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
Throwback Thursday: "Sinkbox" Waterfowling
If you’re a modern-day waterfowler reading this NRA Family story hoping to learn a new hunting technique that will help you increase your bag of ducks and geese, we're afraid you’re a bit late.
NRA Family Entertainment: Dashing through the Elk in Utah
Oh what fun it is to ride where the herds of wild elk play ...
First Impressions: Go Med Kits' First Aid & Care Essentials for Hunters
First aid in the field is just a little different for hunters ... don't be caught out without a hunting-specific first aid kit!
Video Review: Ruger American Gen II Standard Bolt-Action Rifle
It doesn't just look cool, it is cool. Here are the rest of the reasons it's our NRA Gun of the Week!
Attention, NRA Clubs: Check Out Our New Club Leadership & Development Online Course
NRA Clubs & Associations is pleased to offer this up-to-date online learning opportunity for current and upcoming club leadership.
New Calibers & Camo, Who's This? Savage Model 334!
It's the same Savage 334 you know and love, but with more calibers and camouflage options!
Interests
Throwback Thursday: Texas Ranger's '73 Winchester | NRA Family
- NRA Smallbore Championship Celebrates 40th Anniversary: 1959 National Matches | An NRA Shooting Sports Journal
- Modern Technology Implemented To Surmount Logistical Hurdles: 1958 National Matches | An NRA Shooting Sports Journal
- Looking Back At The 2009 NRA National High Power Championship | An NRA Shooting Sports Journal
SECTIONS
IN THE SPOTLIGHT
EXPLORE MORE NRA PUBLICATIONS
