View source for RPK

{{Short description|Light machine gun}}
{{other uses}}
{{More footnotes needed|date=November 2017}}
{{Infobox weapon
| name               = RPK
| image              = 7.62mm light machine gun RPK.png
| caption            = RPK with a bipod and 40-round box magazine
| type               = [[Light machine gun]]
<!-- Type selection -->
| service            = 1961–present
| wars               = [[Palestinian-Israeli Conflict]]<br />[[Vietnam War]]<br />[[South African Border War]]<br />[[Somali Civil War]]<br />[[Yom Kippur War]]<ref name ="syria">{{cite book |first=David |last=Campbell |others=Illustrated by Johnny Shumate |title=Israeli Soldier vs Syrian Soldier: Golan Heights 1967–73 |series=Combat |volume=18 |year=2016 |publisher=[[Osprey Publishing]] |page=78 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=_7MODAAAQBAJ |isbn=978-1-472813305 |access-date=2018-09-30 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180930232108/https://books.google.fr/books?id=_7MODAAAQBAJ |archive-date=2018-09-30 |url-status=live}}</ref><br />[[Lebanese Civil War]]<br />[[Angolan Civil War]]<br />[[War in Afghanistan (1978–present)|Afghan Wars]]<br />[[Salvadoran Civil War]]<br />[[Iran–Iraq War]]<br />[[Lord's Resistance Army insurgency]]<br />[[Tuareg rebellion (1990–1995)]]<ref name ='SAS 2005'>{{cite book |url=http://www.smallarmssurvey.org/publications/by-type/yearbook/small-arms-survey-2005.html |chapter-url=http://www.smallarmssurvey.org/fileadmin/docs/A-Yearbook/2005/en/Small-Arms-Survey-2005-Chapter-06-EN.pdf |chapter=Sourcing the Tools of War: Small Arms Supplies to Conflict Zones |title=Small Arms Survey 2005: Weapons at War |publisher=[[Oxford University Press]] |year=2005 |author=Small Arms Survey |author-link=Small Arms Survey |page=166 |isbn=978-0-19-928085-8 |access-date=2018-08-29 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180830004838/http://www.smallarmssurvey.org/publications/by-type/yearbook/small-arms-survey-2005.html |archive-date=2018-08-30 |url-status=dead}}</ref><br />[[Gulf War]]<br />[[Yugoslav Wars]]<br />[[Burundian Civil War]]<ref name ='SAS 2007 6'>{{cite book |url=http://www.smallarmssurvey.org/publications/by-type/yearbook/small-arms-survey-2007.html |chapter-url=http://www.smallarmssurvey.org/fileadmin/docs/A-Yearbook/2007/en/full/Small-Arms-Survey-2007-Chapter-06-EN.pdf |chapter=Armed Violence in Burundi: Conflict and Post-Conflict Bujumbura |title=The Small Arms Survey 2007: Guns and the City |publisher=[[Cambridge University Press]] |year=2007 |author=Small Arms Survey |author-link=Small Arms Survey |page=204 |isbn=978-0-521-88039-8 |access-date=2018-08-29 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180827001033/http://www.smallarmssurvey.org/publications/by-type/yearbook/small-arms-survey-2007.html |archive-date=2018-08-27 |url-status=live}}</ref> <br />[[Iraq War]]<br />[[Militias-Comando Vermelho conflict]]<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.thefirearmblog.com/blog/2017/02/21/weapons-rios-crime-war/ |title=Weapons of Rio's crime war |date=2017-02-21 |website=The Firearm Blog |access-date=2022-11-03 |language=en-US|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20230306193654/https://www.thefirearmblog.com/blog/2017/02/21/weapons-rios-crime-war/|archive-date= March 6, 2023}}</ref><br />[[First Libyan Civil War]]<br />[[Syrian Civil War]]<br />[[War in Iraq (2013–2017)]]<br />[[Second Libyan Civil War]]<br />[[War in Donbas (2014–2022)|War in Donbas]]<br />[[Ethiopian civil conflict (2018-present)]]<br/>[[Russo-Ukrainian War]]
<!-- Production history -->
| designer           = [[Mikhail Kalashnikov]]
| number             = 
| spec_label         = 
| length             = {{convert|1040|mm|in|1|abbr=on}} (stock extended)
| width              = 
| height             = 
<!-- Ranged weapon specifications -->
| action             = [[Gas-operated reloading|Gas-operated]], [[rotating bolt]]; [[closed bolt]]
| image_size         = 300
| origin             = [[Soviet Union]]
| is_ranged          = yes
<!-- Service history -->
| used_by            = See ''[[#Users|Users]]''
| design_date        = 1959-61
| manufacturer       = [[Vyatskiye Polyany Machine-Building Plant]]
| unit_cost          = 
| production_date    = 1961–1978
| variants           = See ''[[#Variants|Variants]]''
<!-- General specifications -->
| weight             = {{convert|4.8|kg|lb|1|abbr=on}}
| part_length        = {{convert|590|mm|abbr=on|1}}
| cartridge          = [[7.62×39mm M43]]
| rate               = 600 rounds/min
| velocity           = {{convert|745|m/s|0|abbr=on}}
| range              = 100–1,000 m sight adjustments, Windage adjustable at the rear sight
| max_range          = 
| feed               = 30-, 40-round box magazine, 75-round drum magazine
| sights             = [[Iron sights]]: semi-shrouded front post and rear sliding tangent with an adjustable notch
}}

The '''RPK''' ({{langx|ru|Ручной пулемёт Калашникова/РПК|Ruchnoy Pulemyot Kalashnikova|link=no}}, English: "Kalashnikov's hand-held machine gun"), sometimes inaccurately termed the '''RPK-47''', is a [[Soviet]] [[7.62×39mm]] [[light machine gun]] that was developed by [[Mikhail Kalashnikov]] in the early 1960s, in parallel with the [[AKM]] [[assault rifle]]. It was created to standardize the [[small arms]] inventory of the [[Soviet Army]], where it replaced the 7.62×39mm [[RPD machine gun]]. The RPK continues to be used by the military of the [[post-Soviet states]] and several African and Asian nations. The RPK is also manufactured in [[defense industry of Bulgaria|Bulgaria]], [[Fegyver- és Gépgyár|Hungary]], [[arms industry in Romania|Romania]], and [[Defense industry of Serbia|Serbia]].

