The K-3 exhibits a weight of 3.4 kilograms, an overall length of 700mm and a barrel measuring 415mm long. As with the Cold War-era AK-74, the K-3 operates from a gas action utilizing a rotating bolt function. It is a selective fire weapon that allows for single-shot (semi-automatic), burst and full-automatic fire modes by way of a selection switch. A 4x PSO-1 series telescopic sight is typically used though iron sights are retained as backup - the sighting device is fitted over the receiver in the usual way. Effective range is out to 400 meters with a maximum engagement range of 1,000 meters. A slotted flash suppressor is affixed to the barrel muzzle. Construction of the weapon involves both steel and plastic to promote both robustness in-the-field and also minimize overall weight.
The weapon feeds from a 30- or 45-round AK-74-style curved detachable box magazine with a listed rate of fire nearing 600 rounds per minute in full-automatic mode. In comparison, single-shot offers a semi-automatic fire rate of approximately 40 rounds per minute. The ejection port is only found along the right side of the receiver, restricting operation to right-handed shooters (some automatic weapons allow for an ambidextrous function). The barrel of the K-3 is also designed to fire the standard Armenia military rifle grenade, broadening the tactical value of the K-3 weapon system.
In comparison, the original AK-74 of 1974 features a weight of 3.3 kilograms, an overall length of 943mm and a barrel length of 414mm. Rate-of-fire is listed at 650 rounds per minute. Effective range is 625 meters.
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