With the minor exception of the gas regulator, disassembly and operation are similar to that of the AK-47/AKM family of weapons.
Though the M76 fires its bullets at a relatively modest muzzle velocity, the 8×57mm IS cartridge loaded with aerodynamically efficient military sS ball bullets still offers a supersonic reach of ≈ under ICAO Standard Atmosphere conditions at sea level (air density ρ = 1.225 kg/m³).