Saiga semi-automatic rifle Saiga semi-automatic rifle The Saiga semi-automatic rifles (/ˈsaɪɡə/, Saiga) are a family of Russian semi-automatic rifles manufactured by Kalashnikov Concern (formerly Izhmash), which also manufactures the original AK-47 and its variants, Saiga-12 shotguns and Dragunov sniper rifle. Saiga rifles are a sport version of the Kalashnikov rifle, and are marketed for hunting and civilian use. They are sometimes referred to as Saiga Sporters. Named after the Saiga Antelope, the Saiga series of rifles is based on the AK-47 weapon system originally designed by Mikhail Kalashnikov. The series was developed for shooters who wanted the reliability of an AK pattern rifle
AK-12 model of the AK-12 5.45×39mm assault rifle is said to be more reliable, more accurate and better suited to the latest Russian military requirements. It is based on the AK-400 (Base Prototype) and it is still chambered for the 5.45×39mm cartridge. It has a cyclic rate of fire of 700 rounds per minute (RPM), a barrel length of , a maximum firing range of , and a standard magazine capacity of 30 rounds. It is also compatible using magazines from the AK-74, RPK-74, and the 96-round drum magazine from the RPK-16. The final production model of the AK-15 7.62×39mm assault