Modern hunting weapon often reflects the advantages of successful combat models. The best example is the well-known Saiga 12c series, created on the basis of the world famous Kalashnikov assault rifle. At the moment, there are hunting smoothbore carbines of the Saiga 12c, Saiga 12k families in various designs, and there are also sports version Saiga 12k isp. 340. IZHMASH’s arsenal also includes a 20-gauge Saiga, as well as one of the very first smoothbore shotguns based on the Kalashnikov assault rifle - the Saiga 410, which almost every hunter can afford.
General information
For the first time, the smoothbore carbine of the Saiga 12 c series appeared in hunting weapons stores in the 90s. The Saiga gun is produced at the IZHMASH plant, which is known for many successful models of smooth-bore weapons, carbines and machine guns. And despite how much time has passed since the release of the Saiga 12c, the guns do not lose their popularity. Moreover, the plant regularly replenishes its model range by releasing new modifications of guns. In addition to popular models, hunters should also pay attention to the Saiga families in 20 and 410 gauge.
Visually, the Saiga 12c and Saiga 12k are very similar to an assault rifle, but in fact they are a smoothbore carbine designed to fire 12/20/410 caliber cartridges (hence the model number). The peculiarity of these types of guns is that, despite modern development weapons production, semi-automatic shotguns or even machine guns have not yet been created, the characteristics of which would be exactly the same or more advanced and reliable.
Differences between Saiga 12c and 12k models
First of all, it should be noted that the Saiga 12c and Saiga 12k smoothbore shotguns-carbines have a number of distinctive features. The main difference is that the Saiga hunting rifle is a longer version, its barrel length is 580 mm or 680 mm in various variations. In turn, the Saiga 12k shotgun has a shortened barrel - 430 mm.
Another distinctive characteristic of weapons in this model range is the presence of a locking mechanism. Saiga 12k has a “short barrel”, and the total length with the butt folded is less than 800 mm; this is unacceptable according to the Federal Law of December 13, 1996 N 150-FZ (as amended on March 29, 2010) “On Weapons” (Article 6). In order to fire a shot, you must first unfold the butt and remove the weapon from the safety catch.
Specifications
The Saiga hunting rifle has a number of positive features. The main characteristics of this weapon are presented below.
Saiga shotgun characteristics:
- Weapon weight: 3600g (3500 Saiga 12k).
- Height - 190 mm
- Gauge used: 12 (18.3mm).
- Operating principle: removal of powder gases.
- Number of cartridges: depending on the type of magazine from 4 to 10;
- Sights: front sight, rear sight. It is possible to install other types of sighting devices.
Advantages and Disadvantages
Like any weapon, the Saiga hunting carbine has its disadvantages and advantages.
Disadvantages of Saiga:
- The design of the safety lock does not allow for offhand shooting.
- The weight of the gun together with the loaded box magazine is quite large.
Despite these shortcomings, Saiga 12c and 12k are actively used in hunting, and are also often purchased for self-defense. It is not difficult to explain this, taking into account the number of advantages of this weapon.
Advantages of Saiga:
- Simple design, automation is almost similar to the Kalashnikov assault rifle.
- Quick assembly and disassembly.
- Resistance to a number of unfavorable external factors.
- Possibility to purchase a magazine for 4, 8, 10 rounds.
- The design of the gun is very comfortable, which compensates for its weight.
- Possibility to install additional sighting devices of any type.
It should be noted that the Saiga hunting rifle has fairly high muzzle energy and muzzle velocity, as well as a rate of fire, and a number of other advantages that allow us to compare this weapon with its prototype - the Kalashnikov assault rifle.
Saiga modifications
At the moment, there are a number of modifications and versions of the Saiga gun, which differ from each other in certain characteristics, the presence of additional sighting devices and devices.
The most common modifications:
The 340 model was designed specifically for IPCS sport and recreational shooting. The carbine of the 12k series isp.340 does not have mechanical sights. The receiver of the Saiga 12k isp.340 has a weaver rail for installing collimator and optical sights. To quickly change magazines 12k isp.340 there is a quick reset button on the left under thumb, and also has a push-button safety and bolt handle on both sides for quick reloading of the weapon, both right-handed and left-handed.
