The RPK-74 is a light machine gun of Soviet design from the 1970s. Developed from the 1960s-vintage RPK, It is nearly identical, but fires the higher-velocity 5.45x39mm round used in the AK-74 instead of the RPK's original 7.62x39mm round.
Identification[ | ]
The RPK-74 is not to be confused with the similar RPK. The main difference between the two weapons if caliber used: The RPK fires the 7.62x39mm round, while the RPK-74 fires the lighter 5.45x39mm round. Visually, the RPK-74 has lighter furniture than the RPK. The RPK has the same report as the AK47M while the RPK-74 makes it's own signature noise.
Performance[ | ]
Although the RPK-74 is intended to function as an Automatic Rifle, it's low rate of fire and low (For a machine gun) magazine capacity mean it is outclassed by the M249 SAW in it's intended role. The RPK-74 is however, highly effective when treated like an assault rifle, Offering higher accuracy and magazine capacity over the AK-74.
Like all machineguns, the RPK-74 is fitted with a bipod, which can only be used in the prone position. While prone, the RPK-74 has virtually no recoil, allowing for extremely accurate long bursts of automatic fire. The RPK-74 is far longer than it's counterpart, the AK-74. Thus, the RPK-74 is not ideal for close-quarters combat.
The RPK-74 does just 2722 damage, compared to the RPK's 4500 damage. Thus, it is recommended to take the RPK over the RPK-74 if possible.
The RPK-74 is accurate for point targets up to about 400m, and for area targets up to 800m.
Ammunition[ | ]
The RPK-74 accepts both 75rnd RPK-74 magazines and AK-74 magazines.