MPi-KMS-72
VEB Fahrzeug- und Waffenfabrik Ernst Thalmann · Assault Rifle · Discontinued · 1972
Also known as: Maschinenpistole Kalashnikow mit Seitenklappenschaft, MPi-KM-72, East German AKM
Overview
The MPi-KMS-72 is a select-fire assault rifle chambered in 7.62x39mm, produced by VEB Fahrzeug- und Waffenfabrik Ernst Thalmann since 1972. Safety features include manual safety selector, hammer notch, reflecting modern design standards that prioritize safe handling and operation. With over 80 years of firearms manufacturing experience, VEB Fahrzeug- und Waffenfabrik Ernst Thalmann brings established expertise in metallurgy, machining, and quality control to every product in their lineup, ensuring each firearm meets the standards expected by today's demanding market of knowledgeable shooters and professionals.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 3540 g (124.9 oz) |
| Weight (loaded) | 3940 g (139.0 oz) |
| Overall Length | 895 mm (35.24") |
| Folded Length | 648 mm (25.51") |
| Barrel Length | 415 mm (16.34") |
| Height | 190 mm (7.48") |
| Width | 45 mm (1.77") |
| Action Type | Gas Operated Long Stroke |
| Firing Mechanism | Hammer Fired |
| Trigger Type | Single Stage |
| Magazine Capacity | 30 rounds |
| Magazine Type | Detachable Box |
| Muzzle Velocity | 715 m/s (2346 fps) |
| Muzzle Energy | 2037 J (1502 ft·lbf) |
| Effective Range | 400 m (437 yd) |
| Maximum Range | 800 m (875 yd) |
| Rate of Fire | 600 rpm |
| Barrel Rifling | Right Hand |
| Rifling Twist | 240 mm (9.45") |
| Number of Grooves | 4 |
| Frame Material | Steel |
| Barrel Material | Steel |
| Stock Material | Polymer |
| Finish | Phosphate |
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: Manual Safety Selector, Hammer Notch
- Features: Chrome Lined Barrel, Rotating Bolt, Select Fire, Side Folding Stock, Improved Muzzle Brake, Phosphate Finish, Pebble Grain Furniture, German Precision Manufacturing
Variants
- MPi-KM-72 — Fixed Stock
Base model
Service history
Operators
- National People's Army (NVA) · adopted 1972
- Stasi · adopted 1972
Production
Production years: 1972-1990
Produced exclusively at VEB Ernst Thalmann in Suhl. Exact numbers unknown; significant quantities exported to Africa and the Middle East during the Cold War.
Origin
Country of origin: East Germany
Designer: Mikhail Kalashnikov
Discontinued: 1990
Notes
East German AKs are prized for their exceptional fit, finish, and manufacturing quality - the result of applying German precision engineering standards to the AK design. The distinctive pebble-grain polymer furniture on later models is an identifying feature. The phosphate finish provided superior corrosion resistance compared to Soviet-standard bluing. All East German AKs were produced at the single VEB factory in Suhl, Thuringia - the historic center of German firearms manufacturing. After German reunification in 1990, production ceased and remaining inventory was absorbed by the Bundeswehr or exported. Significant quantities were exported to conflict zones in Africa and the Middle East during the Cold War. East German AK parts kits and rifles are among the most sought-after AK variants on the international collector market.
Background
The MPi-KMS-72 is widely considered the highest-quality AK variant ever produced by any Warsaw Pact nation, benefiting from Suhl's centuries-old tradition as the center of German precision firearms manufacturing. After German reunification in 1990, production ceased and remaining inventory was either absorbed by the Bundeswehr or exported, making surviving examples highly prized among collectors worldwide.