7 Best AK-47 Rifles You Can Buy for Under $1500 in 2024

With increased talk of an Assault Weapon Ban, specifically bans on AK-style rifles (such as AK-47s and their clones), more and more Americans are looking to pick up an AK-style rifle before it’s too late.

The AK-47 is a classic automatic rifle that goes way back to the Soviet Union. Today’s AK-47s have been developed and modernized over the years, but they’re still built on the same principles of the original Soviet army rifle. They’re super simple to use and very reliable, which is why they’re some of the most widely recognized firearms in the world today.

If you’ve been researching AK-47-style rifles… good luck! You already know that there’s a nearly endless supply of information on variants, features, pros/cons, etc.

It’s so much information that many can’t even decide what AK-47 to buy! Or, you (like me) might want to default to a higher-priced option just to make sure that you aren’t getting something that is a piece of junk (or worse, dangerous). This can work, however, spending $1,500 or more on an AK-47 defeats the purpose for many shooters.

What is an AK-47?

The AK-47 is select fire and was designed to be a very simple and reliable automatic rifle. It touts a 7.62×39mm round, air-cooled, long-stroke-piston gas-operated, magazine-fed rifle with a rotating bolt…that is a mouth full, and no I cannot say it 10x’s in a row fast!

The goal for this firearm was to be able to be mass-produced for a very low cost. The Soviet Union adopted the AK-47 in the late 1940s and over the years, it has developed and is the most widely recognized firearm in the world today. The barrel and bolt were milled out of steel and hardened chrome, with a sheet metal receiver. The furniture on the AK-47 is wood which was specific and helped the Soviet Union achieve the type of weapon it was hoping for in mass production.

Nowadays the AK-47 has had so many overhauls and updates, that it has changed quite a bit. However, the process and guts are fairly the same today as when it was created so many years ago. A lot of the parts nowadays are metal cast, with a number of synthetic and plastic pieces added. There are an estimated 100 million AK-47s that have been manufactured to date around the world.

How I Chose the Best AK-47 Rifles

As someone who’s spent time behind the scope as a special operations sniper and has a deep-rooted passion for firearms, I’ve learned firsthand the absolute necessity of choosing the right weapon. I’ve used just about every kind of AK-47 out there and am familiar with most of the big brands and their products in the industry.

However, I really wanted to make sure that this was a comprehensive article, so I discussed with my colleagues the models they favored and ordered anything I hadn’t used myself. After testing them all for shootability, reliability, ergonomics, accuracy, and value, I came up with this list of the best AK-47 rifles under $1500. I also included a buyer’s guide so that you know what to look for when purchasing an AK-47 rifle.

7 Best AK-47 Rifles That Won’t Bust the Bank

List of the Best AK-47 Rifles

1. WASR-10		Gas Operated 30+1-Round capacity Fixed Front Sight Plain Muzzle	Check Price
2. Century Arms VSKA		Carburized bolt RAK-1 enhanced trigger Stamped steel receiver Accepts standard AK magazines	Check Price
3. PSA MOEkov GF3		Gas Nitride 4150 Steel Treated Barrel Stamped Steel Receiver Forged Front Trunnion Hammer Forged Bolt	Check Price
4. CENTURY C39V2		30+1 rounds 10.6″ barrel with LH 14×1 threading Milled receiver Magpul® MOE	Check Price
5. Zastava ZPAP92		Extremely compact, would make a great truck gun Common caliber and mags Significant modularity and customizing potential	Check price
6. Draco NAK9		AK reliability Vast aftermarket support system Low recoil Glock mag compatible	Check price
7. NPAP M70 AK47		30+1 round capacity Adjustable Krinkov-style sights Krinkov-style muzzle brake Krinkov-style hinged dust cover	Check Price

List Of The 7 Best AK-47 Rifles Under $1500

Gun University has put together a list of what we deem the best AK-47-style (i.e. AKM-style) weapons available at reasonable, “everyman” prices.