Shotgun Saiga 12 EXP-01 / Saiga 12k isp. 030
This model uses an AK-style folding stock with a rubber butt pad. Availability of a receiving neck for magazines for 4, 8 and 10 rounds. The receiver cover has a weaver strap and is attached to the earring to the gas chamber.
Saiga model 12 EXP-01 is a modification of the Saiga 12k version. 030. The only one distinctive feature This weapon lies in the absence of a blocker, which is found in the Saiga 12k model. 030. Saiga modification 12 EXP-01 is produced for export.
Saiga 12s isp. 76
It is distinguished by a long barrel (580 mm), as well as the presence of muzzle attachments and a folding butt, which is quite convenient during transportation. Saiga 12c in this modification has a chamber length of 76 mm and, accordingly, is designed for 12/76 caliber cartridges.
Saiga 12s isp. 261
A distinctive feature of the Saiga 12s series shotgun isp.261 is the presence of a butt with a rotating cheekpiece, similarly SVD rifle, and there is a receiving neck for the magazine.
Saiga 12k isp. 043
It is a smooth-bore carbine with a plastic butt and fore-end. Instead of standard AK-type sights, a short rail is used. There is a receiving neck for the magazine.
Saiga12 “tactical” shotgun (version 40)
The gun is equipped with a magazine receiver neck, a similar device is used on American M16 assault rifles, a viver rail on the receiver cover and an AK-type sighting device with a front sight mounted on the end of the barrel.
There are other versions and modifications of the Saiga carbine.
Semi-automatic carbine Saiga 410- another representative of the model range of the IZHMASH plant, created on the basis of the Kalashnikov assault rifle. This model appeared in the mid-90s, when it was necessary to solve the problem of creating an inexpensive self-loading shotgun chambered for low-power cartridges, based on the design of the famous machine gun.
This weapon was specially designed for 410 caliber, little known at that time in Russia, but widespread overseas. In the more familiar metric system, caliber 410 is equal to 10.4 mm.
Weapons of this caliber are ineffective for shooting shot or buckshot, since there is very little room in the cartridge for them. Therefore, the main ammunition will be a bullet cartridge.
Some of the modifications of the Saiga 410 caliber family are closest in appearance to the Kalashnikov assault rifle, so this gun is widely popular, despite its low firepower and reliability.
Saiga caliber 20 was created after the Saiga carbines of the 410 model series and was also designed on the basis of the famous Kalashnikov assault rifle, therefore it has a certain similarity with it.
Smoothbore self-loading carbine The Saiga 20 series is intended by the manufacturer for hunting animals and birds, mainly of small and medium sizes. This is primarily due to the caliber of this weapon. The ammunition used here is 20 gauge, both shot and slug. Moreover, when choosing ammunition, it is necessary to keep in mind that some Saiga 20 guns have a muzzle constriction of 0.9 mm, so the use of homemade cartridges is strictly prohibited, and purchased ones must be certified for such a constriction.
Saiga 20 attracts many hunters with its excellent reliability, ease of maintenance, high level rate of fire and good penetration ability of ammunition.
The first question is how many rounds of ammunition these guns have in the magazines. As already mentioned, the Saiga uses 4, 5, 8 and 10 round magazines. The standard kit comes with 5-round magazines. There are also larger capacity magazines up to 10 rounds.
The Model 12/76 uses both standard 12/70 caliber cartridges and enhanced 12/76 caliber Magnum cartridges. It is recommended to shoot using one type of cartridge in order to ensure stable operation of the automatic mechanisms of the carbine. The use of cartridges with brass sleeves is not permitted. The best option is sleeves made of plastic or cardboard.
The sights used for Saiga shotguns differ depending on the features of the particular model. As an open sight, most models use a standard sighting bar and front sight, similar to a Kalashnikov assault rifle. Also, most models are equipped with a dovetail sighting rail, which is used for mounting scopes and other equipment. There are also models equipped with a picatinny rail. They are mounted on top part the receiver of the gun or on the sides. This allows the installation of laser sights and under-barrel lights, as well as additional chambers and other types of auxiliary devices.
Conclusion
The Saiga shotgun, and many of its modifications, are a very popular smoothbore weapon, which is actively used for hunting, self-defense, and also in the military sphere. Thanks to a large number advantages, few disadvantages, and good technical specifications, Saiga deserves attention from both experienced and novice hunters.
