The Type 73 is a North Korean infantry machine gun chambered for the 7.62×54R cartridge, often described as a hybrid of the Soviet PK and the Czechoslovak Vz. 52. Its design incorporates features from these models, along with distinctive elements reminiscent of the British Bren gun.
Origins and Spread
The exact date of development and production of the Type 73 remains unclear. However, considering the introduction of the PK and Vz. 52 in the mid-20th century, it is presumed that the Type 73 was developed between the 1960s and 1970s.
Despite its North Korean origins, the Type 73 has been used beyond the Korean Peninsula. It saw action during the Iran-Iraq War and has been employed by various armed groups in the Middle East, including ISIS and the Houthis in Yemen.
In Africa, the Type 73 has also appeared in conflict zones. Notably, in 2017, the French Navy seized a shipment of smuggled weapons, including Type 73 machine guns, destined for Somalia.
Specifications and Challenges
Weight: 10.6 kg
Length: 1190 mm
For comparison, Soviet PKs and PKMs weigh 9 kg and 7.5 kg, respectively, while the modern PKP weighs 8.7 kg.
The Type 73’s heavy weight and ergonomic issues present significant challenges. Its top-mounted magazine complicates operation and prevents the attachment of modern sighting devices such as collimator, holographic, or night vision scopes.
Although theoretically possible to adapt the machine gun with a side-mounted rail, this modification would shift the center of mass, making accurate firing even more difficult.
Gradual Replacement
The Type 73 is being phased out in favor of the more modern Type 82 within North Korean forces, signaling an upgrade in their infantry arsenal.
Sources: Voevoda Broadcasts, Corner of the Sith.
