Arsenal’s AK-20 is a top-notch addition to the AK platform. At its core, it’s a modernized AK designed for military and law enforcement that is finally available to the civilian market. It incorporates several contemporary enhancements while maintaining the renowned reliability of the original design.
The AK-20 Defines Flexibility
The AK-20 features an integrated adjustable gas system that allows you to toggle between ammunition types and firing options easily.
You can choose between standard or subsonic ammunition and switch to manual action for quieter shooting or suppressed gas operation with less muzzle flash and minimized recoil. It’s an ingenious feature that gives the shooter a bevy of options. In short, it makes the AK-20 a must-add for any gun enthusiast.
The 3-position tunable AK-20 gas system works in the following way:
- Turn to the right “MIL-STD” for use with standard ammunition.
- Turn to the left “SUB” for subsonic ammunition when suppressed.
- Center setting has no marking and restricts gas flow.
Subsonic ammunition suppressed – restricts gas flow and requires the shooter to manually cycle rounds.
Supersonic ammunition suppressed – restricts gas flow to soften bolt cycling.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OW03pPthDI0
AK-20 Features
Reliability is key when selecting the optimal firearm. The AK-20 more than holds its own. It is durable and won’t let you down in extreme conditions. Like its predecessors, it can handle harsh environments from extreme cold to desert heat.

The AK platform is notorious for its dependability, and the AK-20 is no different.
AK-20 Modernized Design
The AK-20 incorporates several modern features to enhance its performance and versatility, building on the foundation of the AK series while introducing new capabilities.
Its sleek, ergonomic design improves handling and comfort. The modernized look opens up a range of accessory options, making the rifle adaptable for different tactical or personal needs.
Free-floating barrel for Superior Accuracy
A free-floating barrel means the barrel doesn’t touch the handguard or any other parts of the rifle, allowing it to vibrate freely when firing. This improves accuracy by preventing external pressure from affecting the barrel during firing, resulting in more consistent shot placement and better overall precision.
Adjustable Gas System
As mentioned, the AK-20 is designed with a proprietary integrated adjustable gas system that allows you to toggle between ammunition types and firing options depending on shooting conditions.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XqVwhM6ICQE
Furthermore, the gas system provides better recoil management and operational reliability, particularly in harsh conditions. Also, the system is finger-adjustable, making for a seamless process.
Modernized Receiver
The receiver is designed to handle modern accessories and attachments while maintaining the ruggedness for which the AK series is notorious. It’s a perfect balance between the tradition the Kalashnikovs are famous for with a sleek, modern revamp.
Picatinny Rail
A full-length Picatinny rail is included on the top of the receiver for mounting optics, lasers, and other accessories, providing greater flexibility in configuring the rifle for various tasks.
https://blog.k-var.com/reviews/arsenal-sm-13-function-meets-affordability/

Enhanced Accuracy
The precise barrel the AK-20 offers contributes to improved long-range performance.
Wrap-up: Subsonic, Single-shot Mode, Standard Ammunition
Arsenal’s AK-20 takes the best aspects of the classic AK design and refines them with modern enhancements that improve its overall performance and adaptability.
Features like the free-floating barrel, and its adjustable gas system, make it a highly customizable, accurate, and versatile rifle that caters to a wide range of users, from military and law enforcement to civilian enthusiasts.
The 3-position tunable gas system allows you to easily toggle between ammunition types and firing options depending on shooting conditions.
Two confident thumbs up for this long-awaited addition to the AK family. They had me at accurate, gas-adjustable AK.
Currently available at K-VAR Corp.
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