==Design details==
===Operating mechanism===
The RPK functions identically to the [[AK-47]]. It also uses the same 7.62×39mm [[ammunition]]. It has a similar design layout to the [[Kalashnikov series of rifles]], with [[Firearm modification|modifications]] to increase the RPK's effective range and accuracy, enhance its [[Rate of fire#Sustained or effective rate|sustained fire capability]], and strengthen the [[Receiver (firearms)|receiver]].<ref name="Vorobiev2016">{{cite book |first=Marco |last=Vorobiev |title=Gun Digest Shooter's Guide to AKs |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=A04hDAAAQBAJ&pg=PA239 |date=15 June 2016 |publisher=Krause Publications |isbn=978-1-4402-4641-8 |pages=239– }}{{Dead link|date=November 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref>

===Features===
The RPK features a thicker and longer [[Gun barrel|barrel]] than the AKM. This allows for it to be fired for longer without permanent loss in accuracy due to the barrel heating up. The [[Chrome plating|chrome]]-lined barrel is permanently fixed to the receiver and cannot be replaced in the field. It is fitted with a new front [[Sight (device)|sight]] base, and the [[Gas-operated reloading|gas]] block lacks both a [[bayonet]] lug and an under-barrel [[cleaning rod]] guide. The barrel also features a folding [[bipod]] mounted near the [[Gun barrel#Muzzle|muzzle]], and a front sight base with a lug that limits the bipod's rotation around the axis of the barrel. The barrel has a threaded muzzle, enabling the use of muzzle devices such as [[flash hiders]], [[Muzzle brake|compensators]], and [[Blank (cartridge)|blank]]-firing adapters. When a muzzle device is not being used, the threads on the muzzle can be covered by a [[thread protector]]. The barrel is pinned to the receiver in a modified [[trunnion]], reinforced by ribbing, and is slightly wider than the trunnion used on the standard AKM type rifles. Symmetrical bulges on both sides of the front trunnion ensure a proper fit inside the receiver.

The U-shaped receiver is [[Stamping (metalworking)|stamped]] from a smooth {{convert|1.5|mm|abbr=on|2}} [[Sheet metal|sheet]] of steel compared to the {{convert|1.0|mm|abbr=on|2}} sheet metal receiver used on the standard AKM rifles. It uses a modified AKM [[Recoil operation|recoil]] spring assembly that consists of a rear spring guide rod from the AK and a new forward flat guide rod and coil spring. It features a thick [[laminated]] wood foregrip and a fixed laminated wood "club-foot" [[stock (firearm)|buttstock]] similar to the stock used on the RPD, which is designed to allow the user to fire from the [[prone position]] more comfortably.{{Sfn|Rottman|2011|p=27}}  It uses a standard AKM [[pistol grip]] and can also use standard AKM detachable [[box magazine]]s, but it is most commonly used with a 40-round box magazine or a 75-round [[drum magazine]]. Interchangeability of parts between the RPK and AKM are moderate.

====Sights====
The weapon's [[Iron sights|rear sight]] leaf is [[Elevation (ballistics)|elevation]] adjustable, and graduated for ranges of 100 to 1,000 meters in 100 m increments. The rear sight leaf also features a [[windage]] adjustment knob unique to the RPK series of rifles.

====Accessories====
Supplied with the RPK are: spare magazines, a cleaning rod, cleaning kit (stored in a hollowed compartment in the buttstock), a [[Sling (firearms)|sling]], oil bottle, and magazine pouches (a single-pocket pouch for a drum magazine or a 4-pocket pouch for box magazines).

==Variants==
=== RPK ===
The RPK light machine gun chambered in 7.62×39mm cartridge, is essentially a Russian equivalent to a [[squad automatic weapon]]. It was adopted by the former Soviet Union, and was issued mainly to [[Motorized infantry|motorized units]]. It was later adopted by several military agencies around the world.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://world.guns.ru/machine/mg15-e.htm |title=RPK (USSR/Russia) |first=Max R. |last=Popenker |website=Modern Firearms |access-date=September 10, 2008 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070701112816/http://world.guns.ru/machine/mg15-e.htm |archive-date=2007-07-01}}</ref>

====RPKS====
The RPKS ("S" — Skladnoy (Russian: складной) means "folding" [stock]) is a variant of the RPK with a side-folding wooden stock was intended primarily for the [[Paratrooper|paratroopers]]. Changes to the design of the RPKS are limited only to the shoulder stock mounting, at the rear of the receiver. It uses a trunnion riveted to both receiver walls that has a socket and tang, allowing the stock to hinge on a pivot pin. The trunnion has a cut-out on the right side which is designed to engage the stock catch and lock it in place when folded. The wooden stock is mounted in a pivoting hull, which contains a catch that secures the buttstock in the extended position. The rear sling loop was moved from the left side of the stock body to the right side of the stock frame.