Many mushroom pickers, seeing hunters armed with Kalashnikovs in the forest, become very frightened and try to leave the forest as quickly as possible. Only another hunter, seeing a weapon similar to an AK in someone’s hands, will understand that in front of him is either a Saiga hunting carbine, or its smoothbore version - the Saiga 12 automatic smoothbore shotgun. Hunting with a Saiga-12 gun is quite difficult, although if it is a Saiga 12 with a long barrel, then with sufficient skill and training you can use it as a hunting weapon.
The appearance of Saiga hunting carbines and Saiga-12 shotguns
In 1974, based on the Kalashnikov assault rifle, the IZHMASH concern created an iconic weapon that is still incredibly popular - the Saiga carbine. The first Saiga models were developed for the 5.6x39 mm cartridge. In those years, these carbines were not popular until the 90s, when owning a weapon that looked like a Kalashnikov assault rifle was considered the highest degree of “coolness.” IZHMASH instantly responded to the trends of the new time and released a new Saiga chambered for 7.62x39 mm caliber. Cartridges of this caliber were used in most military weapons of that time.
In 1993, smoothbore shotguns for hunting were produced based on the Saiga carbine, one of which was the Saiga-12. As with the carbine, the smoothbore Saiga models differed from each other in barrel length, caliber of cartridges used, and various materials used to make stocks and butts. Hunting a serious animal with a short Saiga was problematic, but since the 90s were a dangerous time, short versions of the Saiga were used for self-defense and security. The length in this case was a hindrance, since in cramped spaces they used short weapons with a cartridge loaded with a bullet or buckshot.
The first smooth-bore Saiga was the .410 caliber Saiga. There were queues for this gun due to its external similarity to a Kalashnikov assault rifle. The IZHMASH plant, experiencing enormous financial problems, immediately responded to the increased demand by releasing new modifications of the Saiga:
- 20 gauge shotguns (20/70 and 20/76 Magnum);
- "Saiga" 12 gauge chambered for the most popular hunting cartridge in Russia.
It was this step that allowed the IZHMASH plant not only to stay afloat but also to make good profits.
TTX "Saiga" in 12 gauge version
The automatics of a smoothbore gun work similarly to the automatics of an AK, which formed the basis of the Saiga series hunting weapon. The entire layout and design of the gun is practically no different from the Kalashnikov assault rifle, except for two significant differences:
- The ability to fire automatically has been removed—to fire the next shot, you must release and press the trigger again;
- Saiga-12 has a special gas regulator, since this weapon requires the use of powerful 12/76 mm cartridges for hunting.
The general characteristics of Saiga smoothbore shotguns differ only due to the length of the barrel (and the Saiga-12 barrel has several length options) and the caliber of ammunition that is used when shooting.
Various sighting devices used on the Saiga-12
Sights on the smooth-bore Saiga are different and depend on the modification of the gun for hunting:
- An ordinary open sight, consisting of a simple rear sight without the possibility of adjustment and a front sight without a front sight;
- The same system, only with a front sight equipped with a muzzle;
- The sighting system is similar to that of the Kalashnikov assault rifle, equipped with an adjustable sector rear sight and a front sight with a front sight.
In addition, the Saiga has a dovetail rail, which allows the use of many types of optical sights. The latest Saiga modifications are equipped with Picatinny-type sighting rails, which allow you to install whatever the owner wants on the weapon. These can be sights of any type or under-barrel lights.
Ammunition for the Saiga-12 automatic rifle
Magazines for Saiga-12 come in several modifications:
- A magazine that holds only two rounds, which is done for those who are in the way standard size"Saigi" store. Such a store is an element of “tuning”;
- Standard factory magazine for 5 rounds;
- Enlarged magazine holding 8 rounds;
- Magazine for 10 rounds.
There are also “tuning” disk magazines for Saiga-12, which are produced by foreign companies, since Saiga is very popular outside Russia precisely as a copy of the Kalashnikov assault rifle.
All versions of domestic magazines are single-row and are loaded in the same way as Kalashnikov assault rifles. For firing from Saiga-12, cartridges of 12/70 mm and 12/76 mm caliber are used, which are reinforced. It is recommended to use cartridges in plastic casings, since cardboard casings can interfere with the stable operation of the gun’s automatics. Ammo with brass casings is not suitable for this gun.