1. Century Arms WASR-10
2. Century Arms VSKA
3. PSA PS-AK-47 GF3
4. Century Arms C39V2 AK Rifle
5. Zastava ZPAP M02
6. Draco NAK9 (9mm AK)
7. Zastava N-PAP M70 AK-47

Note: These rifles are not listed in order of priority – each has its own features to recommend (or against it). Read through the pros and cons, and if you need more info, check out the more in-depth write-ups we’ve done on the individual weapons.

Before we see the hate in the comments below, we get it: you get what you pay for. Some folks want a budget AK so that they can at least have something or they merely want it for plinking or “just in case” and can’t afford to spend (or don’t want to spend) that much on a rifle.

So, I’ve rounded up the 7 best AKs for under $1500, but with the way the economy is right now, some of my original picks might be creeping over that price limit.

So, if you’re looking to build your warzone loadout with your “AK-47 assault rifle” (ugh, hate that term), you may need to stop playing so much Black Ops Cold War or Modern Warfare and actually get out to do some live-fire training IRL.

However, if you want to know the best AK-47 rifle for under $1500, read on…

Note: Each of these rifle links shows the best prices online (yes, you can buy guns online)

Reviews of the 7 Best AK-47 Rifles Under $1500

Let’s take a look-see at each of the AK models in turn that are not only something you can buy today, but also are usually under $1,500.

Century Arms WASR-10 AK-47 Rifle Review

The WASR-10 is where it’s at! I know, I know, some AK purists are probably chuckling at me for saying that. But hear me out.

I’ve had my hands on the WASR-10 more times than I can count, and despite its reputation as the “budget” AK-47, I genuinely believe it’s a great rifle for the money. Built in Romania, this rifle benefits from a long history of solid craftsmanship. I’ve heard more grumbling about American-made AKs, even the pricier ones, than I have about the WASR-10.

Sure, it’s not the most accurate rifle out there. But honestly, that’s not why you’re picking one up. It handles the cheapest Russian ammo like a champ and is light and compact enough to make a decent self-defense gun. Plus, it works well with AK magazines and Soviet cartridges, making it both versatile and affordable to shoot.

There’s something about the WASR-10 that just screams “AK-47” in a way that some American versions don’t quite capture. For those of us who appreciate AKM rifles, this model delivers a true sense of the classic design. With the talk of possible AK-47 bans, these rifles might not be around forever.

This gun, like any other, has its drawbacks. The lack of a buffer tube means you’ll feel the recoil a bit more. Reloading can be a bit fiddly, especially with a full-sized magazine. And if you’re left-handed, you might find the lack of left-side controls a bit of a hassle.

It’s not perfect, but it’s affordable and gets the job done. So keep in mind:

Cheap/Plinking/End of the World Rifle: AK-47.

Accurate, premium, precision, etc. rifle: AR-15.

So, because of its reliability, and its cost, the WASR-10 is my #1 pick for best AK-47. Sure, you might find better, but you’re paying a premium for slightly better. But when it comes down to an AK47, this is a great all-round choice. Don’t believe me? Check out our full WASR-10 review.

WASR-10 Pros and Cons

CAI VSKA Review

As you’ll see, Century Arms is the most popular name on this list. This is because Century Arms is the biggest importer and manufacturer of AK-47s, especially budget varieties, which I like. Their rifles are ISO 9001:2015 certified, so they’re of pretty high quality as well.

I get it. If you’ve heard about the RAS-47’s issues, you might be skeptical. But don’t write off all Century Arms rifles just yet. The VSKA, ranked #2 on my list, is their way of making things right, and I think they’ve done a good job. They moved away from the cast trunnions and bolts that caused so much trouble and went with S7 tool steel for the VSKA. That’s a big improvement, and with the parts milled from forgings, this thing feels like it can take a beating.

I’ve shot the VSKA quite a bit, and the trigger really impressed me. It’s a single-stage with a smooth pull, which made staying on target for follow-up shots easy. It comes with a 30-round Magpul PMAG, and while it fits any AK mag, the original keeps it light and nimble.

