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AKM vs. AKMS: Know the Difference

Shumaila Saeed
By Shumaila Saeed || Published on February 7, 2024
The AKM is an improved version of the AK47 with a stamped receiver for reduced weight, while the AKMS is a variant of the AKM featuring a foldable metal stock for better portability.
AKM vs. AKMS

Key Differences

The AKM, developed in the 1950s as an upgrade to the AK47, incorporates a lighter, stamped steel receiver, reducing the overall weight. The AKMS, a variant of the AKM, maintains most of the AKM's features but adds a foldable metal stock, making it more compact for transportation and storage.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 07, 2024
In terms of design, the AKM introduced a slanted muzzle brake and improved recoil features. The AKMS, while similar in design to the AKM, differentiates itself with its foldable stock, designed for airborne troops and vehicle crews needing more maneuverability.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 07, 2024
The AKM's use of a stamped receiver not only made it lighter but also more cost-effective to produce. The AKMS, with its additional folding stock mechanism, is slightly more complex and expensive to manufacture but offers greater versatility in tight spaces.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 07, 2024
Both the AKM and AKMS use the same 7.62x39mm cartridge, ensuring similar ballistic performance. However, the foldable stock of the AKMS can affect the shooting experience, especially when the stock is collapsed.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 07, 2024
In terms of global distribution and usage, the AKM has seen widespread adoption due to its reliability and ease of production. The AKMS, while also widely used, is especially favored by military units that require a more compact weapon without sacrificing firepower.
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Shumaila Saeed
Feb 07, 2024
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Comparison Chart

Stock Type

Fixed wooden or plastic stock
Foldable metal stock
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Feb 07, 2024

Weight

Lighter than AK47 due to stamped receiver
Slightly heavier than AKM due to stock
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Design Focus

Improved recoil, cost-effective production
Compactness, portability for specialized use
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Usage

Widespread in various military forces
Preferred by airborne and vehicle crews
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Manufacturing Complexity

Less complex than AKMS
More complex due to folding stock
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AKM and AKMS Definitions

AKM

A modernized version of the AK47 with a lighter stamped receiver.
The AKM's lighter design made it easier for soldiers to carry.
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Shumaila Saeed
Jan 21, 2024

AKMS

A variant of the AKM with a foldable metal stock for enhanced portability.
The AKMS is ideal for paratroopers due to its compact design.
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Jan 21, 2024

AKM

An assault rifle known for its durability and cost-effective production.
Many armies adopted the AKM for its reliability and ease of maintenance.
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Shumaila Saeed
Jan 21, 2024

AKMS

A combat weapon that balances compactness and firepower.
The AKMS is a popular choice for urban warfare scenarios.
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Shumaila Saeed
Jan 21, 2024

AKM

A 7.62x39mm caliber rifle widely used in military forces.
The AKM remains a standard-issue rifle in several countries.
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Jan 21, 2024
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AKMS

An assault rifle adapted for use in confined spaces and vehicles.
Vehicle crews often prefer the AKMS for its space-saving feature.
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Jan 21, 2024

AKM

A robust weapon suitable for various combat situations.
The AKM proved its versatility in different terrain and climates.
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Jan 21, 2024

AKMS

A 7.62x39mm caliber rifle designed for specialized military units.
Special forces frequently use the AKMS for covert operations.
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Shumaila Saeed
Jan 21, 2024

AKM

A firearm with a fixed stock and improved muzzle brake.
The AKM's slanted muzzle brake helps control recoil effectively.
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Jan 21, 2024

AKMS

A firearm maintaining the AKM's characteristics but with added maneuverability.
The AKMS combines the firepower of the AKM with greater flexibility.
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Shumaila Saeed
Jan 21, 2024

Repeatedly Asked Queries

What does AKM stand for?

AKM stands for "Avtomat Kalashnikova Modernizirovanny," meaning modernized Kalashnikov automatic rifle.
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Feb 07, 2024

What is the main feature of the AKMS?

The main feature of the AKMS is its foldable metal stock.
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Feb 07, 2024

Is the AKMS more expensive to manufacture than the AKM?

Yes, the folding stock mechanism makes the AKMS slightly more complex and expensive to produce.
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Feb 07, 2024

Can the AKMS be fired with the stock folded?

Yes, the AKMS can be fired with the stock folded, though it may affect handling.
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What is the primary use of the AKMS?

The AKMS is primarily used by airborne troops and in confined spaces like vehicles.
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Do both rifles have similar maintenance requirements?

Yes, both the AKM and AKMS have similar maintenance requirements.
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Are the AKM and AKMS still in production?

Production varies, but many countries still use and produce versions of these rifles.
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Shumaila Saeed
Feb 07, 2024

Is the AKM heavier than the AK47?

No, the AKM is lighter than the AK47 due to its stamped metal receiver.
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Shumaila Saeed
Feb 07, 2024

Is there a difference in accuracy between the AKM and AKMS?

Accuracy is similar, but the stock configuration can affect shooting ergonomics.
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Feb 07, 2024

Can the AKMS use the same ammunition as the AKM?

Yes, both the AKM and AKMS use the same 7.62x39mm ammunition.
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Shumaila Saeed
Feb 07, 2024

Does the AKM have better recoil control than the AK47?

Yes, the AKM has improved recoil control due to its redesigned muzzle brake.
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Which rifle has a higher rate of fire?

The rate of fire is similar in both rifles.
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How do the ergonomics of the AKM and AKMS compare?

The AKM has a fixed stock, providing stable ergonomics, while the AKMS's foldable stock offers versatility but may feel different when folded.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 07, 2024

Can both rifles be equipped with different sights and accessories?

Yes, both the AKM and AKMS can be fitted with various sights and accessories.
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Shumaila Saeed
Feb 07, 2024

Are there civilian versions of the AKM and AKMS?

Yes, civilian versions of both rifles are available in some countries.
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Feb 07, 2024

Which rifle is more suitable for urban combat?

The AKMS, with its foldable stock, is often more suitable for urban combat.
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Shumaila Saeed
Feb 07, 2024

Which rifle is more common in global military use?

The AKM is more commonly used globally due to its widespread production.
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Feb 07, 2024

Can the AKMS be easily concealed for covert operations?

Its foldable stock makes the AKMS more concealable than the AKM.
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Feb 07, 2024

Which rifle is more popular among collectors?

The AKM is generally more popular among collectors due to its historical significance.
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Feb 07, 2024

Are there significant weight differences between the two?

The AKMS is slightly heavier than the AKM due to the metal stock.
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Shumaila Saeed
Feb 07, 2024

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About Author
Shumaila Saeed
Written by
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed, an expert content creator with 6 years of experience, specializes in distilling complex topics into easily digestible comparisons, shining a light on the nuances that both inform and educate readers with clarity and accuracy.

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