Century Arms M72 7.62×39 21.3” Semi-Auto Rifle AK-47 AKM RPK

SOLD FOR: $1,125

WOA#: WY231013DG014

Make:  Century International Arms

Model: M72

Serial Number: M7200657

Year of Manufacture: Modern

Caliber: 7.62 x 39

Action Type:  Semi-Automatic, Long Stroke Gas Piston

Markings: The left side of the receiver is marked “CENTURY INTERNATIONAL ARMS, INC. / Mod: M72 Cal: 7.62×39 / NO: M7200657 / D.C. Industries, Inc. / Saint Paul, MN USA”.  The right side of the dust cover is marked “394685”.  The right side of the receiver is marked “SF”. The right side of the bolt carrier is marked “3372” which leads into some numbers too shallow to read.  The left side of the trigger is marked “TAPCO USA / G2”.  The muzzle brake is marked “MADE IN USA”.

Barrel Length: About 21.3” finned threaded barrel.  23.5” with removable muzzle brake.

Sights / Optics:  The front sight is an adjustable post iron sight with protective wings. The rear sight is an RPK “U” notched leaf sliding sight escalator.

Stock Configuration & Condition:  The furniture set is a Wood RPK style set. The two piece handguard is Wood with the classic large squared snub style of the RPK. The band located behind the front sight has an RPK Bipod attached that folds underneath the length of the barrel. The pistol grip is checkered polymer.  The buttstock is fixed wood with rubber buttpad. The LOP measures 13.25”  from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttpad.  There is a sling ring on the left side of the receiver and on the left side of the gas block.  The stock rates in about Excellent overall condition. The stock remains exceptionally clean with only few compression marks and scratches. There are a couple nicks on the bottom of the stock.  A couple of the checkers on the grip are dulled at the bottom tip.

Magazine Quantity & Condition:  One 40rd 7.62×39 magazine in Very Good condition.

Type of Finish: Black

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition:  The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp.  There is no visible erosion in the bore.

Overall Condition:  This rifle retains about 97% of its metal finish.  The balance of the finish shows very minimal wear. The safety line is crisp.  The screw heads are sharp and pins are serviceable. There is some finish loss on the nose cap where the bipod has rubbed against it. There are some scratches and scuffs on the dust cover and receiver.  The markings are clear. Overall, this rifle rates in about Very Good condition.

Mechanics:  The action functions correctly. We did not fire this rifle. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This rifle comes with a total of one magazine.

Our Assessment: The Century International Arms M72 is a semi-automatic version of the classic RPK light machine gun designed by the Soviets in the 1950s. Known for its durability and reliability, the M72 is a long-barreled rifle that fires the 7.62x39mm cartridge, providing significant stopping power at extended ranges. This firearm is built to deliver the sustained firepower of a squad automatic weapon in a format accessible to the civilian market.

Century International Arms has a reputation for bringing surplus military firearms to shooters in the United States, and the M72 is one of their more impressive offerings. It features a “heavy-ish” barrel that contributes to its overall accuracy and a bipod for stabilized shooting, mimicking the role of its fully automatic brethren. The rifle’s substantial weight helps manage recoil and maintains steady shot placement during rapid firing sequences.

For collectors and enthusiasts who appreciate military-style firearms, the M72 by Century International Arms is a noteworthy piece. It serves as a nod to military heritage while providing the recreational shooter with a unique, high-powered shooting experience. Its historical significance and robust build quality make it an intriguing addition to any collection, especially for those who value the combination of a classic design with modern manufacturing techniques.  Please see our photos and good luck on your bid!  – L.S.