Video: Daewoo K2 Rifle

** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
After many years of relying on surplus and donated firearms from the U.S., to include the M1 Garand, M1 Carbine, M16A1 as well as guns from other countries, the Republic of South Korea embarked on designing and building an independent manufacturing plant. After all, when your closest neighbor is North Korea, the matter of small arms is extremely important.

Ultimately it was Daewoo Precision Industries that took the best favorite features of several guns to build the Daewoo K1 and K2. The K2 was basically an amalgamation of the M16, the AK-47 and the FN-FAL. During the 1980s, semi-automatic versions of these guns were actually imported to the U.S. by several companies—including Kimber. However, changing firearm legislation during the latter part of the 80s and early 90s restricted further importation of the rifles.

To learn more, watch the complete “I Have This Old Gun” segment on the Daewoo K2 Rifle here above.

Latest

Stenzel SAK 21 01
Stenzel SAK 21 01

The Stenzel Industries SAK-21: A Uniquely American AK

More than an American-made AK, Stenzel Industries calls the SAK-21 “a modular, purpose-built firearm, developed to meet the demands of special operations forces and professional shooters.”

Review: Browning Citori 825 Field

For hunting and sporting use, Browning’s latest Citori 825 Field shotgun is more than up to the task.

The Armed Citizen® April 27, 2026

Read today's "The Armed Citizen" entry for real stories of law-abiding citizens, past and present, who used their firearms to save lives.

Growth in Youth Shooting Sports Signals Bright Future for the 2nd Amendment

Judging by the record number joining clubs and teams, mass-media’s disinformation and political rhetoric are losing their luster with today’s youth, who are making time to head to the range.

Go-Bag Essentials: 5 Key Products for Your Escape Kit

These five products will help you remain comfortable and safe should you need to bug out in a hurry due to natural or man-made disasters.

10 Things You (Probably) Didn't Know About The Smith & Wesson Model 29

Without a doubt, the Smith & Wesson Model 29 is one of the 20th century’s most shootable, collectible "superstar" revolvers. Here are a few little-known facts about the gun.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.