[4][5] The M72 was patterned after the Soviet RPK light machine gun.

It is a squad automatic weapon, like the Soviet RPK but has unique design features.

This weapon is a near copy of the Soviet RPK light machine gun.

It does not have a scope side rail mount, the butt is also different, having the shape of a regular AK-47 rifle.

The barrel also differs from other RPK rifles because of the cooling fins to help with heat dissipation from prolonged fire.