Kalashnikov AM-17
Kalashnikov Concern · Assault Rifle · In Production · 2025
Also known as: MA carbine
Overview
The Kalashnikov AM-17 is a compact Russian assault rifle chambered in 5.45x39mm, developed by Kalashnikov Concern as a modern replacement for the AKS-74U. Derived from the Soviet-era MA carbine designed by Mikhail Kalashnikov, it uses a gas-operated rotating-bolt action with a lightweight polymer lower receiver, full-length Picatinny rail, ambidextrous controls and a folding telescopic stock. At roughly 2.5 kg it is aimed at special forces, vehicle crews and law enforcement.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 2500 g (88.2 oz) |
| Overall Length | 740 mm (29.13") |
| Folded Length | 490 mm (19.29") |
| Barrel Length | 230 mm (9.06") |
| Action Type | Gas Operated Long Stroke |
| Firing Mechanism | Hammer Fired |
| Trigger Type | Single Stage |
| Magazine Capacity | 30 rounds |
| Magazine Type | Detachable Box |
| Effective Range | 300 m (328 yd) |
| Rate of Fire | 800 rpm |
| Barrel Rifling | Right Hand |
| Rifling Twist | 200 mm (7.87") |
| Number of Grooves | 4 |
| Frame Material | Polymer |
| Barrel Material | Steel |
| Stock Material | Polymer |
| Finish | Phosphate |
Calibers
- 5.45x39mm · primary — also known as 5.45x39mm M74, 5.45 Soviet
Features
- Firing modes: Semi Automatic, Full Automatic
- Feed systems: Detachable Box Magazine
- Safety mechanisms: Manual Safety, Ambidextrous Fire Selector
- Features: Full Length Picatinny Rail, Folding Telescopic Stock, Ambidextrous Controls, Ambidextrous Charging Handle, Polymer Lower Receiver, Ak74 Magazine Compatible
Variants
- Kalashnikov AMB-17 — Integrally Suppressed
Service history
Operators
- Russian Armed Forces · adopted 2025
Conflicts
- Russian invasion of Ukraine (2022-present)
Production
Production years: 2025-present
Serial production commenced 2025; total figures not yet published
Origin
Country of origin: Russia
Designer: Mikhail Kalashnikov
Notes
Sources differ on magazine capacity - armyrecognition cites a 30-round AK-74-compatible magazine while some sources list 20 rounds. Rate of fire is variously cited as 750-800 or 850 (+/-50) rpm. Serial production launched in 2025 with adoption by Russian forces.
Background
The AM-17 traces back to a late-1970s Mikhail Kalashnikov prototype that languished unfinished for decades; Kalashnikov Concern revived the old design files in the 2010s, modernized them with polymer and rails, and finally put the founder's compact carbine into production years after his death.