Now, let’s be real, the VSKA does need more care. Century Arms recommends swapping the extractor and recoil springs every 3,000 rounds. That’s more upkeep than some, but honestly, finding a VSKA is often easier than the top choice on my list. Sure, it’s not perfect; I wish it used forged components instead of a machined billet. But if you’re after an American-made AK with that classic look, the VSKA is worth a serious look.

If you’re still curious, check out my full CAI VSKA review for the nitty-gritty.

CAI VSKA Pros and Cons

PSA PS-AK47 GF3 Review

Palmetto State Armory is known for budget firearms. But I find this to be both good and bad, and the PSA PS-AK47 GF3 is no exception. Because of this, the GF3 is affordable, but it isn’t the best quality of the bunch.

When it comes to the Century Arms VSKA, I’m more impressed. Unlike the GF3, the VSKA feels sturdier in my hands and offers a robust build that feels more like the “true and tested” materials you’d expect from a reliable AK-47. The VSKA’s 800-meter rear sight and fixed front sight are a nice touch, offering solid accuracy for an AK platform. I also appreciate the simple, classic AK-47 design—none of that modern Magpul furniture that just doesn’t seem right on an AK to me.

However, the VSKA does have a bit of a kick. I felt the recoil was more pronounced than some other AKs I’ve fired, but the upgraded trigger helps manage it well. All in all, I feel the Century Arms VSKA delivers solid performance and durability without sacrificing the traditional AK-47 experience.

I go into detail in my full review of the GF3, so make sure to check it out if you’re curious.

PSAK-47 GF3 Pros and Cons

Century Arms C39V2 Review

The C39V2 by Century Arms is their milled-receiver AK-47. If you want a milled receiver under $1000, then this is your only option, which is one of the reasons why it made my list for the best AK-47.

Personally, I lean towards a milled receiver like the C39V2 because it offers a more rigid platform. Yes, it adds some weight, but I feel that weight can help with stability. Stamped receivers are lighter and more traditional, but I find the precision of a milled receiver hard to ignore.

When I took the C39V2 to the range, I got around a 1.5-inch group at 50 yards, which widened to about 4 inches at 100. It’s good enough for most situations, and I liked that it takes standard 7.62 AK mags. The stock felt pretty comfortable, and since it folds, it’s convenient to pack or store. However, firing it folded isn’t the most practical.

The trigger pull is smooth, and I appreciate the ambidextrous mag release. I noticed that it handles heavier bullets better. On the downside, I did notice the finish on mine started chipping quickly, and I felt more recoil compared to other AKs. It’s also left-leaning, limiting muzzle device options. Overall, I’d still recommend it, especially if you’re set on a milled receiver.

If you’d like to dig a little bit more into this AK-47 rifle, then be sure to read my full Century Arms C39V2 review!

C39V2 AK47 Pros and Cons

Zastava ZPAP92 Review

The M92 is probably just as popular as a Krink stand-in as it is on its own merits. Maybe more so. Krinks aren’t easy to get hold of, and they’re not exactly cheap, either. Enter the Zastava ZPAP92.

I’ve spent some quality time with the ZPAP92 and found it to be a smooth cycling machine with a bolt that moves like it’s on bearings. It’s often seen as a pistol, but converting it to an SBR isn’t too much of a hassle. Even if you skip the NFA route, this rifle offers ample modularity and customization potential.

While the ZPAP92 has some weight, it’s balanced and easy to handle between targets. At the range, I had no trouble alternating shots. The bolt is easy to rack and features a handy notch for keeping it open to cool down. It handled multiple rounds reliably, much better than my C39V2. However, it didn’t top my list for a few reasons.

The distance between the front and rear sights is too short, making long-range accuracy a challenge. The foldable stock is great for truck use but makes it hard to hold steady with both hands; I had to use a brace to help redistribute the weight. The trigger also lacks a clean break, affecting my timing.

The ZPAP92 is reliable by AK standards, but you’ll need to keep an eye on your wallet if you’re buying more ammunition. The cost of operation is about as steep as maintaining a 1968 Chevy Nova.

Read our full review on the Zastava ZPAP92 for more information!

Zastava ZPAP92 Pros and Cons

Draco NAK9 Review

It is easy to confuse the different Dracos. There’s the 7.62×39 Draco many of us think of when you hear the moniker, the Draco Mini, the Draco Micro, and some others (including one that takes Scorpion mags).

