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7 Things You Didn’t Know About the AK-12: Russia’s Newest Rifle Revealed

7 things you didn’t know about the AK-12: Russia’s newest rifle revealed.

Mikkel Preisler
By Mikkel Preisler 26. June 2025

The name is no longer AK-47 or AK-74. Get used to the name AK-12.

#7: Successor to the AK-74

The AK-12 was developed as the official successor to the legendary AK-74. The goal was to create a weapon with improved ergonomics, increased precision, and easier handling during combat.

#6: Advanced Ergonomy

Unlike earlier AK models, the AK-12 features adjustable shoulder support, improved grips, and an easier capability for mounting optics and equipment, making it more user-friendly and flexible.

#5: Modular Design

The AK-12 is built with a modular design that allows for quick changes of barrels, calibers, and accessories, making the weapon extremely versatile in different combat situations.

#4: Easier Maintenance

One of the lesser-known advantages of the AK-12 is its enhanced design, which reduces the need for maintenance and makes cleaning easier, even in harsh field conditions.

#3: Increased Precision

The AK-12 features improved sights and a new recoil-dampening system, ensuring better precision and reduced recoil, enhancing the user’s accuracy at distances up to 600 meters.

#2: Tested Under Extreme Conditions

Before being officially approved by the Russian army, the AK-12 underwent extreme testing in conditions ranging from Siberian winters to hot deserts, where it performed excellently.

#1: Active Use in Ukraine Conflict

The AK-12 has already seen active service during the Ukraine conflict, where it has proven its effectiveness on the battlefield. Experiences from this are continuously used to further improve the weapon.

Our team may have used AI to assist in the creation of this content, which has been reviewed by our editors.