The AK-105 is a short barrel, carbine version of the AK-74M rifle, originally developed to replace the shorter barrelled AKS-74U. The AK-105 is chambered in 5.45×39mm ammunition and is used domestically by the Russian Army in contrast to other AK-100 series rifles.^[1]

Compared to the AK-74M, AK-101, and AK-103, which are full-length assault rifles of similar design, the AK-105 is a carbine rifle featuring a shorter 12.4 in (310 mm) barrel, and a solid, side-folding, polymer stock allowing convenience in transportation or paratrooper operations, while still providing a stable firing platform when extended; the AK-105 retains the ability to fire with the stock folded.^[2] The AK-105 has matching polymer furniture including pistol grip, magazines and forward handguard. The AK-105 was developed to replace the even shorter compact AKS-74U, (however both rifles are in-service)^[3] that featured a shorter skeleton stock and a shorter, 8.1 in (210 mm) barrel.^[4][5] The AK-105 uses an adjustable, U‑notch, rear tangent sight, calibrated in 100 m (109 yd) increments out to 500 m (547 yd). The front sight is a post, adjustable for elevation in the field, while windage adjustments are done prior to issue by the armory.^[3]

According to the manufacturers web site in 2014, "Protective coatings ensure excellent corrosion resistance of metal parts. Forearm, magazine, butt stock and pistol grip are made of high strength plastic."^{[6][failed verification]}] The AK‑105 has a muzzle booster derived from the AKS‑74U that aids in reducing recoil and improving stability of automatic fire, through the use of exiting gasses.^{[citation needed]}

The AK-100 series rifles are produced by the Izhmash factories in Izhevsk, Russia.

•  Armenia^[7]
•  Azerbaijan: Used by the State Border Service.^[8]
•  Brazil: Brazilian military and law enforcement have adopted the AK-105 as it is suitable for urban and counter-narcotics operations.^[9]
•  India: The Indian Army has adopted the compact and versatile rifle for some specialized units.^[9]
•  Kazakhstan: The Kazakh military use the AK-105 as a standard-issue carbine rifle.^[9]
•  Namibia: Used by Namibian Marine Corps^[10]
•  North Korea: Produced locally as the Type 88 Carbine, used by Special Operation Forces and armored crew.^[11][12]
•  Russia: In service with the Russian Army,^[13] and limited use within the Ministry of Internal Affairs^[14] and other law enforcement,^[15] including Alpha Group of the Federal Security Service (FSB). ^[16]
•  Syria: Used by some Syrian special forces.^[17]