Well, the Draco NAK9 is a pistol caliber carbine (PCC) that’s chambered in 9x19mm and accepts Glock mags, specifically the Glock 17 and 19. I really appreciate this feature because Glock mags are so common, even among those who aren’t Glock enthusiasts.

The NAK9 is incredibly lightweight with low recoil, making it easy to handle. I added a strap to mine for added comfort during longer sessions. The long barrel enhances accuracy, and I managed about 900 rounds per minute during my test. Its modularity and user-friendly design make maintenance a breeze.

However, I found the grip to be somewhat awkward. Its rectangular shape made it hard to hold comfortably without a sling, and the trigger lacked a precise feel, which affected my shot timing. The plastic rail for accessories also didn’t hold up well; it got damaged when I attached an optic.

The mag release is only on the left side, which could be improved with an ambidextrous design. The Korean Glock-inspired mag included didn’t feed reliably, so I had to replace it. Despite these quirks, the NAK9 reliably handles various types of ammo, including hollow points.

If you want to learn more, you should definitely read our full review on the Draco NAK9.

Draco NAK9 Pros and Cons

Zastava N-PAP M70 AK47 Review

This rifle comes recommended by AK Operators Union (and passed their torture test), which says a lot about its performance.

As a fan of AKs, I appreciate the Zastava N-PAP M70 AK47 for its historical significance—this rifle was once the standard issue for the Yugoslav People’s Army, which adds a cool factor for history buffs like me.

In terms of accuracy, I put the N-PAP through its paces at 50 and 70 yards, and it consistently delivered groups of 3-4 inches. I was impressed by its reliability; even as it heated up, the groupings remained tight, making it a solid choice for extended shooting sessions.

The trigger is functional, but it’s not as crisp as I’d like, which occasionally affected my aim. There’s also noticeable recoil, and while it wasn’t too harsh for me, it could be challenging for someone with a smaller build. I experienced the infamous N-PAP cheek slap, which I addressed with a muzzle brake.

Loading the mags was a bit tricky after some use, and I had to sand down the safety lever because it was too tight. This isn’t a job for the inexperienced.

Overall, if you want a reliable AK with a bit of historical flair, the Zastava N-PAP M70 is worth considering. It’s not perfect, but it has its strengths and fits well in my collection.

I haven’t had the chance to do a full review on this one yet, but I’ll make sure to update the article once I do.

Zastava N-PAP M70 Pros and Cons

Worst AK47s to Avoid

When it comes to AK-47s, there are an ungodly amount of cheap or poorly made AK-47s that should be avoided – but let’s face it – this is one of the reasons why so many countries around the world use them.

Therefore, the first thing that I recommend is to make sure you don’t get an unrecognizable branded AK-47. Now, let me caveat this – I am not a ‘brand’ guy and just because a brand is well-known or popular, doesn’t mean every gun they make is going to be excellent.

However, when it comes to AK-47s, you might want to have a recognizable brand behind it. This way, you’re not going to get a Frankenstein or a unit, or something worse.

Now, for the below Avtomat Kalashnikova 1947s, it does NOT necessarily mean they are terrible, or a health risk. I just figured I should list any of the AKs that I didn’t like or were not good enough to make the list. This way, you know they were a part of the comparison and you can confidently pass them:

Palmetto State Armory AK-103:

Palmetto State Armory had a rough start getting into AKs in the past. However, as you saw above on the GF3, they’ve started to get the hang of it.

And while the AK-103 isn’t terrible, I just don’t think it deserved to be on the above list. I liked its modern components and its folding stock. Plus, I thought it was decently accurate for an AK. Furthermore, its inclusion of an AK-74 muzzle brake helps with muzzle rise management.

However, I had a lot of problems with its exhaust mitigation and was one of the loudest. Now, I hear you saying – dude, it’s an AK47 – who is trying to keep it quiet? True – but the way it is built gives me pause. Also, it’s just around 1000 and for that amount, there are better options on the market. If you’d like to learn more about this one, you can check out our latest in-depth review about the PSA AK-103 here.

