


Photo source: img.kalashnikovgroup.ru, sharkcoasttactical.com, talarms.co.uk
AK-104
AK-104 rifle in 7.62×39mm: specs, history, ammo and Colorado legal notes from the CO Boots gun library. Want hands-on time with a firearm like the AK-104? Our certified instructors cover safe handling, operation and marksmanship in every firearms training class.
| Library ID | GT-522 |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Kalashnikov Concern |
| Type | Rifle |
| Caliber | 7.62×39mm |
| Action | Gas-operated, selective-fire |
| Barrel Length | 415 mm |
| Country of Origin | Russia |
| Year of Production | 2001 |
| Production Status | In production |
| Typical Users | Military, Law Enforcement |
| Rating | 4.5 |
AK-104: Technical Specifications
The AK-104 is a modernized variant of the AK family, primarily designed for compactness and versatility. Key specifications include:
- Caliber: 7.62×39mm, providing effective stopping power and reliability in various conditions.
- Barrel Length: 415 mm (16.3 inches), balancing maneuverability and accuracy, suitable for close-quarters and medium-range engagements.
- Weight: Approximately 3.4 kg (7.5 lbs) without a magazine, allowing for ease of handling while maintaining durability.
- Material: Constructed from high-strength steel and polymer components, ensuring robustness while reducing weight.
- Unique Engineering Aspects: Features a side-folding stock for compact storage, a muzzle brake for recoil reduction, and a rail system for mounting optics and accessories. The AK-104 is designed for enhanced ergonomics and adaptability, making it effective in various combat scenarios.
Overall, the AK-104 combines traditional reliability with modern enhancements for improved user experience.
AK-104: Performance Characteristics
The AK-104 is a modernized variant of the AK series, chambered for the 7.62x39mm cartridge, known for its balance of power and manageable recoil.
Accuracy: The AK-104 offers reasonable accuracy for an assault rifle, typically around 2-4 MOA at 100 meters, influenced by its 16.3-inch barrel and effective iron sights.
Reliability: Like its predecessors, the AK-104 is renowned for reliability, functioning effectively in harsh conditions with minimal maintenance. Its design allows for operation in extreme temperatures and environments.
Handling: Weighing about 7.9 lbs (unloaded), the AK-104 is relatively easy to handle. The shorter barrel enhances maneuverability, making it suitable for close-quarters combat while retaining decent range.
Rate of Fire: The cyclic rate is approximately 600 rounds per minute, providing a robust firepower capability.
Other Metrics: The AK-104 features a polymer stock and handguard, contributing to ergonomic improvements. Its magazine compatibility with other AK models enhances versatility. Overall, the AK-104 combines traditional re
AK-104: Design Features
The AK-104 is a modernized version of the classic AK platform, featuring a number of design enhancements. Ergonomically, it maintains the iconic wooden or polymer stock, ensuring comfortable handling and stability. The rifle has a shorter barrel (around 14.5 inches) compared to earlier models, which improves maneuverability while retaining effective range.
Safety mechanisms include a robust safety selector that locks the trigger and bolt, preventing accidental discharge. The design allows for easy access and operation, even in gloves. Aesthetically, the AK-104 showcases a sleek, utilitarian look with a matte finish, reducing glare and wear.
Innovative features include a side-folding stock option for compact storage, and a rail system for mounting optics and accessories, enhancing versatility. The combination of these elements makes the AK-104 a reliable and adaptable firearm suitable for various tactical scenarios.
AK-104: Historical Context
The AK-104 is a modern variant of the iconic AK-47 family, developed in the late 1990s by the Kalashnikov Concern in Russia. It was designed as a compact assault rifle for special forces and law enforcement, featuring a shorter barrel for improved maneuverability while retaining the 7.62x39mm cartridge's effectiveness.
Key milestones include its introduction in 2001, showcasing enhancements over earlier models, such as improved ergonomics and modularity. The AK-104 has been used in various conflicts, including operations in Chechnya and by global military forces, highlighting its reliability in diverse environments.
Its design influenced compact firearm development, emphasizing robustness and simplicity, which has inspired modern tactical rifles. The AK-104 remains a symbol of modern Russian firearm engineering, reinforcing the AK platform's legacy while adapting to contemporary military needs.
AK-104: User Experience
The AK-104 is a modernized variant of the AK-47 platform, known for its robust design and reliability. Users often praise its comfort due to the adjustable stock and ergonomic handguard, providing a better fit for various shooters. The shorter barrel enhances maneuverability, making it suitable for close-quarters engagements while maintaining decent accuracy.
In terms of ease of use, the AK-104's controls are intuitive, allowing for quick operation even for novice shooters. The rifle's low recoil contributes to manageable shooting experiences, enabling users to stay on target more effectively.
