Rescuing 1 sources and tagging 1 as dead.) #IABot (v2.0.9.3) (Eastmain - 13716
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→Users: Removed Belarus and Kazakhstan examples as they were not police or military users. Added sources for France and US entries.
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{{short description|Russian shotgun}} |
{{short description|Russian shotgun}} |
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{{Infobox weapon |
{{Infobox weapon |
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| name = Saiga-12 |
| name = Saiga-12 |
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| image = Saiga 12 shotgun.jpg |
| image = Saiga 12 shotgun.jpg |
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| image_size = 300 |
| image_size = 300 |
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| caption = US civilian aftermarket modified "Saiga-12K" shotgun |
| caption = US civilian aftermarket modified "Saiga-12K" shotgun |
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| origin = Russia |
| origin = Russia |
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| type = [[Automatic shotgun|Automatic]] [[shotgun]] |
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| type = [[Shotgun]] |
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<!-- Type selection -->| is_ranged = yes |
<!-- Type selection -->| is_ranged = yes |
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<!-- Service history -->| service = |
<!-- Service history -->| service = |
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| used_by = See ''[[Saiga-12#Users|Users]]'' |
| used_by = See ''[[Saiga-12#Users|Users]]'' |
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| wars = <!-- Production history --> |
| wars = <!-- Production history --> |
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| designer = [[Mikhail Kalashnikov]] |
| designer = [[Mikhail Kalashnikov]] |
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| design_date = 1990s |
| design_date = 1990s |
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| manufacturer = [[Kalashnikov Concern]] (formerly known as Izhmash) |
| manufacturer = [[Kalashnikov Concern]] (formerly known as Izhmash) |
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| unit_cost = |
| unit_cost = |
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| production_date = |
| production_date = 1997–present<ref>Николай Дергачев, Александр Кудряшов.『Сайга-12К』- королева самообороны // журнал "Калибр", № 6 (19), июнь 2003.</ref> |
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| number = |
| number = |
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| variants = Saiga-12 <br/>Saiga-12S <br/>Saiga-12K <br/>Saiga-12S EXP-01 <br/>Saiga-12K-030 <br/>Saiga-12K-040 Taktika |
| variants = Saiga-12 <br/>Saiga-12S <br/>Saiga-12K <br/>Saiga-12S EXP-01 <br/>Saiga-12K-030 <br/>Saiga-12K-040 Taktika |
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<!-- General specifications -->| spec_label = |
<!-- General specifications -->| spec_label = |
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| weight = {{convert|3.6|kg|lb|1|abbr=on}} (Saiga-12, Saiga-12S)<br/> {{convert|3.5|kg|lb|1|abbr=on}} (Saiga-12K, Saiga-12S EXP-01) |
| weight = {{convert|3.6|kg|lb|1|abbr=on}} (Saiga-12, Saiga-12S)<br/> {{convert|3.5|kg|lb|1|abbr=on}} (Saiga-12K, Saiga-12S EXP-01) |
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| length = {{convert|1145|mm|in|abbr=on}} (Saiga-12)<br/> {{convert|1060|mm|in|1|abbr=on}} stock extended / {{convert|820|mm|in|1|abbr=on}} stock folded (Saiga-12S)<br/> {{convert|910|mm|in|1|abbr=on}} stock extended / {{convert|670|mm|in|1|abbr=on}} stock folded (Saiga-12K, Saiga-12S EXP-01) |
| length = {{convert|1145|mm|in|abbr=on}} (Saiga-12)<br/> {{convert|1060|mm|in|1|abbr=on}} stock extended / {{convert|820|mm|in|1|abbr=on}} stock folded (Saiga-12S)<br/> {{convert|910|mm|in|1|abbr=on}} stock extended / {{convert|670|mm|in|1|abbr=on}} stock folded (Saiga-12K, Saiga-12S EXP-01) |
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| part_length = {{convert|580|mm|in|1|abbr=on}} (Saiga-12, Saiga-12S)<br/> {{convert|430|mm|in|1|abbr=on}} (Saiga-12K, Saiga-12S EXP-01) |
| part_length = {{convert|580|mm|in|1|abbr=on}} (Saiga-12, Saiga-12S)<br/> {{convert|430|mm|in|1|abbr=on}} (Saiga-12K, Saiga-12S EXP-01) |
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| width = |
