The AK-47 is a gas-operated, long-stroke piston assault rifle that fires 7.62×39mm ammunition from a 30-round curved magazine. The Type 1 models have a stamped steel receiver, though the more numerous Type 2 and 3 versions have a milled one, complemented by a wooden stock, handguard, and a slanted muzzle brake. This rifle is known for its simplicity, durability and reliability in harsh conditions. It was the standard service rifle of the Soviet Union from 1949 to 1959, though its deployment was kept a close-guarded secret to the eyes of NATO until the Vietnam War, when it was fielded en-masse by the PAVN and the Viet Cong.
In the Soviet Army, most of these weapons have been replaced by the cheaper and more reliable AKM, which is almost identical to the original AK-47. The original weapons are largely being exported to Soviet allies across the world.