Steyr AUG
The Steyr AUG is an Austrian assault rifle introduced in 1977. In Austrian service it is designated StG-77 (for Sturmgewehr 77, German for Assault Rifle 77).
AUG stands for Armee Universal Gewehr, meaning Army Universal Rifle.
Design
The AUG is one of the first rifles to enter service designed on a bullpup principle; this makes it 25% shorter than other rifles with similar barrel lengths, without compromising ballistic performance. It comes factory-equipped with a low magnification optical sight/carrying handle. The AUG is generally regarded as a modern ergonomic design for a combat rifle.
| Steyr AUG Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Cartridge: | 5.56 x 45 mm NATO |
| System of operation: | gas-operated; short stroke piston |
| Length: | 790 mm (31.1 in) |
| Weight: | 3.85 kg (8lb 8oz) |
| Barrel: | 508 mm (17.8 in) |
| Rifling: | 6 grooves, right hand twist |
| Magazine capacity: | 30 or 42 rounds |
| Magazine type: | detachable box |
| Rafe of fire: | 650 rds/min |
| Sights: | 1.5x scope |
| Country of origin: | Austria |
| In production: | 1978- |
Barrels of the Steyr AUG can be changed quickly and easily, changing the rifle from a carbine (short rifle) to an assault rifle (medium barrel) to a light machine gun or heavy sniper barrel.
Users
The AUG is said to be well liked by the Austrian, Australian, New Zealand and Irish soldiers who carry it. It has also been used by the British SAS and other organisations in a counter-terror role.
Characteristics
- Manufacturer: Steyr Daimler Puch (Austria)
- Licensed to: ADI Limited (Australia), National Aerospace and Defense Industries (Malaysia)
- Muzzle Velocity: 970 to 980 m/s (3182 to 3215 ft/s)