To the casual eye, the rifle being reviewed will appear to be another Kalashnikov AK. More discerning readers will identify it as an AK74 chambered in the 5.45×39 versus the more wide spread Soviet/Russian 7.62×39 load due to the magazine profile. A yet smaller percentage of readers will identify the rifle as a Jim Fuller Rifle Dynamics’ customized AK74. Built from a Bulgarian AK74 parts kit that included a chrome-lined barrel, the RD AK74 arrived with an AK74 style flash hider/muzzle brake installed on the muzzle via 24mm threads. A NoDak Spud receiver is combined with KVar furniture that includes a double-shielded forend handguard. A G2 trigger group is installed in conjunction with the polishing of the trigger surfaces and a Fuller modified rear sight is utilized. The RD AK74 features a Norrells Moly Resin Gray finish over Parkerizing that Rifle Dynamics has found to be the best finish for a rifle that will take a lot of abuse, heat and lack of cleaning. Jim reports the finish has proven itself many times over under the worst conditions. This rifle may appear as a basic AK74, but it benefits greatly from Rifle Dynamics’ treatment.

As it arrived from Rifle Dynamics, the RD AK74 represented a return to a more traditional AK form compared to a rifle equipped with rails and such – though this was altered with addition of a Midwest Industries/US Palm front handguard and folding wire stock. There is a tremendous amount of fitting that goes into the RD AK74. It receives an internal reliability check with a light honing of the bolt/carrier group and guide rails. All exterior surfaces where users touch are dehorned. Most owners will not even notice the Rifle Dynamic attention to detail, but can take comfort that everything possible has been done to make it the best fighting rifle available. Even without firing a live round the Rifle Dynamics AK superiority over a standard AK could be detected in the smoothness of the action, trigger pull, quality of re-finish and overall weapon feel. Rifle Dynamics is well versed in the nuances of the AK platform and can educate even the most diehard AK connoisseur.

The simplicity and reliability of most Soviet-bloc weapons has always impressed Jim Fuller. This led him to studying the AK system of operation beginning in the early 1990s. Jim believes the AK is the most dependable fighting rifle ever produced. Rifle Dynamics is a 07 FFL/SOT manufacturer, which allows for work on machine guns, suppressors, SBRs and SBSs combined with being considered a dealer as well. Jim is more concerned with form following function as all weapons are fighting utensils with work reflecting this mindset. Jim’s shop offers custom work on ARs, Saiga, PSL rifles, as well as MACs, along with other typical work found in custom shops involving revolvers, 1911s, stock work, and other tasks. Rifle Dynamics is also involved in providing dynamic firearms training along with armorer courses and has a large selection of belt-fed and select-fire Com-bloc weapons to facilitate orientation demonstrations bringing personnel up to speed on operational use of these weapons.

Rifle Dynamics offers a wide range of services and upgrade packages for customer owned AKs without having to resort to custom builds from parts kits. One example of these improvements is the Fuller Modified Rear Sight unit. Jim reports this is one of his most popular AK modifications in terms of customer feedback. Over the years many have complained about the iron sights on the AK: the Fuller Rear Sight improves this tremendously. The Fuller Sight has the rear notch widened and corners radiused to a spec that was given to Jim by an optometrist for maximum efficiency in centering the front post in the rear notch. Both windage and elevation adjustments are made on the front sight. Many will be more than satisfied with the Fuller sight and eschew mounting anything on the RD AK74 choosing a more traditionalist route.

Importantly, the RD AK74 features the same great handling characteristics and reliability the AK family is renowned for. The Kalashnikov gas-operated piston-rod system is the heart of its reliability. The RD AK74 weighs 7.5 lbs and measures 37 inches long with its 16.5-inch barrel. With the wire stock folded, the rifle measures 29 inches in length. The original intent was not to replace the standard stock with a wire folding stock model due to previous experiences with wire stocks. However, the simplicity of doing this with the RD AK74, considering no special adaptors are needed to accomplish this combined with handling a friend’s AK74 at the range, forced a reassessment. The minimal recoil impulse of the 5.45×39 combined with an effective muzzle brake makes shooting the RD AK74 accurately and without discomfort with the wire stock very possible. Steel MGM man targets were routinely struck at 200-250 yards with rounds sent down range rapidly. This exhibits both the ergonomics of the rifle and overall accuracy of the RD AK74 /5.45x 39 combination.

