Editing RPK (section)

==Design details==
===Operating mechanism===
The RPK functions identically to the [[AK-47]]. It also uses the same 7.62×39mm [[ammunition]]. It has a similar design layout to the [[Kalashnikov series of rifles]], with [[Firearm modification|modifications]] to increase the RPK's effective range and accuracy, enhance its [[Rate of fire#Sustained or effective rate|sustained fire capability]], and strengthen the [[Receiver (firearms)|receiver]].<ref name="Vorobiev2016">{{cite book |first=Marco |last=Vorobiev |title=Gun Digest Shooter's Guide to AKs |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=A04hDAAAQBAJ&pg=PA239 |date=15 June 2016 |publisher=Krause Publications |isbn=978-1-4402-4641-8 |pages=239– }}{{Dead link|date=November 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref>

===Features===
The RPK features a thicker and longer [[Gun barrel|barrel]] than the AKM. This allows for it to be fired for longer without permanent loss in accuracy due to the barrel heating up. The [[Chrome plating|chrome]]-lined barrel is permanently fixed to the receiver and cannot be replaced in the field. It is fitted with a new front [[Sight (device)|sight]] base, and the [[Gas-operated reloading|gas]] block lacks both a [[bayonet]] lug and an under-barrel [[cleaning rod]] guide. The barrel also features a folding [[bipod]] mounted near the [[Gun barrel#Muzzle|muzzle]], and a front sight base with a lug that limits the bipod's rotation around the axis of the barrel. The barrel has a threaded muzzle, enabling the use of muzzle devices such as [[flash hiders]], [[Muzzle brake|compensators]], and [[Blank (cartridge)|blank]]-firing adapters. When a muzzle device is not being used, the threads on the muzzle can be covered by a [[thread protector]]. The barrel is pinned to the receiver in a modified [[trunnion]], reinforced by ribbing, and is slightly wider than the trunnion used on the standard AKM type rifles. Symmetrical bulges on both sides of the front trunnion ensure a proper fit inside the receiver.

The U-shaped receiver is [[Stamping (metalworking)|stamped]] from a smooth {{convert|1.5|mm|abbr=on|2}} [[Sheet metal|sheet]] of steel compared to the {{convert|1.0|mm|abbr=on|2}} sheet metal receiver used on the standard AKM rifles. It uses a modified AKM [[Recoil operation|recoil]] spring assembly that consists of a rear spring guide rod from the AK and a new forward flat guide rod and coil spring. It features a thick [[laminated]] wood foregrip and a fixed laminated wood "club-foot" [[stock (firearm)|buttstock]] similar to the stock used on the RPD, which is designed to allow the user to fire from the [[prone position]] more comfortably.{{Sfn|Rottman|2011|p=27}}  It uses a standard AKM [[pistol grip]] and can also use standard AKM detachable [[box magazine]]s, but it is most commonly used with a 40-round box magazine or a 75-round [[drum magazine]]. Interchangeability of parts between the RPK and AKM are moderate.

====Sights====
The weapon's [[Iron sights|rear sight]] leaf is [[Elevation (ballistics)|elevation]] adjustable, and graduated for ranges of 100 to 1,000 meters in 100 m increments. The rear sight leaf also features a [[windage]] adjustment knob unique to the RPK series of rifles.

====Accessories====
Supplied with the RPK are: spare magazines, a cleaning rod, cleaning kit (stored in a hollowed compartment in the buttstock), a [[Sling (firearms)|sling]], oil bottle, and magazine pouches (a single-pocket pouch for a drum magazine or a 4-pocket pouch for box magazines).