Meet the RPK-16
Kalashnikov Concern’s PKK-16 (RPK-16) is a really nice AK74 introduced last fall that has a heavy barrel (threaded for a suppressor), pic rails everywhere and a 96-round drum mag to keep it stoked with 5.45x39mm. Unloaded and without the accessories it is an 8.8-pound (2kg weapon).
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“RPK-16 is chambered for M74 5.45x39mm cartridge, as well as its predecessor. The new LMG can fire 7N6, 7N10, 7T3, and 7T3M munitions. The firearm has a combat weight of 6 kg, a full length of 1,076 mm, a barrel length of 370 mm [short barrel] or 550 mm [long barrel], a maximum firing range of 800 m, and a magazine capacity of 30 or 96 rounds. It features traditional Kalashnikov long-stroke piston gas-operating scheme, interchangeable barrels, a Picatinny rail for optical/red dot scopes on the top of the receiver, an ergonomic pistol grip, and a folding stock. The bipod of RPK-74 is replaced by a Picatinny rail. RPK-16 can be complemented by a suppressor”.
The U.S. companion is the 7.9-pound (empty) Heckler and Koch M27 Infantry Automatic Rifle (IAR) a select-fire HK 416 with a heavy barrel. While 50,60, and 100-round mags are commonly available, the USMC is sticking to the standard 30-rounder as made by Magpul.