Comparative Review of M16 and AK74 Assault Rifles

U ovom završnom radu obrađene su dvije različite jurišne puške, M16 i AK-74. Predstavljen je koncept jurišne puške i objašnjeni su razlozi stvaranja takve vrste oružja kao i pojava novog streljiva. Analizirane su konstrukcijske značajke pušaka, njihov princip rada kao i razlike u pouzdanosti i izdržljivosti. Također detaljno je obrađeno posebno streljivo kroz usporedbu balističkih svojstava, zaustavne moći i probojnosti. Također uspoređena je preciznost gađanja te su objašnjeni razlozi postojanja razlike. Posebno je analizirana modularnost i ergonomija kao bitan konstrukcijski čimbenik te uporaba tih pušaka u OSRH. Završetak rada govori o mogućim pokušajima modernizacije kao i budućnosti primjene pušaka M16 i AK-74.In this final assignment, two different assault rifles have been analyzed: the M16 and the AK-74. The assault rifle concept is introduced with explained reasons why this new type of firearm and ammunition have been created. The rifles design and action are explained as well as the reliability and durability of each weapon. The used ammunition has been thoroughly analyzed with a comparison of their ballistic properties, stopping power and penetration. Also, their firing accuracy is compared and the resulting differences are described. Special attention is given to the rifle´s modularity and ergonomics as an important design factor, and after that, the use of these rifles in the Armed forces of Croatia has been mentioned. The end of the assignment is telling about the possible attempts of modernization as well as mentioning the future use of the M16 and AK-74 assault rifle