FIRST LOOK: Kalashnikov Concern Unveils Brand New AK-308 Rifle

It’s always big news whenever Kalashnikov Concern announces a new weapon; the iconic gun maker rolled into the Army-2018 International Military-Technical Forum today showing off its brand new AK-308 rifle. Watch the hype video for this new setup above.

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Chambered in 7.62x51mm, the AK-308 assault rifle is based on the AK-103, with “elements and components of the AK-12 automatic machine,” the English translation of the Russian press release states. It sports a 16.3-inch barrel; weighs 9.4 pounds with an empty magazine; and has a 20-round magazine capacity.

In addition, the AK-308 rifle uses a diopter sight and can be installed with a bayonet knife. The overall length of the rifle measures between 34.6 inches to 37 inches. With the bayonet knife installed, the OAL jumps up to between 41.1 inches and 43.5 inches.

There’s no word on when and where the AK-308 rifle will be used. Right now, Kalashnikov says “preparations are under way for preliminary testing” on this system. Until then, let the speculation begin.

At the beginning of the year, the Russian Ministry of Defence approved Kalashnikov Concern’s AK-12 and AK-15 assault rifles for use by its Ground Forces, Airborne and Marine troops. The AK-12 is chambered in the Russian Army standard issue 5.45x39mm; the AK-15 is chambered for the older 7.62×39 ammunition.

The Army-2018 International Military-Technical Forum takes place between Aug. 21 through 26 at Patriot Park in the town of Kubinka, located in Moscow Oblast, Russia.