Norinco MAK-91
Norinco · Rifle · Out Of Production · 1991
Also known as: MAK-91 Sporter, Modular Automat Kalashnikov 91
Overview
The Norinco MAK-91 is a Chinese-manufactured semi-automatic AKM-pattern rifle chambered in 7.62x39mm, produced specifically for export to the United States civilian market in the early 1990s. Designed to comply with the 1989 import ban on assault weapons, the MAK-91 features a one-piece thumbhole hardwood stock with integrated pistol grip in place of the AK's separate pistol grip and detachable buttstock. Distinguishing features include a milled receiver (a notable departure from the stamped receiver of the more common MAK-90), a longer 23.27-inch barrel with slant-cut chamber, and removal of the bayonet lug. The rifle was heavily imported until the 1994 Federal Assault Weapons Ban and the 1994 Clinton executive order banning Chinese-made firearm imports halted further sales.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 3700 g (130.5 oz) |
| Weight (loaded) | 4250 g (149.9 oz) |
| Overall Length | 1085 mm (42.72") |
| Barrel Length | 591 mm (23.27") |
| Sight Radius | 425 mm (16.73") |
| Action Type | Gas Operated Long Stroke |
| Firing Mechanism | Hammer Fired |
| Trigger Type | Single Stage |
| Magazine Capacity | 5 rounds |
| Magazine Type | Detachable Box |
| Muzzle Velocity | 715 m/s (2346 fps) |
| Muzzle Energy | 2040 J (1505 ft·lbf) |
| Effective Range | 350 m (383 yd) |
| Maximum Range | 1500 m (1640 yd) |
| Barrel Rifling | Right Hand |
| Rifling Twist | 240 mm (9.45") |
| Number of Grooves | 4 |
| Frame Material | Steel |
| Barrel Material | Chrome Lined Steel |
| Stock Material | Wood |
| Finish | Blued |
Calibers
- 7.62x39mm · primary — also known as 7.62 Soviet, M43, 7.62x39mm M43
Features
- Firing modes: Semi Automatic
- Feed systems: Detachable Box Magazine
- Safety mechanisms: Manual Safety, Lever Safety Selector
- Features: Milled Receiver, Thumbhole Stock, Us Import Compliant, Hardwood Furniture, Cleaning Rod, Adjustable Iron Sights
Variants
- Norinco MAK-90 (stamped receiver variant) — Receiver
- Norinco NHM-91 (RPK-style heavy barrel) — Barrel
Service history
Operators
- United States civilian market · adopted 1991 · as MAK-91 Sporter
Production
Production years: 1991-1994
Production ceased after the 1994 Clinton ban on Chinese-manufactured firearm imports; surviving examples are highly collectible
Origin
Country of origin: China
Discontinued: 1994
Notes
MAK-91 designation refers to 'Modular Automat Kalashnikov' - a Norinco marketing term coined for US import compliance. The thumbhole stock is the principal cosmetic difference from the post-1994 banned configuration. The longer barrel relative to a standard AKM (591 mm vs 415 mm) gives improved muzzle velocity and slightly better accuracy. Magazine capacity offered as 5-round (sporter) but accepts standard AK 30-round magazines.
Background
The MAK-91 exists because of a regulatory cat-and-mouse game: after the 1989 US import ban on assault weapons, Norinco redesigned the AKM with a thumbhole stock and stripped its bayonet lug to qualify as a sporting rifle. Three years later, the 1994 Clinton executive order on Chinese imports slammed the door shut for good, turning every MAK-91 in the US into an instant collector's item.