AK-47 vs FN FAL

1949–Present

1953–Present

Approximately 100,000,000+ units (including all variants and licensed copies)

7,000,000+ units

870 mm (34.3 in) with stock extended, 640 mm (25.2 in) with stock folded (rifle with folding stock)

1,090 mm (42.9 in) stock extended; 1,020 mm (40.2 in) stock folded (para)

415 mm (16.3 in) standard, 375 mm (14.8 in) for AKM shortened models

533 mm (21.0 in) standard; 458 mm (18.0 in) para variant

3.47 kg (7.7 lb) empty, 4.3 kg (9.5 lb) loaded with 30‑round magazine

4.25 kg (9.37 lb) empty

30 rounds standard detachable box, 10‑round magazine for civilian use, 40‑round drum, 75‑round drum (rare)

20 rounds standard; 5, 10, 30 round options available

Gas‑operated, long‑stroke piston, rotating bolt, closed bolt

Short-stroke gas piston, tilting breechblock, selective fire

Single‑stage military trigger with selector lever for safe, semi‑auto, and full‑auto

Two-stage military trigger

Adjustable rear notch (range 100–1000 m) and hooded front post; some models equipped with side‑mounted night sights

Aperture rear sight adjustable for windage and elevation, hooded front post