Various modifications of Saiga-12
The main model of the Saiga smoothbore shotgun is the Saiga-12. The stock for the Saiga-12 is fixed, so it is recommended for use as a hunting weapon. Other characteristics, such as a long barrel and a semi-pistol neck, contribute to the hunting use of this weapon. Tuning for this model is the installation of optical sights and the installation of a neck for more reliable fixation of the Saiga-12 magazine, which significantly improves the characteristics of this model.
List of the most popular models based on Saiga-12:
There are many more modifications of the smoothbore Saiga-12, which differ slightly from the above.
Smoothbore automatic shotguns of the Saiga series are popular not only in Russia and the CIS countries, but also in a number of Western countries. Most often in the West, Saigas are modified with optical or collimator sights, enlarged magazines and orthopedic stocks.
Scope of application of smooth-bore Saiga variants
Although Saiga-12 is used not only by novice hunters, we should not forget that this weapon is intended more for self-defense or combat use, since it was created on the basis of the famous Kalashnikov assault rifle, which can hardly be called a hunting weapon. It is also worth remembering that Saiga-12 variants with a short barrel are practically useless for hunting, while long-barreled models (with proper training of the shooter) can be used for hunting. If you modify the standard Saiga-12, and the modification consists in adjusting the parts, then it becomes a fairly accurate and reliable weapon.
The main purpose of the Saiga-12 smooth-bore automatic shotgun is self-defense. A particularly striking example of this is the short-barreled Saiga with a folding butt. These options are most suitable for use in confined spaces, such as buildings. So the use of Saiga for hunting can only be justified by its low price or the owner’s love for the legendary Kalashnikov assault rifle.
Pros and cons of Saiga-12
Like any weapon, Saiga-12 has a number of pros and cons. The advantages of this weapon are as follows:
- Like the Kalashnikov assault rifle, Saiga-12 is a fairly reliable and trouble-free weapon. True, for this, the Saiga needs to be modified, and you will also have to work with a file;
- The next advantage is the rate of fire and firepower of the 12 gauge, especially when using a high-capacity magazine. In close combat, the Saiga-12 will be much more effective than any automatic rifle or carbine. Each buckshot at close range causes more damage than a bullet from a Makarov pistol, and there are quite a lot of buckshot in each cartridge;
- Magazines, which can be removed quite easily, also provide a huge advantage in battle. It is recommended to have several removable magazines for bullets, shot and buckshot;
- The low price is also big advantage"Saigi-12".
Saiga also has disadvantages:
- Not high quality assemblies;
- Difficulties when hunting with short-barreled models;
- The need for refinement and “tuning” in order to hunt more or less normally.
If you want to purchase a smoothbore gun to protect your property, then Saiga-12 is best option. For hunting, it is better to choose a classic double-barreled shotgun or a pump-action shotgun.
After the appearance on the market and the dizzying success of the Izhmashevsky smooth-bore semi-automatic “Saiga” series 410 and 20, which seriously displaced even famous and well-known brands in the “self-defense” segment of the arms market, it became obvious that the appearance of a similar self-loading for the most popular and universal 12 gauge is just a question time.
Actually, the factory workers themselves did not hide the fact that the Saiga-20 series carbines for them, among other things, are a “transitional model” on which solutions will be developed that will later be implemented on the 12th.
Production of this gun began in 1997. Initially - in a “classic” design: with a fairly long barrel (580 mm) and a hunting butt with a semi-pistol neck. Then everything went as with its predecessors: next came the Saiga-12S with a folding polyamide stock and a fire control handle, borrowed from the AK 100 series. And finally, “Saiga-12K” with a folding stock and a barrel shortened to 420 mm.
Almost immediately it became clear that the new one had almost completely overcome the less severe and few diseases of its predecessors. The gun has become even more reliable, and the magazines for regular (12x70) and magnum (12x76) cartridges have been unified, which avoided the “complexities” of the Saiga-20 with two types of magazines.
If we add to this a very reasonable price (at that time), you won’t be surprised that the gun instantly became a bestseller Russian market, making the commercial prospects of most pump-action and a significant part of self-loading shotguns, both foreign and domestic, rather vague. This weapon even managed to make its way into the hearts of many hunters, people who, as a rule, are conservative and wary of all new items. It captivated them primarily with its reliability and unpretentiousness.
