Norinco MAK-91

About the Norinco MAK-91

The Norinco MAK-91 is a Chinese-manufactured semi-automatic AKM-pattern rifle chambered in 7.62x39mm, produced specifically for export to the United States civilian market in the early 1990s. Designed to comply with the 1989 import ban on assault weapons, the MAK-91 features a one-piece thumbhole hardwood stock with integrated pistol grip in place of the AK's separate pistol grip and detachable buttstock. Distinguishing features include a milled receiver (a notable departure from the stamped receiver of the more common MAK-90), a longer 23.27-inch barrel with slant-cut chamber, and removal of the bayonet lug. The rifle was heavily imported until the 1994 Federal Assault Weapons Ban and the 1994 Clinton executive order banning Chinese-made firearm imports halted further sales.

The MAK-91 exists because of a regulatory cat-and-mouse game: after the 1989 US import ban on assault weapons, Norinco redesigned the AKM with a thumbhole stock and stripped its bayonet lug to qualify as a sporting rifle. Three years later, the 1994 Clinton executive order on Chinese imports slammed the door shut for good, turning every MAK-91 in the US into an instant collector's item.

Norinco MAK-91 specifications

MAK-91 designation refers to 'Modular Automat Kalashnikov' - a Norinco marketing term coined for US import compliance. The thumbhole stock is the principal cosmetic difference from the post-1994 banned configuration. The longer barrel relative to a standard AKM (591 mm vs 415 mm) gives improved muzzle velocity and slightly better accuracy. Magazine capacity offered as 5-round (sporter) but accepts standard AK 30-round magazines.