Kalashnikov Fashion

 Kalashnikov Fashion: Manufacturer machines going to produce stylish clothes

The makers of the AK-47 'Kalashnikov' rifle are planning an assault on the world of high-end fashion.

Russian small arms firm Izhmash has revealed plans to market a global apparel range under the Kalashnikov brand and is seeking approval from the family of the gun's inventor, Mikhail Kalashnikov, Russian news website RIA Novosti reports. 

In addition to clothing, the company hopes to introduce a wide range of products including souvenirs.

A company spokesman cited fellow gun maker Baretta's successful foray into outdoor sportswear as a precedent for the move.

Izhmash general director, Maksim Kuyz, speculated the Kalashnikov brand name may have a value of $10 billion and "could grow to $100-$150 billion", which would put it on par with brands like Apple.

Designed in 1947, the AK-47 Kalashnikov assault rifle is the world's most common small arms weapon with over 70 million units sold. 

Cheap to buy and readily available, Kalashnikovs are also known as the weapon of choice for terror and rebel organisations.

A Kalashnikov branded vodka has been on the market since 1995 and in 2006 Russian carmaker AutoVAZ attempted to produce an SUV under the name, ABC News reports.