AKSU (AKS-74U)

"This shorter version of the classic Kalash with a folding stock has a very high rate of fire, but does not have the range or accuracy of its larger sibling."

- In-game description

Originally available as a limited edition bonus for Metro: Last Light, and since added to Metro 2033 Redux, the AKS-74U, known in-game simply as the AKSU, is a compact version of the Kalash. Designed for close-quarters combat, it is perfect for the Metro's claustrophobic environments. However, the AKSU is exclusive to Ranger Mode in both games.

It is available at the D6 armory for free in Last Light and at the Defense guns merchant in 2033 Redux. It can also be equipped in a Shooting Gallery if the Developer Pack is launched on Ranger difficulty.

Overview
Like its parent rifle, the Kalash (AK-74M), the AKSU fires a 5.45x39mm cartridge. Due to its shorter barrel length, it has a reduced range and accuracy compared to the regular AK-74M. The AKSU makes up for its shortcomings with a slightly higher rate-of-fire and a faster aim-down-sights time - making it an effective emergency weapon when facing enemies at close-range. When loaded with Military Grade Rounds, this weapon is capable of killing many types of enemies with one shot.

Recoil is also moderately more noticeable with the AKS-74U, making the weapon harder to aim, so it is recommended that a red dot sight or laser sight be attached to the weapon for easier target acquisition. Avoid full-auto fire if you cannot control its recoil, burst fire is a good way to maintain accuracy. With no HUD and crosshair, Laser sight becomes important if the player needs to fire from the hip.

A suppressor may also be added to decrease recoil, but bear in mind that it will further decrease range as well. Due to the nature of this weapon, it may not be practical for Ranger Mode, mainly because of its inaccuracy and increased fire rate, making it expensive to fire fully automatic, especially with ammo being scarce. Despite the weapon only made available in Ranger mode, carrying it is only advised indoors and slower, more accurate weapons will serve the wielder better when they reach the surface.

Variants and Customization
The AKSU has the same set of upgrades as the Kalash, so it has threeattachment slots and six available attachments in total. Attachments in the Misc slot can be equipped both at once, so the AKSU can have four different attachments at the same time.

Trivia
AKSU (AKS-74U) variants in Metro 2033
 * The AKSU fires 10% faster than a Kalash (600 rounds/minute versus 550)and has no downsides.
 * This is most likely the weapon Bourbon uses in the Metro 2033 novel, rather than standard AK-74M in-game.
 * The AKSU has the same fire sound as the Bastard carbine.
 * The increase of recoil is due to absence of the muzzle brake, which is found on the standard AK-74M.
 * The weapon is also available in the Tower Pack and the Developer Pack's AI Arena and Shooting Gallery, though, again, will only appear on Ranger difficulties.
 * The AKSU is also in Metro 2033 Redux and can be bought at Armory and Hole Station, in Ranger mode only.
 * Before being referred to as the AKSU, this weapon used to be known as the "Modified Russian Rifle", which likely comes from the fact that the gun is not a factory AKS-74U, but an AK-74M that has been modified to fill the same role; this can be seen when looking at the weapon's standard 74M rear sight and top cover instead of the hinged top cover of a 74U, handguards that are clearly cut down AK-74M as well as a side rail mount which was not present on most of the original AKS-74U carbines. Considering the cramped environment of the metro, it is logical to modify rifles this way.
 * In Metro 2033 Redux multiple unusuable AKSUs can be seen around the map, held by NPCs or as world objects.

Gallery
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