| width = |
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| height = {{convert|190|mm|in|abbr=on}} |
| height = {{convert|190|mm|in|abbr=on}} |
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<!-- Ranged weapon specifications -->| cartridge = |
<!-- Ranged weapon specifications -->| cartridge = |
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| caliber = [[12-gauge shotgun|12-gauge]], [[20-gauge shotgun|20-gauge]], [[.410 bore |
| caliber = [[12-gauge shotgun|12-gauge]], [[20-gauge shotgun|20-gauge]], and [[.410 bore]] |
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| action = [[Gas-operated reloading|Gas-operated]], [[rotating bolt]] |
| action = [[Gas-operated reloading|Gas-operated]], [[rotating bolt]] |
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| rate = Semi-automatic: <br>20 rounds/min <br> Fully automatic: <br>45 rounds/min |
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| rate = |
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| velocity = |
| velocity = |
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| range = |
| range = {{cvt|70|m|yd}} |
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| max_range = |
| max_range = |
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| feed = 2, 5, 8, and 10 |
| feed = 2, 5, 8, and 10 round detachable [[box magazine]], 12, 20 or 30 round detachable [[drum magazine]] |
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| sights = [[ |
| sights = [[Iron sights]] |
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}} |
}} |
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The '''Saiga-12''' ({{IPAc-en|ˈ|s|aɪ|ɡ|ə}}) is a [[shotgun]] available in a wide range of configurations, patterned after the [[AK-47|Kalashnikov]] series of [[rifle]]s and named after the [[Saiga antelope]] native to [[Russia]]. Like the Kalashnikov rifle variants, it is a [[rotating bolt]], [[Gas-operated reloading|long-stroke gas piston]] operated firearm that feeds from a |
The '''Saiga-12''' ({{IPAc-en|ˈ|s|aɪ|ɡ|ə}}) is a [[shotgun]] available in a wide range of configurations, patterned after the [[AK-47|Kalashnikov]] series of [[rifle]]s and named after the [[Saiga antelope]] native to [[Russia]]. Like the Kalashnikov rifle variants, it is a [[rotating bolt]], [[Gas-operated reloading|long-stroke gas piston]] operated firearm that feeds from a square magazine. All Saiga-12 configurations are recognizable as Kalashnikov-pattern guns by the large lever-safety on the right side of the [[receiver (firearms)|receiver]], the optic mounting rail on the left side of the receiver and the large top-mounted dust cover held in place by the rear of the recoil spring assembly. Saiga firearms are meant for civilian domestic sale in Russia, and export to international markets.<ref>{{Cite web |title=IZHMASH JSC official site |url=http://www.izhmash.ru/eng/product/saiga.shtml |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100208224350/http://www.izhmash.ru/eng/product/saiga.shtml |archive-date=2010-02-08 |access-date=2009-12-06}}</ref> |
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The Saiga-12 is manufactured by the [[Kalashnikov Concern]] (the merger of [[Izhmash]] and [[Izhevsk Mechanical Plant|Izhevsk]]), in Russia. Kalashnikov Concern also manufactures Saiga 20s |
The Saiga-12 is manufactured by the [[Kalashnikov Concern]] (the merger of [[Izhmash]] and [[Izhevsk Mechanical Plant|Izhevsk]]), in Russia. Kalashnikov Concern also manufactures Saiga 20s ([[20-gauge shotgun|20-gauge]]) and Saiga 410s ([[.410 bore]]), as well as the [[Saiga semi-automatic rifle|Saiga semi-automatic hunting rifles]] chamberedinvarious centerfire rifle calibers.<ref name="Cutshaw2011"/> Russian armed forces use a combat shotgun variant called the KSK (Karabin Spetsialniy Kalahnikov, "Kalashnikov Special Carbine"), with the 12-gauge size expressed in its metric equivalent of 18.5 mm. The [[Picatinny rail]] layout is similar to the civilian 030 version. |
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==Modifications to the basic Kalashnikov pattern== |
==Modifications to the basic Kalashnikov pattern== |
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==Common Saiga 12 configurations== |
==Common Saiga 12 configurations== |
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[[File:Сайга 12К 030.jpg|left|thumb|Tactical shotgun Saiga 12К 030]] |
