Norinco MAK-90

About the Norinco MAK-90

The Norinco MAK-90 is a semi-automatic, sporterized AKM-pattern rifle produced for civilian export, primarily to the US market. Introduced in 1990 to comply with the Bush-era 1989 import ban requiring 'sporting purposes' configuration, it shipped with a thumbhole stock, no pistol grip, no bayonet lug, and no folding stock. The 1994 Federal Assault Weapons Ban and a 1994 executive order on Chinese imports effectively ended its US importation.

The MAK-90's awkward thumbhole stock was not a stylistic choice but a regulatory workaround: removing the pistol grip technically made it 'non-military' under 1989 BATF guidance. Decades later, the rifle is prized by collectors for its overbuilt receiver, with many shooters converting them back to traditional AK furniture once federal restrictions on parts kits expired.

Norinco MAK-90 specifications

MAK = 'Modified AK'. The MAK-90 is widely regarded for its 1.6 mm thick stamped receiver, heavier than typical AKM stamped receivers, and chrome-lined barrels capable of handling cheap steel-cased ammunition. Approximately one million units were imported to the US between 1990 and 1994.