===RPK-74===
{{Infobox weapon
| name               = RPK-74
| image              = Soviet RPK-74.JPEG
| caption            = RPK-74 with a bipod
| type               = [[Light machine gun]]
<!-- Type selection -->
| service            = 1974–present
| wars               = [[Soviet–Afghan War]]<br />[[First Chechen War]]<br />[[Second Chechen War]]<br />[[Russo-Georgian War]]<br />[[Russo-Ukrainian War]]<br />[[2020 Nagorno-Karabakh conflict]]
| designer           = 
| number             = 
| spec_label         = 
| length             = {{convert|1060|mm|abbr=on|1}} (stock extended) <small>(RPK-74, RPKS-74)</small><br />{{convert|845|mm|abbr=on|1}} (stock folded <small>(RPKS-74)</small>
| width              = 
| height             = 
| diameter           = 
<!-- Ranged weapon specifications -->
| action             = [[Gas-operated reloading|Gas operated]], [[rotating bolt]]; [[closed bolt]]
| image_size         = 300
| origin             = Soviet Union
| is_ranged          = Yes
<!-- Service history -->
| used_by            = See ''[[#Users|Users]]''
| design_date        = 1974
| manufacturer       = 
| unit_cost          = 
| production_date    = 1974–present
| variants           = 
<!-- General specifications -->
| weight             = {{convert|4.7|kg|abbr=on}} <small>(RPK-74)</small><br />{{convert|4.85|kg|abbr=on}} <small>(RPKS-74)</small>
| part_length        = {{convert|590|mm|abbr=on|1}}
| cartridge          = [[5.45×39mm|5.45×39mm M74]]
| rate               = 600 rounds/min
| velocity           = {{convert|960|m/s|abbr=on|1}}
| range              = {{plainlist|
*{{convert|800|m|yd|0|abbr=on}} (point target)
*{{convert|1000|m|yd|0|abbr=on}} (area target)<ref name="fas.org">{{cite report |url=https://fas.org/man/dod-101/sys/land/row/weg2001.pdf |title=OPFOR Worldwide Equipment Guide |date=September 2001 |publisher=[[TRADOC]] DCSINT Threat Support Directorate |location=[[Fort Leavenworth]], Kansas |via=fas.org |pages=1–3 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150425060129/http://fas.org/man/dod-101/sys/land/row/weg2001.pdf |archive-date=2015-04-25}}</ref>
}}
| max_range          = {{convert|3150|m|yd|abbr=on}}
| feed               = 30-, 45-round box magazine
| sights             = Iron sights: semi-shrouded front post and rear sliding tangent with an adjustable notch<br />Sight radius: {{convert|555|mm|abbr=on|1}}
}}
[[File:AK-74 RPK-74 DA-ST-89-06612reversed.jpg|thumb|A comparison view of the [[AK-74]] (top) and RPK-74 (bottom)]]

The RPK-74 (РПК-74) was introduced in 1974 together with the [[AK-74]] assault rifle and chambered for the new [[5.45×39mm]] [[intermediate cartridge]].<ref name="TLRPK">{{Cite web |url=https://www.tactical-life.com/firearms/rifles/russian-rpk-74-gun/ |title=Russia's RPK-74 LMG: A Faithful Servant Since 1974 |first=Leroy |last=Thompson |date=19 September 2017 |website=Tactical Life|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20230201095625/https://www.tactical-life.com/firearms/rifles/russian-rpk-74-gun/|archive-date= February 1, 2023}}</ref> It was derived from the AK-74 rifle, with modifications that mirror those made to the AKM to create the RPK.

The RPK-74 also uses a longer and heavier chrome-plated barrel, which has a new gas block with a gas channel at a 90° angle to the bore axis, and a ring for the cleaning rod. It is also equipped with a folding bipod and a different front sight tower. The muzzle is threaded for a [[flash suppressor]] or blank-firing device.

The rear stock trunnion was strengthened and the magazine well was reinforced with steel inserts.

Additionally, the RPK-74 has a modified return mechanism compared to the AK-74, which uses a new type of metal spring guide rod and recoil spring. The rear sight assembly, forward handguard and receiver dust cover were all retained from the RPK.

The RPK-74 feeds from a 45-round steel or polymer box magazine, interchangeable with magazines from the AK-74,<ref name="TLRPK"/> and is designed to be charged from [[stripper clips]]. Drum magazines similar to those used on the previous RPK models were tested during its development phase, but were discontinued in favor of the 45-round box magazine. However, recently the production of a 97-round drum has started. This drum was designed to be used with the [[AK-107]] but can also be used in any 5.45×39mm weapon with compatible magazines, such as the RPK-74 and RPK-74M. They were also testing with experimental conventional drums, a [[prototype]] 100-round belt fed drum magazine was also created. It attaches into the regular magazine well, but the cartridges are stored on a 100-round belt inside a box. A feed system removes them from the belt and puts them in a position where they can be loaded through the regular magazine well. This system is actuated by a lever from the magazine that clips around the charging handle. It is unknown if this ever went into service.

Standard equipment includes: eight magazines, six stripper clips (15 rounds per clip), a speedloader guide, cleaning rod, cleaning kit, sling, oil bottle and two magazine pouches.<ref name="TLRPK"/> Some variants do not come with the cleaning kit option.

It is in widespread use by member states of the former Soviet Union, as well as Bulgaria.<ref name="TLRPK"/>

====RPKS-74====
The RPKS-74 is the paratrooper variant of the RPK-74, equipped with a wooden folding stock from the RPKS.

