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10 Best AK-47 Upgrades [Hands-On]: Rails, Triggers, & More

3 Upgraded AK-47s
3 Upgraded AK-47s
Want the most out of your AK? We cover everything from optics mounts to triggers, muzzle devices and more. By the end you'll have the AK of your dreams.
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    Want to make your AK-47 even better?

    3 Upgraded AK-47s
    Upgraded AK-47s

    We’ve tried a lot of the stuff out there. Some of it worked great…other stuff…not too much.

    So, we decided to help you out by pulling together some of our favorite upgrades for the AK-47 platform.

    While this list does not include every option out there, it’ll get you started as we span everything from furniture to optics mounting, triggers, and muzzle devices.

    By the end, you’ll know exactly what you need to make your AK the best suited for your task.

    THE QUICK LIST

    1. Best Upgrade for Suppressed AKs

      KNS Precision Adjustable AK Piston

    Table of Contents

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    Best AK-47 Upgrades

    1. AK Scope Rails

    If your AK is equipped with a side rail, that means you can bring your AK to the next level by mounting an optic.

    PSAK Scope Attachment
    AK side rail, located above the trigger.

    We like Midwest for all their AK stuff (and their AR-15 Handguards). There are a couple of different options.

    Midwest Industries AK Railed Scope Mount

    Midwest AK Optics Mount with Vortex
    Midwest AK Optics Mount with Vortex

    The Midwest Industries Rail is the most versatile mount since it gives you Picatinny rails on the top.

    It uses a very secure and adjustable quick detach method, although reading the instructions is highly recommended. You don’t want it too tight, and the disengagement system is a little hard to figure out initially.

    For us, it has been so far so good with the zero when taking the red dot and mount on and off to field strip the gun.

    Available Coupons

    Midwest Industries Gen 2 AK 30mm Side Mount

    If you’re rocking a 30mm red dot, like our favorite Aimpoint Pro (full review), you can shed some of that weight from the Picatinny rail with the Midwest Gen 2 30mm Side Mount.

    179.99
    at Grab A Gun

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Available Coupons

    The Cheaper Option

    Disclaimer — I haven’t tried these particular mounts out, some readers may be looking for more budget options that have decent reviews.

    33
    at Amazon

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Available Coupons

    2. Gas Tube Optics Mounts

    Replacing the gas tube with a railed version is what I have used as my optic mounting solution for the longest.

    It holds zero very well but does heat up the optic, so you’ll have to either shoot slowly or opt for a quality optic that is tough enough, like the Aimpoint H-1 pictured above (Best Red Dots).

    Ultimak Rail Mount with Aimpoint
    Ultimak Rail Mount with Aimpoint

    It also places the optic a little farther forward, which gives you a great field of view but makes it a little harder to acquire the dot. This is not a problem if you have a proper cheek weld, though.

    Ultimak AK Optic Mount

    Ultimak’s version is the gold standard and has worked for 5+ years for me.

    98
    at Primary Arms

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Available Coupons

    Midwest Industries AK Gas Block Mount

    Midwest has come out with their version, which features an adjustable nut that makes installation really easy. So far, it has proven to be as tough and durable as its Ultimak counterpart.

    3. Handguards

    The original handguard for the AK works well, and there are those that find anything but regular wood furniture blasphemy.

    Century Arms WASR-10 glamour
    Century Arms WASR-10

    But I love my polymer furniture!

    Magpul MOE AK Handguard

    Magpul AK Handguard
    Magpul AK Handguard

    Magpul’s MOE handguard is the same length as a standard AK handguard, but provides M-LOK slots for accessories, improved ergonomics, and holds up to the heat.

    29.18
    at Kygunco

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Available Coupons

    Midwest Industries MLOK Handguard

    This offering from Midwest has you swap your original handguard for one with MLOK capability while also giving your AK a more updated look.

    The MLOK slots allow for flexibility. You can mount lights, grips, and even optics. (Photo: Gatdaily)

    I used the older, discontinued Picatinny version of the Midwest Industries rail, and it secured all the attachments firmly, and the optic held zero.

    PAP M92
    PAP M92 with the older version of the Midwest Handguard

    The newer MLOK models also offer quick detach points for use with your favorite sling. Different length models are also available.

    Best AK Handguard
    156.49
    at OpticsPlanet

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Available Coupons

    4. Buttstocks

    Again, there’s nothing wrong with the original stock…but I really like Magpul’s Zhukov.

    Zhukov Buttstock
    Zhukov Buttstock

    It is length adjustable, foldable, and features a robust attachment system (make sure to follow the instructions). It also has the ability to accept a cheek riser that easily clamps into place, which is useful for those considering using optics.

    Folded Zhukov Stock
    Folded Zhukov Stock

    Plus, it looks super cool when combo-ed with the Magpul MOE handguard since I think the Zhukov front (above) is too long.

