An AK-47 can fire at a rate of about 600 rounds per minute when set to fully automatic fire.
Understanding the AK-47's Rate of Fire
The AK-47 assault rifle is renowned for its reliability and its capacity for sustained automatic fire. According to the Royal Museums Greenwich, the AK-47 is a gas-operated firearm equipped with a selector lever. This lever allows the user to choose between firing single shots or engaging in fully automatic fire.
When the AK-47 is set to its fully automatic mode, its theoretical cyclic rate of fire is approximately 600 rounds per minute. This rate indicates the speed at which the mechanism cycles and chambers new rounds, assuming an uninterrupted supply of ammunition.
Key Specifications Related to Firing Rate
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Operation | Gas-operated system |
| Firing Modes | Single shots or fully automatic fire, selectable via a lever |
| Calibre | 7.62mm |
| Rate of Fire | Approximately 600 rounds per minute (in fully automatic mode) |
| Reference Source | [AK-47 Assault Rifle Type 56 |
It's important to note that while the theoretical cyclic rate is around 600 rounds per minute, the practical or effective rate of fire in a real-world scenario might be lower. Factors such as magazine capacity (typically 30 rounds), the time it takes to change magazines, and the need to manage recoil and barrel heating can influence how many rounds are actually fired in a minute during continuous operation.