====RPK-74M====
[[File:Рпк RPK.jpg|thumb|RPK-74M with its bipod deployed]]

The '''RPK-74M''' (''Modernizirovannij'' "Modernized") is an updated variant of the RPK-74 developed during the mid-'90s. In line with the AK-74M assault rifle variant, the RPK-74M lower handguard, gas tube cover, pistol grip, and new synthetic stock are made from a black, [[Fiberglass|glass-filled]] [[polyamide]]. The stock is shaped like the RPK-74 fixed stock, but also side-folds like the RPKS-74. The stock additionally has an easier to use release mechanism, replacing the bullet press release from the RPKS and RPKS-74. Each RPK-74M is fitted standard with a side-rail bracket for mounting optics. It also includes most of the 74M economic changes, such as the dimpled on barrel hardware, omission of lightening cuts from the front sight block and piston and stamped gas tube release lever. Updated magazines were produced by Molot with horizontal ribs going up the sides of the magazines.

===RPK-201 and RPK-203===
An export variant chambered in [[5.56×45mm NATO]] was also introduced, designated as the '''RPK-201'''. A modernised export variant of the RPK was also developed, designated as the '''RPK-203'''. They both uses the same polymer construction as the RPK-74M.

===RPKN and RPK-74N===
The RPK family of light machine guns are also available in a night fighting configuration. These variants are designated as the '''RPKN''', '''RPKSN''', '''RPK-74N''', and '''RPKS-74N'''. They have a side rail mounting on the left side of the receiver that accepts a NSP-3, NSPU, or NSPUM night vision sight.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://kalashnikov.guns.ru/models/ka144.html |title=RPK-74N2 Light Machine Gun (1974) |website=Kalashnikov.guns.ru |access-date=September 10, 2008 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080926070650/http://kalashnikov.guns.ru/models/ka144.html |archive-date=2008-09-26}}</ref> Models designated RPKN-1, RPKSN-1, RPK-74N and RPKS-74N can mount the multi-model night vision scope NSPU-3 ([[1PN51]])<ref>{{cite book |script-title=ru:Изделие 1ПН51 Техническое Описание и Инструкция По Эксплуатации |trans-title=Product 1PN51 Technical Description and Operating Instructions |date=January 1992 |pages=11, 16 |language=ru |location=Moskva |publisher=Voyennoye Izdatel'stvo}}</ref> while RPKN2, RPKSN2, RPK-74N2 and RPKS-74N2 can mount the multi-model night vision scope NSPUM ([[1PN58]]).<ref>{{cite book |script-title=ru:Изделие 1пн58 Техническое Описание и Инструкция По Эксплуатации |trans-title=Product 1PN58 Technical Description and Operating Instructions |date=February 1991 |pages=5, 13 |language=ru |location=Moskva |publisher=Voyennoye Izdatel'stvo}}</ref>

===RPK-16===
[[File:RPK-16 machine gun at Military-technical forum ARMY-2016 01.jpg|thumb|RPK-16  with a 95-round drum magazine and sound suppressor]]

The RPK-16 [[light machine gun]] (the number 16 indicates the year 2016, when the development first started) is Kalashnikov's response to the "Tokar-2" program, where it competed against Degtyaryov's submission. In 2018, the Ministry of Defence of the Russian Federation have signed a contract concerning the procurement of the RPK-16, and is expected to take over the role of the RPK-74 in the Russian Armed Forces.<ref name="tass.com">{{Cite web |url=http://tass.com/defense/988744 |title=Kalashnikov signs contract to supply Defense Ministry with newest RPK-16 machine guns |date=6 February 2018 |website=[[TASS]] |access-date=2018-02-08 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180208182843/http://tass.com/defense/988744 |archive-date=2018-02-08 |url-status=live}}</ref>

The RPK-16 is chambered in [[5.45×39mm]] which features the traditional Kalashnikov gas-operated long-stroke piston system, and shares several novel technical and ergonomic features derived from the AK-12 program. Such as a Picatinny rail on the top of the receiver for mounting various optical sights and on the bottom of the handguard to mount the Picatinny rail mounted detachable bipod instead of the fixed bipod of the RPK-74, an ergonomic pistol grip and a folding buttstock, and two main barrel lengths; a {{convert|550|mm|in|1|abbr=on}} long barrel (when it is applied or configured for the light machine gun role) and a {{convert|370|mm|in|1|abbr=on}} short barrel (when it is applied or configured for the assault rifle role).<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.janes.com/article/63600/army-2016-kalashnikov-unveils-rpk-16-lmg |title=Army 2016: Kalashnikov unveils RPK-16 LMG |first=Nikolai |last=Novichkov |date=12 September 2016 |website=IHS Jane's Defence Weekly |access-date=2017-03-14 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170315001500/http://www.janes.com/article/63600/army-2016-kalashnikov-unveils-rpk-16-lmg |archive-date=2017-03-15}}</ref> Its design enables it to have an interchangeable barrels that can easily be removed, and the ability to quickly attach a detachable suppressor. It has a combat weight of {{convert|6|kg|lb|2|abbr=on}}, a full-length of {{convert|1076|mm|in|abbr=on}}, a cyclic rate of fire of 700 rounds per minute, an accuracy range of {{convert|800|m|yd|abbr=on}}. It primarily uses a 95-round drum magazine and is backwards compatible with box magazines from the AK-74, [[AK-12]] and RPK-74.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2016-09-01 |title=Kalashnikov RPK-16 light machine gun (Russia) |url=https://modernfirearms.net/en/machineguns/russia-machineguns/rpk-16-eng/ |access-date=2023-06-11 |website=Modern Firearms |language=en}}</ref>

