The AM-17 (Russian: Aвтомат Малогабаритный Avtomat Malogabareetniuy, lit. "Small-sized Automatic Rifle") is a compact assault rifle based upon the MA firearm design by Yevgeny Dragunov.
History
The design for the AM-17 is based upon concepts derived from the MA assault rifle. Designs by it's creator, Yevgeny Dragunov are utilized, albeit heavily modified and modernized on the final product for the weapon. Necessary changes for modernization proved useful with adaptations seen in changes such as a telescoping stock and an picatinny rail system atop the firearm. Intention for the firearm was to be aimed as a close-quarters, compact assault rifle for Russian military and federal police forces. Designs for the firearm were conducted in 2017, and have been continuous since at least March of 2019. The firearm also utilizes a , gas-operated, short stroke gas piston, rotating bolt system, which was also present in Dragunov's MA design. Trials and current adaptations in forms of changes and prototyping is being conducted by Kalashnikov Concern, with contributions by Alexei Dragunov. A more recent variation developed alongside the AM-17 is known as the AMB-17. This model features an integrated suppressor, and is chambered in 9×39mm. The concept models seen on display and online were originally revealed at Russian expo, ARMY 2017, where both models were showcased.
Design Details
Sharing the same basis as the MA, the design is heavily modified to allow modern changes, influenced by Alexei Dragunov. MIL-STD/1913 picatinny rails are utilized atop the upper receiver, which itself consists of two parts. The operating mechanism utilizes the usage of two receivers, connected on a hinge. The upper portion of the receiver is constructed from polymer, with reinforcements that consist of steel. The lower portion of the receiver and magazine housing consist of strictly polymer, and connects to the upper part by two cross-pins. This overall reduces the weight of the firearm, and allows for easy access to internal parts of the weapon. The firearm is capable of select-fire, with fully ambidextrous controls. The stock is adjustable, it is capable of collapsing fully and is also side-folding. A prototype, integrated suppressed model known as the AMB-17 is chambered in 9×39mm, much alike the VSK-94 marksman rifle. Magazines fitted for the AM-17 model are compatible with those from the AK-12, and other general AK-74 compatible 5.45×39mm magazines.
Ammunition
Being chambered in 5.45×39mm, other Soviet and Russian magazines chambered for the cartridge's are compatible with the AM-17 as well. The AMB-17, being chambered in 9×39mm is also compatible with magazines that cater to the fellow cartridge, notably from the AS Val and VSS Vintorez.
Variants
The AM-17 features a model developed alongside it, an integrated suppressor model named the AMB-17. It is chambered in 9×39mm.
AMB-17
Prototype model which derives itself from the AM-17. It is chambered in 9×39mm and features an integrated suppressor.
Gallery
