AK-12: The Original Adopted Model (with Shooting)

Duration: 18:38

The AK-12 went through an extensive development program that attempted to substantially change the AK design, but failed. In 2015 the early design plans were scrapped, and the project reverted to simply making some changes to the AK-100 series. This resulted in the AK-12 being adopted as the new Russian standard infantry rifle in December 2017. The rifle in today's video is that original adopted pattern. It uses a collapsing and side-folding stock, a substantially redesigned railed top cover with a rear-mounted RPK-style aperture sight, a combined gas and front sight block, a permanently affixed gas tube, and a trigger mechanism with safe, semi, 2-round burst, and full auto settings.

This AK-12 was captured by Ukrainian forces with the Magpul magazine you see in the video. The folks who gave me access to film it remain anonymous, and I very much appreciate their help!

AK-12 improved 2019 model: