LIFE AND TIMES OF A KILLING MACHINE

摘要

The AK47 assault rifle is the world's most recognisablernfirearm. The brainchild of the self-taught Russian engineer Mikhail Kalashnikov, its elegantly simple system of operation and robust construction have ensured it remains in worldwide use 60 years after it was created. In Kalashnikov's words, as soon as it appeared on the world stage the AK47 became a "golem", taking on a life of its own. It is now the most Widely used military weapon in the world and has become an iconic artefact, emblematic of revolutionary struggle or terrorism (depending on your view of its user), or a status symbol for a member of a street gang. Its silhouette adorns everything from CD covers and T-shirts to national flags.