About
Russian small arms designer who most notably designed the world's most popular automatic weapon, the AK-47. He was named a Hero of the Russian Federation in 2009.
Before Fame
His family had to survive by hunting game, and young Mihail frequently used his father's rifle to feed his parents.
Trivia
As a testament to his weapon's worldwide adoption, it is featured on the flags of several countries.
Family Life
He was married to Ekaterina Kalashnikova from 1921 until 1977 and they had a son named Victor Kalashnikov.
Associated With
Russian President Boris Yeltsin personally promoted Mihail to the honorary rank of Major General.
