Which feature distinguishes the AK-74 from earlier models?

The distinguishing feature of the AK-74 that sets it apart from earlier models, particularly the AK-47, is the incorporation of the groove in the buttstock and the use of orange bakelite furniture. This design element not only provides a unique aesthetic but also reflects advancements in materials and manufacturing techniques. The groove allows for improved grip and handling, providing users with a better operational experience.

Earlier models, such as the AK-47, predominantly featured wooden stocks, which can be heavier and less durable than the synthetic materials used in the AK-74. The use of bakelite, a type of plastic, for not only the furniture but also components such as magazines, enables significant weight reduction and enhances resistance to environmental factors like moisture and temperature fluctuations.

While other options mention features like magazine size and scope mounting systems that are relevant to the evolution of the AK series, the specific combination of the buttstock groove and the orange bakelite furniture serves as the most identifiable aspect that sets the AK-74 apart from its predecessors. Recognizing this feature is crucial for understanding the development and modernization of Soviet-era firearms.