Buyer’s Guide for the AK-47

If you’re in the market for a budget AK-47, it’s worth learning a bit about these iconic rifles first. They come with a rich history and a wide range of uses. In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know—from key considerations when buying an AK-47 to the history of these rifles, how they function, the differences between stamped and milled AK-47s, and more. Let’s dive in.

What Should a Buyer Think About When Purchasing an AK-47?

As much as I would like to say you can get a good AK-47 in the US, they’re just hard to find. The top things to be aware of when you’re looking for an AK-47 are the following:

1. Canted Sights– If you find an AK-47 with these types of sights, it’s probably more headache than its worth. There are better options, so I recommend staying away from these.
2. Safety and Trigger– Make sure the safety moves easily and locks into its grooves on the frame. The trigger needs to be a clean pull and strongly resets.
3. Magazine– This needs to fit “easily” into its slot, and if it does not, it is likely the gun is not cut to spec and you should walk away.

When compared to an AR-15, the AKM has a bit more recoil and a bit slower bullet velocity.

Another thing to think about is whether or not you want to stick with the iron sights or whether you should get a scope for your AK47. Unlike other rifles, it is a bit rare to see a scope on one of these, and something that I don’t do, but it is something to consider. If you do, you’ll need to get something that can really take a beating.

This is because the rifle shoots ammo with a much bigger bullet. This bigger bullet sacrifices some recoil control for many shooters and doesn’t have the same range as an AR-15, but the recoil and bullet velocity comes with a positive that makes the AK platform popular: more energy on target (although the effective range is decreased, arguably the damage range is increased).

Pros and Cons of AK-47 Rifles

While there are a ton of great rifles out there, AK-47s have their reasons for standing out. Here are a few of them.

Pros 

• The historic charm – AK-47s go way back to the Soviet Union and have been used by soldiers across the world since then, making them a significant piece of history. 
• Generally affordable – They aren’t very expensive compared to other rifles and neither is their ammo, so they’re a lot more accessible to try out.
• Very durable – AK-47s were designed to survive harsh conditions, which means they can withstand any kind of dust and grime you put them through at the range.
• Super easy to operate – These rifles are super simple to use, which is why a lot of beginners get the hang of them in no time.
• Low maintenance – Depending on the model, AK-47s don’t require a lot of cleaning between rounds, which can save you a lot of time and effort.
• Widely available – A lot of countries have their own version of the AK-47, which means you have lots of options to choose from.

That being said, I have had some issues with the AK-47s I’ve tried. These were the main ones. 

Cons 

• Not very accurate – AK-47s were designed for heavy fire across a general area, so they aren’t the best for precision shooting.
• Bit of recoil – These rifles have quite a recoil since they are based off of older designs, so it can be somewhat uncomfortable to shoot. 
• Non ergonomic design – AK-47s were designed for function and durability and not comfort, so you might have to deal with some rectangular grips, odd stocks, and more.
• Non-ambidextrous – The original AK-47s were designed for troops of mostly right-handed soldiers, so it’s very rare to find one compatible with left-handed shooters.

Then again, no one really uses AK-47s solely for their functionality. The history-buffs will know what I’m talking about, but for the benefit of those that don’t, I’ll share how they came to be.

History of AK-47 Rifles

Unlike the service rifles of the USA or Germany, or the first-generation battle rifles of the West in the 1950s, the AK was manufactured without an excess of precision which limited its adaptability as, say, a sniper rifle. (The AK’s then-unique use of an intermediate cartridge also did this). But it suited Soviet doctrine of mass attacks and mass fires well.

 

Unlike the NATO rifleman, the Soviet soldier, although instructed in semiautomatic fire on ranges, was also extensively drilled in live-fire obstacle courses, and was expected to run them firing on full-automatic, from the hip.

 

He was the heir of the submachine-gun battalions of the Battle of Berlin, and planned to fight the same way, as mechanized infantry guarding the flanks and securing the obstacle-ridden forests and towns to enable the great tank attack. Hence, the first click off safety on an AK is full-auto, contrary to every successful NATO selective-fire rifle.

