Civilians in Russia can now get the chance to own one of the AK-12 rifles, the new service rifle for the Russian Army. But before they whip out their wallets and purchase they will have to take note that these rifles available are deactivated units rather than fully working ones. But if they prefer a civilian version of the AK-12, then they are also in luck as they just announced the AK TR3 Carbine.''

In a press statement at the Kalashnikov Concern website, there will be 2,000 units of the AK-12 SU (written off training rifles). It is now available to order, so first come, first serve:

The group of companies "Kalashnikov" began selling the decommissioned educational version of the Kalashnikov AK-12 SU. In total, in 2019 a limited number of products will be produced - 2000 pieces. You can purchase training AK-12 on the official website of Kalashnikov GC, the recommended retail price of the product will be 19,900 rubles.

AK-12 SU is designed for the study of the material part of weapons, collecting, use in theatrical and film productions, as well as reconstructions of historical events. The product is made from the components of combat decommissioned weapons and has the highest possible authenticity with the combat model. All the moving parts of the AK-12 SU retained the ability to move. From the training AK-12 it is impossible to fire with combat or any other ammunition, as well as convert it into a combat weapon.

But for those who want the civilian version, the AK TR3, they will have to wait until August to get their hands on it according to Kalashnikov Media (rough translation using online translation tool):

Kalashnikov Group of Companies presents a novelty - a civilian version of automatic rifles AK-12 and AK-15, the AK TR3 carbine. The carbine will be produced in two calibers - 5.45 mm and 7.62 mm, as well as the military version.

The TR3 is equipped with an effective DTK with a quick-detachable bayonet mount and forearm with Pikattini trims. The receiver cover also has an integrated Picatinny rail to unify the mounting of sights. The weapon is completed with shops with windows of visual control of the number of cartridges. In the TR3 handle there is a special case with accessories for cleaning and lubricating the weapon.

TR3, like AK-12, is equipped with a telescopic four-position butt, which allows you to adjust the length of the weapon depending on the anthropometry of the shooter.

The carbine is maximally unified with the combat machine. The weapon will go on sale in August 2019.

We’re curious if it is possible to mod the deactivated AK-12 and converted into a rare gas blowback rifle. But we are not sure if Russian laws will allow for that. But if there is any enterprising Russian able to do such conversion, we’ll be happy if he or she will drop us a note about it.