The PK machine gun is a general-purpose machine gun developed in the Soviet Union in the late 1950s. It fires the 7.62×54mmR cartridge and is known for its reliability and versatility in various combat situations. The PK can be mounted on vehicles, used as a light machine gun, or operated by infantry. This weapon features a gas-operated mechanism and can achieve a rate of fire of around 600 rounds per minute. The PKM, a modernized version, is lighter and more portable, making it a popular choice among military forces worldwide.