AK-47 vs M16

During the Cold War, the US and the USSR competed in every field imaginable, from space technology to the economy. A major area of competition was military capability. Both sides boasted huge armies and each had a signature assault rifle. Both are also featured in many games like Call of Duty and Battlefield. Ever wondered which one you should choose in these games? I'm here to help. In the right corner, we have the M16, the battle rifle of the United States. In the left corner, we have the AK-47, the weapon of choice for the Soviet Union. But which side had the better firearm? Today we will find out.

Source: left AK-47 wikipedia. Right M16 i stock. Wikipedia contributors. (2024g, juli 14). AK-47. Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/AK-47 . Wikipedia contributors. (2024g, juli 13). M16 rifle - Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/M16_rifle

The M16

The M16 rifle, derived from the AR-15 designed by Eugene Stoner in the late 1950s, was adopted by the U.S. military in 1963. Initially facing reliability issues in Vietnam, it was improved with the M16A1 in 1967, featuring a chrome-lined barrel and forward assist. The M16A2, introduced in the 1980s, added a heavier barrel and burst fire mode. The M16A4, with modular rails for accessories, appeared in the 1990s. Gradually, the compact M4 carbine has replaced the M16 in frontline service. Despite its early challenges, the M16 remains an influential and enduring symbol of American military innovation.

Source: Wikipedia contributors. (2024g, juli 13). M16 rifle - Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/M16_rifle

The AK-47

The AK-47, designed by Mikhail Kalashnikov in 1947, became the standard Soviet rifle in 1949. Renowned for its simplicity, durability, and low production cost, it performed reliably in harsh conditions, making it ideal for widespread use. Its 7.62x39mm cartridge provided significant stopping power at close to medium ranges. The AK-47's design has been widely copied and adapted, leading to over 100 million units produced worldwide. It has seen extensive use in conflicts across the globe, becoming a symbol of revolutionary and guerrilla warfare. The AK-47 remains one of the most iconic and enduring assault rifles in history.

Source: Wikipedia contributors. (2024i, juli 14). AK-47. Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/AK-47

Power

The power of a rifle is determined by its caliber and the energy it can deliver to the target.

AK-47:

- Caliber: 7.62x39mm

- Muzzle Velocity: Approximately 715 m/s

- Impact: The larger caliber of the AK-47 means it delivers more stopping power at close to medium ranges. The 7.62mm round is heavier and slower, causing more significant damage on impact.

M16:

- Caliber: 5.56x45mm NATO

- Muzzle Velocity: Approximately 910 m/s

- Impact: The smaller 5.56mm round is faster and more precise, with a higher velocity. It can penetrate body armor more effectively and is designed to tumble upon impact, causing severe internal damage.

Winner in Power: AK-47. Its larger caliber delivers greater stopping power, especially at close ranges.

Source: Sky News. (z.d.). The Latest News from the UK and Around the World | Sky News. https://news.sky.com/

Reliability

Reliability in various environments is a crucial factor for any military firearm.

AK-47:

- Design: Simple and robust

- Performance: Renowned for its reliability, the AK-47 can operate effectively in harsh conditions such as mud, sand, and snow. Its loose tolerances mean it is less likely to jam or fail under adverse conditions.

M16:

- Design: More complex with tighter tolerances

- Performance: Initially plagued by reliability issues in Vietnam, the M16 has seen significant improvements over the years. However, it is still more susceptible to jamming when exposed to dirt and requires more meticulous maintenance compared to the AK-47.

Winner in Reliability: AK-47. Its rugged design ensures consistent performance in diverse and extreme conditions.

Source: Business Insider Nederland. (2024, 14 juli). Business Insider Nederland. https://www.businessinsider.nl/?international=true&r=US

Cost to Make

The cost to manufacture a firearm affects its distribution and accessibility.

AK-47:

- Production Cost: Low

- Manufacturing: Designed to be easy and inexpensive to produce, the AK-47 can be manufactured quickly and cheaply using low-tech equipment. This has led to its widespread proliferation.

M16:

- Production Cost: Higher

- Manufacturing: The M16 is more complex to produce, requiring higher precision and more advanced materials and machinery. This results in a higher cost per unit.

Winner in Cost to Make: AK-47. Its low production cost makes it the more economical choice for mass production.

Source: Wallace, S. (z.d.). @Telegraph. The Telegraph. https://www.telegraph.co.uk/

Accuracy

Accuracy is a critical factor for effectiveness in combat scenarios.

AK-47:

- Effective Range: Around 300-400 meters

- Accuracy: The AK-47's accuracy is adequate for close to medium ranges. However, its heavier round and recoil make it less precise over longer distances.

M16:

- Effective Range: Around 500-600 meters

- Accuracy: The M16 is designed for accuracy, with a flatter trajectory and higher velocity. Its lighter recoil allows for better control and precision, particularly at longer ranges.

Winner in Accuracy: M16. Its design and caliber contribute to superior accuracy over the AK-47, especially at extended ranges.

Source: Wikipedia contributors. (2024h, juli 13). M16 rifle - Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/M16_rifle

Conclusion

Both the AK-47 and the M16 have their strengths and weaknesses, excelling in different areas.

- Power: AK-47

- Reliability: AK-47

- Cost to Make: AK-47

- Accuracy: M16

Overall Winner: AK-47

Source: AR15.COM. (z.d.). Discussion forum Community Information and Statistics - AR15.COM. https://www.ar15.com/forums/

The AK-47 emerges as the overall winner due to its superior power, unmatched reliability, and lower production cost. While the M16 boasts greater accuracy, the AK-47's rugged versatility and economic advantages make it the more formidable weapon in a broader range of scenarios.