After receiving feedback on the performance of the weapon, the Kalashnikov Concern has begun development on the [[RPL-20]] (20 indicating 2020) belt-fed light machine gun also chambered in 5.45×39mm and with a very similar rate of fire. Kalashnikov Concern has so far created at least one functional prototype.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://modernfirearms.net/en/machineguns/russia-machineguns/rpl-20-2/ |title=Kalashnikov RPL-20 Light Machine Gun (Russia) |first=Maxim |last=Popenker |date=27 August 2020 |website=Modern Firearms|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20230514070258/https://modernfirearms.net/en/machineguns/russia-machineguns/rpl-20-2/|archive-date= May 14, 2023}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EgT2dm-G_X4 |title=RPL-20: prototype of a new belt-fed 5.45×39mm light machine gun |author=Kalashnikov Group |date=5 September 2020 |website=[[YouTube]] |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201103034647/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EgT2dm-G_X4&ab_channel=KalashnikovGroup |archive-date=2020-11-03}}</ref> If adopted, the gun will become the first light machine gun to be used by Russian forces since the [[RPD machine gun|RPD]] that isn't magazine-fed or of the standard Kalashnikov pattern.

==Users==
[[File:RPK Users.png|thumb|321x321px|A map with RPK users in blue]]<!--READ FIRST: This section is for cited entries only. Please do not add entries into this list without a citation from a reliable source. All entries without a citation will be removed. Thank you.-->

