The AK has been copied and cloned so long that there are clones (Vektor R4) of copies (IWI Galil) of copies (Valmet Rk 62) of the original design. Kalashnikov wants to avoid this going forward and a press release sent out yesterday can be interpreted as a clear warning to would-be trademark infringers …

(Moscow, Russia) September 10, 2015 – OJSC Concern Kalashnikov today announced the successful registration of trademarks Калашников/Kalashnikov in the Russian Federation. These trademarks were issued by Rospatent (the Russian Patent Office) in August 2015 and cover the production of firearms and ammunition.

The registration of these trademarks is the first step in a comprehensive, worldwide strategy to consolidate the global intellectual property rights of Concern Kalashnikov.

“The registration of the trademarks Калашников/Kalashnikov in Russia is an historic event for our company and the start of our efforts to consolidate and protect the legendary weapons brand both in Russia and abroad,” said Concern Kalashnikov CEO Alexey Krivoruchko. – We are in the process of formalizing ownership of trademarks across several key product classes throughout the world and will aggressively prosecute those brand pirates who attempt to illegitimately profit our brand.”

Trademarks are an essential indicator of quality and aid the buyer to find the genuine article. The Kalashnikov name is known throughout the world as a symbol of engineering and design excellence. Its development at IZHMASH (now Concern Kalashnikov) is also well known and its intellectual property rights will now be protected.

“Kalashnikov is a renowned global name and this registration is a great first step in the protection of its brand,” said corporate reputation management expert Patrick Jephson. – Like other global brands such as Cartier or Apple, pirates will attempt to illegitimately profit from such an established reputation and in the process damage and dilute the strength of its brand. Concern Kalashnikov can now take firm actions against pirate production and build the long-term value of its brand.”