For testing, both the 60gr and 70gr Wolf Ammunition was used as well as the relatively new Hornady 5.45×39 60gr VMax. Additionally, some surplus 52gr 5.45×39 ammunition was accessed. This is loaded with the 7N6 “poison pill” bullet that first gained notoriety in the Soviet-Afghan War. Basically, the Russian designers constructed the 52gr FMJ with an air cavity behind the tip of the bullet. This causes the bullet nose to deform when penetrating a target causing it to tumble that is devastating when striking flesh. One downside typical to most surplus ammunition is that it utilizes corrosive primers. Something the Russians and other ex-Soviet bloc states insist on using due to concerns with cold weather ignition and long-term storage capabilities offered by corrosive primers. The Wolf 70gr load produced approximately 2,600fps and the Wolf 60gr nudged 2,900fps when fired through the RD AK 74 with the 52gr surplus ammunition clocking in at 3,000fps.

As alluded to earlier in the article, it was decided to change out the RD AK74 Kvar forend furniture. This was an attempt to increase accuracy and effective range of the RD AK74 by enabling the mounting of a red dot optic. The US Palm and Midwest Industries collaborative AK Tri-Rail was installed. Installation of this rail is quick and does not require a trip to the gunsmith. Easy to follow instructions and all of the necessary hardware to mount this rail system is included. Since the Tri-Rail doesn’t mount directly to the gas tube, your optic is spared exposure to a large amount of heat, thus extending the life of your optic. Another benefit of the US Palm/Midwest Industries Tri-Rail is that it allows for better ventilation around the rifle’s barrel, thus cooling it down faster after long strings of fire. As expected from a US Palm/Midwest collaboration, the Tri-Rail was well made and did not move once installed on the RD AK74. The Tri-Rail was considered essential for getting the most out of the RD AK74; without the Tri-Rail it would have been impossible to proceed with mounting a red dot optic to enhance the RD AK74. The Tri-Rail enables a lower 1/3 co-witness option for a number of optics coveted by AK users. The specific optic needs are decided before ordering a Tri-Rail due to the top cover being made per individual optic base design. Current options are Trijicon RMR, Aimpoint T1/H1, Vortex Sparc, Burris Fastfire, and Leupold Delta Point.

It was decided to mount a Trijicon RMR on the US Palm/Midwest Tri-rail. The RMR sight is a proven commodity able to withstand the recoil and heat generated by repeatedly long strings of fire. The RMR only weighs several ounces; thus adding little in weight to the Rifle Dynamics AK74 preserving its natural handling. Due to engineered co-witnessing, the RMR sat low enough on the Tri-Rail that no adjustment of cheekweld was required to pick up the RMR’s amber 7 MOA dot. The beauty of the Trijicon RMR sight is that it does not require batteries to generate the aiming dot because of the dual use of fluorescent fiber optics and tritium lamp. The lack of reliance on batteries appealed to this author as matching the RD AK74’s rugged nature. The mounted Trijicon RMR did not disappoint in range tests proving more than capable of withstanding the RD AK74’s recoil and heat generated from firing multiple magazines during Team Tactics exercises. The RMR’s dot aided in acquiring a fast aiming point at CQB ranges. The 7 MOA dot in the Trijicon RMR proved more than capable of hammering steel man targets out to 200 yards reliably. For reference sake, a military silhouette target measures almost 17 MOA at 100 meters. It was found that a 50 yard zero with the Trijicon RMR fit the needs best when mounted on the RD AK74. The red dot sight offer the capability to engage multiple targets in rapid sequence compared to open sights. Age may be catching up to us as the single focus plane with the red dot is easier to shoot accurately than coordinating front and rear sights, especially at speed.