 

 

The same adaptations, design decisions, and production practicality that made the AK a perfect replacement for Ivan’s retired PPSh submachine guns, made the AK a perfect weapon for terrorist groups, “national liberation” movements, and under-resourced armies of newly free colonies worldwide.

 

Like the Mauser before it, the AK is a universal gun. And like the Mauser, the AK will be with us until something better supplants it. And “better,” in this case, will be defined by history and by nations, not necessarily by gun experts.

 

Kevin “Hognose” O’Brien: Weaponsman

 

How AK-47 Rifles Work

The AK-47 is the most widely used, and a favorite, of fighting forces around the world. A big reason is because of how easily the firearm operates. The AK-47 is made up of fairly simple and large pieces, which allow for it to cycle in many different conditions, like sand, mud, and even water.

The moment the operator pulls the trigger, it releases the firing hammer, then strikes the pin. This will then ignite the bullet primer which ignites the gunpowder to launch the bullet. The pressure and gas that pushes the bullet out, also pushes back on the bolt carrier, ejecting the empty shell and resetting the hammer to fire again.

The bolt will then grab a new round from the magazine, and place it into the barrel. During that action, the bolt hammer does not move because of the sear that is holding it in place, that is until the carrier returns to its original position.

Stamped vs Milled AK-47 Rifles

One thing you may encounter as you scroll social media, visit Reddit, or read forums about the AK is an ongoing debate about stamped vs. milled receivers. Milled receivers are often viewed as superior to their more mass-produced, stamped, cousins. In our view this is an unnecessarily contentious subject that is far less significant than many would like you to believe.

Unfortunately, the number of AK owners who dogmatically participate in this argument is smaller than the number of AK owners who actually know and understand the issue – including, at one point, some of the Gun University faculty.

Here’s the thing: check as many reviews as you can and buy the one that appeals to you most within your budget range. Stamped vs. milled should be a secondary concern at best.

AKM VS AK-47 Rifles

AKM stands for Avtomát Kalášnikova modernizírovannyj, or “Kalashnikov’s Automatic Rifle, Modernized”. It’s an improved version of the AK-47, which it began replacing in 1959. Some of the changes made to earn it the moniker modernizírovannyj include:

• Use of a stamped receiver vs one that’s milled. (More on that here.)
• Use of rivets instead of welds.
• Introduction of the iconic slant compensator.
• Use of parkerization metal treatment vs. bluing
• Introduction of the “hammer release delay mechanism”.
• Improvements to the gas ports, which were moved forward to the gas block.
• Barrel pressed and pinned to the receiver (vs being threaded and screwed in).

The AKM was mostly replaced in the late 1970s by AK-74 (A K seven four, which is easily mistaken/transposed for A K four seven). The AK-74 was then superseded in turn. The lineage now includes different versions of the AK-12 (including the AK-15 and AK-19) in various calibers.

Confused? Don’t sweat it unless you’re on the hook for an AK trivia game.

We’ll provide some links below if you’re interested in learning more.

Imports vs. “Home-Grown” AKs

If you’re looking to modify or buy an imported AK, you need to be aware of what we refer to as 922R. That is a part of the federal laws governing the importation of rifles and shotguns.

 

Specifically, that’s US Code, Title 18: Crimes and Criminal Procedure. The 44th chapter of Title 18 governs firearms and section 922 (18 USC 922) explains what can be done, and not be done, with firearms. When someone says 922R they are referring to Subsection R of Section 922.

 

Clear as mud? Let’s break it down Barney-style:

 

There are certain rifles and shotguns that may NOT be imported because they are not “suitable [] for sporting purposes” and it is illegal to assemble one of these banned rifles or shotguns from too many imported parts.

 

Note the nuance there: you can build/assemble an otherwise illegal to import firearm IF you use enough US Made parts (there aren’t too many foreign parts).

 

Learn more about 922R.

AK Calibers

Most AKs you’ll see will be chambered in one of four calibers: the original 7.62, the subsequent 5.45, or the NATO-side 5.56. Other calibers are available, but typically only in niche platforms and/or limited numbers.

