Are you old enough to remember the Cold War? Not only did this era mark the epic struggle between democracy and communism, it was also a time when colonial powers worldwide receded. You probably recognize one of the most iconic and well-known firearms of the 20th Century, the AK-47. Invented by Mikhail Kalashnikov, the full name of the gun is actually "Avtomat Kalashnikova," and the 47 designates the year of its production. What you may not know is that many of the firearms of this design that you may have seen in news footage or in movies were actually manufactured in China, not Russia, and it's more properly called the Chinese Type 56. In this video, American Rifleman editor in chief Mark Keefe, writer Martin K.A. Morgan and NRA National Firearms Museum's Phil Schreier walk you through the fascinating history of this rifle.
Throwback Thursday: Chinese Type 56 Rifle
More like this from around the NRA
Latest
New Guns 2025: Franchi Momentum All-Terrain Elite Rifle in Verdant Camo
For hunters who appreciate accuracy and do-it-all performance in a more compact design.
New Guns 2025: Rossi R95 Triple Black Lever-Action Rifle
Lookin' chunky! This solid, compact lever gun offers modern features for the modern shooter.
New Gear 2025: MTM Case-Gard Suppressor Case
It helps save your hearing, so doesn't it deserves a case as nice as your gun's?
New Gear 2025: Silencer Central Banish Speed K Titanium Suppressor
Strong enough for law enforcement, but lightweight and affordable enough for you.
New Guns 2025: EAA 2311 Witness Double-Stack Pistol
The Year of the Double-Stack continues with this low-recoil, high-capacity 1911-style handgun.
New Guns 2025: Charter Arms Double Dog Revolver
We double-dog dare you to try out this two-cylinder revolver!
Interests
SECTIONS
IN THE SPOTLIGHT
EXPLORE MORE NRA PUBLICATIONS
