AK-103

The AK-103 assault rifle is a derivative of the AK-74M chambered for the 7.62×39mm M43 round, similar to the older AKM. The AK-103 can be fitted with a variety of sights, including laser, night vision, and telescopic sights, plus a suppressor and the GP-25 grenade launcher. It uses plastic components whenever possible instead of wood or metal in order to reduce weight.

Design details


Differences from the AKM series include redesigned rear and front trunnions, as well as a 90 degree gas block, AK-74 style front sight block, the use of a black ribbed 30-round magazine constructed of phenolic resin (which is AKM-compatible as well), an AK-74-type muzzle brake, and black synthetic furniture with a heat shield. These improvements allow the AK-103 to have less recoil, lower weight, better accuracy and enhanced durability than the AKM assault rifles that preceded the AK-103.

The AK-104 is a compact version of the AK-103. It combines features from the older AKS-74U carbine with features from the AK-103, giving a more accurate carbine. It is also chambered for 7.62×39mm ammunition.

Users

 * 🇪🇹 Ethiopia: The Gafat Armament Engineering Complex produces the AK-103 rifle in Ethiopia. Supplements the AKM in the Ethiopian Armed Forces.
 * 🇮🇳 India: The Russian arms company Izhmash has issued a license to an Indian private arms manufacturer to produce the AK-103.
 * 🇮🇩 Indonesia
 * 🇵🇰 Pakistan: Used by SSG & Special Service Group Navy.
 * 🇮🇷 Iran: Used by the Iranian Army.
 * 🇱🇾 Libya: Seen in the hands of anti-Gaddafi forces & loyalists in numerous photos.
 * 🇲🇦 Morocco
 * 🇷🇺 Russia: Used by various special police groups and spec ops groups.
 * 🇸🇦 Saudi Arabia: Seen in use by Saudi Commandos training in France.
 * Syria: Used by Syrian commandos.
 * 🇻🇪 Venezuela: Standard issue weapon of the Venezuelan Army. A manufacturing plant to produce the AK-103 in Maracay is operational, and it produces up to 50,000 units per year.