I don't think this one has been done before, but please forgive me if it has.  How many, if provided the time machine and given their choice, would choose your SEMI-AUTO AK for WWII combat over any of the available weapons of the time?  I know the Stg44 probably comes close, but I personally think that even as a semi-auto, the stamped AKM is still slightly superior.  Primarily because of weight and the handguards.  Stg handguards are sheet metal and heat up very quickly.  Even as a semi, I think the AK would still win out for overall utility over any of the SMGs or rifles of the time for common combat conditions.  At long range, it would suffer in comparison to the M1, Mauser, etc., but for CQB to 200, I would prefer the AK.

Since this is the AK forum, I know it's asking the choir if they want to sing, but maybe someone else looks at it from a different angle.

I agree.  For me, it would be a tough choice between the Thompson M1 "Tommy Gun" SMGs and the AK-47, but I'd probably opt for the full-auto AK.  

Interesting question.

Full-auto AK is no contest.  That is why I specifically limited the choice to a semi-auto AK.  Preferably one you happen to have lying around.

Quoted: Full-auto AK is no contest.  That is why I specifically limited the choice to a semi-auto AK.  Preferably one you happen to have lying around.

+1 7.62x39 far superior to 45 ACP.

either the AK or something like the G43...hard choice

dasiy red ryder"put your eye out"

I can only say yeah I agree because I've shot a STG44



It is pretty large for a weapon of it's type and yes, heavier.  It sounds like an AR15 when firing (to the shooter), a distinct sproing sound can be heard.  The recoil is mild about the same or less than the 7.62 AK.  

Personally though, I think my weapon of choice if it had been improved, would definately have been the FG42.  Those things are amazing.  A select/fire 8mm that I've seen fired full auto is more controllable than one would think.  Just a sweet weapon all together.

-mark

Quoted: I can only say yeah I agree because I've shot a STG44 i11.photobucket.com/albums/a199/markawil/mark_MP441.jpg It is pretty large for a weapon of it's type and yes, heavier.  It sounds like an AR15 when firing (to the shooter), a distinct sproing sound can be heard.  The recoil is mild about the same or less than the 7.62 AK.   Personally though, I think my weapon of choice if it had been improved, would definately have been the FG42.  Those things are amazing.  A select/fire 8mm that I've seen fired full auto is more controllable than one would think.  Just a sweet weapon all together. -mark

wow mark. If you dont mind me asking, how does one acquire an STG44? so cool.......

Quoted: Quoted: I can only say yeah I agree because I've shot a STG44 i11.photobucket.com/albums/a199/markawil/mark_MP441.jpg It is pretty large for a weapon of it's type and yes, heavier.  It sounds like an AR15 when firing (to the shooter), a distinct sproing sound can be heard.  The recoil is mild about the same or less than the 7.62 AK.   Personally though, I think my weapon of choice if it had been improved, would definately have been the FG42.  Those things are amazing.  A select/fire 8mm that I've seen fired full auto is more controllable than one would think.  Just a sweet weapon all together. -mark wow mark. If you dont mind me asking, how does one acquire an STG44? so cool.......

You can start with a bank account full of money.

Personally though, I think my weapon of choice if it had been improved, would definately have been the FG42.  Those things are amazing.  A select/fire 8mm that I've seen fired full auto is more controllable than one would think.  Just a sweet weapon all together.

FG42 looks cool, and is cool on paper, but I have always been told that they were not popular. Also because of the short barrel (for a full size round), they produce ALLOT of flash.... In combat, this brings allot of attention.

An AK would be cool, but where would you get ammo?