The PKM is a truly formidable weapon, designed by Kalashnikov. It is a belt fed squad level machine gun chambered in the 7.62x54R. In addition to its extreme reliability and broad environmental operating range, what makes this weapon so desirable is its ability to serve double duty as close support anti-aircraft weapon system. There are several variants; the Bulgarian MG-1M is but one. Training on the PKM should be mandatory for all SOF personnel.
Specifications:
- Weight
PK: 9 kg (19.84 lb) (gun + integral bipod) + 7.7 kg (16.98 lb) (tripod).
PKM: 7.5 kg (16.53 lb) (gun + integral bipod) + 4.5 kg (9.92 lb) (tripod).
PKTM (tank): 10.5 kg (23.15 lb) - Length
PK: 1,203 mm (47.4 in)
PKM: 1,192 mm (46.9 in)
PKT: 1,098 mm (43.2 in) - Barrel length
PK: 658 mm (25.9 in)
PKM: 645 mm (25.4 in)
PKT: 772 mm (30.4 in) - Cartridge: 7.62×54mmR
- Action: Gas-operated, open bolt
- Rate of fire: PK, PKM: 650–750 round/min. PKT: 800 round/min
- Muzzle velocity: PK, PKM: 825 m/s
- Effective firing range: 1,000m (100–1,000 m sight adjustments)
- Feed system: Belts in 100/200/250 round boxes
- Sights: Tangent iron sights (default);
Optical, Night-vision, Thermal and Radar sights