Heckler & Koch HK32A1
Heckler & Koch · Assault Rifle · Discontinued · 1962
Also known as: HK32, Heckler & Koch HK 32
Overview
The Heckler & Koch HK32A1 is a select-fire assault rifle chambered in 7.62x39mm, produced by Heckler & Koch since 1962. The stamped steel frame provides a solid, premium feel with the durability to withstand decades of regular use and thousands of rounds.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 3800 g (134.0 oz) |
| Weight (loaded) | 4600 g (162.3 oz) |
| Overall Length | 864 mm (34.02") |
| Folded Length | 650 mm (25.59") |
| Barrel Length | 390 mm (15.35") |
| Height | 190 mm (7.48") |
| Width | 45 mm (1.77") |
| Action Type | Roller Delayed Blowback |
| Firing Mechanism | Hammer Fired |
| Trigger Type | Single Stage |
| Magazine Capacity | 30 rounds |
| Magazine Type | Detachable Box |
| Muzzle Velocity | 680 m/s (2231 fps) |
| Muzzle Energy | 1843 J (1359 ft·lbf) |
| Effective Range | 300 m (328 yd) |
| Maximum Range | 600 m (656 yd) |
| Rate of Fire | 600 rpm |
| Barrel Rifling | Right Hand |
| Rifling Twist | 240 mm (9.45") |
| Number of Grooves | 4 |
| Frame Material | Stamped Steel |
| Barrel Material | Steel |
| Stock Material | Polymer |
| Finish | Matte Black |
Calibers
- 7.62x39mm · primary — also known as 7.62mm Soviet, 7.62x39mm M43, 7.62mm M1943
Features
- Firing modes: Semi Automatic, Full Automatic
- Feed systems: Detachable Box Magazine
- Safety mechanisms: Manual Safety Selector, Roller Delayed System
- Features: Select Fire, Retractable Stock, Roller Delayed Blowback Action, Hk Roller Lock System, Fluted Chamber, Drum Rear Sight, Accepts Ak47 Pattern Magazines
Variants
Production
Production years: 1962-1980
Only demonstration and prototype models were produced. Exact numbers unknown but believed to be extremely limited, possibly fewer than 100 units total.
Origin
Country of origin: Germany
Discontinued: 1980
Notes
The HK32 family represents a fascinating chapter in HK's attempt to offer their roller-delayed system in every common military caliber. While the G3 in 7.62 NATO and HK33 in 5.56 NATO found commercial success, the 7.62x39mm version never gained traction because nations using that caliber already had abundant supplies of Soviet-pattern AK-47 and AKM rifles. The HK32 used magazines similar to AK-47 magazines. Many components were interchangeable with the HK33, simplifying logistics for any potential adopter. Modern PTR Industries later produced the civilian PTR-32 in 7.62x39mm based on the same roller-delayed design.
Background
The HK32 represents the road not taken in HK's roller-delayed family tree. While its siblings the G3 and HK33 armed dozens of nations, the HK32 was an orphan: nations using 7.62x39mm were firmly in the Soviet orbit and had no interest in Western alternatives. It remains one of the rarest HK small arms ever produced, with surviving examples commanding premium collector prices.