During the Cold War, the Soviet Union had a mixed track record when it came to military hardware. Its tanks were feared by the West, but its primary long-range strategic bomber (which is still in service in Russia today) was propeller-driven even as the rest of the world moved to jets.
However, one thing we can all agree on is that Mikhail Kalashnikov (with more than a bit of help from German engineers) developed one of the most innovative firearms of the 20th century—the AK-47. It is a firearm that has become legendary. The AK platform has long been noted for its reliability and ruggedness, and while accuracy may have been sacrificed a bit, it more than got the job done. Even the most patriotic, freedom-loving, gun-owning American likely can appreciate the AK.
Russian firearms are now banned for import into the United States, which significantly limits the options for those who appreciate the unique qualities of Kalashnikov’s design.
East Meets West
Fortunately, Century Arms has introduced the latest in its line of American-made AK modern sporting rifles with its new BFT556 and BFT74 models. The rifles are built upon the dependable bulged, forged 4140 steel trunnion platform of AK and feature 1.5 manganese phosphate-finished stamped steel receivers. Each is outfitted with a 14×1 LH threaded chrome-lined chrome-moly 4150 steel barrel with AK74 style muzzle break, optic-ready side mount, RAK-1 enhanced trigger, US Palm grip, paddle mag release, and extended tab safety selector with bolt hold open.
The BFT556 is an AK that would have been unthinkable during the Cold War. It is a Russian-designed battle rifle chambered for the NATO cartridge. It is equipped with a “Russian red” handguard and stock and a U.S. polymer palm grip for enhanced ergonomics and superior handling.
The BFT74 is chambered for 5.45x39mm, the cartridge developed during the Cold War for the AK-74. It is outfitted with premium maple hardwood furniture and a U.S. polymer palm grip.
Century Arms’s two new offerings prove that capitalism always wins over communism. The BFT556 and BFT74 are available now for $1049.99 and $949.99 (MSRP), respectively.
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