The Soviet military's transition to a smaller, lighter caliber. The AK-74 introduced a new muzzle brake, ribbed magazine, and buttstock trap. First saw combat in Afghanistan in 1979. Type: Semi-Auto Rifle Action: Semi-Automatic Caliber: 5.45x39mm Capacity: 30 Year introduced: 1974, Russia Weight: 7.5 oz Overall length: 36.6" Status: Discontinued Military use: Yes Intended use: Collecting, Historical