More recently we’ve begun seeing what are effectively AK Pistol Caliber Carbines (PCCs), mostly in 9mm Parabellum (like the Draco NAK9).

Wondering what the various models are, and in what caliber? Read on.

Please note that this might not be 100% complete or accurate (we’re working on that). It is a pretty comprehensive list, though, and one we can’t take credit for either. That honor goes to Bernard Samartsev, from a conversation in the comments of an article on the Firearms History Blog.

5.45x39mm AKs

• AK-12 (2012 – all-new AK with collapsible and folding stock, ambidextrous bolt catch and fire selector/safety lever, Picatinny rails, new muzzle brake, charging handle and pistol grip, semi-auto, 3-round burst and full-auto fire modes)
• AK-74 and AKS-74 (1974 – AKS-74 has side folding metal stock)
• AK-74M (1991 – side folding polyamide stock, polyamide handguard and dovetail side rail telescopic sight mount)
• AK-74M3 (2011 – new pistol grip and receiver cover, additional safety lever, recoil pad and Picatinny rails, semi-auto and full-auto fire modes)
• AK-105 (1994 – carbine version of AK-74M)
• AK-105-1 (1994 – semi-auto only)
• AK-105-2 (1999 – semi-auto, 3-round burst and full-auto fire modes)
• AK-107 (1999 – version of AK-74M with recoil reducing operating system, semi-auto, 3-round burst and full-auto fire modes)
• AKS-74U (1979 – carbine version of AKS-74)

AK Platforms Chambered in 5.56x45mm NATO

• AK-12 (2012)
• AK-101 (1994 – 5.56 mm version of AK-74M)
• AK-101-1 (1994 – semi-auto only)
• AK-101-2 (1999 – semi-auto, 3-round burst and full-auto fire modes)
• AK-102 (1994 – carbine version of AK-101)
• AK-102-1 (1994 – semi-auto only)
• AK-102-2 (1999 – semi-auto, 3-round burst and full-auto fire modes)
• AK-108 (1999 – version of AK-101 with recoil reducing operating system, semi-auto, 3-round burst and full-auto fire modes)

7.62x39mm AK Platform Weapons

• AK and AKS (1949 – first model or Type 1, AKS has downward folding metal stock)
• AK and AKS (1952 – second model or Type 2, AKS has downward folding metal stock)
• AK and AKS (1955 – third model or Type 3, AKS has downward folding metal stock)
• AK-12 (2012)
• AK-103 (1994 – 7.62 mm version of AK-74M)
• AK-103-1 (1994 – semi-auto only)
• AK-103-2 (1999 – semi-auto, 3-round burst and full-auto fire modes)
• AK-103-3 (2009 – new pistol grip and receiver cover, additional safety lever, bipod and Picatinny rails, semi-auto and full-auto fire modes)
• AK-104 (1994 – carbine version of AK-103)
• AK-104-1 (1994 – semi-auto only)
• AK-104-2 (1999 – semi-auto, 3-round burst and full-auto fire modes)
• AKM and AKMS (1959 – AKMS has downward folding metal stock)

Final Thoughts on the Best AK-47 Rifle

Overall, AK-47 rifles are durable, affordable and easy to use which is why they’ve gained a lot of popularity over the years. They’re the product of a classic Russian design that has been adapted by multiple countries, with each prioritizing different features.

The best AK-47 I’ve ever used has to be the WASR-10, but yours could be completely different depending on what you want in a rifle. With that in mind, AK-47s aren’t for everyone and aren’t all-purpose rifles. They’re definitely not my go-to choice when I’m precision shooting and they might even have some recoil and be uncomfortable to hold, but hey – they’re iconic. 

The AK-47 is a classic, and its staying power speaks to how reliable and widely accepted the rifle is. Hopefully, you’ve found something on my list that you’d want to try and if you didn’t, there are a ton of different options you can try out. Feel like we’ve skipped over your favorite AK-47 variant? Let us know below and we’d be happy to include it in our next blog.  

Best AK-47 Rifles – FAQs