Arsenal AR-M9
Arsenal JSCo. · Assault Rifle · In Production · 2003
Also known as: AR-M9
Overview
The Arsenal AR-M9 is a Bulgarian gas-operated, select-fire assault rifle chambered in 5.56x45mm NATO and built on the Kalashnikov pattern with a forged and milled steel receiver. A heavier counterpart to the AR-M1, it features a fixed polymer buttstock, a four-port muzzle brake (the so-called 'eggbeater'), and a side rail for mounting optics. Manufactured by Arsenal JSCo. of Kazanlak, it is produced alongside the folding-stock AR-M9F and a 7.62x39mm version.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 3850 g (135.8 oz) |
| Overall Length | 985 mm (38.78") |
| Barrel Length | 415 mm (16.34") |
| Action Type | Gas Operated Long Stroke |
| Firing Mechanism | Hammer Fired |
| Trigger Type | Single Stage |
| Magazine Capacity | 30 rounds |
| Magazine Type | Detachable Box |
| Muzzle Velocity | 870 m/s (2854 fps) |
| Effective Range | 500 m (547 yd) |
| Maximum Range | 1000 m (1094 yd) |
| Rate of Fire | 600 rpm |
| Barrel Rifling | Right Hand |
| Rifling Twist | 178 mm (7.01") |
| Number of Grooves | 4 |
| Frame Material | Steel |
| Barrel Material | Steel |
| Stock Material | Polymer |
| Finish | Matte Black |
Calibers
- 5.56x45mm NATO · primary · 5.56x45mm NATO — also known as 5.56mm NATO, 5.56x45mm, .223 Remington
Features
- Firing modes: Semi Automatic, Full Automatic
- Feed systems: Detachable Box Magazine
- Safety mechanisms: Manual Safety Selector
- Features: Milled Receiver, Four Port Muzzle Brake, Fixed Polymer Buttstock, Side Rail Optic Mount, Chrome Lined Bore
Variants
- Arsenal AR-M9F - Folding Stock
Service history
Operators
- Bulgarian Armed Forces
- Afghan National Army
Conflicts
- War in Afghanistan (2001-2021)
Production
Production years: 2003-present
Produced by Arsenal JSCo. in Kazanlak, Bulgaria, alongside the AR-M9F and 7.62x39mm chambering.
Origin
Country of origin: Bulgaria
Designer: Arsenal JSCo.
Notes
The AR-M9 and folding-stock AR-M9F are heavier-barrel variants of the AR-M1/AR-M1F. Bulgarian AR-M9 and AR-M9F rifles have been documented in service after being supplied by the United Arab Emirates to allied forces in the Middle East.
Background
The AR-M series continued Arsenal's long line of Bulgarian Kalashnikov derivatives. The four-port muzzle brake fitted to the AR-M9 family earned the nickname 'eggbeater' among users for its distinctive appearance.