IWI Launches Kalashnikov Competitor, TAVOR 7 Assault Rifle

Israel Weapon Industries (IWI) has launched the 7.62X51mm caliber TAVOR 7, a competitor to the hugely popular Kalashnikov AK series of assault rifles which fire the heavy 7.62 mm bullet from a relatively small and light weapon.

The IWI weapon will be on display at Defense and Security Thailand, Milipol (Paris) France, and Expodefensa Colombia exhibitions in the near future.

According to Shlomi Sabag, IWI’s CEO, “The IWI TAVOR 7 enables users to operate in a wide variety of scenarios at short and medium range with enhanced firepower – efficiently, safely and easily, with only minimal maintenance. The weapon will be available from the first quarter of 2018.”

The TAVOR 7 is a fully ambidextrous platform on which the ejection side and the charging handle can be switched quickly and easily from side to side by the user.

The ambidextrous features include: safety lever, magazine release, and bolt catch similar to the X95. The IWI TAVOR 7 also includes an M-LOK fore-end (2 M-LOK slots at 3 and 9 o'clock) as well as MIL-STD 1913 Picatinny rail at the 6 o'clock position, to allow the use of multiple devices and accessories.

The rifle’s body is built from high-strength, impact-modified polymer, and has a hammer-forged, chrome-lined, free-floating barrel for enhanced accuracy and life cycle.

Additional features include a short stroke gas piston with a 4-position variable gas regulator, (including an OFF position – a unique feature designed for special operation needs), a rotating bolt system that ensures maximum safety for the user, and a pistol grip that can be changed or modified.

The IWI TAVOR 7 enables 100% interchangeability, reducing maintenance costs. It is available in four colors: Sniper Gray, OD Green, Black, and Flat Dark Earth, with replaceable barrels available in two lengths – 17" (432 mm) and 20" (508 mm) – for various uses. The rifle has an overall length of 28.4" (723 mm) and a weight without a magazine of 9lbs (4.1 Kg).