Valmet M-60


This was the first of the Finnish "improved Kalashnikovs." Though internally almost identical to the AKM, they were externally very different, with a plastic handguard, tubular steel stock, and a different-shaped receiver designed to take a better rear sight and optional optical sights or night vision equipment. Further development led to the M-62

Development of the Finnish Valmet rifle started in the late 1950's.  Finland first purchased a number of third model AK's directly from the Soviet Union.  These AK's were the predecessor of the Soviet AKM model assault rifle.  This weapon was designated the Rynnäkkökivääri Malli 54.  These rifles were utilized in testing of the AK series,as well as training of Finnish military troops.

One weakness of the 3rd model AK is the stock attachment.  Stocks were made of wood, and attached by three wood screws.  Further development of the Soviet AKM series corrected the problem of stock attachment.  Valmet weapons used a metal tube stock, solidly attached to the receiver, and did not experience the problems associated with the 3rd model AK's.  One point to watch on Valmet weapons is the evolution of the stock design.  As time went by, strengthening of the tube stock continued.  Below are early Valmet model 60's with the first stock design.

Between 1958 and 1960, further development of the Finnish AK continued.  Several models were tested, and the final model was the Rynnäkkökivääri Malli 60 (Model 60).

The Valmet Model 60 started it all.

In 1960 the first model 60's were in development.  Models were assembled by both Sako and Valmet.  The Sako models did not have the trigger guard, relying on the post for protection.  Valmet models had a more conventional trigger guard installed.  The Valmet was chosen over the Sako. Note the absence of the trigger guard!

 Even on first Valmet models the basic style was set. Note the extended mag flap protection, tube stock, rear sight assembly, and the familiar"cheese grater" hand guards! Apparently Model 60's were made only in caliber7.62x 39mm Russian.  Due to the history of conflict with Russia,and Finland's use of captured Russian weapons, the 7.62 x 39mm Russian round was chosen.

M60 Gas Block