E&L AK12 Essential MOSFET - Black

E&L Automatic Kalashnikov – The Finest Airsoft AK

The AK, officially known as the Avtomat Kalashnikova, was developed in the Soviet Union by Mikhail Kalashnikov in the late 1940s. It became the standard issue assault rifle for Soviet forces (AK-47) and is still used globally thanks to its durability, reliability, and ease of use. The AK-47 fires the 7.62×39mm cartridge, known for its solid stopping power and range.
In the 1970s, the modernized AK-74 was introduced, chambered in a smaller 5.45×39mm round.
AEG assault rifles by E&L are famous for being manufactured using parts made in real firearm factories. Some of their components are 1:1 identical to real AKs. Every detail is meticulously crafted to match the original firearm while offering maximum durability. The externals are made entirely of steel and treated with bluing, just like real firearms. E&L AKs are among the most realistic and durable airsoft replicas on the market (alongside LCT). Thanks to their authenticity, build quality, and realistic finish, they’re a perfect match for MilSim players, hardcore airsofters, collectors (chairsofters), and reenactors. Alongside classic models like AK-47, AKM, and AK-74, modern variants such as AK12, AK104, and AK105 are also available.

Outstanding External Build of E&L AK

E&L AK12 Essential features premium craftsmanship where every component is designed for maximum resilience. The body is entirely made of steel with no ZnAl parts, ensuring exceptional strength and durability. It features oxidized steel parts that contribute to the authentic look. You’re essentially getting a “real AK shell with airsoft internals”, of course adapted to accommodate airsoft-specific needs such as wiring, motor space, and gearbox alignment. This is one of the toughest airsoft guns available and can't be compared to cheaper brands like CYMA or Specna Arms.
The RIS handguard and gas tube cover are made of polymer like a real weapon. The pistol grip with ergonomic finger grooves is also made of durable polymer and provides a comfortable grip. The modernized receiver cover has a RIS rail along the entire upper length for mounting optical sights and is finished with an adjustable rear sight. At the rear of the rifle you will find a buffer tube with an AK12 extendable stock. The Essential series allows partial disassembly without tools, similar to real AK rifles.

Internal Parts of the Essential Series

Inside the replica, you'll find a reinforced E&L gearbox V3 with a QSC quick spring change system. It includes low-resistance wiring finished with a MOSFET unit and a T-Dean connector, making the replica suitable for 11.1V Li-Po / Li-Ion batteries. The gearbox is equipped with high-quality Gen2 internal parts such as an 18:1 gear set for a balance of RoF and durability, 9 mm steel bushings, a piston with 14 steel tooths, a POM nozzle with sealing o-ring, and a steel cylinder. The configuration is completed with a metal AK hop-up chamber and a 6.04 mm precision inner barrel alongside a neodymium E&L M120 motor with a short shaft. The Essential series is built as a solid foundation for future upgrades at a reasonable price, and versions with a GATE ASTER SE V3 ETU unit are also available.

Technical Specifications

• Power type: AEG
• Gearbox: Version 3 QSC
• Materials: Steel, polymer
• Length: 890–950 mm
• Weight: 4010 g
• Muzzle velocity: 120 m/s
• Recommended BB weight: 0.25–0.28 g
• Inner barrel length: 455 mm
• Inner barrel diameter: 6.04 mm
• Hop-up: Yes, adjustable (metal chamber)
• ETU unit: No
• MOSFET: Yes
• Fire modes: Safe, Semi, Full Auto
• Thread: 24mm CW
• Recommended battery: 11.1V Li-Po / Li-Ion (not included)
• Connector: T-Dean (under top receiver cover)
• Battery type: Stick
• Magazine capacity: 150 BBs (plastic)
• Motor type: Neodymium (short shaft)

Package Contents

• AK12 Essential with MOSFET unit
• 150 BB mid-cap magazine
• Oil bottle
• User manual
• E&L quality control certificate

Warnings

• Do not use springs stronger than M120. Damage caused by excessive stress is not covered by warranty.
• Some manufacturers produce overpowered springs (e.g., SHS M120 can perform like M130–135), which may exceed the internal parts’ durability.
• If replacing the spring with a progressive coil design, ensure that the tighter coils are positioned on the spring guide facing outward from the gearbox.
• Never store the rifle with the battery connected.