The Kalashnikov AK-47 and the AK-74 are assault rifles developed in the Soviet Union, but there are some significant differences between the two.
The main difference between the AK-47 and the AK-74 is the round of ammunition they fire. The AK-47 fires the larger and more powerful 7.62x39mm round, while the AK-74 fires the smaller and less powerful but still effective 5.45x39mm cartridge.
This blog post will look further at those differences and help explain how they differ from each other.
What is an AK-74?
The AK-74 is a Soviet assault rifle developed in the early 1970s. It is a successor to the AKM and uses a smaller 5.45x39mm cartridge. The West first saw the AK-74 in the late '70s during the Afghanistan Conflict.
This change was made to improve reliability and firing range. The AK-74 is a gas-operated, magazine-fed rifle capable of semi-automatic and fully automatic fire.
The AK-74 has a muzzle brake and front sight gas block combination that is unique to the rifle, and it also has a laminated wood stock. The AK-74 is used by most countries of the former Soviet Union.
What is an AK-47?
The AK-47 is an assault rifle that was first developed in the Soviet Union. The weapon is chambered for the 7.62x39mm round and has a distinctive curved magazine.
The AK-47 is one of the most widely used weapons in the world, and it has been employed by militaries, insurgents, and civilians. The AK-47 is a simple, reliable weapon that is easy to use and maintain.
It is also known for its durability, designed to function even in harsh conditions. Despite many positive attributes, the AK-47 has been criticized for its lack of accuracy and potential to be used in mass shootings.
While the AK-47 has been involved in many conflicts, it remains one of the most popular firearms in the world.
Differences Between AK-74 And AK-47
Caliber & Attachments
The AK-74 and the AK-47 are assault rifles developed in the Soviet Union. The main difference between the two rifles is that the AK-74 uses a smaller caliber round than the AK-47. The original AK-47 fired a 7.62x39mm round, while the AK-74 fired a smaller 5.45x39mm round.
The AK-74 also has a different muzzle attachment and stock than the AK-47. In addition, the AK-74 is lighter than the AK-47.
Rate of fire & Accuracy
When it comes to choosing between an AK-47 and an AK-74, it really depends on what you're looking for in a rifle. If you're looking for a high rate of fire, then the AK-47 is the slightly better choice. However, if you're looking for accuracy, then the AK-74 is the better choice.
This is because the AK-47 uses a 7.62x39mm cartridge, which is less accurate than the 5.45x39mm cartridge used by the AK-74. So, if you're looking for a rifle that can quickly lift a lot of bullets, then go with the AK-47. But if you're looking for a rifle that will give you better accuracy, then go with the AK-74.
Reliability & Performance
The AK-74 is the better option for those looking for a gun that will perform well and be reliable. The AK-74 is more reliable and has better performance than the AK-47. It's also lighter and has less recoil.
In addition, the AK-74 also features several other improvements, including new sights and gas block, that make it more accurate than its predecessor.
Though the AK-47 and AK-74 are reliable weapons, the AK-74 is generally considered more accurate and effective at long range thanks to its superior sights and smaller caliber round.
Comparison Chart: AK-47 Vs AK-74
| Parameters | AK-47 | AK-74 |
| Designed in | 1948 | 1974 |
| Weight | 3.47 kg (7.7 lb) | 3.07 kg (6.8 lb) |
| Cartridge | 7.62×39mm | 5.45×39mm |
| Firing Range | 350 m | 500 m |
| Accuracy | Less | More |
| Impact | More | Less |
Similarities Between AK-47 And AK-74
Although the AK-74 and AK-47 are different rifles, they share similar barrel lengths. The AK-74 has a shorter overall length than the AK-47, but the barrel length is almost identical.
FAQs
Is the AK-74 better than the AK-47?
It depends on what you're looking for. If you want a rifle that's reliable and easy to use, then the AK-47 is a great choice. It's been around for decades and is well-known for being tough and rugged.
On the other hand, if you're looking for an assault rifle that's lighter and more accurate, then the AK-74 is a better option. It's newer than the AK-47, and it's been designed specifically for military use.
Why is the AK-74 not popular?
The AK-47 is the more popular rifle and is used worldwide. There are several reasons why the AK-74 is not as popular as other rifles:
- One reason is that it uses a smaller caliber bullet than most other assault rifles, which reduces its stopping power.
- Additionally, the AK-74 was not used in wars as much as the AK-47, which made it less popular.
- Finally, the AK-74 is much heavier than newer assault rifles, making it more difficult to carry and maneuver.
As a result, the AK-74 has not been as widely adopted as some other assault rifles.
Does the U.S. Army use AK-47?
The U.S. Army uses the M16A2 assault rifle, a different rifle model. The M16A2 is gas-operated and fires in three-round bursts, while the AK-47 is magazine-fed and fires in full-auto mode. The U.S. Army does not use AK-47 rifles.
They do use them in training, as well as for target practice. The main reason the U.S. Army does not use AK-47 rifles because they are not compatible with the ammunition and magazines used by the U.S. military.
Conclusion
So there you have it, the difference between AK-74 and AK-47. Both are great rifles, but each has unique features that may make one better for your specific needs than the other.