Durability is a hallmark of the AK series, and the AK-104 is no exception, with many users reporting excellent performance in harsh conditions. Common complaints include its weight, which can be cumbersome for extended carry, and the sometimes limited compatibility with aftermarket accessories. Overall, the AK-104 is well-regarded for its balance of comfort, reliability, and ease of use, making it a favored choice among enthusiasts and professionals alike.
AK-104: Ammunition Information
The AK-104 is a modernized variant of the AK-100 series, chambered primarily for the 7.62x39mm cartridge. This caliber is known for its effective range and stopping power, making it suitable for various combat scenarios. The AK-104 is compatible with a wide range of 7.62x39mm ammunition types, including standard full metal jacket (FMJ) rounds, soft-point (SP) for hunting, and hollow-point (HP) rounds for self-defense.
While the AK-104 is designed to work with standard Soviet/Russian 7.62x39mm ammunition, it can also utilize compatible ammunition from other brands, such as American-made Wolf, Tula, and others, provided they meet the necessary specifications.
For optimal performance, high-quality brass-cased ammunition is recommended, particularly for precision shooting or when reliability is paramount. Additionally, the use of steel-cased ammunition is common for general practice and training due to its lower cost and decent reliability in the AK platform.
AK-104: Usage Tips and Best Practices
The AK-104 is a compact, reliable variant of the AK family. Here are some usage tips and best practices:
Cleaning and Maintenance:
1. Disassembly: Familiarize yourself with the disassembly process—remove the magazine, clear the chamber, and follow the manual.
2. Cleaning: Use a cleaning rod and patches to clean the barrel. Wipe the bolt and carrier with a solvent to remove fouling. Lubricate key moving parts lightly with gun oil.
3. Regular Inspection: Check for wear on the recoil spring, bolt, and magazine feed lips.
Shooting Tips:
1. Stance: Use a stable shooting stance; a slightly crouched position improves control.
2. Grip: Maintain a firm grip on the handguard and stock to manage recoil effectively.
3. Sight Alignment: Ensure proper sight alignment for accuracy—focus on the front sight.
Common Mistakes to Avoid:
1. Neglecting Maintenance: Regular cleaning prevents malfunctions.
2. Improper Magazine Handling: Ensure magazines are seated correctly to avoid jams.
3. Over-lubrication: Excess oil can attract dirt; use sparingly.
By following these tips, you can enhance performance
Legal Considerations in Colorado
The AK-104 is a modernized version of the AK-47, chambered for 7.62x39mm. In the U.S., its legal status varies by state. Generally, it is classified as a semi-automatic rifle and is legal in many states, provided it is not configured as a fully automatic weapon. States like California, New York, and New Jersey impose strict regulations, including assault weapon bans that may affect the AK-104’s legality.
Federal law requires firearms to have a serial number, and the AK-104 must comply with the National Firearms Act if modified. Notable legal cases often revolve around the interpretation of assault weapon bans and Second Amendment rights, though specific cases involving the AK-104 are rare.
Civilians can own the AK-104 in states with fewer restrictions, while military use is typically confined to authorized personnel. Always check local laws, as regulations frequently change.
AK-104: Reviews and Ratings
User reviews for the AK-104 generally highlight its reliability and durability as standout features, with many users noting that it functions well under various conditions. The firearm’s accuracy is often praised, with reviewers mentioning effective performance at both short and medium ranges.
However, some users express concerns about the weight and balance, indicating that it may be less maneuverable compared to other models. Customer service experiences vary; while some users report positive interactions and prompt support, others mention delays and lack of responsiveness.
Overall satisfaction is high, with many users appreciating the build quality and ease of maintenance. The AK-104 is frequently recommended for both recreational shooting and tactical applications, underscoring its versatility. Despite some minor criticisms, the recurring theme is that it is a reliable and effective firearm that meets the expectations of its users.
AK-104: Appearances in Media
The AK-104, a modern variant of the AK series, has appeared in various movies, TV shows, and video games. Here’s a brief list:
Movies
1. "The Expendables 2" (2012) - The AK-104 is featured among the weapons used by characters in combat scenes.
2. "The A-Team" (2010) - The weapon appears in the hands of some antagonists during action sequences.
TV Shows
1. "Strike Back" - The series often features modern firearms, including the AK-104, in its military-themed storylines.
2. "The Blacklist" - Various firearms are showcased, including the AK-104, used by characters in criminal activities.
Video Games
1. "Call of Duty: Modern Warfare" series - The AK-104 is included as a weapon option in several titles, representing modern warfare settings.
2. "Counter-Strike: Global Offensive" - While primarily featuring the AK-47, the AK-104 is represented in mods or custom skins.
3. "Escape from Tarkov" - The AK-104 is featured prominently as a customizable weapon within the game.
These appearances highlight the AK-104's association with contemporary military and action themes across different media.
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