The Rifle Dynamics AK74 was evaluated at Echo Valley Training Center (EVTC). Echo Valley Training Center hosts numerous well known training entities every year along with DoD personnel, Federal, State, and local law enforcement agencies. Manufacturers are also finding their way there to take advantage of what the facility offers. Echo Valley Training Center has multiple 100 yard enclosed bermed bays capable of handling numerous students conducting “square” range drills or more dynamic/fluid types of training utilizing the barricades, building facades, and doorways constructed for this purpose. In conjunction with the individual training bays, EVTC features multi-stepped target berms that are strewn with reactive steel targets, fluid drained automobiles, and moving targets at ranges varying from 150 yards out to 350 yards. EVTC is further enhanced by the existence of prepared firing positions. This allows for more realistic prone and “dug-in” trench-style firing points. These firing positions and target arrangements are ideal for all types of training scenarios with most types of weapon systems including assault and precision rifles, not to mention belt fed weapons, and ultimately team exercises for team members to train coordinated fire sequences.

Range evaluation commenced with a function test involving firing several magazines in rapid succession. A 100 yard open sight zero confirmation took place after functionality was established and rifle sights shot on paper at 25 yards. While not unique, this is a good way to establish a baseline for reliability. Let’s face it: if an AK-type weapon does not have pristine reliability, its major attribute is nullified. The Rifle Dynamics AK74 functioned fine leaving the handguards smoking. Accuracy with the Wolf Ammunition 60gr and 70gr loads hovered in the 3-inch range at 100 yards. The surplus Bulgarian mirrored this performance. The Hornady VMax produced 2-inch groups. This is probably more indicative of my deteriorating eye sight than actual accuracy potential of the RD AK74. Other range tests consisted of completing several runs at a carbine course set-up at EVTC. Several ISPC-style man targets are engaged from different firing positions. Multiple shots were fired at each target and a magazine change was mandated before leaving cover. The various stages consisted of three different styles of barricade with one including coming through an operable door frame. Time was stopped by engaging two steel man-targets placed approximately 125 yards downrange. I find testing any rifle in this format helps highlight any strengths or weaknesses in handling or weapon manipulation. The RD AK74 turned in times that were on par with any of the different rifles and competition times previously tested at the range.

The Rifle Dynamics AK74 exhibited all of the positive Kalashnikov characteristics combined with the lethal Russian .22 caliber service round – the 5.45×39. Arms aficionados will find and appreciate Rifle Dynamics’ attention to detail. The RD AK74 proved desirable due to its reliability, accuracy, ammunition costs, and controllability during rapid strings of fire. It is strongly suggest anyone interested in a 5.45×39 chambered AK, whatever their reasoning, to contact Rifle Dynamics about your needs.

SITES OF INTEREST:

Rifle Dynamics
(702) 860-7774
www.rifledynamics.com

Midwest Industries, Inc.
828 Philip Drive, Suite 2
Waukesha, WI 53186
(262) 896-6780
www.midwestindustriesinc.com

Trijicon Inc.
49385 Shafer Ave
Wixom, MI 48393
(248) 960-7700
www.trijicon.com

US Palm/SGCUSA
14860 N. Northsight Blvd
Scottsdale, AZ 85260
(480) 222-4369
www.uspalm.com