[[File:Сайга 12К 030.jpg|left|thumb|Tactical shotgun Saiga 12К 030]] |
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[[File:ARMS & Hunting 2013 exhibition (529-04).jpg|thumb|Saiga 12 with 23 |
[[File:ARMS & Hunting 2013 exhibition (529-04).jpg|thumb|Saiga 12 with {{convert|23|in|abbr=on}} barrel and sporting buttstock, appealing to the hunting market in Russia]] |
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The Saiga |
The Saiga 12 is manufactured in several different configurations ranging from more traditional styled hunting models to military-style models utilizing AK or SVD hardware. All these versions are available for purchase by civilians in Russia after applying for a firearms permit. |
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Civilian barrel lengths are 430 |
Civilian barrel lengths are {{convert|430|and|580|mm|in|abbr=on}}.<ref name="modernfirearmssaiga12" /> The {{convert|580|mm|abbr=on}} version is standard with a traditional rifle stock or with an AK-style separate pistol grip and folding stock (version '''S''' for "skladnaya", "folding"). The {{convert|430|mm|abbr=on}} version ('''K''' for "korotkaya", "short") has an AK-style pistol grip and folding stock. The civilian version of the 12K for the Russian domestic market features a specially-designed safety, preventing operation with stock folded (due to Russian gun laws, it is illegal to own a firearm with a barrel length of less than {{convert|500|mm|abbr=on}} and capable of firing while being less than {{convert|800|mm|abbr=on}} long).<ref name="modernfirearmssaiga12">{{cite web |url=https://modernfirearms.net/en/shotguns/russia-shotguns/sajga-12-eng/ |publisher=Modern Firearms |author=Maxim Popenker |title=Saiga 12 - Modern Firearms |access-date=27 Sep 2019}}</ref> "Taktika" versions with {{convert|430|and|580|mm|in|abbr=on}} barrels feature various AK, SVD, or original "Legion" furniture (handguards, folding and non-folding stocks) and AK-style open sights with high post and tangent rear. Optional screw-in chokes are available. A standard AK rail for optics may be mounted on the left side of the receiver.<ref name="modernfirearmssaiga12"/> |
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Capacities of 2, 5, 7, 8, and 12 round [[box magazine]]s are available, as well as ten, twelve, and twenty round aftermarket [[drum magazine]]s. All magazines may be interchanged with all 12 gauge models (sometimes minor fitting may be necessary), although factory-original magazines from Russia only exist in 5, 7, and 8 round box configurations. The magazine configuration is significantly altered compared to more typical Kalashnikov rifles in order to accommodate the larger 12 gauge cartridge. |
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Prior to importation to the US, all Saiga shotguns are configured with a traditional fixed "hunting-style" rifle stock and 5 |
Prior to importation to the US, all Saiga shotguns are configured with a traditional fixed "hunting-style" rifle stock and 5 round box magazine. Factory 8 round box magazines are not imported in the US (though they are legal for importation into other countries), making them quite rare on the civilian market.<ref name="Lewis2004"/> |
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[[File:Saiga-12K-040-02-with Cobra.jpg|thumb|Saiga 12K 040 Taktika with collimator sight "Kobra"]] |
[[File:Saiga-12K-040-02-with Cobra.jpg|thumb|Saiga 12K 040 Taktika with collimator sight "Kobra"]] |
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Recently, a newly configured version of the Saiga 12 was introduced. Called the Saiga Taktika mod 040, it features an extended magazine well, last round bolt hold open (recently produced very rarely and replaced with manual bolt hold), hinged dust cover with [[Picatinny rail]] for mounting optics, picatinny rail gas block, and a newly designed 8 |
Recently, a newly configured version of the Saiga 12 was introduced. Called the Saiga Taktika mod 040, it features an extended magazine well, last round bolt hold open (recently produced very rarely and replaced with manual bolt hold), hinged dust cover with [[Picatinny rail]] for mounting optics, picatinny rail gas block, and a newly designed 8 round box magazine (which is not interchangeable with other Saiga 12 models).<ref>{{cite web|title=Saiga Taktika at the manufacturer's website |url=http://www.exclusivegun.ru/ru/product/Gladkostvolnoe_oruzh/Sajga-12K/product129.html |access-date=12 Jan 2013 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121228182500/http://www.exclusivegun.ru/ru/product/Gladkostvolnoe_oruzh/Sajga-12K/product129.html |archive-date=December 28, 2012 }}</ref> |
