Whatʼs a draco gun?

What’s a Draco Gun?

If you’re a firearms enthusiast, you may have stumbled upon the term "Draco Gun" and wondered what it’s all about. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of Draco Guns, exploring what they are, how they work, and why they’re gaining popularity among shooters.

Direct Answer: What’s a Draco Gun?

In simple terms, a Draco Gun is a pistol configured from an AK-47 or AKM rifle, manufactured to conform to United States Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) standards. Specifically, it is a rifle-length barrel under 16 inches, without a buttstock, transformed into a pistol with no functional buttstock, installed compensators, and possibly fitted with a trigger group and magazine from an AR-15 platform.

History and Origin

The Draco Gun owes its name to Daniel Olinger, an individual who holds the patent for modifying the AK-47/AKM rifle design into a pistol configuration meeting U.S. legal standards. In the early 1990s, Daniel Olinger, along with his brother, developed and marketed the first Draco Pistols. Since then, numerous manufacturers have followed in their footsteps, offering customized versions of the Draco design.

Key Features and Specifications

Here are the primary features and specifications to help you understand what sets Draco Guns apart:

Design

• Rifle length barrel (<16 inches) with AK-47 or AKM rifle components
• No functional buttstock or fore-end
• Trigger group and magazine are usually derived from AR-15 parts
• Possesses compensators or compensating features

Manufacturers and Variants

While several manufacturers offer their versions of Draco Guns, here are some notable companies:

• DRP: Original patent holders Daniel Olinger and his brother, producing high-quality models with exceptional craftsmanship
• Kraken: Providing budget-friendly options with distinctive styling and customization
• Dimitri Gun: Focuses on build quality and reliability, targeting competition shooting and practical events
• Kalashnikov USA: Part of the original AK designer’s estate, offering variants with specific features and adjustments

Benefits and Purposes

So, what’s the appeal of a Draco Gun? Here are some advantages and use cases:

Benefits:

• Increased portability (less restrictive than full rifles)
• Enhanced versatility in compact, urban environments or indoor spaces
• Potentially increased accuracy due to shorter barrels and improved triggers
• Customization potential (modifying parts to suit specific needs or personal taste)
• Reduced price compared to full rifles and select-fire conversions

Purposes:

• Target shooting and practice (indoors or in controlled areas)
• Urban hunting (small game and pests control)
• Collectors’ items (exotic and unique designs or historic reenactment purposes)
• Practical/Competition shooting (Tactical events, IDPA, 3-Gun)
• Self-defense/home protection

Regulatory Status and Legal Considerations

To ensure compliance, consider the following regulatory updates:

• Federal Status: The ATF categorizes Draco Guns as " pistol configurations" under 26 USC 5845-44(c), which meets federal law requirements.
• State and Local Regulations: Familiarize yourself with state-specific laws and restrictions regarding civilian ownership and operation. Local jurisdictions may apply varying laws, so verify compliance before acquisition.

Conclusion

Draco Guns have gained recognition in the firearms community, attracting shooters seeking compact, adaptable, and versatile weaponry. Understanding the history, features, and legal framework behind Draco Guns can provide insight into their unique identity. Remember to obey all applicable laws, handle the weapon safely, and follow proper handling, maintenance, and storage protocols. With the right setup, training, and considerations, Draco Guns can deliver satisfying performance and shooting experience for many enthusiasts.

Table: Comparative Table of Key Specifications