The AK copied the STG-44 Sturmgewehr (literally "assault rifle, this is where the design and name comes from) which was revolutionary in design and abilities. P

The AK copied the STG-44 Sturmgewehr (literally "assault rifle, this is where the design and name comes from) which was revolutionary in design and abilities. Prior to the assault rifle solders weapons were either accurate long range rifles with high power cartridges or close range inaccurate sub-machine guns firing low power pistol cartridges. Military researchers realized that most solders were average people and could not make full use of the high power and accuracy. The solution was an intermediate cartridge that combines the longer range and accuracy of the rifle cartridge with the smaller profile and lower recoil of a sub machine gun. Now you have a weapon that can hit at a distance or go auto and fight close quarters. Huge advancement and advantage for the solders wielding such weapons. Kalashnikov was directly inspired by these abilities and developed the AK in response. Just about every modern "Assault rifle" is descended from the STG-44, not the AK.