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This design seems to address deficiencies that the Saiga 12 had in function. The traditional AK "rock and lock" magazine system and the difficulties associated with magazine has been replaced by a vertical insertion system that allow the magazine to be inserted with only one hand. The hinged dustcover with picatinny rail makes mounting optics simpler, and is closer to the bore axis, making sighting of optics easier. The gas-block rail system allows for the addition of combat lights and vertical fore grips. The last round bolt hold open gives the user instant feedback that the firearm is empty and allows for a quicker magazine change. |
This design seems to address deficiencies that the Saiga 12 had in function. The traditional AK "rock and lock" magazine system and the difficulties associated with magazine has been replaced by a vertical insertion system that allow the magazine to be inserted with only one hand. The hinged dustcover with picatinny rail makes mounting optics simpler, and is closer to the bore axis, making sighting of optics easier. The gas-block rail system allows for the addition of combat lights and vertical fore grips. The last round bolt hold open gives the user instant feedback that the firearm is empty and allows for a quicker magazine change. |
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In late September 2014 the IZ109T was released in the USA. This model featured a shortened barrel with a permanently attached brake. The barrel length was 18 |
In late September 2014, the IZ109T was released in the USA. This model featured a shortened barrel with a permanently attached brake. The barrel length was {{convert|18|in|abbr=on}} including the brake. The IZ109T also had military style features including a rear pistol grip and 6 position stock. Various modifications were made to the trigger group, bolt, and bolt carrier that allowed loaded magazine insertion without locking the bolt back. The IZ109T also featured a fully parkerized military finish. |
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==Variants== |
==Variants== |
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==Users== |
==Users== |
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<!--READ FIRST: This section is for cited entries only. Please do not add entries into this list without a citation from a reliable source. All entries without a citation will be removed. Thank you.--> |
<!--READ FIRST: This section is for cited entries only. Please do not add entries into this list without a citation from a reliable source. All entries without a citation will be removed. Thank you.--> |
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⚫ | *{{flag|Egypt}}: - Used By [[Central Security Forces]] Special Operations Police. |
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* {{flag|Belarus}} - is allowed as civilian hunting weapon<ref>«''2.1.1.2-1/006 Ружье охотничье гладкоствольное самозарядное "Сайга-12", "Сайга-12С", "Сайга-12К"''»<br>Указ Президента Республики Беларусь № 71 от 13 февраля 2003 года «Об утверждении Положения о порядке ведения и издания Государственного кадастра служебного и гражданского оружия и боеприпасов и Положения о порядке проведения сертификации служебного и гражданского оружия и боеприпасов» (редакция от 10 июля 2015 г.)</ref> |
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*{{flag|France}}: Used by [[RAID (French police unit)|RAID]] and [[National Police Intervention Groups|GIPN]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=QUINTIN |first=Béatrice |date=2023-06-30 |title=Mort de Nahel : qu’est-ce que ces armes utilisées par le RAID à Lille ? |url=https://www.lavoixdunord.fr/1346952/article/2023-06-30/mort-de-nahel-qu-est-ce-que-ces-armes-utilises-par-le-raid-lille |access-date=2024-06-14 |website=La Voix du Nord |language=fr}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Bommert |first=Stéphane |date=10 October 2018 |title=GIPN 974 |url=https://www.flickr.com/photos/stef974run/31754521468/in/photostream/ |access-date=14 June 2024 |website=[[Flickr]]}}</ref> |
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⚫ |
