The RPK is a gas-operated air-cooled weapon capable of both semiautomatic and automatic fire. Its heavy chrome-lined barrel is unable to be changed, severely limiting its sustained rate of fire. The RPK fires from a closed, rotating bolt. The stamped steel receiver is similar to that used on the AKM. The RPK can even interchange many parts with the AKM. This squad automatic weapon is fitted with a built-in bipod of steel.
