Simonov AG-043

History of Simonov AG-043

In the 1960s, Soviet engineer Sergei Simonov improved the Kalashnikov AK-47 assault rifle, resulting in the AO-31 assault rifle. This development led to variations like the AO-31-5 (5.45x39mm), AO-31-6 (7.62x39mm), and AO-31-7 (caseless cartridge). The AG-043, a compact assault rifle, evolved from this in 1975.

Resembling a condensed AK-47, the AG-043 is a pneumatic gun with a 30-round magazine. The design includes a rectangular receiver, wooden furniture, and a short barrel with a gas cylinder. It's 680mm long, with a 215mm barrel, foldable wire support, and weighs 2.1 kg unloaded. Firing 5.45x39mm cartridges at 700 m/s, it features iron sights above the muzzle and receiver.

Developed as part of Project Modern in 1975, the AG-043 had a folding stock; the AG-042 had a fixed stock. Both were Simonov's adaptations of the AK-47, inspired by the US XM177 in Vietnam. Kalashnikov's AKS-74U won the Soviet contest for this design.

Specification

Basics

Year of Service: 1975

Origins: Soviet Union

Categories: Assault Rifle

Manufacturer: National Factory - USSR

Mile speed: 2,300 ft/s (701 m/s)

Roles

Auto function: Has mechanical features to automate the firing process.

Assault Rifle: A modern class of long guns with selected fire characteristics, automatic internals and magazine feeding.

Dimensions and Weight

Overall Length: 680 mm (26.77 inches)

Run Length: 215 mm (8.46 inches)

Cured weight: 4.63 lbs (2.10 kg)

Action

Gas Power: Proposes a pneumatic system that typically consists of a cylinder and a rear drive piston that directs power to the bolt assembly.

Cartridges and Paper Feeds

Caliber: 5.45x39mm

Circle/Feed: Removable 30-round magazin