The SAM5‑64GYM doesn’t just follow the AK formula; it sharpens it.
Arsenal strengthens the platform with a milled, hammer‑forged receiver, tunes it for 5.56x45mm NATO, and wraps it in a durable gray Cerakote that handles real use without fuss.
SAM5-64GYM
Arsenal builds the SAM5 around a milled receiver and hammer‑forged 16.3″ barrel, chambered in 5.56x45mm NATO.
They outfit it with a 30‑round magazine, intermediate-length trapdoor stock, removable muzzle device, and polymer furniture. The rifle comes ready to shoot with no upgrades required.
First Impressions
Pick up the SAM5 and you immediately feel the difference.
The milled receiver gives the rifle solid, balanced heft that softens recoil and smooths the action.
It’s heavier than most stamped AKs, but the weight helps stabilize shots instead of slowing you down.
Fit and finish impress right out of the box. Seams align cleanly, the Cerakote coats evenly, and all the parts feel right.
Consequently, nothing wiggles or threatens to wear out early. It’s a rifle built for handling, not just for display.
On the Range
Chambered in 5.56 NATO, the SAM5‑64GYM shoots flatter than a 7.62×39 AK and returns gentler recoil. You can string follow-up shots quickly and hold sight pictures comfortably.
Feeding works flawlessly with a variety of modern 5.56 loads. The rifle’s magazine and feed design handle the cartridge cleanly.
Accuracy stays consistent; precise enough for practical shooting, hunting, or tactical drills.
Moreover, the rifle tracks straight during rapid fire and doesn’t surprise you when you push the pace.
Ergonomics
Arsenal keeps the controls classic, intuitive, and responsive.
The intermediate-length trapdoor stock shortens the length of pull for a more natural fit.
The removable muzzle device makes it easy to attach brakes or a suppressor, and the polymer furniture keeps weight manageable while holding up to hard use.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FA76QIt6Tjg
Small details make a difference: the magazine latch clicks cleanly, the bolt cycles without friction, and the rifle balances well in any firing position, whether it be standing, kneeling, or prone.
Durability and Finish
The gray Cerakote stands up to handling, drills, and repeated use.
Not only does it resist scratches and corrosion better than standard finishes, but its forged internals add strength, and overall, the build suggests the rifle can handle heavy use without issues.
You can toss it in a truck and trust that it will keep functioning without fuss.
Who the SAM5 is for
The SAM5 appeals to shooters who want an AK that’s immediately usable and performs predictably.
Furthermore, shooters who want a reliable 5.56 platform with better handling than a standard AK will love this rifle.
Collectors who value well-finished, thoughtfully built models will appreciate what Arsenal has done here.
Verdict
The SAM5‑64GYM doesn’t chase gimmicks.
https://blog.k-var.com/reviews/anything-ak/dont-sleep-on-imports/
It refines the AK formula where it matters: receiver rigidity, barrel quality, feed geometry, and durable finish.
All told, for shooters who value the AK’s heritage but want a refined, purpose‑built modern rifle, the SAM5‑64GYM rightly belongs on the shortlist.
Bring it to the range once, and it makes its case without drama.
It doesn’t shout, it doesn’t show off; it just eats rounds, points true, and keeps asking for more.
For shooters who value function over flash, that quiet confidence says it all. This is an AK built to be used and to be kept.
Now available at K-VAR Corp. https://www.k-var.com/arsenal-sam5-556-ak-rifle-cerakote-gray
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