Russia`s Kalashnikov Group (a subsidiary of the state corporation Rostec) continues the development of the AM-17 personal defense weapon (PDW), according to the company`s press department. The AM-17 PDW is chambered for 5.45x39 (M74) cartridges. The weapon is a further development of the MA carbine that was unveiled at the Army-2016 defense show in Kubinka, near Moscow.

Kalashnikov AM-17 (Picture source: Vitaly Kuzmin)

The AM-17`s upper receiver is fitted with a full-length MIL-STD-1913 Picatinny rail, while the lower receiver is made of polymer and carries no rails. Unlike the AKS-74U, the weapon features ambidextrous firing controls and an ergonomic pistol grip. The cocking handle can be mounted on either left or right side of the firearm. The AM-17 is fed by 30-round polymer or bakelite magazines of the Kalashnikov AK-74/AK-74M assault rifle. The firearm has received a folding telescopic buttstock. The AM-17 is intended for special forces, law enforcement agencies, crews of combat vehicles, and non-commissioned officers. The weapon features a gas-operating scheme with rotating bolt.

According to the Kalashnikov Group, the AM-17 weighs 2.5 kg (without magazine) and has a rate of fire of 750-800 rounds per minute. The PDW`s length varies between 490 mm (with folded buttstock) and 740 mm (with unfolded buttstock). The carbine is fitted with a 230 mm barrel.