    PSAK Finish
    PSAK with Magpul Zhukov stock and MOE handguard.

    The Zhukov is my favorite AK stock as of now.

    Available Coupons

    And if you’re in love with a specific AR-15 stock (Best AR-15 Stocks), you can get an adapter that allows your AK to use any of them that you like.

    Best AR-15 Buttstocks
    Best AR-15 Buttstocks

    Here’s our go-to…

    65
    at Brownells

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Available Coupons

    5. Pistol Grip

    I haven’t tried out too many aftermarket pistol grips for the AK, but I find them pretty similar to that of the AR-15s.

    PSA AK-47
    PSAK-47 with a Hogue grip.

    Magpul MOE AK Grip

    This keep-it-simple-stupid grip fills the hand better than the thinner stock AK grip, adds some texturing to the front and rear, and has a storage compartment.

    Best AK Grip
    17
    at Brownells

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Available Coupons

    Hogue AK Grip

    If you want to maximize the grippiness and like a more rubbery texture — I suggest the Hogue AK grip. The finger grooves and texturing provide an ultra-positive grip regardless of conditions.

    Available Coupons

    Strike Industries Featureless AK Grip

    If you’re in a restricted state, we got you covered. The Strike Industries Featureless grip sports the unpopular but required fin for those who need state-compliant features.

    PSAK-47, California Compliant
    PSAK-47, California Compliant
    Available Coupons

    6. AK Magazines

    I love the old Bulgarian mags, but for new generation polymer magazines, Magpul’s Gen 3 PMAG is where it’s at. The AK versions of the PMAG have the same reliability and durability that their industry AR-15 counterparts do.

    7. Piston

    An over-gassed AK can cause premature wear and tear on the firearm itself, not to mention it can increase perceived recoil. So, it makes sense to prevent this by installing a new piston.

    I recommend the KNS Precision Adjustable AK Piston. This is also a must-have for those who are considering suppressing their AK platform.

    Best Upgrade for Suppressed AKs
    135
    at Rainier Arms

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Available Coupons

    8. Smaller Parts

    AK Safety Latch

    Finally, bolt hold open capability on the AK! This safety lever has a notch in the middle that allows you to flip the safety up when the bolt is held to the rear and lock it into place.

    Krebs Safety Latch
    Krebs Safety Latch
    Available Coupons

    9. AK Muzzle Devices

    The AK-47 kicks more than the AR-15 thanks to the 7.62x39mm cartridge. Although the standard slant brake is ok — it can always be better.

    Slant AK Brake
    Slant AK Brake

    The PWS muzzle brake tames the AK’s native cartridge and makes shooting much more pleasant. I have an older PWS brake since I’ve run for years.

    PWS AK Muzzle Brake, Old Version
    PWS AK Muzzle Brake, Old Version

    It tames the recoil and muzzle rise very well without adding too much mass or length to the end of the barrel.

    Available Coupons

    Have a shorter-barrelled AK? How about a can that pushes the blast forward? These make it easier on the shooter, and your range friends will thank you too.

    Best Upgrade for Short AKs
    30.99
    at Brownells

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Available Coupons

    10. AK-47 Triggers

    We end with a super important upgrade…the trigger.

    Getting a better trigger (especially on an AK) is probably the best bang-for-the-buck upgrade for immediate accuracy improvements.

    PSAK-47 Safety
    ALG AK Trigger

    On my AK, the ALG AKT Trigger brought my trigger weight down to 3.1 pounds and reduced the post and pre-travel — Amazing!

    Plus, the installation was fairly easy.

    Best AK Trigger
    115
    at Brownells

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Available Coupons

    The ALG trigger would also make a great addition to those running 9mm AKs, like the KUSA KP-9 (check our video review).

    What’s your take on the ALG AK Enhanced Trigger? Rate it below.

    Readers' Ratings

    4.99/5 (1938)

    Your Rating?

    Another option that yields a better overall trigger pull is the CMC Elite Trigger for the AK. This one does come at a much higher expense and potentially a much harder install (depending on your gun) than the ALG.

    225
    at Brownells

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Available Coupons

    Remember, the best way to see how much of an upgrade your trigger really was is to measure the weights before and after. Check out the Best Trigger Pull Gauges recommendations.

    Final Thoughts

    Let’s be real; customizing a gun is a very personal decision.

    So, while these are some of the PPT crew’s favorites, this is by no means a definitive list. There are a ton of other options out there for you when it comes to upgrades.

    Upgraded AKs
    Upgraded AKs

    Whether you want to mount an optic affordably or fully trick out your AK to bring it to the 21st century, there’s an upgrade for it.

    But hopefully, we’ve helped you narrow down the list a bit.

    Anything else you’d add to the list? Let us know in the comments below. And if you’re looking at a new (or first) AK purchase, check out our Best AK-47 post. Or, now that you’ve got an optic mount, see our Best AR-15 Optics (since they are pretty much the same for AKs).

