James River Armory M72B1 Yugoslavian RPK Carbine Semi Automatic Rifle AK
SOLD FOR: $1,125.00
LSB#: WY241121MJ067
Make: James River Armory (built using a Yugoslavian M72B1 parts kit)
Model: M72B1
Serial Number: 66458 (matching kit), receiver serial number “722656”
Year of Manufacture: Parts kit manufactured in 1983, assembled in the United States in the 21st century
Caliber: 7.62x39mm
Action Type: Semi-Automatic, Fed by Detachable Magazines
Markings: The stock, dust cover, and trunnion are marked with the matching kit serial number “66458.” The bottom of the receiver is marked “JR-M72B1/ James River Armory/ Burgaw NC /CAL 7.62X39MM/ SN: 722656.”
Barrel Length: 16” finned heavy barrel with a threaded muzzle and a thread protector.
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a hooded post with a pop-up articulating tritium sight (depleted). The rear sight is a tangent leaf sight graduated to 1,000 meters, 1-10.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The rifle is fitted with a wooden fixed stock and matching handguard. The stock is in excellent overall condition, showing only light handling marks and no cracks or chips. There is a sling loop on the side of the gas block and on the left side of the receiver.
Magazine Quantity & Condition: This rifle comes with one 30-round detachable magazine in good functional condition.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original on parts kit, applied finish on the receiver during assembly
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and reflective with sharp rifling. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 9.5/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 95% of its finish. The balance of the finish shows light handling marks and minor wear consistent with use. The screw heads are sharp, and the markings are clear and legible. Overall, this rifle rates in about excellent condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This rifle comes with one 30-round magazine and a thread protector installed on the muzzle.
Our Assessment: This James River Armory M72B1 RPK is a beautifully assembled semi-automatic rifle built using a Yugoslavian M72B1 parts kit from 1983. The M72B1 was designed as a squad-level light support weapon, and this example maintains much of that heritage with its finned heavy barrel, robust build, and pop-up articulating tritium sights. While the tritium has depleted, the rifle retains its original design features and is ready for practical use or collection.
The rifle is in excellent condition, with matching serial numbers on the parts kit and a sharp, reflective bore rated 9.5/10. The heavy-finned barrel further enhances its functionality, while the sturdy fixed stock and ergonomic design make it comfortable to operate.
Collectors and enthusiasts alike will appreciate this rifle for its historical significance and rugged construction. With its reliable James River Armory assembly and Yugoslavian origins, this RPK is a perfect blend of Cold War-era design and modern craftsmanship, ready to perform at the range or serve as a prized addition to any collection. So bid high and bid firm. I highly encourage you to take a look at the condition in our high-quality photos. Good luck with your bid. -K.F.