[[Image:Iraq RPK Machine Gun.jpg|thumb|Iraqi soldiers training with the Romanian Model-1964 (RPK).]]
[[File:Спецназ 0074 (23458020139).jpg|thumb|Soldier of [[National Guard of Ukraine]] with the RPK.]]
[[File:Підготовка військових 28 окремої механізованої бригади.jpg|thumb|Ukrainian JMTG-U soldier firing the RPK.]]
* {{flag|Afghanistan}}
* {{flag|Albania}}:<ref name="jones2009">{{cite book |title=Jane's Infantry Weapons 2009/2010 |date=January 2009 |publisher=Jane's Information Group |isbn=978-0-7106-2869-5 |editor-last=Jones |editor-first=Richard D. |edition=35th}}</ref> Uses both Soviet and locally produced '''ASh-78 Tip-2''' rifles.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://i50.photobucket.com/albums/f301/kagemushamu/SmallArms01/SmallArms01-001.jpg |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220331095559/https://i50.photobucket.com/albums/f301/kagemushamu/SmallArms01/SmallArms01-001.jpg |url-status=dead |archive-date=March 31, 2022 |title=Small Arms 01 |website=Photobucket}}</ref>
* {{flag|Armenia}}:<ref>{{cite news |title=Azerbaijan Foils Armenian Sabotage Attempt, Captures Infiltrator |url=https://caspiannews.com/news-detail/azerbaijan-foils-armenian-sabotage-attempt-captures-infiltrator-2023-8-17-0/ |agency=Azerbaijan Defense Ministry |publisher=caspiannews}}</ref> RPK-47
* {{flag|Azerbaijan}}
* {{flag|Bulgaria}}: Produced by [[Arsenal AD|Arsenal]] as the '''LMG''' in three different calibers, 7.62×39mm, 5.45×39mm and [[5.56×45mm NATO]]. Uniquely had milled receivers. A folding stock variant is known as the '''LMG-F'''.<ref name="jones2009"/><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.arsenal-bg.com/defense_police/7,62lmg.htm |title=7,62x39 mm "Arsenal" Light Machine Gun |website=Arsenal JSCo |access-date=2010-04-06 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120222082903/http://www.arsenal-bg.com/defense_police/7,62lmg.htm |archive-date=2012-02-22 |url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.arsenal-bg.com/defense_police/5,56lmg.htm |title=5.56x45 mm "Arsenal" Light Machine Gun |website=Arsenal JSCo |access-date=2010-04-06 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120222082923/http://www.arsenal-bg.com/defense_police/5,56lmg.htm |archive-date=2012-02-22 |url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.arsenal-bg.com/defense_police/5,45lmg.htm |title=5.45x39,5mm "Arsenal" Light Machine Gun and LMG-F with Folding Butt |website=Arsenal JSCo |access-date=2010-04-06 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120222082533/http://www.arsenal-bg.com/defense_police/5,45lmg.htm |archive-date=2012-02-22 |url-status=dead}}</ref>
* {{flag|Burundi}}<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.africanews.com/2017/05/18/grenade-attack-kills-three-burundi-ruling-party-members/ |title=Grenade attack kills three Burundi ruling party members |agency=Reuters |date=2017-05-18 |website=Africa News |access-date=2017-06-25 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170705144829/http://www.africanews.com/2017/05/18/grenade-attack-kills-three-burundi-ruling-party-members/ |archive-date=2017-07-05 |url-status=live}}</ref>
* {{flag|Cambodia}}<ref>{{cite report |url=http://www.smallarmssurvey.org/files/sas/publications/w_papers_pdf/WP/WP4_Cambodia.pdf |title=How Many Weapons Are There in Cambodia? |first=Christina |last=Wille |date=8 November 2012 |publisher=Small Arms Survey |access-date=16 November 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100704230440/http://www.smallarmssurvey.org/files/sas/publications/w_papers_pdf/WP/WP4_Cambodia.pdf |archive-date=4 July 2010 |url-status=dead}}</ref>
* {{flag|Cape Verde}}<ref name="jones2009"/>
* {{flag|Central African Republic}}<ref name="jones2009"/>
* {{flag|Chad}}<ref name="jones2009"/>
* {{flag|Comoros}}<ref name="jones2009"/>
* {{flag|Congo-Brazzaville}}<ref name="jones2009"/>
* {{flag|Cuba}}<ref name="jones2009"/>
* {{flag|Djibouti}}<ref name="jones2009"/>
* {{flag|Equatorial Guinea}}<ref name="jones2009"/>
* {{flag|Ethiopia}}<ref name="jones2009"/>
* {{flag|Fiji}}:<ref name="altair.pl">{{cite web |url=http://www.altair.com.pl/news/view?news_id=18730 |title=Rosyjska broń dla Fidżi |trans-title=Russian weapons for Fiji |date=February 21, 2016 |website=Altair |language=pl |access-date=2016-02-21 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304183249/http://www.altair.com.pl/news/view?news_id=18730 |archive-date=2016-03-04 |url-status=live}}</ref> RPK-201 variant.
* {{flag|Georgia}}:<ref name="jones2009"/> ''RPK-74'' variant is still in use by the Georgian Army and special forces.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://hunternews.ru/?p=17276 |title=Спецназ Грузии Воюет Вместе С Всу На Донбассе |trans-title=Georgian special forces are fighting together with the Armed Forces in the Donbass |language=ru |website=Hunter News |access-date=2017-10-30 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171107013701/https://hunternews.ru/?p=17276 |archive-date=2017-11-07 |url-status=dead}}</ref>
* {{flag|Guinea-Bissau}}<ref name="jones2009"/>
* {{flag|Hungary}}<ref name="jones2009"/>
* {{flag|Iran}}:<ref name="jones2009"/> Locally known as "BB-Kalash".
* {{flag|Iraq}}<ref name="jones2009"/> Also manufactured locally as '''Al Quds'''<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.awm.gov.au/collection/C1190641 |title=Al Quds RKKS (AKM) Machine Rifle |website=[[Australian War Memorial]] |access-date=2018-12-07 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181207145624/https://www.awm.gov.au/collection/C1190641 |archive-date=2018-12-07 |url-status=live}}</ref>
* {{flag|Kazakhstan}}: RPK-74<ref name ='SAS 2008 3'>{{cite book |url=http://www.smallarmssurvey.org/publications/by-type/yearbook/small-arms-survey-2008.html |chapter-url=http://www.smallarmssurvey.org/fileadmin/docs/A-Yearbook/2008/en/Small-Arms-Survey-2008-Chapter-03-EN.pdf |chapter=A Semi-automatic Process? Identifying and Destroying Military Surplus |title=Small Arms Survey 2008: Risk and Resilience |publisher=[[Cambridge University Press]] |year=2008 |author=Small Arms Survey |author-link=Small Arms Survey |page=99 |isbn=978-0-521-88040-4 |access-date=2018-08-30 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180830174225/http://www.smallarmssurvey.org/publications/by-type/yearbook/small-arms-survey-2008.html |archive-date=2018-08-30 |url-status=dead}}</ref>
