AK name question

[69Chevy]

If AK stands for Avtomat Kalashnikova, what does the "avtomat" part mean? It sounds a lot like automatic, and if that's the case, why do we call semi-auto versions of the AK, well, an AK. Wouldn't "Kalashnikova Rifle" be a better name for it?

 

[Scoupe]

Yes, it is "automatic". Most of the semi-auto AK style firearms we get are NOT called "AK-47" or even the more proper "AKM". They have names like WASR-10 and such. WE just hand the AK moniker on them for convenience.

At least that's my take...

 

[DMK]

What do you think the 'A' in 45ACP stands for?

Automatic Colt Pistol.

Years ago, semi-autos were commonly referred to simply as automatics.

 

[cheygriz]

When Kalashnikovs first started coming into the country in large numbers from China, they were called AKS. (Avtomat Kalashnkov, semiautomatic)

Still a good name IMHO. If ya tell the sheeple ya got an AK, they have terrible visions of great carnage and blood flowing in the street. If ya tell 'em ya got an AKS, they have no idea what the heck you're talkin' about!

 

[MrPeter]

If ya tell the sheeple ya got an AK, they have terrible visions of great carnage and blood flowing in the street

This is precisely why when I tell people about my collection, I specifically use the term "AK".

 

[Destructo6]

AK is simply a general term, used to refer to the whole range of firearms based on the Kalashnikov design.

It's a lot easier to say, "5.56mm AK" than "Arsenal Inc. SLR-106fr," don't you think?