Description

AK-47 Magazine – Early Izhevsk Flat-Side Pattern

This AK-47 magazine is an original early Soviet example from Izhevsk arsenal. The arrow-in-triangle mark identifies the maker, and the flat-sided body places it within the first production pattern used for the original AK-47. Early Soviet production began in late 1948, and this smooth-sided “slab-side” type predates the later ribbed magazine that replaced it.

AK-47 magazine

The body uses 1 mm sheet steel and retains the correct flat-side profile of the first pattern. Spot welds run along the spine, the body retains its blued finish, and the follower shows the expected enamel finish. These features match the early Soviet production style seen on first-generation AK magazines.

Izhevsk manufacture and pattern development

Izhevsk produced this pattern during the earliest years of AK-47 manufacture. Collectors often refer to it as the slab-side magazine because the body lacks the reinforcing ribs found on later Soviet examples. Soviet factories moved to the ribbed pattern around 1954, using thinner steel and a lighter design. That change gave the flat-side magazine a short production window and explains why original examples appear less often than later ribbed types.

Condition

Condition is very good overall. The body remains free of dents and dings. The blued finish remains strong, with only minimal marks from handling and use. Wear appears on the side plate, which fits normal insertion, removal, and field handling. The magazine body remains crisp, well defined, and structurally sound.

Historical significance

This magazine documents an early stage in Soviet AK-47 production before later standardization changed both form and manufacturing method. Its flat-sided body, heavier steel construction, and Izhevsk mark place it within the first generation of Soviet Kalashnikov magazines.

Militaria
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Miscellaneous Gunparts

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