“Saiga-12” fits almost perfectly into the concept of a “universal gun” and a “weapon just in case,” allowing it to solve all problems that can be solved with the help of civilian weapons.
When I decided to buy Saiga-12, it was not a pig in a poke. Before that, I already owned Saiga-410, and I managed to get acquainted with the new product. Several of my friends have already purchased these guns, and I was able to not only hear their opinions of these weapons, but also hold them in my hands and shoot them.
As a result, I chose Saiga-12K in the simplest configuration. That is, with a constant choke of 0.9 mm and without an adjustable rib.
The usual rear sight and front sight were more convenient for me, and the choke tubes very often turned out to be not aligned with the barrel, and I decided not to risk it. Moreover, I practically never used caliber bullets, which require cylindrical drilling of the barrel. That is, the constant choke suited me quite well.
The receiver had a dovetail strip for installing a bracket for optics or a collimator sight. However, I was not going to install either one or the other, considering it completely unnecessary for this weapon. Later I replaced the front sight with a reflective one. However, there was no particular need for this: the gun’s dimensions and “weight distribution” practically coincide with the AK, and, having experience working with it, it is not difficult to learn how to shoot from a short “Saiga” at short distances, by “muscle memory” in low light conditions, without seeing the sights.
First of all, it should be noted that the bullet shooting this gun. For post-shooting, I most often used the Tandem bullet (a steel cylinder in a plastic stabilizer container) as one of the most budget-friendly ones. Cartridges with it ensured a completely stable hit on the chest target at one hundred meters. When using more accurate (and more expensive) Gualandi and Polev bullets, it was just as confident to place them on an A4 sheet at the same distance.
Let us remind you that in Saiga-12 (as well as in 20 and 410) the gas outlet differs from the automatic one. In them, the gas piston is a separate part. It moves in the gas chamber, pushing the bolt frame rod. The chamber is closed with a screw plug, which is also a gas regulator, dosing the volume of powder gases entering the piston. It has two positions - for working with conventional cartridges and with magnum.
At the same time, the automatic in the “magnum” position on my Saiga works perfectly with all cartridges, including even “sporting” cartridges with a lightweight load. Thereby saving the resource of the gun.
Having discovered this, I began to equip cartridges for “shooting guns” with a lighter weight of gunpowder, which not only wears out the weapon less, but also makes shooting more comfortable. By the way, the already mentioned “Tandem” with a smaller powder charge (1.6 grams of “Falcon” instead of the recommended 1.9) flies more accurately.
The Vepr-12, which appeared somewhat later, especially in short-barreled versions, is distinguished by much greater sensitivity to cartridge loads.
It can also be noted that the gun accepts cartridges that have been reloaded more than once without any problems.
A serious problem with the gun is some difficulty in fitting the loaded magazine. This procedure, so simple on an AK, requires stable skills with the Saiga 12 isp.10. And then, in extreme situation, there may be problems with recharging. Which, for a weapon that supposedly involves “self-defense” or even tactical use, is, of course, not very good.
Currently, on models 030, 033 and 028, this drawback is eliminated with the help of a magazine receiver shaft, which makes replacing the magazine simple and hassle-free.
But my gun had the first modernization aimed at making this task easier. Namely, a bolt delay is provided. And not automatic. To turn it on, you need to move the bolt frame to the rear position and, while holding it, raise the delay flag located to the right of the trigger guard. After which the equipped store is attached without difficulty. The solution, frankly speaking, is so-so.
In addition to taking additional time, the procedure requires two hands and eliminates the possibility of tactical reloading, when replacing the magazine the cartridge remains in the chamber and the weapon is capable of firing. In addition, the bolt stop flag had sharp edges, which constantly scratched the hand and had to be ground off with a file.
Today you can buy a kit for installing a magazine receiver shaft on early-release guns. However, I have learned to attach equipped magazines so confidently that I no longer see any special need for installing the shaft.
Another “improvement” I made was replacing the fire control handle with a more ergonomic one.
In addition, I was not satisfied with the location of the front swivel at the bottom of the forend, which made it inconvenient to carry the weapon “on patrol” on the chest. Therefore, a forend with a side-mounted swivel was installed.
