I'm pretty much a Kalashnikov nut. The simplicity and rugged functionality of the design contrasts in a very satisfying way when I look at the plethora of Armalites at my local airsoft field - with more rails on them than Network Rail!

But I do have a line which I don't like to cross. For example, I generally don't like so-called 'Tactical' AKs, unless they are done properly as a replica of the US Special Forces SOPMOD - as at least that is portraying an authentic field weapon. I also don't particularly like 'made up' AKs, like the 'Beta' or 'Spetz' AK...

Laylax have managed to add another AK I dislike to this very short list (well done!). They have produced an accessory which shortens the barrel of TM's new AK74M, to make it more convenient for urban/close quarters presumably. 

Credit: This picture and the source comes from Airsoft-News.EU

The Laylax mod creates a sort of sawn off AK74, taking the flash hider right down to the gas port. Now, what I object to is that there is already a real AK (AK105/105D) that is designed to do just what Laylax are trying to do, but the 105 does it oh so much more elegantly.

In fact, the only reason I can think of that you would want to ruin your TM AK74M by doing this ridiculous mod (you only save 5.5cm btw) is that TM don't produce a AK105 replica themselves at the moment (Classic Army, Guay Guay, Unicorn and CYMA do though).

The TM AK74M is a beautiful looking replica, and is not cheap, so why would you want to deface it? If you want an short version of the '74, go buy yourself an AK105 (I am)! 

Above: The CYMA CM031D, a far more elegant and authentic solution. This is the folding stock version of the Russian AK105, currently in service with Russian Special Forces units. Photo credit: RSOV.com