Photos and information about a new prototype of the AK-308 rifle have appeared online, distinguished by a noticeably shortened barrel and updated magazines.
According to available data, the barrel length of the new carbine is about 320 mm — significantly shorter than that of the standard AK-308 version. Thanks to this solution, the weapon becomes more compact and convenient for operations in confined spaces.
Kalashnikov Concern previously reported on the development of magazines for the weapon similar to those used in the AK-12. Now, actual photos of these products have appeared. The magazines are equipped with transparent windows through which the number of remaining rounds can be visually determined. This gives the shooter the ability to quickly assess the ammunition load without removing the magazine.
The carbine is currently at the stage of break-in and preliminary testing. According to one of the users who observed the firing, the use of the 7.62×51 mm NATO rifle cartridge causes a very strong muzzle flash, which may require refinement of the flash suppressor or other design elements.
It is assumed that the shortened version of the AK-308 is being developed in parallel with the full-size variant specifically for export deliveries to countries whose armed forces use the standard 7.62×51 mm NATO cartridge. India is named first among the potential customers, as its army has traditionally used this caliber.