* {{flag|Latvia}}: Used by [[Latvian National Guard]].<ref>{{cite web |title=Zemessardzes 1. Rīgas brigāde {{!}} Zemessardze |url=https://www.zs.mil.lv/lv/zemessardzes-vienibas/zemessardzes-1-rigas-brigade |website=www.zs.mil.lv |access-date=4 August 2024 |language=lv |date=3 July 2024}}</ref>
* {{flag|Lesotho}}<ref name="Beyond Blue Helmets">{{cite book |title=Beyond Blue Helmets: Promoting Weapons and Ammunition Management in Non-UN Peace Operations |first=Eric G. |last=Berman |publisher=[[Small Arms Survey]]/MPOME |page=43 |date=March 2019 |url=http://www.smallarmssurvey.org/fileadmin/docs/U-Reports/SAS-MPOME-Report-WAM-Non-UN-Peace-Ops.pdf |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190603103636/http://www.smallarmssurvey.org/fileadmin/docs/U-Reports/SAS-MPOME-Report-WAM-Non-UN-Peace-Ops.pdf |archive-date=June 3, 2019 |url-status=dead}}</ref>
* {{flag|Libya}}<ref name="jones2009"/>
* {{flag|Malaysia}}: ''RPK-74'' variant is used by the ''[[Grup Gerak Khas]]'' (GGK) of the [[Malaysian Army]].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.tactical-life.com/online/special-weapons/malaysian-special-forces |title=Malaysian Special Forces |last=Thompson |first=Leroy |date=December 2008 |website=Tactical Life |access-date=2010-02-10 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120402013858/http://www.tactical-life.com/online/special-weapons/malaysian-special-forces/ |archive-date=2012-04-02 |url-status=dead}}</ref>
* {{flag|Mali}}:<ref name="jones2009"/> [[Military of Mali|Armed and Security Forces of Mali]].
* {{flag|Malta}}<ref name="jones2009"/>
* {{flag|Mozambique}}<ref name="jones2009"/>
* {{flag|Namibia}}<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.defenceweb.co.za/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=43723:namibia-receives-russian-small-arms&catid=50:Land&Itemid=105 |title=Namibia receives Russian small arms |date=1 June 2016 |work=Defenceweb |access-date=30 June 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160602131548/http://www.defenceweb.co.za/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=43723:namibia-receives-russian-small-arms&catid=50:Land&Itemid=105 |archive-date=2 June 2016 |url-status=live}}</ref>
* {{flag|Nicaragua}}<ref name="jones2009"/>
* {{flag|Nigeria}}<ref name="jones2009"/>
* {{flag|North Korea}}: Type 64.<ref name="jones2009"/>
* {{flag|Poland}}<ref name="jones2009"/>
* {{flag|Romania}}: Built by Fabrica de Arme Cugir SA as the '''Puşcă Mitralieră model 1964''' ("model 1964 light machine gun")<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.arms.home.ro/arms/cugir1/pag/18.html |title=7,62 mm Light Machine Gun |website=Fabrica de Arme Cugir SA |access-date=September 10, 2008 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071216143507/http://www.arms.home.ro/arms/cugir1/pag/18.html |archive-date=2007-12-16}}</ref> and later, a 5.45mm version based on the [[Puşcă Automată model 1986|PA md. 86]]—the '''Mitralieră md. 1993''' ("model 1993 light machine gun").<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.arms.home.ro/arms/cugir1/pag/20.html |title=5.45 mm Light Machine Gun Md.1993 |website=Fabrica de Arme Cugir SA |access-date=September 10, 2008 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080210142747/http://www.arms.home.ro/arms/cugir1/pag/20.html |archive-date=2008-02-10}}</ref>
* {{flagu|Russia}}: RPK,<ref>«''На занятиях по боевой подготовке военнослужащие отрабатывают стрельбу из автоматов Калашникова АК-12, АК-74, '''7,62-мм ручных пулемётов Калашникова РПК''', снайперских винтовок СВД''»<br>[https://function.mil.ru/news_page/country/more.htm?id=12524872@egNews Военнослужащие контрактной службы группировки войск «Центр» готовятся к выполнению задач в зоне СВО под Самарой] // официальный интернет-сайт министерства обороны РФ от 12 августа 2024</ref> RPK-74, RPK-74M and RPK-16<ref name="tass.com"/>
* {{flag|Seychelles}}<ref name="jones2009"/>
* {{flag|Serbia}}: Manufactured locally as the [[Zastava M72]].
* {{flag|Somalia}}<ref name="jones2009"/>
* {{flag|Sudan}}<ref name="jones2009"/>
* {{flag|Syria}}: Used by both pro-Assad and rebel groups.<ref name="jones2009"/>
* {{flag|Tajikistan}}
* {{flag|Tanzania}}<ref name="jones2009"/>
* {{flag|Transnistria}}<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.oryxspioenkop.com/2020/09/transnistria-shows-off-military.html |title=The Victory Day Parade That Everyone Forgot |first1=Stijn |last1=Mitzer |first2=Joost |last2=Oliemans |name-list-style=amp |date=November 30, 2020 |website=[[Oryx (website)|Oryx]] |access-date=2022-05-09}}</ref>
* {{flag|Uganda}}<ref name="jones2009"/>
**{{flagicon image|Flag red yellow 5x3.svg}} [[Lord's Resistance Army]]<ref name ='SAS 2006 11'>{{cite book |url=http://www.smallarmssurvey.org/publications/by-type/yearbook/small-arms-survey-2006.html |chapter-url=http://www.smallarmssurvey.org/fileadmin/docs/A-Yearbook/2006/en/Small-Arms-Survey-2006-Chapter-11-EN.pdf |chapter=Fuelling Fear: The Lord's Resistance Army and Small Arms |title=Small Arms Survey 2006: Unfinished Business |publisher=[[Oxford University Press]] |year=2006 |author=Small Arms Survey |author-link=Small Arms Survey |page=283 |isbn=978-0-19-929848-8 |access-date=2018-08-29 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180830005010/http://www.smallarmssurvey.org/publications/by-type/yearbook/small-arms-survey-2006.html |archive-date=2018-08-30 |url-status=dead}}</ref>
* {{flag|Ukraine}}: RPK-74 and RPK, also used by [[Russian separatist forces in Donbas|separatists]].<ref name="Ukr">{{cite book |title=Armies of Russia's War in Ukraine |series=Elite |volume=228 |first=Mark |last=Galeotti |date=27 June 2019 |isbn=978-1-472833440 |publisher=[[Osprey Publishing]] |pages=20, 48, 60}}</ref>
*{{flagu|United States}}: Used during the [[Iraq War]].{{Sfn|Rottman|2011|p=29}} [[File:Muleskinners train Triple Canopy(2011.09.04).jpg|thumb|230px|A [[Triple Canopy]] contractor gives a marksmanship class on the Zastava M-72 machine gun to two [[United States Army|US Army]] soldiers.]]
* {{flag|Uzbekistan}}<ref name="jones2009"/>
* {{flag|Vietnam}}<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.alphaco.us/alpha-co/nvaweapons1.htm |title=NVA and Viet Cong Infantry Weapons |first=Charles |last=Ames |website=Alpha Company |access-date=16 November 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120824090907/http://www.alphaco.us/alpha-co/nvaweapons1.htm |archive-date=24 August 2012 |url-status=live}}</ref>
* {{flag|Yemen}}<ref name="jones2009"/>
* {{flag|Zimbabwe}}<ref name="jones2009"/>

