Designer: KBP Instrument Design Bureau (Russian)
Designed: 1991
Manufacturer: KBP Instrument Design Bureau
Produced: 1994-present
Cartridge: 9x39mm Grom
Caliber: 9mm
Weight: 4.6 lbs (2.1 kg)
Length: 23.8 in (60.5 cm) (stock extended), 15.1 in (38.3 cm) (stock folded)
Action: Gas actuated, rotating bolt
Rate of fire: 700-900 rounds/min
Muzzle velocity: 886 ft/sec (270 m/sec)
Effective range: 200m
Maximum range: 400m(w/ optic)
Feed system: 20-round box magazine
The 9A-91 was designed as a PDW (Personal Defense Weapon) for the Russian army but founds it way into the hands of the MVD and Russian Police Troops to replace the SR-3 Vikhr.
This rifle uses a long stroke piston much like that of the AK family of firearms. The receivers are made from stamped steel making the rifle cheap and easy to produce in large numbers. The pistol grip is made of polymers.
One of the features I like about this rifle is the stock folds to the top of the rifle allowing the stock to be unfolded without removing the magazine.
The safety selector is on the right hand side of the rifle just above the trigger guard. Modes: Semi-auto (pointing to the rear) Safe (pointing straight up) Full-auto (pointing forward towards the barrel)
The charging handles handle is spring loaded to keep it from getting hung and caught, which is a nice feature when maneuvering in tight spaces like in cars or in clearing building.
The rifle fires the 9×39 Grom which was designed as a subsonic round for suppressors (see the second and third pictures). The effective range on this rifle is 200 meters supersonic and 100m sub, the 9mm projectile insures at ranges out to 400+ meters the projectile still has good penetration. If you would like to learn more about the 9×39 Grom cartridge you can find that HERE.