AEK-971
Kovrov Mechanical Plant (KMZ) · Assault Rifle · Limited Production · 2014
Also known as: A-545, 6P67, AEK-972, AEK-973
Overview
The AEK-971 is a select-fire assault rifle chambered in 5.45x39mm, produced by Kovrov Mechanical Plant (KMZ) since 2014.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 3300 g (116.4 oz) |
| Weight (loaded) | 3650 g (128.8 oz) |
| Overall Length | 960 mm (37.80") |
| Folded Length | 720 mm (28.35") |
| Barrel Length | 420 mm (16.54") |
| Action Type | Gas Operated Long Stroke |
| Firing Mechanism | Hammer Fired |
| Trigger Type | Single Stage |
| Magazine Capacity | 30 rounds |
| Magazine Type | Detachable Box |
| Muzzle Velocity | 879 m/s (2884 fps) |
| Muzzle Energy | 1326 J (978 ft·lbf) |
| Effective Range | 500 m (547 yd) |
| Maximum Range | 1000 m (1094 yd) |
| Rate of Fire | 900 rpm |
| Barrel Rifling | Right Hand |
| Rifling Twist | 196 mm (7.72") |
| Number of Grooves | 4 |
| Frame Material | Steel |
| Barrel Material | Steel |
| Stock Material | Polymer |
| Finish | Matte Black |
Calibers
- 5.45x39mm · primary — also known as 5.45x39mm Soviet, 5.45mm Kalashnikov
Features
- Firing modes: Semi Automatic, Full Automatic
- Feed systems: Detachable Box Magazine
- Safety mechanisms: Manual Safety Selector, Hammer Notch
- Features: Chrome Lined Barrel, Rotating Bolt, Select Fire, Balanced Automatics Recoil System, Counter Mass Mechanism, Side Folding Stock, Picatinny Rail Top, Improved Accuracy Automatic Fire
Variants
- AEK-972 — Different Caliber
- AEK-973 — Different Caliber
- A-545 (6P67) — Modernized
Service history
Operators
- Russian Armed Forces · adopted 2014 · as A-545 (6P67)
Conflicts
- Russo-Ukrainian War (2022-present)
Production
Production years: 2014-present
Limited production for select Russian military units as the A-545 modernized variant. Exact numbers not disclosed.
Origin
Country of origin: Russia
Designer: Stanislav Koksharov
Notes
Development began in the late 1970s, with the original AEK-971 competing against the AN-94 in the Abakan trials. While the AN-94 won, the AEK-971's simpler balanced-recoil approach proved more practical for mass production. The A-545 modernized variant (adopted 2014/2018) adds Picatinny rails, improved ergonomics, and modern furniture. Variants include the AEK-972 (5.56mm NATO) and AEK-973 (7.62x39mm). Compatible with standard AK-74 30-round magazines, 45-round RPK-74 magazines, and 60-round drums. The BARS concept has since influenced other designs, with Kalashnikov Concern exploring balanced-recoil systems for future AK development. The A-545 is issued to select Russian units alongside the AK-12, with unit commanders choosing between the two based on mission requirements.
Background
The AEK-971's Balanced Automatics Recoil System uses a counter-mass moving opposite to the bolt carrier, effectively canceling recoil impulse during firing. Despite losing to the AN-94 in the original Abakan trials, its simpler and more practical design was ultimately vindicated when the A-545 variant was adopted alongside the AK-12 in 2018.