===Non-state users===
* {{flag|al-Qaeda}}
* {{flag|Hamas}}
* {{flagicon image|Flag of Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham.svg}} [[Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham]]
* {{flag|Hezbollah}}
* {{flag|Houthis}}
* {{flag|Islamic State}}
* {{flagicon image|PMF infobox.png}} [[Popular Mobilization Forces]] 
* {{flagicon image|Flag of Syrian Democratic Forces.svg}} [[Syrian Democratic Forces]]

===Former users===
* {{flagcountry|Islamic Republic of Afghanistan}}<ref name="jones2009" />

* {{flag|Artsakh}}: RPK-203<ref>{{cite web |last1=Mountzouroulias |first1=Andreas |title=A soldier of the Armenian forces with an RPK-203 light machine gun. #Armenian forces still hold both #Turkey and Azerbaijan out of #NKR |url=https://x.com/andreasmoun/status/1323177936002928658}}{{better citation needed|date=December 2024}}</ref>
* {{flag|East Germany}}: Manufactured locally as the LMGK (''Leichtes Maschinengewehr Kalashnikov)''.{{Sfn|Rottman|2011|p=42}}<ref>{{cite book|url=https://archive.org/details/DDRMaschinenpistoleAK74UndLeichtesMaschinengewehrPPK74BeschreibungUndNutzung198549S.Scan|title=5.45-mm Maschinenpistole AK74 und leichtes Maschinengewehr PPK74 - Beschreibung und Nutzung |publisher=[[Ministry of National Defence (East Germany)|Ministerium für Nationale Verteidigung]]|date=1985|trans-title=5.45-mm AK74 submachine gun and PPK74 light machine gun - description and use}}</ref>
* {{Flag|Rhodesia}}<ref>{{cite book | title=A Handful of Hard Men: The SAS and the Battle for Rhodesia | publisher=[[Casemate Publishers]] | author=Wessels, Hannes | year=2015 | isbn=978-1612003450}}</ref><ref>{{cite book | title=Rhodesian Light Infantryman 1961–80 | publisher=[[Osprey Publishing]] | author=Grant, Neil | year=2015 | isbn=978-1472809629}}</ref>
* {{Flag|Soviet Union}}{{citation needed|date=December 2024}}
* {{Flag|Yugoslavia}}: Manufactured locally as the [[Zastava M72]].{{citation needed|date=December 2024}}

==See also==
* [[PK machine gun]]
* [[PKP Pecheneg machine gun]]
* [[M249 light machine gun]]
* [[IWI Negev]]
* [[QJY-88]]
* [[FN Minimi]]
* [[Česká zbrojovka firearms|ČZW-762]]
* [[Nikonov machine gun]]
* [[IP-2]]
* [[Valmet M78]]
* [[Zastava M72]]
* [[RPL-20]]

==References==
{{Reflist}}

==Bibliography==
* {{Cite book |last=Rottman |first=Gordon |date=2011 |title=The AK-47: Kalashnikov-series Assault Rifles |publisher=Osprey Publishing}}

==External links==
{{commons}}
{{commons|RPK-74}}

* {{cite magazine |url=http://www.kalashnikov.ru/upload/medialibrary/b5f/076_085.pdf |title=Битва трёх «К» |trans-title=The battle of the three "K" |first=Yuri |last=Ponomarev |date=2010 |magazine=Kalashnikov |number=6 |pages=76–85 |language=ru|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20220413015510/https://www.kalashnikov.ru/medialibrary/b5f/076_085.pdf|archive-date= April 13, 2022}} (Covers the design competition.)
* {{cite web |url=https://www.scribd.com/doc/31412325/Soviet-RPK-47-Light-Machine-Gun-N. |title=Soviet RPK-47 Light Machine Gun Manual |publisher=Kalashnikov |date=1973}}{{Dead link|date=February 2022|bot=InternetArchiveBot|fix-attempted=yes}}
* {{cite web |url=http://www.enemyforces.com/firearms/rpk.htm |title=Light Machine Gun RPK |website=EnemyForces.com|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20230420203130/https://www.enemyforces.net/firearms/rpk.htm|archive-date=April 20, 2023}}
* {{cite web |url=http://modernfirearms.net/en/machineguns/russia-machineguns/rpk-eng/ |title=RPK |website=Modern Firearms|date=27 October 2010 }}
* {{cite web |url=http://modernfirearms.net/en/machineguns/russia-machineguns/rpk-74-eng/ |title=RPK-74 |website=Modern Firearms|date=27 October 2010 }}
* {{cite web |url=http://kalashnikov.guns.ru/models/ka140.html |title=RPK Light Machine Gun |website=Kalashnikov.guns.ru|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070929122218/http://kalashnikov.guns.ru/models/ka140.html |archive-date=2007-09-29 }}
* {{cite web |url=http://sovposters.ru//2009/12/21/09401_rpk74m.jpg |title=Technical data, instructional images and diagrams of the RPK-47M |website=Sovposters |language=ru|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20230412092806/http://sovposters.ru//2009/12/21/09401_rpk74m.jpg|archive-date= April 12, 2023}}
* {{YouTube|u2c0yC3bMUQ|Video of operation (RPK-74)}} {{in lang|ja}} [https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/u2c0yC3bMUQ Archive]

{{AK47 derivatives}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Rpk}}
[[Category:5.45×39mm machine guns]]
[[Category:7.62×39mm machine guns]]
[[Category:Cold War firearms of the Soviet Union]]
[[Category:Light machine guns]]
[[Category:Infantry weapons of the Cold War]]
[[Category:Kalashnikov derivatives]]
[[Category:Long stroke piston firearms]]
[[Category:Machine guns of the Soviet Union]]
[[Category:Kalashnikov Concern products]]
[[Category:Squad automatic weapons]]
[[Category:Vyatskiye Polyany Machine-Building Plant products]]
[[Category:Weapons and ammunition introduced in 1961]]