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Originally conceived as a replacement for the Red Army's submachine guns, the AK-47's simplicity, reliability and cheapness made it one of the most widely distributed and most-manufactured rifles ever. This illustrated history examines the design and development of the AK-47, its internal mechanisms, its use in combat and all variants produced since its introduction in 1947. An authoritative text is complemented by detailed full-color cutaway drawings and appendices, providing detailed specifications and comparisons to contemporary guns. In addition, both color and black-and-white photographs depict the AK-47 in use on battlefields from Eastern Europe to the Middle East and Southeast Asia.