The AK74 rifle was developed in the early 1970s by famous Russian designer Mikhail Kalashnikov as the replacement for the AKM and AK47 Rifle. It uses a smaller 5.45x39mm cartridge, replacing the 7.62x39mm chambering of early Kalashnikov-style weapons. The AK74 Rifle first saw action with Soviet forces engaged in the 1979 Afghanistan conflict. Presently, the rifle continues to be used by the majority of countries of the former Soviet Union and can be found in service around the world. Guns Buyer USA offers a variety of Semi Auto AK 74 Sporting Rifles.