TKB-517

TKB-517
TypeAssault rifle
Place of originSoviet Union
Production history
DesignerGerman Korobov [ru]
Designedc. 1952
ManufacturerTula Arms Plant
VariantsTKB-317
TKB-454
TKB-516
TKB-523
Specifications
Mass3.18 kg (7.0 lb) (unloaded)
3.5 kg (7.7 lb)(loaded with 30-round magazine)
Length910 mm (36 in)
Barrel length415 mm (16.3 in)

Cartridge7.62×39mm
ActionLever-delayed blowback
Rate of fire560 rounds/min
Muzzle velocity720 m/s (2,400 ft/s)
Effective firing range350–400 m (1,150–1,310 ft)
Maximum firing range1,500 m (4,900 ft)
Feed system30-round detachable box magazine
Belt (TKB-516)
SightsAdjustable iron sights

The TKB-517 (Russian: ТКБ-517) is an assault rifle designed by German Aleksandrovich Korobov. This rifle was externally similar to the AK-47, but based on the lever-delayed blowback mechanism invented by John Pedersen and refined by Pál Király. It turned out to be more reliable, more accurate and controllable under full auto, and easier to produce and maintain.[1] Like the AK series, it was also manufactured with folding stocks, longer, heavier barrels with bipods (forming light support weapons) and even a belt-fed variant. Its rejection was because of a greater proficiency with the AK-47 among the Soviet military, though it is just as likely it was rejected due to relatively high extraction pressure, which is a common issue firearms using lever-delayed blowback actions.[2]

Design and features

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The TKB-517 is externally similar to the AK-47 and field-strips similarly, but instead it uses lever-delayed blowback for its operation, slightly reducing recoil and making it more controllable. The receiver is made from pressed steel with laminated wood stock, grip and handguards.[3]

See also

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References

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  1. ^ Popenker, Maxim. "Korobov TKB-517". Modern Firearms. Retrieved April 4, 2007.
  2. ^ McCollum, Ian. "Play (k) 2:33 / 2:56 How Does It Work: Lever Delayed Blowback". Youtube. Forgotten Weapons. Archived from the original on 2021-12-14. Retrieved 17 April 2020.
  3. ^ F, Nathaniel (December 13, 2014). "Ten 20th Century Military Rifles History Has Forgotten". The Firearm Blog. Archived from the original on October 2, 2022.