*{{flag|Egypt}}: - Used By [[Central Security Forces]] Special Operations Police |
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*{{flag|France}}: Used by counter-terrorist units |
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*{{flag|Indonesia}}: "Saiga-12C" used by the [[National Anti-Narcotics Agency (Indonesia)|National Anti Narcotics Agency (BNN)]]<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://kalashnikov.com/en/press-service/news/news_287.html|title=Kalashnikov Group made first delivery of Saiga-12C to National Drug Enforcement Administration (BNN) of Indonesia. - Kalashnikov Concern|website=kalashnikov.com|access-date=2017-02-14}}</ref> |
*{{flag|Indonesia}}: "Saiga-12C" used by the [[National Anti-Narcotics Agency (Indonesia)|National Anti Narcotics Agency (BNN)]]<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://kalashnikov.com/en/press-service/news/news_287.html|title=Kalashnikov Group made first delivery of Saiga-12C to National Drug Enforcement Administration (BNN) of Indonesia. - Kalashnikov Concern|website=kalashnikov.com|access-date=2017-02-14}}</ref> |
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* {{flag|Kazakhstan}}: certified as a civilian hunting weapon.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://online.zakon.kz/Document/?doc_id=1045614|title=Постановление Правительства Республики Казахстан от 23 декабря 2003 года № 1304『Об утверждении Государственного кадастра гражданского и служебного оружия и патронов к нему на 2004 год』(утратило силу)|access-date=25 October 2014}}</ref> |
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* {{flag|Kyrgyzstan}}: Used by police forces.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.boston.com/bigpicture/2010/04/crisis_in_kyrgyzstan.html|title=Crisis in Kyrgyzstan|work=Boston.com|access-date=25 October 2014}}</ref> |
* {{flag|Kyrgyzstan}}: Used by police forces.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.boston.com/bigpicture/2010/04/crisis_in_kyrgyzstan.html|title=Crisis in Kyrgyzstan|work=Boston.com|access-date=25 October 2014}}</ref> |
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* {{flag|Russia}}: "Saiga-12" used by private security companies;<ref>Постановление Правительства РФ № 587 от 14 августа 1992 года "Вопросы частной детективной и охранной деятельности"</ref><ref>Постановление Правительства РФ № 179 от 4 апреля 2005 года</ref> '''18,5 KS-K''' carbine adopted by [[Ministry of Internal Affairs (Russia)|Ministry of Internal Affairs]]<ref>"''карабин принят на вооружение МВД Российской Федерации''"<br/>[http://www.arms-expo.ru/049051053057124054053053054.html "18,5 КС-К", карабин специальный] /『Оружие России』{{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120903171159/http://www.arms-expo.ru/049051053057124054053053054.html |date=September 3, 2012 }}</ref> |
* {{flag|Russia}}: "Saiga-12" used by private security companies;<ref>Постановление Правительства РФ № 587 от 14 августа 1992 года "Вопросы частной детективной и охранной деятельности"</ref><ref>Постановление Правительства РФ № 179 от 4 апреля 2005 года</ref> '''18,5 KS-K''' carbine adopted by [[Ministry of Internal Affairs (Russia)|Ministry of Internal Affairs]]<ref>"''карабин принят на вооружение МВД Российской Федерации''"<br/>[http://www.arms-expo.ru/049051053057124054053053054.html "18,5 КС-К", карабин специальный] /『Оружие России』{{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120903171159/http://www.arms-expo.ru/049051053057124054053053054.html |date=September 3, 2012 }}</ref> |
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* {{flag|Ukraine}}: in 2009 "Saiga-12K - Tactical" carbine was adopted by [[Ukrainian Navy]]<ref>Біла книга 2009. Збройнi сили України. Міністерство оборони України, 2010. стор.78</ref> |
* {{flag|Ukraine}}: in 2009 "Saiga-12K - Tactical" carbine was adopted by [[Ukrainian Navy]]<ref>Біла книга 2009. Збройнi сили України. Міністерство оборони України, 2010. стор.78</ref> |
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* {{flag|United States}}: Some |
