Arsenal Firearms SA RPK-3R Complete Specs and Full Gun Specifications

Arsenal uses RPK-3R terminology to indicate it has used a U.S.-made milled receiver mated to a Bulgarian RPK74 parts kits to create a civilian-legal RPK74 clone. These are limited-run production items that are quickly snatched up by AK aficionados. I was fortunate to get the first right-of-refusal for an unfired Arsenal RPK74 via a friend who knew I had always coveted it. In my opinion, these types of rifles offer the civilian a level of firepower superior to most other available options. The RPK, originally chambered in 7.62×39, utilizes the same gas-operated, long-stroke rotating bolt operating mechanism made famous in the AK47. The RPK74 derives from the AK74 rifle, with modifications that mirror those made to the AKM to create the RPK. The RPK differs from the typical AK/AKM as a result of a number of design tweaks intended to facilitate its role as a light machine gun. The RPK74 uses a longer and heavier 23.2-inch chrome-plated barrel, plus a different style of gas block with a channel at a 90-degree angle to the bore axis. The enhanced barrel improves heat tolerance during extended fire sessions. Another benefit of this barrel is a longer sight radius for improved downrange accuracy as well as an increase in velocity, compared to 14.5- or 16-inch barrels. The barrel is mated to a reinforced receiver housing—reflective of its sustained-fire role and the punishment this entails for a weapon. The muzzle is 14mmx1 threaded for a flash suppressor.