Valmet M82
Valmet / Sako · Assault Rifle · Discontinued · 1978
Also known as: Valmet Bullpup, M82 Bullpup
Overview
The Valmet M82 is a Finnish 5.56x45mm NATO bullpup assault rifle built by Valmet, derived from the Kalashnikov-pattern Rk 62 mechanism rearranged into a compact bullpup configuration. It is a gas-operated, rotating-bolt select-fire rifle intended to give Finnish paratroopers a short weapon without a clumsy folding stock; a 7.62x39mm version was also produced. After Finnish Army trials it was rejected and only around 2,000 were built, most as semi-automatic 5.56mm civilian rifles.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 3300 g (116.4 oz) |
| Overall Length | 710 mm (27.95") |
| Barrel Length | 415 mm (16.34") |
| Action Type | Gas Operated Long Stroke |
| Firing Mechanism | Rotating Bolt |
| Trigger Type | Single Stage |
| Magazine Capacity | 30 rounds |
| Magazine Type | Detachable Box |
| Muzzle Velocity | 920 m/s (3018 fps) |
| Effective Range | 300 m (328 yd) |
| Rate of Fire | 750 rpm |
| Barrel Rifling | Right Hand |
| Frame Material | Steel |
| Barrel Material | Steel |
| Stock Material | Polymer |
| Finish | Phosphate |
Calibers
- 5.56x45mm NATO · primary · 5.56 NATO — also known as .223 Remington, 5.56mm NATO
- 7.62x39mm — also known as 7.62 Soviet, 7.62x39mm M43
Features
- Firing modes: Semi Automatic, Full Automatic
- Feed systems: Detachable Box Magazine
- Safety mechanisms: Manual Safety
- Features: Bullpup Layout, Ambidextrous Charging Handle, Compact Design
Service history
Operators
- Finnish Defence Forces
Production
Estimated total produced: 2,000 · Production years: 1978-1986
Roughly 2,000 built, most semi-automatic 5.56mm; rejected by the Finnish Army
Origin
Country of origin: Finland
Discontinued: 1986
Notes
One of the earliest production bullpup rifles; a commercial flop now prized by collectors. The reversible charging handle could be set for left- or right-side operation.
Background
The Valmet M82 turned the rugged AK action on its head - literally rebuilt as a bullpup - to shrink a paratrooper rifle without a folding stock; the Finnish Army passed on it and barely two thousand were ever made, turning it into one of the rarest Kalashnikov derivatives.