full store and three spare magazines (standard ammunition for military operations).
| Model | Weight without cartridges | Weight of 1 magazine (30 cartridges) | Weight of 3 spare magazines | Total weight (1 + 3 magazines) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AK-47 | 4.3 kg | 0.8 kg | 2.4 kg | 7.5 kg |
| AKM | 3.14 kg | 0.8 kg | 2.4 kg | 6.34 kg |
| AK-74 | 3.3 kg | 0.65 kg | 1.95 kg | 5.9 kg |
| AK-12 | 3.3 kg | 0.65 kg | 1.95 kg | 5.9 kg |
As can be seen from the table, AK-74 and AK-12 gain weight due to lighter cartridges 5.45×39 mm. However, do not forget that in real conditions this weight is added to:
- 🎒 Carrying belt (100–200 g).
- 🔭 Optical or collimator sight (200–500 g).
- 🛠 Bipod or tactical flashlight (150–300 g).
- 🧰 Cover or case for transportation (500 g – 1.5 kg).
With full equipment (machine gun + 4 magazines + sight + bipod), the total weight can reach 8–10 kg. This is critical to consider when planning long marches or hunting expeditions.
How to lose weight: practical tips
If you need to reduce the load, but at the same time maintain combat effectiveness, use the following recommendations:
☑️ Ways to lighten the Kalashnikov assault rifle
Also note wearing ergonomics:
- 🎯 Use tactical belt with shock-absorbing inserts - this will reduce the load on the shoulder.
- 🎯 Distribute unloading stores symmetrically to avoid skewing.
- 🎯 For hunting or sport shooting, consider options with shortened barrel (for example, AKS-74U), which weigh 0.5–1 kg less.
Even a small weight reduction (300–500 g) significantly reduces fatigue during prolonged wear. Optimize your equipment for a specific task!
Weight of civilian and hunting AK variants
In Russia and some other countries, civilian versions of the Kalashnikov assault rifle are allowed for circulation, such as Saiga or VPO-209. These models have the following features:
- 🏹 There is no automatic shooting mode (single shots only).
- 🏹 Increased barrel length (to comply with legislation).
- 🏹 Possibility of using limited-capacity magazines (usually 5 or 10 rounds).
The weight of such models is usually comparable to their military counterparts, but may differ slightly:
| Model | Caliber | Weight without cartridges | Magazine capacity | Full magazine weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Saiga-MK | 7.62×39 mm |
3.5 kg | 5 rounds | 0.4 kg |
| VPO-209 | 5.45×39 mm |
3.2 kg | 10 rounds | 0.22 kg |
| Tiger (AK-103) | 7.62×39 mm |
3.7 kg | 10 rounds | 0.45 kg |
Civilian versions are often equipped plastic stores and lightweight butts, which reduces the total weight by 10–15% compared to army models. However, due to limitations on magazine capacity, their practical value for self-defense or hunting is reduced.
Why do civilian AKs weigh less?
The main weight savings are achieved through:
1. Shortened receivers (no fire switching mechanisms).
2. Plastic stores instead of steel ones.
3. Lack of bipods and mounts for grenade launchers.
4. Use of lightweight barrels (sometimes with perforations for cooling).
Legal aspects of owning and transporting AKs in Russia
Ownership of a civilian Kalashnikov assault rifle in Russia is regulated by law "About Weapons" (Federal Law No. 150). Key points:
- ⚖️ Civil versions (Saiga, VPO-209) refer to hunting or sporting weapons and require permission.
- ⚖️ Transportation must be carried out in locked case with separate storage of cartridges.
- ⚖️ It is prohibited to carry weapons in public places without special permission.
When transporting in a car, be sure to follow the following rules:
⚠️ Attention: Weapons must be discharged, the magazine is separated and the cartridges are packed in a factory container. In the event of a traffic police stop, the inspector has the right to verify compliance with these conditions.
Violation of transportation rules entails administrative liability under Art. 20.8 of the Code of Administrative Offenses of the Russian Federation (fine up to 2,000 rubles or deprivation of the right to own weapons). For owners AK-12 or other modern models, the same rules apply as for the classic options.
Always carry a copy of your weapons permit and machine gun passport with you - this will speed up the check and avoid misunderstandings.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about AK weight
How much does an empty AK-74 magazine weigh?
Standard steel magazine for AK-74 weighs 250–270 g. Plastic options (for example, from AK-12) lighter - about 180–200 g.
Which Kalashnikov assault rifle is the lightest?
The lightest serial version - AK-12 and AK-15 (weight 3.3 kg). Among the shortened models, the leader is AKS-74U (2.7 kg without cartridges).
Is it possible to reduce the weight of an AK-47 with your own hands?
Yes, but with reservations:
- Replacing a wooden stock with a plastic one will reduce weight by 200–300 g.
- Installation of a lightweight barrel (if permitted by law) - more 150–200 g.
- Use titanium or aluminum parts (expensive and requires skill).
⚠️ Attention: Any modifications must be kept gun safety and not break the law. Homemade changes to the receiver or trigger can lead to accidents!
How much does a box of 7.62×39 cartridges weigh (440 pcs.)?
Standard wooden ammo box 7.62×39 mm (440 pcs., packing 20 rounds in cardboard boxes) weighs 10–12 kg. Weight of one cartridge - 16–18 g, plus container.
What is the weight of an AK with a GP-25 grenade launcher?
Grenade launcher GP-25 weighs 1.5 kg.Together with AK-74 and one grenade launcher shot (0.5 kg) the total weight will be ~5.3 kg (excluding cartridges).