


They would soon develop a select-fire, intermediate powered rifle, combining the firepower of a submachine gun with the range and accuracy of a rifle. The Germans were the first to pioneer the assault rifle concept during World War II, based upon research that showed that most firefights happen within 400 meters and that contemporary rifles were overpowered for most small arms combat. History Sturmgewehr 44 The German Sturmgewehr 44 military has largely replaced the M16 in combat units with a shorter and lighter version called the M4 carbine. Despite its early failures, the M16 proved to be a revolutionary design and stands as the longest continuously serving rifle in American military history. In 1974, the Soviets began replacing their AK-47 and AKM rifles with a newer design, the AK-74, which uses 5.45×39mm ammunition. More AK-type weapons have been produced than all other assault rifles combined. Its firepower, ease of use, low production costs, and reliability were perfectly suited for the Soviet Army's new mobile warfare doctrines. The AK-47 was finalized, adopted and entered widespread service in the Soviet Army in the early 1950s. As a result, they have been the subject of countless comparisons and endless debate. They are used by military, police, security forces, revolutionaries, terrorists, criminals and civilians alike and will most likely continue to be used for decades to come. These Cold War-era rifles have been used in conflicts both large and small since the 1960s. The two most common assault rifles in the world are the Soviet AK-47 and the American M16. Kalashnikov Concern (formerly Izhmash), Tula Arms Plant, TsNIITochMash, Zastava, Norinco, Arsenal ArmsĪrmaLite, Bushmaster, Colt, GM, H&R, FN, Remington, ĪK-47, AKS-47, RPK, AKM, AKMS, AK-74, RPK-74,ĪK-100 series, AK-12, PP-19 Bizon, Vityaz-SNĪR-15, M16, XM16E1, M16A1, M16A2, M16A3, M16A4, M4, M4A1, Colt LMG, M27, Colt 9mm SMG M16A2 (top) and AK-47 (bottom) assault rifles
