Watch latest videos, sometimes even early releases! Sign up for the newsletter 🗞️https://tinyurl.com/9HoleReviews or https://tinyurl.com/SlateBlack The early AK74 | AKs74 series of rifles are perhaps the icon of the Soviet Afghan campaign in the late 70's. Although the straight orange bakelite magazine, triangle folding stock and muzzle brake give the Soviet AKs74 it's distinctive appearance, it's the cartridge that makes the rifle unique. You may be surprised at how the US military plays into this development. We delve into the development of the AKs74 and 5.45x39 cartridge in this episode with Russian military historian, Maxim Popekner who also founded www.modernfirearms.net . This is the first of a two-part series on the development of the AK74 type rifles. Our next part will cover interesting optics and modernization kits of the AK74 as it steps into the arena of modern warfare. A special thanks for Maxim Popenker from www.modernfirearms.net for talking about the backstory of the 5.45x39 cartridge! 5:27 thanks to Nathaniel F's research we were able to use this image. https://www.thefirearmblog.com/blog/2016/01/10/5-45x39-small-but-perfect-a-history-of-development/ Consider supporting us via Patreon 👉 http://www.patreon.com/9HoleReviews (you an also access the Practical Accuracy Scoreboard here) Observer setup seen here powered by: - Vortex Optics Razor HD Spotting Scope 27-60x85 Angled https://amzn.to/2M3zTGP - Vortex Optics Pro GT Tripod https://amzn.to/2X7j6sL - Phone Skope Lollipop Universal Digiscoping kit https://amzn.to/2ZK50zk Consider visiting our supporter @SlateBlackIndustries 👉 Discount Code "9HOLE" for MLOK accessories Shopping on Amazon? Do you like sweet [yet tasteful] gun morale patches? Shopping with this link costs you nothing, but helps support our channel 👉 https://amzn.to/3trn9ju Distance Conversions: 150y - 137m 200y - 182m 250y - 229m 300y - 274m 350y - 320m 400y - 366m 450y - 411m 500y - 457m This video's editing by Agency Communications LLC Music by Tyops (THANKS!!!) __________________________________________________________________ We love mail: 9 Hole Reviews 21175 Tomball Pkwy. No. 480 Houston, Texas 77070