* {{flag|United States}}: Some police SWAT teams<ref>{{cite web |url=http://rbth.com/articles/2012/02/07/us_police_to_buy_russian_rifles_14326.html |title=U.S. police to buy Russian shotguns |date=February 7, 2012 |work=[[Russia Beyond the Headlines]]}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.guns.com/2012/02/06/izhmash-saiga-12-continues-to-conquer-american-market/ |website=www.guns.com |date=6 February 2012 |title=Izhmash's Saiga-12 Shotgun Continues to Conquer American Market |author=S.H. Blannelberry |access-date=20 April 2016 |archive-date=2 August 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130802024130/http://www.guns.com/2012/02/06/izhmash-saiga-12-continues-to-conquer-american-market/ |url-status=dead }}</ref> and military units such as the [[Deployable Operations Group|Deployable Specialized Forces]] in the Coast Guard.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Pike |first=Travis |date=2021-12-22 |title=9 Unconventional Guns of the United States Military |url=https://www.pewpewtactical.com/unconventional-guns-us-military/ |access-date=2024-06-14 |website=www.pewpewtactical.com |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Pike |first=Travis |title=Saiga 12: The Russian 12-Gauge Man Stopper |url=https://sofrep.com/gear/saiga-12-the-russian-12-gauge-man-stopper/ |access-date=2024-06-14 |website=SOFREP |language=en}}</ref> |
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==See also== |
==See also== |
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*[[Vepr-12|VEPR-12]] |
*[[Vepr-12|VEPR-12]] |
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*[[Akdal MKA 1919]] |
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*[[Armsel Striker]] |
*[[Armsel Striker]] |
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*[[Atchisson Assault Shotgun]] |
*[[Atchisson Assault Shotgun]] |
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*[[Combat shotgun]] |
*[[Combat shotgun]] |
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*[[List of shotguns]] |
*[[List of shotguns]] |
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*[[Heckler & Koch HK CAWS]] |
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*[[NeoStead 2000]] |
*[[NeoStead 2000]] |
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*[[SPAS-15]] |
*[[SPAS-15]] |
Saiga-12 | |
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Type | Automatic shotgun |
Place of origin | Russia |
Service history | |
Used by | See Users |
Production history | |
Designer | Mikhail Kalashnikov |
Designed | 1990s |
Manufacturer | Kalashnikov Concern (formerly known as Izhmash) |
Produced | 1997–present[1] |
Variants | Saiga-12 Saiga-12S Saiga-12K Saiga-12S EXP-01 Saiga-12K-030 Saiga-12K-040 Taktika |
Specifications | |
Mass | 3.6 kg (7.9 lb) (Saiga-12, Saiga-12S) 3.5 kg (7.7 lb) (Saiga-12K, Saiga-12S EXP-01) |
Length | 1,145 mm (45.1 in) (Saiga-12) 1,060 mm (41.7 in) stock extended / 820 mm (32.3 in) stock folded (Saiga-12S) 910 mm (35.8 in) stock extended / 670 mm (26.4 in) stock folded (Saiga-12K, Saiga-12S EXP-01) |
Barrel length | 580 mm (22.8 in) (Saiga-12, Saiga-12S) 430 mm (16.9 in) (Saiga-12K, Saiga-12S EXP-01) |
Height | 190 mm (7.5 in) |
Caliber | 12-gauge, 20-gauge, and .410 bore |
Action | Gas-operated, rotating bolt |
Rate of fire | Semi-automatic: 20 rounds/min Fully automatic: 45 rounds/min |
Effective firing range | 70 m (77 yd) |
Feed system | 2, 5, 8, and 10 round detachable box magazine, 12, 20 or 30 round detachable drum magazine |
Sights | Iron sights |
The Saiga-12 (/ˈsaɪɡə/) is a shotgun available in a wide range of configurations, patterned after the Kalashnikov series of rifles and named after the Saiga antelope native to Russia. Like the Kalashnikov rifle variants, it is a rotating bolt, long-stroke gas piston operated firearm that feeds from a square magazine. All Saiga-12 configurations are recognizable as Kalashnikov-pattern guns by the large lever-safety on the right side of the receiver, the optic mounting rail on the left side of the receiver and the large top-mounted dust cover held in place by the rear of the recoil spring assembly. Saiga firearms are meant for civilian domestic sale in Russia, and export to international markets.[2]
The Saiga-12 is manufactured by the Kalashnikov Concern (the merger of Izhmash and Izhevsk), in Russia. Kalashnikov Concern also manufactures Saiga 20s (20-gauge) and Saiga 410s (.410 bore), as well as the Saiga semi-automatic hunting rifles chambered in various centerfire rifle calibers.[3] Russian armed forces use a combat shotgun variant called the KSK (Karabin Spetsialniy Kalahnikov, "Kalashnikov Special Carbine"), with the 12-gauge size expressed in its metric equivalent of 18.5 mm. The Picatinny rail layout is similar to the civilian 030 version.
