What is the caliber of the AK-74?

The AK-74 is chambered in 5.45x39mm, which is a Soviet-designed cartridge introduced in the early 1970s for use with the AK-74 rifle. This caliber was developed to provide a lightweight round that had lower recoil compared to its predecessor, the 7.62x39mm, ultimately allowing for better accuracy and controllability during sustained fire. The 5.45x39mm cartridge is specifically designed to optimize performance in this platform, enhancing its effectiveness in terms of range and lethality against modern threats.

In contrast, the other cartridges mentioned are associated with different firearms. The 7.62x39mm is the caliber utilized primarily by the older AK-47, and the 7.62x54R is a longer caliber typically used in older Russian and Soviet rifles, such as the Mosin-Nagant. The 5.56x45mm cartridge is associated with NATO firearms, such as the M16 and M4, which are distinct from the AK-74’s design and operational use.