Trijicon Introduces Tough Mini Reflex Sights

Trijicon, Inc., the world leader in the development of Brilliant Aiming Solutions for the military, law enforcement and hunting/shooting markets, has introduced its new Trijicon RMR Sight – a patent-pending new generation Ruggedized Miniature Reflex designed to improve shooter precision and accuracy with any style or caliber of weapon. Unlike other red dot sights on the market, this innovative solution is designed for superior durability under the most extreme conditions. Trijicon also designed the new RMR sights to be as strong as the company’s renowned Trijicon ACOGs, and provide ease of sighting and adjustment, solving important issues often associated with other red dot sights. Trijicon’s new design begins with a rugged, forged aluminum housing – one that is extremely sturdy, yet lightweight. This advanced housing encases premium quality optics for superior performance in every tactical, shooting or hunting situation. Other advancements in the Trijicon RMR sights include new large, easy-to-use adjusters that allow for quick one MOA per click adjustment for windage and elevation using a common screw driver or shell casing. The Trijicon RMR provides rapid target acquisition and enhances the shooter’s capabilities in a wide variety of applications. In keeping with Trijicon’s commitment to battery-free illumination, a battery-free model features dual illumination using Trijicon’s patented fiber optics and tritium, and comes in dot sizes of 9 or 13 Minutes of Angle (MOA). This model is the world’s first battery-free mini reflex sight, measuring a mere 1.78 inches long by 1.24 inches wide by 1.03 inches high and weighs in at only 1.22 ounces. Another version features LED illumination provided by a standard 2032 battery, and comes in dot sizes of 4 or 8 MOA. Both are available in black housings and, as further testament to their rugged construction, are rated as waterproof to sixty-six feet. The Trijicon RMR mounts onto Trijicon ACOGs, compact ACOGs, AccuPoints, Mil-Std 1913 rail equipped weapons systems, Weaver rail equipped weapons systems and the more popular handgun models. For more information please contact Trijicon Inc., Dept. SAR, 49385 Shafer Avenue, P.O. Box 930059, Wixom, MI 48393. Phone: (248) 960-7700. Fax: (248) 960-7725. Their website is www.trijicon.com.

New Products from Tactical Night Vision Company

Tactical Night Vision Company (TNVC) is now offering several new night vision related products that have been long awaited by consumers. The first is their new PT-HELMETS A-Alpha Jump Rated Helmets. The A-Alpha is an affordable, lightweight tactical helmet designed for Military and Law Enforcement special operations. Available in three sizes (S-M-L) and three non-reflective matte colors (Black, Tan and OD), it features a removable ACH 4-point chin strap that provides the wearer a more stable NVG platform. The A-Alpha is pre-drilled for both single and 3-hole pattern NVG shrouds, giving the user complete freedom to use any shroud on the market. The shell is expanded polystyrene with removable EVA foam padding, meets EN1078, ASTM1040, and is HALO/HAHO jump rated. The A-Alpha comes with a hard mounted Picatinny rail on the left for accessory attachment, pile tape patch on the right for flag or morale patches and a goggle retention strap on the back. It can be ordered bare, with shroud or ready to go with shroud and flip-up Rhino arm.

The next item is called the MURLM (Multi-Use Rail and Light Mount). This innovative mount allows the mounting of a light and a mini red dot sight. The light mount is for 1 inch diameter lights and positions them right by the users thumb when using a forward mount vertical grip. The rail of the MURLM positions the sight at a 45° angle off of the right side of the weapon. This allows the user to simply roll the rifle slightly to the left and utilize the red dot for close-in engagements. The MURLM can also be ordered bare or with a light and mini red dot already mounted. TNVC also has two new scope accessory ring rails that allow mounting accessories right to a scope. For more information on these as well as a full line of night vision optics and accessories, please contact them at Tactical Night Vision Company, Dept. SAR, 25612 Barton Road # 328, Loma Linda, CA 92354. Phone: (909) 659-2842. Visit websiteat: www.tacticalnightvision.com.

