As a subject matter expert in the field of firearms, I can provide a detailed explanation regarding the AK-47 and its classification.

The AK-47, also known as the Kalashnikov, is an iconic firearm that has been widely recognized and utilized across the globe. It was designed by Mikhail Kalashnikov in the Soviet Union and has been in service since the mid-20th century. The term "AK" is an abbreviation of "Автомат Калашникова," which translates to "Kalashnikov's automatic rifle" in English.

The AK-47 is a selective-fire firearm, meaning it can be switched between semi-automatic and automatic firing modes. This is a key feature that distinguishes it from a machine gun, which is typically fully automatic and fires continuously as long as the trigger is held down. In the semi-automatic mode, the AK-47 fires one round each time the trigger is pulled, which is similar to how a traditional hunting rifle operates. However, when switched to automatic mode, it can fire multiple rounds with a single trigger pull, which is more akin to machine gun fire.

The AK-47 operates on a gas-operated system, which uses the energy from the fired cartridge to cycle the action of the weapon. This system is common in many rifles and is not exclusive to the AK-47. The 7.62x39mm cartridge, which the AK-47 fires, is a rimless bottlenecked intermediate cartridge of Soviet origin. It was designed to have a smaller size and less recoil than the standard rifle cartridges of the time, making it more suitable for automatic fire.

The classification of firearms can sometimes be a matter of debate, but in general terms, a machine gun is defined by its ability to fire for an extended period without manual reloading, typically achieved through the use of a belt or drum magazine. The AK-47, while capable of automatic fire, is not usually classified as a machine gun due to its magazine-fed design and the fact that it was not originally intended for sustained automatic fire like a true machine gun.

It's also important to note that the AK-47 has been the subject of many variations and adaptations. Some versions, such as the RPK, are designed for a more sustained rate of fire and could be considered light machine guns. However, the standard AK-47 is more accurately described as an assault rifle, which is a category of firearms that includes features of both rifles and submachine guns, and is designed for effective combat at medium to short ranges.

In conclusion, while the AK-47 shares some characteristics with machine guns, such as the ability to fire in automatic mode, it is not typically classified as a machine gun due to its design and intended use. It is more accurately described as an assault rifle, a versatile firearm that has been widely used in military and paramilitary operations around the world.

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The AK-47 (AKA Kalashnikov, AK) is a selective-fire (semi-automatic and automatic), gas-operated 7.62--39mm assault rifle, developed in the Soviet Union by Mikhail Kalashnikov. It is officially known in the Soviet documentation as Avtomat Kalashnikova.read more >>