Gennadiy Nikonov, Russian engineer, designed the AN-94 rifle (died 2003)

Gennadiy Nikolaevich Nikonov was a Russian firearm engineer. Some of his accomplishments were as the designer of the AN-94 assault rifle, and the "straight-back bolt." Nikonov held 44 Copyright Certificates, and was awarded the titles of "The Best Designer of the Company" and "The Best Designer of the Ministry." In his memory there is a memorial plaque on the building design and weapons center of "Izhmash".

The AN-94 is a Russian assault rifle. The initials stand for Avtomat Nikonova model of 1994, after its chief designer Gennadiy Nikonov, who previously worked on the Nikonov machine gun. The name Абака́н refers to the Siberian city of Abakan.