DoubleStar Unveils New 1911

Accuracy, reliability and American pride are qualities that DoubleStar builds into each of its many AR-15 offerings. Now, the Kentucky-based manufacturer is bringing those same attributes down to size by building them into its first-ever handgun. The handgun uses only American-made components and retails for less than $1,200. DoubleStar started with a forged – not cast – steel frame to ensure maximum strength and accuracy. Forging produces a stronger frame by aligning the grain structure of the steel, whereas the annealing and heat-treating of casting may strengthen steel, but it still leaves hard and soft spots in the metal. DoubleStar’s 1911 offers a parkerized, mil-spec finish and 1913 rail for laser, light and scope attachments. At 8 inches in length and 38 ounces unloaded, the handgun features a 5 inch stainless steel barrel and a Novak white dot sight. The 1911 is standard with National Match stainless barrel, Greider trigger and Ed Brown’s Memory Grip Safety. Grips are available in Ergo, Stryder, standard, fancy walnut and even exotic woods. The magazine capacity is 8 plus 1, and the magwell is beveled for an easier, quicker load. DoubleStar’s 1911 is also available with a round or square trigger guard. For more information contact DoubleStar, Dept. SAR, P.O. Box 430, Winchester, KY 40391. Phone: (859) 745-1757. Fax: (859) 745-4638. Visit website at: www.jtdistributing.com.

New PolyTac Tactical Flashlights from Streamlight

Streamlight, Inc., a leading flashlight manufacturer for law enforcement, military and tactical users, has introduced two super-bright, polymer personal lights: the Streamlight PolyTac, featuring a high-performance xenon incandescent bulb, and the Streamlight PolyTac LED with the latest in C4 power LED technology. Their compact size, combined with their strong, tough polymer casing and high light output make both lights perfect for a wide variety of law enforcement and tactical uses. The LED version uses a power LED that provides two to three times the output of Super High Flux LEDs, and the xenon model offers super-bright light as well. Whether used on night-time patrols, investigations, or just carried in a back pocket or holster, these small but tough tactical lights are ideal for police, and military and tactical personnel to carry. The incandescent xenon PolyTac offers a light output of 6,000 candela peak beam intensity and 72 lumens measured system output, while the LED model offers 4,800 candela peak beam intensity and 120 lumens measured system output. The PolyTac model uses a 6-volt xenon bulb, and the LED version features a C4 LED bulb that is impervious to shock with a 50,000 hour lifetime. The xenon model also offers an adjustable head which allows for variable spot-to-flood focus. The xenon version provides 80 minutes of continuous runtime to the 10% output level, and the LED version offers 3 hours of continuous runtime to the 10% output level. The PolyTac weighs 3.9 oz while the PolyTac LED weighs 4.1 oz. Both lights measure 5.22 inches in length and 1.25 inches in diameter. Both the PolyTac and PolyTac LED feature bodies made of high impact, super tough nylon polymer for exceptional durability and a sure grip. Each light features a tailcap push button switch for easy, one-handed operation. The tailcap also can be rotated to a “Safe” position. Both lights use two 3-volt lithium batteries, which have a shelf life of 10 years. Available in black, coyote or yellow, the PolyTac retails for $52 and the PolyTac LED for $65. The light comes with Streamlight’s limited lifetime warranty. For more information please contact Streamlight, Inc., Dept. SAR, 30 Eagleville Road, Eagleville, PA 19403. Phone: (610) 631-0600. Fax: (610) 631-0712. Visit website at: www.streamlight.com.

New Ruger Mini-14 LULA Strip Clip Loader

The LULA Strip Loader was an instant hit with avid shooters who purchase surplus ammo on stripper clips. For 2009, Butler Creek introduces a Strip Loader for Mini-14 rifles. This lightweight strip clip loaders makes it easy and painless to load magazines from clips. You can also load loose rounds and a built-in tab makes unloading rounds a quick and simple operation. Like most LULA loaders, it is small, lightweight and simple to use. It is made from a durable, reinforced polymer plastic, about 1/3 the size of similar loaders and will fit easily into a range bag or pocket. With a little practice, a shooter can load 30 rounds in about 12 seconds. Suggested retail is $29.95. For more information please contact them at Bushnell Outdoor Products, Dept. SAR, 9200 Cody, Overland Park, KS 66214. Phone: (913) 752-3400. Fax: (913) 752-3550. Website: www.butlercreek.com.