The Saiga-12 incorporates several features absent on the Kalashnikov and its derivatives.[4]
Since shotgun shells are nearly twice as wide as 7.62×39mm cartridge, the extraction port in the side of the dust cover had to be increased in size. However, since the bolt had to remain the same length to fit inside the AK-47 sized receiver, the rear section of the bolt is covered by a sliding metal flap that rides on the recoil spring. This allows the gun to be sealed against dirt when the bolt is forward, but the compression of the recoil spring during firing moves the flap rearward to clear the extracted shells.[4]
For the likely reason of simplifying production of Izhmash's other Kalashnikov-pattern guns, the Saiga-12 extractor does not rotate, but instead delegates the bolt-locking function to a caliber-neutral lug directly behind the bolt-face.[4]
The Saiga-12 incorporates an adjustable two-position gas system, with "standard" and "magnum" settings for firing 2-3/4" and 3"-length shells respectively.[5] This is because firing 3" shells with high power loads such as slugs and buckshot generates so much force that the receiver will be damaged if the full power of the gas system is employed without some sort of recoil buffer. The problem is that making the gun durable with such high power loads would make it more likely to experience a cycle failure with the less powerful 2-3/4" shells and likely not to cycle at all when used with low-powered less lethal ammunition. This would essentially render it a straight-pull mechanism.[4]
The Saiga 12 is manufactured in several different configurations ranging from more traditional styled hunting models to military-style models utilizing AK or SVD hardware. All these versions are available for purchase by civilians in Russia after applying for a firearms permit.
Civilian barrel lengths are 430 and 580 mm (17 and 23 in).[5] The 580 mm (23 in) version is standard with a traditional rifle stock or with an AK-style separate pistol grip and folding stock (version S for "skladnaya", "folding"). The 430 mm (17 in) version (K for "korotkaya", "short") has an AK-style pistol grip and folding stock. The civilian version of the 12K for the Russian domestic market features a specially-designed safety, preventing operation with stock folded (due to Russian gun laws, it is illegal to own a firearm with a barrel length of less than 500 mm (20 in) and capable of firing while being less than 800 mm (31 in) long).[5] "Taktika" versions with 430 and 580 mm (17 and 23 in) barrels feature various AK, SVD, or original "Legion" furniture (handguards, folding and non-folding stocks) and AK-style open sights with high post and tangent rear. Optional screw-in chokes are available. A standard AK rail for optics may be mounted on the left side of the receiver.[5]
Capacities of 2, 5, 7, 8, and 12 round box magazines are available, as well as ten, twelve, and twenty round aftermarket drum magazines. All magazines may be interchanged with all 12 gauge models (sometimes minor fitting may be necessary), although factory-original magazines from Russia only exist in 5, 7, and 8 round box configurations. The magazine configuration is significantly altered compared to more typical Kalashnikov rifles in order to accommodate the larger 12 gauge cartridge.
Prior to importation to the US, all Saiga shotguns are configured with a traditional fixed "hunting-style" rifle stock and 5 round box magazine. Factory 8 round box magazines are not imported in the US (though they are legal for importation into other countries), making them quite rare on the civilian market.[4]
Recently, a newly configured version of the Saiga 12 was introduced. Called the Saiga Taktika mod 040, it features an extended magazine well, last round bolt hold open (recently produced very rarely and replaced with manual bolt hold), hinged dust cover with Picatinny rail for mounting optics, picatinny rail gas block, and a newly designed 8 round box magazine (which is not interchangeable with other Saiga 12 models).[6]
This design seems to address deficiencies that the Saiga 12 had in function. The traditional AK "rock and lock" magazine system and the difficulties associated with magazine has been replaced by a vertical insertion system that allow the magazine to be inserted with only one hand. The hinged dustcover with picatinny rail makes mounting optics simpler, and is closer to the bore axis, making sighting of optics easier. The gas-block rail system allows for the addition of combat lights and vertical fore grips. The last round bolt hold open gives the user instant feedback that the firearm is empty and allows for a quicker magazine change.
In late September 2014, the IZ109T was released in the USA. This model featured a shortened barrel with a permanently attached brake. The barrel length was 18 in (460 mm) including the brake. The IZ109T also had military style features including a rear pistol grip and 6 position stock. Various modifications were made to the trigger group, bolt, and bolt carrier that allowed loaded magazine insertion without locking the bolt back. The IZ109T also featured a fully parkerized military finish.
The Saiga shotgun is also available in 20-gauge and .410 calibers known as the Saiga-20 and Saiga-410, respectively.[3]
In Russia, this shotgun can be relatively simply obtained, requiring only a "smoothbore-gun license" (which is relatively easy to obtain, compared to a "rifle license" that requires a five-year period of owning a smoothbore gun and a hunting permit).[7]
In response to the annexation of Crimea by the Russian Federation, U.S. President Barack Obama issued Executive Order 13662 on July 16, 2014 blocking the importation of all Russia-produced firearms.[8][9]
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