M4-WAC-47
Ukrainian Armament Research and Design · Assault Rifle · In Production · 2017
Also known as: WAC-47, M4 WAC-47
Overview
The M4-WAC-47 is a select-fire assault rifle chambered in 7.62x39mm, produced by Ukrainian Armament Research and Design since 2017. Safety features include ambidextrous safety selector, firing pin block, reflecting modern design standards that prioritize safe handling and operation. As a recognized participant in the global firearms industry, Ukrainian Armament Research and Design applies modern manufacturing technology and quality control processes to deliver products that compete effectively in a market where reliability and performance are non-negotiable requirements for both civilian and professional end users.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 3600 g (127.0 oz) |
| Weight (loaded) | 4080 g (143.9 oz) |
| Overall Length | 838 mm (32.99") |
| Folded Length | 762 mm (30.00") |
| Barrel Length | 368 mm (14.49") |
| Height | 190 mm (7.48") |
| Width | 45 mm (1.77") |
| Action Type | Gas Operated Direct Impingement |
| 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 | 350 m (383 yd) |
| Maximum Range | 800 m (875 yd) |
| Rate of Fire | 800 rpm |
| Barrel Rifling | Right Hand |
| Rifling Twist | 240 mm (9.45") |
| Number of Grooves | 4 |
| Frame Material | Aluminum Alloy |
| Barrel Material | Steel |
| Stock Material | Polymer |
| Finish | Matte Black |
Calibers
- 7.62x39mm · primary — also known as 7.62mm Soviet, 7.62x39mm M43
Features
- Firing modes: Semi Automatic, Full Automatic
- Feed systems: Detachable Box Magazine
- Safety mechanisms: Ambidextrous Safety Selector, Firing Pin Block
- Features: Ar15 Platform, Direct Impingement, Rotating Bolt, Select Fire, Flat Top Upper Receiver, M Lok Handguard, Telescoping Stock, Picatinny Rail Top, Ak Pattern Magazines, Two Part Receiver, Grenade Launcher Compatible
Service history
Operators
- Ukrainian Armed Forces · adopted 2018
Conflicts
- War in Donbas (2014-2022)
- Russo-Ukrainian War (2022-present)
Production
Production years: 2017-present
Manufactured by UkrOboronProm in Ukraine. Initial deliveries to Ukrainian military for evaluation began in January 2018. Production quantities are not publicly disclosed but are believed to be limited compared to standard AK-pattern rifles in Ukrainian service.
Origin
Country of origin: Ukraine
Notes
The M4-WAC-47 is designed to be convertible between 7.62x39mm, 5.45x39mm, and 5.56x45mm NATO by swapping the complete upper receiver, bolt group, and magazines. The rifle was first delivered to Ukrainian troops for evaluation in January 2018. Military Factory lists the barrel length as 675mm (26.57 inches), which appears to be erroneous and likely represents overall barrel assembly or a data entry error - all other sources and photographs confirm a standard M4-length 14.5-inch (368mm) barrel consistent with the carbine designation. The muzzle velocity of approximately 680 m/s for the 7.62x39mm cartridge from the shorter 368mm barrel is reduced compared to the standard 715 m/s from a 415mm AKM barrel. The rifle was conceived as a 'bridge solution' between Ukraine's aging Soviet-era Kalashnikov inventory and eventual full NATO standardization.
Background
The M4-WAC-47 was widely described as a 'strong political message to Russia' when unveiled - the Ukrainian military's adoption of an American-pattern rifle design, even one chambered in Soviet calibers, symbolized Ukraine's geopolitical pivot toward NATO and the West. The Kyiv Post notably characterized the rifle as representing Ukraine's aspirations for NATO membership through its small arms choices.