Currently, many different kits and devices for tuning Saiga-12 are produced in Russia and abroad, allowing you to give the gun the desired configuration and improve its characteristics.
In later releases of the gun (versions 030, 033 and 028) all the mentioned shortcomings were eliminated, and the only problem remains that the quality is not always stable. However, in batches going for export, the percentage of defects is incomparably lower, which allowed Saiga-12 to take a leading position in the top of the best tactical shotguns in the world.
The smoothbore self-loading carbine model "Saiga-12" is intended for commercial and amateur hunting of small, medium-sized animals and birds in areas with any climatic conditions.
The carbine has a smooth 12-gauge barrel with a chamber that allows the use of shot and slug cartridges, including Magnum, with case lengths of 70 and 76 mm.
The carbine fires single fire with automatic reloading. The automation works on the principle of removing powder gases through a hole in the barrel wall. The carbine can be equipped with a vertically and horizontally adjustable aiming bar, which increases the convenience of zeroing in and shooting at a moving target. The gas assembly of the carbine is adjustable to account for differences in the intra-ballistic characteristics of conventional cartridges and Magnum cartridges. To expand the operational capabilities, the carbine is designed with choke nozzles having different choke constrictions, as well as a “Paradox” nozzle.
For ease of storage and transportation, as well as to improve maneuverability, the Saiga-12 carbine can be produced with a quick-release stock and a quick-release handle. The Saiga-12 carbine is available in 4 modifications: Saiga-12, Saiga-12S, Saiga-12K, Saiga-12S EXP-01.
"Saiga-12S" differs from the "Saiga-12" carbine by the presence of a special folding stock and a fire control handle. The folded stock in the stowed position increases the ease of carrying and safety of the carbine. The Saiga-12K model carbine has a shortened barrel and a trigger mechanism locking device, which eliminates the possibility of firing with the butt folded. "Saiga-12S EXP-01" is an export version of the "Saiga-12K" carbine, the difference of which is the absence of a trigger mechanism locking device. The receiver is equipped with a removable bracket for mounting an optical sight.
Performance characteristics
Video
When in 1974 the Izhmash concern released a new original product intended for the civilian market, many were skeptical about it. This "Saiga" was developed on the basis of the already famous Kalashnikov assault rifle. Initially it had a rifled barrel and was made in 5.6x39 caliber. This new weapon was called Saiga-5.6.
Background
But time passed, and with the onset of the infamous nineties, the first batch of carbines chambered for 7.62x39 was put into production. From that moment on, the ascent to the glory of this weapon began. The 7.62x39 cartridge, or rather its metric analogue, has already been used in the RPK machine gun, in the AK-74 and AKM assault rifles, as well as in SKS combat carbines, etc.
The popularity of "Saiga" began to grow, and an important role in this was played by the right move Izhmash marketers, who, having decided to expand the model range, risked starting the production of several modifications at once. In addition, a big role in the acquisition of such popularity was played by the fact that many began to designate this weapon with the wording “like a Kalash.” And since AKS did not need advertising, users liked this comparison.
Reasons for popularity
As a result, modifications of the Saiga carbine began to appear one after another, which differed from each other both in the types of stocks or barrel length, as well as in overall design options and cartridge calibers. In addition to rifled guns, since 1993, production of smooth-bore guns belonging to the Saiga family has been established in Izhevsk. The first models were 10.4 millimeters. Then modifications were developed for other, more powerful and popular in our country, cartridges for twentieth-caliber smoothbore guns, such as 20/70 or 20/76 Magnum.
The popularity of the Saiga carbine grew, and, accordingly, the number of copies produced increased. It is not difficult to understand the reasons for such rapid recognition of this weapon: after all, the production of Kalashnikov assault rifles had long been established, and most of the Saiga parts and mechanisms in various modifications were borrowed from the AK. For Izhmash at that time, this was the only way out, which allowed the concern not to go bankrupt completely. But later it was no longer just a matter of keeping the plant afloat. This carbine took the enterprise to a whole new level.
Twelve gauge
Of course, the designers created a model for the most popular cartridge used for smooth-bore weapons. It was a Saiga-12K gun. Today, without a doubt, this twelve-gauge weapon in its various versions is more in demand among the user than all other domestically produced semi-automatic shotguns.
