Kalashnikov USA KS-12

Kalashnikov USA · Shotgun · In Production · 2020

Overview

The Kalashnikov USA KS-12 is a semi-automatic 12-gauge shotgun made in the USA but based on Russia's popular Saiga line of AK-pattern shotguns. It chambers both 2-3/4-inch and 3-inch magnum shells and uses an adjustable long-stroke gas system to cycle a wide range of loads from low-recoil target ammunition to magnum hunting and defensive rounds. The fixed-stock KS-12 feeds from detachable box magazines and accepts higher-capacity box and drum magazines, with a threaded muzzle and AK-style side optics rail.

Specifications

Weight (empty)3856 g (136.0 oz)
Overall Length965.2 mm (38.00")
Barrel Length463.5 mm (18.25")
Action TypeGas Operated Long Stroke
Firing MechanismClosed Bolt
Trigger TypeSingle Stage
Magazine Capacity5 rounds
Magazine TypeDetachable Box
Muzzle Velocity400 m/s (1312 fps)
Muzzle Energy2560 J (1888 ft·lbf)
Effective Range40 m (44 yd)
Barrel RiflingSmoothbore
Frame MaterialStamped Steel
Barrel MaterialSteel
Stock MaterialPolymer
FinishBlack Oxide

Calibers

Features

Production

Production years: 2020-present

Origin

Country of origin: United States

Notes

Standard 5-round magazine; compatible with higher-capacity box and drum magazines. Tactical (KS-12T) and competition (KOMP12) variants build on the same platform.

Background

The KS-12 revives the Saiga-12 shotgun concept on American soil after the 2014 sanctions cut off imports of the Russian original.