PKM

V.A. Degtyarev Plant · Machine-Gun · In Production · 1969

Weight (empty)7500 g (264.6 oz)
Overall Length1160 mm (45.67")
Barrel Length643 mm (25.31")
Action TypeGas Operated Long Stroke
Firing MechanismOpen Bolt
Muzzle Velocity825 m/s (2707 fps)
Muzzle Energy3302 J (2435 ft·lbf)
Effective Range800 m (875 yd)
Frame MaterialSteel

Primary Caliber: 7.62x54mmR

The PKM (Pulemyot Kalashnikova Modernizirovanny, or Kalashnikov's Machine Gun Modernized) is a Soviet/Russian 7.62x54mmR general-purpose machine gun that entered service in 1969 as an improved version of the original PK (1961). Designed at the Kovrov Mechanical Plant and produced by the V.A. Degtyarev Plant, the PKM features a stamped steel receiver that significantly reduces weight compared to the milled receiver of the original PK, dropping from 9kg to 7.5kg. The weapon employs a gas-operated,...

Country of Origin: SU

Designer: Mikhail Kalashnikov