And one of its most interesting designs was the Saiga-12K Tactics, which, at the request of Izhmash, was produced by the Legion concern, one of the branches of the arms factory.
The letter “K” denoted a shortened barrel compared to the base models, as well as a folding stock, the same as in the “C” modification. According to Russian law, short versions of firearms must be fired only if their total length is at least eight hundred and ten millimeters. Therefore, the Saiga-12K carbine in all modifications is equipped with a blocker that does not allow firing with the butt folded. That is, you need to place the weapon in a firing position and then release the cartridge.
The twelfth gauge of this gun is the most suitable option for both self-defense and security. The reason is the short barrel. This is evidenced by his photo. "Saiga-12K" allows the shooter to become more mobile and sharp enough, which is very important for shots indoors or, for example, in corridors. The short barrel provides maximum dispersion, which has a positive effect on the process of firing at close ranges.
Modifications
The first Saiga-12 guns appeared in the second half of the nineties of the twentieth century. Basic models were produced with both a wooden butt and forearm, and with plastic ones. The stock was made classic - with a semi-pistol shape at the neck. The one-piece forend covered the barrel downward, as well as partially the gas outlet tube.
The Saiga -12K carbine, the price of which, according to experts, is almost symbolic for this type of weapon, is considered the most universal of the entire line of calibers, which is why it has become so popular. The manufacturing quality of this weapon cannot be called jewelry, but taking into account the low cost and wide model range, this modification has become the most popular civilian product of Izhmash.
For some time, the first place in sales was "Saiga-12 City" in camouflage design with a non-adjustable rear sight. This model had an open front sight on the gas tube.
Another variety - "Saiga-12S", in fact, was no different from the basic one. The difference was that instead of the original fixed stock, a separate pistol grip was installed on it, which folded onto the left side. The barrel length of this model has been preserved from the base Saiga-12. Therefore, many believe that the “12C” option is more convenient than its predecessor in terms of transportation. However, for hunting today, a clumsy hunting stock is still used.
The most popular modification is the Saiga-12K Tactics, which differs from the standard twelve-caliber version in the neck mounted at the magazine receiver. The latter is also absent from the Kalashnikov assault rifle. This innovation was made according to the type of the foreign M16 rifle. Since twelve-gauge cartridges are larger than intermediate ones in size and protrude more strongly from the magazine jaws, when installed, the latter rests against the lower part of the bolt. This provides resistance to snapping.
Design features
With the Saiga-12K Tactics weapon, if there is a neck, it completely eliminates the possibility of “turning” the magazine to the side, especially when trying to insert it with force. The cover on the receiver is non-removable: it can be folded up along an axis, which is fixed under the block of the gas release mechanism. This was done according to the type of AKS-74U assault rifle. This design solution increases the rigidity of the Saiga-12K Tactics weapon, allowing it to be installed on a universal cover used for mounting a sight.
Depending on the configuration, the weapon is equipped with both manual and automatic. It must be said that the latter option is currently produced quite rarely. Magazines from this version are not suitable for other twelve-gauge variants, except for the Saiga-12K 030 carbine. However, they are interchangeable with the analog gun.
Automation
The Saiga-12K Tactics carbine operates similarly to an AK. Not only its automation, but also its design and layout are similar to a Kalashnikov assault rifle. During a shot, the powder gases that follow the charge along the barrel channel are partially diverted to the gas outlet tube through a hole located in the upper part of the barrel. They act on the piston, which is rigidly connected to the bolt frame and is practically one piece with it. After the piston moves backward, the latter, under the pressure of the powder gases, itself moves in the same direction.
At the moment of firing, the bolt is locked, and after the frame rolls back, forcing it to turn along the groove along which the corresponding protrusions move, it comes out of engagement with the barrel. This combat component, rotating around its axis, comes out of the receiver stops directly in front of the chamber. After which there is a complete rollback of the entire group. Then, using the bolt extractor, the spent cartridge is removed and thrown through the reflector out the window on the right side along the receiver.
