PM md. 65
Fabrica de Arme Cugir · Assault Rifle · In Service · 1965
Also known as: Pistol Mitraliera model 1965, Romanian AKM underfolder, AIMS
Overview
The PM md. 65 (Pistol Mitraliera model 1965) is the underfolding-stock variant of Romania's license-built AKM, chambered in 7.62x39mm and produced at the Cugir arsenal. It uses the AKM's long-stroke gas-operated rotating-bolt action and differs from the fixed-stock PM md. 63 mainly in its underfolding metal stock and the distinctive forward-canted lower handgrip that clears the folded stock.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 3300 g (116.4 oz) |
| Overall Length | 880 mm (34.65") |
| Folded Length | 645 mm (25.39") |
| Barrel Length | 415 mm (16.34") |
| Sight Radius | 378 mm (14.88") |
| Action Type | Gas Operated Long Stroke |
| Firing Mechanism | Rotating Bolt |
| 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 | 350 m (383 yd) |
| Maximum Range | 1000 m (1094 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 | Steel |
| Finish | Blued |
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 Lever
- Features: Underfolding Metal Stock, Forward Pistol Grip, Chrome Lined Barrel, Long Stroke Gas Piston
Base model
Service history
Operators
- Romanian Armed Forces · adopted 1965
- Patriotic Guards
Conflicts
- Romanian Revolution (1989)
Production
Production years: 1965-present
Produced at Cugir alongside the md. 63; large quantities also exported as semi-automatic civilian variants
Origin
Country of origin: Romania
Designer: Mikhail Kalashnikov
Notes
The forward vertical handgrip (the 'dongle' grip) is the most recognizable Romanian feature and exists to provide a hold when the underfolding stock is collapsed. Semi-automatic export copies were widely sold as the WASR-series and SAR-1.
Background
The Romanian underfolders are instantly identifiable by their angled vertical foregrip, an addition unique to Cugir's pattern that gives shooters something to grip once the stamped-steel stock is folded under the receiver.