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PKM
Model: PKM machine gunThe PKM can easily be described as the "AK of light machine guns", an appropriate designation for a weapon based on the Kalashnikov action. The original PK machine gun first appeared in 1965, replaced by the modernized PKM that is currently in use, was designed as a squad level support weapon. It fires the powerful 7.62x54mmR cartridge of the Mosin-Nagant rifle series, giving it more firepower than the older RPD that fired the same cartridge as the AK series.
Most PKMs are belt fed, the ammunition coming packaged in 25-round belts that can be linked together into as long of a belt as is needed. To allow for more portable carry, PKMs usually use 100, 200, or 250-round boxes. Unusually (to a Western shooter), the PKM feeds from the right and ejects to the left; this can lead to some painful impacts from the hot casings ejecting into the shooter's arm. The same weapon fired by a solenoid is used as the PKT as a coaxial machine gun in tanks, especially older Soviet models. Other variants include the PKP Pecheneg, a modification with a heavier non-removable barrel and integral bipod meant to act as a squad automatic weapon and the Norinco Type 80 in use by the Chinese Army.
| Specifications: | |
| Weight: | PK: 9kg (19.84lb) (gun + integral bipod) + 7.7kg (16.98lb) (tripod). PKM: 7.5kg (16.53lb) (gun + integral bipod) + 4.5kg (9.92lb) (tripod). PKT (tank): 10.5kg (23.15lb) |
| Length: | PK - 1,203mm (47.4in) PKM - 1,192mm (46.9in) PKT - 1,098mm (43.2in) |
| Barrel Length: | PK - 658mm (25.9in) PKM - 645mm (25.4in) PKT - 772mm (30.4in) |
| Cartridge: | 7.62x54mmR |
| Action: | Gas-operated |
| Muzzle Velocity: | 2700 ft/s (825 m/s). |
| Effective Range: | 1600 yd (1500 m). |
| Feed System: | Linked 25-round belts. |
| Sights: | Rear notch, front post. |
Where to find
The chances of finding a PKM in the United States are very slim, with models selling for many thousands of dollars. The most likely source post-apocalypse would be scavenging from Eastern European, Russian, or Chinese military bases, vehicles, and bodies.
Complexity
Being based off the Kalashnikov receiver, the PKM is set to be an extremely reliable weapon for any user. The use of very cheap, powerful ammunition is yet another advantage.
Controls
- Safety:
- Top cover release: Located on the rear of the top of the receiver.
- Charging handle: Located on the right side of the receiver.
Loading
Condition One, or "Locked and Cocked." Chamber loaded, magazine full, hammer cocked and safety applied.
- Point the weapon in a safe direction. Critical step in case it accidentally discharges!
- Push the button on the rear of the receiver and lift up the top cover.
- Take the ammo box and push the center of the box up into the bottom of the receiver, then rock it into place until it snaps.
- Take the belt of ammunition and lay the first round in the feed tray with its rim in the provided slot at the rear.
- Close the feed tray and pull the charging handle to the rear.
- Activate the safety.
- Not possible.
Condition Three. Chamber empty, magazine full, hammer down, safety off.
- Not possible.
Unloading
How to unload the firearm and make safe. Presented in a numbered list.
- Point the weapon in a safe direction. Critical step in case it accidentally discharges!
- Push the button on the rear of the receiver and lift up the top cover.
- Pull the loaded round from the feed tray and detach the ammo box from the weapon.
- Ensure that the feed tray is clear and close it.
Field Stripping
How to disassemble the firearm for cleaning. Presented in a numbered list.
- Point the weapon in a safe direction. Critical step in case it accidentally discharges!
- Unload the weapon as described above.
- Push the button on the rear of the receiver and lift the top cover up.
- Lift the feed tray up to expose the internal mechanics.
- Push the recoil spring forward, then pull it up and out of the receiver.
- Hold down the trigger and pull the bolt assembly to the rear, then up and out of the receiver.
chitoryu12 |
Latest page update: made by chitoryu12
, Oct 17 2011, 12:07 AM EDT
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