New American-made Kalashnikov USA Firearms Now Available
OutdoorHub Reporters 07.09.15
Kalashnikov USA recently announced in a press release that American-made, Kalashnikov USA-branded firearms are now available through select retailers, including Acusport, Big Rock Sports, Bill Hicks, and more.
The announcement comes several months after the company threw crowds and industry observers into a fervor at the 2015 SHOT Show after it confirmed that the company would be opening an AK manufacturing facility in the United States. At the time, Kalashnikov USA promised to manufacture about 80 percent of the firearms produced by its namesake in Russia, and the company has already unveiled four firearms on its website—two rifles chambered in 7.62x39mm and two 12 gauge shotguns.
“We have made good on the promise delivered at SHOT Show, to provide our customers with a quality product at a competitive price by the second quarter of this year,” Thomas McCrossin, CEO of Kalashnikov USA said.
The company, formerly Russian Weapons Co. (RWC), has worked to transform itself from a weapons importer to a full-fledged manufacturer after the imposition of sanctions against Russia’s Concern Kalashnikov roughly a year ago. RWC was one of the major importers of Russian-made firearms prior to the Obama administration’s sanctions against that country.
The United States-based Kalashnikov USA has no affiliation with the similarly-named Russian company.
Drawing on the ever popular AK design, Kalashnikov USA says it sought to integrate the quality and reliability of the past with CNC technology and modern materials.
“Under the new banner ‘Russian Heritage—American Innovation,’ the new US models are built on the classic AK 47 rifle and shotgun platforms with a focus on designing firearms for the American shooter using the latest manufacturing technologies,” stated the company. “New features on the Kalashnikov USA models include a nitrocarburized case hardening on barrels and chambers to extend life and provide a high corrosion resistance. Also, the barrels have been threaded to accept muzzle breaks and suppressor systems. The bolt and bolt carrier have been enhanced for a smoother action, and an integrated hold open feature has been added to the safety lever.”
Rifles are available in both traditional wood furniture or polymer. Shotguns are available with pistol grip, AK type stock, folding steel stocks, aluminum quad rails, or even specifications to suit three-gun competitions.
“Our customers will be pleased with the quality of our American weapons and our new designs,” Bill Silver, VP of sales for Kalashnikov USA added. “American innovation has provided a better weapon at a better price.”
