These Romanian 7.62x39 AKM MD-63 Rifles originated from authentic Romanian military rifle kits sourced overseas by AOA. Expertly assembled here in-house at AOA, these rifles maintain their rugged battlefield aesthetic with the original finish from overseas. No corners were cut in quality—each build features a premium FB Radom hammer-forged chrome-lined barrel for durability and accuracy. Additional enhancements include an LBE G3 US Fire Control Group, an AOA AKM Receiver, and a US-made magazine to ensure full 922R compliance, as well as a side rail for easy mounting of optics on every rifle. Built for authenticity and reliability, these rifles embody the legendary AKM heritage.
These kits will be at least matching major serial numbers (bolt, bolt carrier, trunnion). Don't miss your chance to own one of our rugged military builds!
Each rifle was built without affecting the original wear and use on the parts, and are all slightly different:
If you don't like the battlefield look you can choose to have us re-blue or repaint the entire rifle for an extra fee.
Development and Production
- In the early 1960s, Romania, a Warsaw Pact member, sought to produce its own version of the Soviet AKM (a modernized AK-47 with stamped steel construction).
- Production began at Romarm’s Fabrica de Arme Cugir (Cugir Arms Factory), one of Romania’s oldest weapons manufacturers.
- The rifle was designated PM md. 63 (Pistol Mitralieră model 1963), with "PM" meaning "machine pistol" in Romanian military nomenclature, similar to the Soviet designation.
Design Features
- The MD-63 closely follows the AKM design but includes a few distinct Romanian characteristics:
- Vertical wooden foregrip: Introduced in the late 60's. One of its most recognizable features, designed to improve weapon control during full-auto fire.
Early 60's rifles still feature the correct palm swell handguard as pictured. We can swap this out upon request, but it would not be correct for that rifle. - Stamped steel receiver: Like the Soviet AKM, making it lighter than the original milled AK-47.
- Chrome-lined barrel: Provides durability and resistance to corrosion.
- Vertical wooden foregrip: Introduced in the late 60's. One of its most recognizable features, designed to improve weapon control during full-auto fire.
Military Service and Global Use
- The MD-63 became the standard-issue rifle of the Romanian military and remained in service for decades.
- During the Cold War, Romania exported these rifles extensively, especially to Middle Eastern and African nations, as well as guerrilla and insurgent groups.
- Many MD-63s surfaced in conflicts such as the Iran-Iraq War, Lebanese Civil War, and various African and Middle Eastern conflicts.