Gennadiy Nikolayevich Nikonov (August 11, 1950 - May 14, 2003) was a Russian gun engineer. His most famous accomplishments were probably as the designer of the AN-94 assault rifle, and the "straight-back bolt." Nikonov held 44 Copyright Certificates,[citation needed] and was awarded the titles of "The Best Designer of the Company" and "The Best Designer of the Ministry."[citation needed]