The Arsenal SAM7K-28 is a semi-automatic rifle chambered in 7.62x39mm and offered in an SBR (Short-Barreled Rifle) configuration; this gun has been introduced in 2025 on the US market and showcased at the 2026 Shot Show. It combines the basic layout of the AK platform with an 8.5-inch barrel and a tactical aluminum stock machined on CNC equipment.
The barrel is cold-hammer forged and chrome-lined. At the muzzle, the Krink-style front sight block features a 24x1.5 mm right-hand thread, and the rifle is supplied with a thread protector.
Arsenal SAM7K-28: a receiver machined from a forged blank
One of the SAM7K-28’s most distinctive features is its receiver, manufactured in Bulgaria by Arsenal and machined from a hot-die-forged steel blank. This process differs from machining a receiver directly from steel bar stock.
According to Arsenal, once forging is complete, the blank requires more than five and a half hours of machining before it is ready for assembly. It is a demanding manufacturing process and one of the defining characteristics of this family of firearms – and it does influence the final MSRP.
Aluminum stock with ambidextrous cheek support
The tactical stock is CNC machined from a single block of aluminum and mounts to the rifle through a 1913 Picatinny interface. Recessed areas are machined into both sides to provide cheek support, making the stock equally usable by right- and left-handed shooters.
Four anti-rotation QD sling sockets are provided, while openings machined into the stock body help reduce weight. A rubber buttpad completes the assembly. Arsenal states that CNC machining of these components is performed in-house in order to maintain consistent production quality and tight tolerances.
FIME Enhanced trigger group
The SAM7K-28 is fitted with the FIME Enhanced FM-922EUS trigger group, developed for firearms based on the AK and RPK platforms. The assembly includes a single-hook trigger, hammer, disconnector and their respective springs.
FIME describes the trigger as having reduced travel with a smooth, light pull. The disconnector geometry and hammer stop are designed to eliminate so-called and sometimes annoying trigger slap, the rearward impulse transmitted to the trigger during the operating cycle.
The SAM7K-28 also comes standard with Arsenal’s proprietary ambidextrous safety system, which includes an additional selector lever positioned above the pistol grip and conveniently operated by the thumb of the firing hand.
Five colors… and a color matched 10-round magazine
The SAM7K-28 lineup includes five color variants: Black (SAM7K-28), OD Green (SAM7K-28G), Plum (SAM7K-28P), FDE (SAM7K-28FDE) and Gray (SAM7K-28GY). The color differences apply to the handguards, pistol grip, stock and 10-round magazine. Yes, the gun comes with one 10 round mag!
Standard equipment includes a sling, cleaning kit, cleaning rod, oil bottle, thread protector and magazine. The OD Green version is supplied with a green sling, while the other variants come with a black one.
Accessories shown in the photographs, including the SM-22 optic mount, KR-009B four-prong flash hider and M-47W 30-round magazine, are sold separately.
Arsenal also offers the Eternity Case Universal Fit hard case, featuring a crush-resistant shell, IP67 protection against water and dust, and customizable pre-cut foam.
Last but not least… With its 8.5” barrel and shoulder stock, the SAM7K-28is classified as an NFA Short-Barreled Rifle (SBR). Since the 2026 ruling, the tax for making or transferring an SBR is now $0. This does not, however, eliminate the NFA registration process! A prospective owner must still file the appropriate ATF Form 1 or 4, provide all the required information, and receive formal ATF approval before taking possession of an SBR through a transfer. Applications can be submitted electronically through the ATF eForms system. Plus, SBR ownership is restricted or prohibited in some states, so prospective buyers should also verify all applicable local and State laws.
Arsenal SAM7K-28 - Technical Specifications
Manufacturer | Arsenal:www.arsenalinc.com |
Model | SAM7K-28; variants SAM7K-28G, SAM7K-28P, SAM7K-28FDE and SAM7K-28GY |
Type | Semi-automatic short-barreled rifle (SBR) |
Caliber | 7.62×39 mm |
Barrel length | 8.5 in (approx. 216 mm) |
Receiver | Machined from a hot-die-forged steel blank |
Stock | CNC-machined aluminum with 1913 Picatinny interface, ambidextrous cheek support, four QD sling sockets and rubber buttpad |
Magazine | Standard AK-47 / AKM pattern |
Trigger group | FIME Enhanced FM-922EUS with single-hook trigger |
Colors | Black, OD Green, Plum, FDE and Gray |
Included equipment | 10-round magazine, sling, cleaning kit, cleaning rod, oil bottle and thread protector |
U.S. MSRP | $2,499 |
