AKM vs. AKMS — What's the Difference?
By Tayyaba Rehman — Published on January 30, 2024
The AKM is a modernized version of the AK47 rifle, while the AKMS is a variant of the AKM with a foldable metal stock for easier transportation and storage.
Difference Between AKM and AKMS
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
The AKM (Avtomat Kalashnikova Modernizirovanny) is an upgraded version of the original AK47, developed in the 1950s with improvements like a lighter build and better accuracy. The AKMS (Avtomat Kalashnikova Modernizirovanny Skladnoy) is a variant of the AKM, featuring a foldable metal stock, making it more compact and suitable for airborne troops and vehicle crew members.
The AKM incorporates several design modifications over the AK47, including a stamped steel receiver and a slanted muzzle brake for reduced recoil. The AKMS, apart from its foldable stock, retains most of the AKM's features, ensuring it retains the same firing capabilities.
The AKM's fixed wooden stock is standard for infantry use, providing stability and durability. In contrast, the AKMS's foldable metal stock is designed for situations where space is a constraint, allowing for easier maneuverability and portability.
In terms of weight, the AKM is lighter than the AK47 due to its stamped metal construction. The AKMS, when its stock is folded, is even more compact, making it ideal for situations where space-saving is crucial, such as in armored vehicles or for paratroopers.
Both the AKM and AKMS fire the same 7.62x39mm cartridge and are known for their reliability and ease of maintenance. The choice between the two often depends on the specific needs of the military unit, with the AKMS being favored when compactness and flexibility are required.
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Comparison Chart
Stock
Fixed wooden stock
Foldable metal stock
Design Improvement
Lighter build, stamped steel receiver
Same as AKM, with added foldability
Recoil Management
Slanted muzzle brake
Same as AKM
Portability
Standard size for infantry
More compact and portable
Use Case
General infantry
Airborne troops, vehicle crews
Compare with Definitions
AKM
An upgraded version of the AK47.
The AKM is widely used by various military forces.
AKMS
Maintains the AKM's firing capabilities.
The AKMS is as reliable as the standard AKM.
AKM
Features a stamped steel receiver.
The AKM's lighter weight is due to its design.
AKMS
Shares the same ammunition as the AKM.
The AKMS uses the same 7.62x39mm rounds.
AKM
Known for its reliability.
The AKM operates well in diverse environmental conditions.
AKMS
A variant of the AKM with a foldable stock.
The AKMS is preferred for its compact size.
AKM
Has a fixed wooden stock.
The AKM's wooden stock adds to its stability.
AKMS
Ideal for use in confined spaces.
Vehicle crews favor the AKMS for its compact design.
AKM
Fires 7.62x39mm cartridges.
The AKM's ammunition is effective for mid-range engagements.
AKMS
Suitable for airborne troops.
Paratroopers often use the AKMS for its portability.
Common Curiosities
What's the main feature of the AKMS?
Its foldable metal stock.
Is the AKM heavier than the AK47?
No, it's lighter due to its stamped steel construction.
What caliber does the AKM use?
It fires 7.62x39mm cartridges.
What does AKM stand for?
Avtomat Kalashnikova Modernizirovanny.
Can the AKMS stock be folded for compactness?
Yes, that's one of its key features.
Are the AKM and AKMS used by airborne troops?
The AKMS is particularly popular with airborne units.
Does the AKM have good recoil control?
Yes, its slanted muzzle brake helps manage recoil.
What's the difference in weight between the AKM and AKMS?
The AKMS is slightly heavier due to its metal stock.
Is the AKM known for its durability?
Yes, like the AK47, it's known for robustness and reliability.
What's the advantage of the AKMS's foldable stock?
It makes the rifle more versatile and portable.
Do the AKM and AKMS perform the same in harsh conditions?
Yes, both are designed to withstand diverse environmental challenges.
Is the AKMS suitable for vehicle crew members?
Yes, its compact size when folded is ideal for confined spaces.
Can the AKMS be used effectively in combat?
Absolutely, it maintains the same firing capabilities as the AKM.
Are there any differences in ammunition between AKM and AKMS?
No, they both use the same type of ammunition.
Which rifle would be better for general infantry use?
The AKM, with its fixed stock, is typically preferred.
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Written by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
