Since the AK-203 is in the news with India buying a metric boat load of them, Kalashnikov Group goes over their modern lineup. Vlad Onosky takes us on the tour.
This is similar in scope to a company like FN going down their modern AR lineup, where the Military Collector M4 and M16 are the ‘old’ technology. Then the Tactical Carbine, Tactical II, and TAC3 are all variants for various purposes that the M4 also does, but does differently or with a greater degree of efficiency in one category or another.
Variants are about specialization. They pick a series of specific tasks to do with greater efficiency than a more generalized rifle.
SBR’s focus on size.
DMR’s focus on accuracy, likely with a specific round in mind.
Even the variations of otherwise general purpose carbines are usually attuned to working with specifically picked ancillaries. Whether that is a specific optic suite, suppressor, caliber, or a specialized ammunition type, they are a purpose built unit.
Looking at the modern AK, it really is the AR’s peer. They come in all the calibers, they have the configurations, they are set up to serve in the same roles. With the sole exception of DMR’s, which are overwhelmingly freefloated gas guns for obvious reasons, the AK and AR continue to be the standards.
It is also delightful to see the ‘trash rod’ come into the modern sphere so strongly. Boutique weapons like the SCAR, X95, or AUG are all still well, good, and fun.
But two rifles run the world.
The AK is one.