How to shoot
The Saiga-12K Tactics carbine, the price of which depends on the configuration, is not equipped with the ability to fire again. This is the only thing in this aspect from the Kalashnikov assault rifle. "Saiga-12K Tactics" fires as follows: the bolt frame, having cocked the hammer, stops, hitting back on the receiver. After this, the return spring pushes it into starting position. In the direction of the breech in the barrel, a new bullet is removed by the bolt frame and sent from the magazine to the chamber. At the end point it turns, and its protrusions extend beyond the lugs. As a result, the chamber is locked. For the next shot, the shooter simply needs to release and then press the trigger again.
"Saiga-12K" (040th version)
This weapon is equipped with a folding frame stock and an adjustable cheek piece. In addition, it has a ventilated handguard. And the magazine receiver is made in the same way as on the Saiga-12K 030 model. An adjustable sector rear sight with an automatic front sight is located near the muzzle, which also has a compensator-flash suppressor.
"Saiga-12K Tactics" version 040 is sold with three magazines - for two, five or eight rounds. In addition, it comes with a tool for cleaning weapons, as well as a pencil case. It is best to install an open, domestically produced Cobra on the Saiga-12K 040 Tactics carbine.
Opinions
The layout of this carbine is made by analogy with a military weapon. Therefore, as numerous reviews testify, “Saiga-12K” fits the definition of “hunting weapon” with great reserve. The reason is the design, made on the basis of the Kalashnikov assault rifle. Many hunters believe that even in the basic model with a fixed buttstock, which has a classic shape, the Saiga 12K Tactics is still less effective in commercial shooting than any good double-barreled shotgun.
This is why it is generally accepted that this firearms made for completely different purposes, and shooting at game is not included in this list. According to experts, "Saiga-12K", the price of which is more than affordable, is not of very high quality. At the same time, such a modification as 040 is considered a powerful and reliable weapon that works well with wide range inexpensive cartridges.
Tuning
"Saiga 12K", as a rule, is "finished" by installing a collimator sight on it, as well as adjusting the ergonomics to the individual parameters of the user. The most problematic in aesthetic and technical aspects is considered to be tuning Saiga models with awkward hunting-type butts.
The tuned Saiga-12K with a folding frame stock is equipped with an original and ventilated forend. But the main thing is that it is equipped with a capacious disk magazine, which allows you to fire for quite a long time without reloading. However, the front sight and rear sight are always constant, and are located at the end of the gas outlet tube, and therefore the aiming line for this weapon is quite short. "Saiga-12K" is most effective when shooting grapeshot indoors, and also as a carbine for combat use in the process of clearing buildings.
In addition, many craftsmen make excellent stock blanks. Walnut quick-release stocks are made by analogy with the SVD with a thick rubber shock absorber and a comfortable cheek piece. But the most important thing is a comfortable handguard. The wood is impregnated linseed oil so that the treatment has a positive effect on appearance weapons and hygroscopicity of the tuned Saiga-12K Tactics carbine, the price of which, judging by the reviews, corresponds to its quality.
How much can you buy it for?
The cost of this gun with one attachment starts at twenty-one thousand rubles. In general, smooth-bore weapons (for example, Saiga-12K), the price of which depends, among other things, on the caliber, can only be purchased with a special permit. Model 030 with a magazine receiver and a hinged cover on the receiver, as well as with a folding stock and a plastic forend, will cost the buyer a little over thirty-two thousand. These carbines are sold complete with two chambers. In addition, they are equipped with a locking trigger mechanism, with which you can fire only with the butt folded down.
"Saiga-12K Tactics" 1-4 caliber 12/76 with a barrel length of ninety-one centimeters and weighing three and a half kilograms is sold for twenty-nine thousand rubles. It is equipped with a Picatinny rail and two magazines made of impact-resistant plastic.
It is possible to buy the Saiga-12K Tactics carbine in version 040-03 only if the user has a license to own this type of civilian weapon. In addition to the domestic market, this gun is quite popular abroad. There are several modifications that foreign gunsmiths carry out with the twelve-gauge Saiga. For example, the modified “Tactics” with an orthopedic butt and an adjustable cheekpiece, a collimator sight with a laser designator and a front handle is equipped with a ten-round magazine. This model is very popular in the West.
If the user knows how to shoot and over time gets used to a particular carbine from the Saiga-12 series, then it may not show the worst, and sometimes even best results than experienced shooters using classic hunting self-loaders of the same twelve gauge.
