The inventor of the iconic AK-47 assault rifle, Mikhail Kalashnikov, has died at the age of 94. His ingenuity earned him widespread admiration, but his legacy became more controversial when his weapons were used in some of the world’s bloodiest conflicts.
"Mikhail Kalashnikov's entire life is a shining example of dedication to serving your country," said a statement from Defense Minister Sergey Shoigu.
"For many generations of Russians his name became a symbol of the glory and reliability of our weapons, and a source of national pride."
Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed "deep condolences" over the death of the engineer.
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It is regrettable that his weapon will associated with evil regimes around the world. However, as a weapon and as a product of engineering it is brilliant. I suspect that those who speak ill of Mikhail Kalashnikov and his iconic weapon, would be praising him instead had he born in the USA instead of the USSR. Mr K has left his mark, world history has been changed because of his weapon.
ReplyDeleteAnd now we'll get even more debates over which is better M-16/M-4 vrs AK47/or AK74. It is NOT the weapon, it is the guy holding it that matters, for good or for ill.
Yup, I have them and Glocks since I am not a fan of cleaning. :)
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