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    40 Leave a Reply

    • Commenter Avatar
      Pops

      I have both a CMC trigger and an ALG. The CMC has a light crisp trigger with a short reset but installation was way more difficult. I actually prefer the ALG, not quite as light but I think it will hold up better in adverse environments and just last longer without having to fiddle with it from time to time

      January 13, 2024 12:46 pm
    • Commenter Avatar
      Hefty Lefty

      A real “noob” to AK-47s b/c I refused to buy mil-surp / used Soviet bloc junk. Times change. My *new* “furniture ready” Palmetto State Armory GF5 AK-47 is 100% American-made parts - zero 922r questions! - including the hammer-forged Fabrique Nationale-Herstal (Columbia, SC) “machine-gun steel” barrel and a hammer-forged 4340AQ trunnion / bolt / bolt carrier from ToolCraft (Marion NC). FN-Herstal has the current DoD contract for ALL M4 / M16 / M249 weapons and ToolCraft is the top O.E.M. of AR bolts / bolt carriers.
      But the AK parts that always bugged when I shot one was the horrible trigger! Installed an ALG-AKT “combat” trigger group with their high-energy Chrome-Silicon spring instead of that twisted thing standard to AKs … and there is zero “creep”, zero “gritty” feel … just a 3-1/2 - 4# “glass break” release. My earlier disrespect for any AK-47 is no more. Ready for some range time - with a smile on my face.

      September 18, 2023 4:12 pm
      • Commenter Avatar
        Alternator

        "Soviet bloc junk" isn't just "noob." It's dumbass. We now know that PSA isn't properly dimpling the receivers into the trunnions, nor are they using the proper swell neck rivets. We now know that PSA bolts and bolt carriers are deforming due to poor barrel timing and bad heat treatment. We now know that PSA firing pins are peening out the firing pin hole and piercing primers, etc. The cheapest WASR 10 is superior to any American AK yet made. FACTS.

        January 16, 2024 8:02 am
    • Commenter Avatar
      Chuck

      Struggling to find a place to ask this but is there a combo sight mount to mount both a red dot and a scope on an AK74? Scope mounted up top and red dot canted? Personal preference and I have no rationale other than I appreciate the look and utility of it.

      June 26, 2023 12:38 pm
      • Commenter Avatar
        Kris

        You just need a canted picatinny attachment. It connects to your top rail and give you a small 45 degree rail for a red dot. In run this configuration on an AR. I think both would fit on the midwest industries rail, but you might need a foregrip rail as well.

        October 6, 2023 2:02 am
    • Commenter Avatar
      Vlad

      Nyet, rifle is fine.

      September 16, 2022 8:59 pm
    • Commenter Avatar
      Insert Random Words

      Thoughts on Sabrewrks KOP?

      September 16, 2022 3:44 pm
    • Commenter Avatar
      Bull o' the Woods

      The AK is inferior in every way to the AR. The AK's only advantage was cheap Russian ammo. Now that the government has banned import of cheap ammo, the AK has lost its mojo and indeed its raison d'être. In ~2004-2005, the opposite was true. Cheap AK parts kits (with barrels) were flooding the market and cheap Combloc ammo was everywhere, but 5.56 and 7.62 NATO ammo was impossible to find, allegedly due to the "Global War on Terror." As a shooter, I hate the fact that the government can manipulate the market so easily and whipsaw customers. What's the solution? Buy it cheap, stack it deep, and have something for every major caliber, which is an unnecessary and unreasonable burden on shooters.

      September 15, 2022 4:15 pm
      • Commenter Avatar
        Alternator

        You have been abducted by a cult. But, hey, FREE KOOL-AID!

        September 19, 2022 8:52 am
        • Commenter Avatar
          Bull o' the Woods

          Huh? I don't understand your comment.

          June 12, 2023 6:08 pm
      • Commenter Avatar
        Hefty Lefty

        I used to hate AKs but per my earlier post, times change. They’re decent for <100m plinking but if someone is simply in love with the 7.62 x39 cartridge for some reason … now that cheap steel supplies are dwindling, a Ruger Mini 30 is a better weapon. Or, just “throw in the towel” on a - what? - +75 year-old rifle and ammunition spec? - and go with an AR in .300 Blackout. Net difference is “macht-nichts” and the same basic .30 caliber slug from the AR will be sent FAR more accurately down-range than the AK. I just find my brand new 199% American AK …. amusing. Still pretty crude. But amusing.

        September 18, 2023 4:24 pm
    • Commenter Avatar
      Yurii

      Please price

      June 27, 2022 9:49 pm
    • Commenter Avatar
      Kevin

      Dang, the alg trigger has doubled in price since this article

      March 19, 2022 9:30 pm
    • Commenter Avatar
      Panda

      What about a underfolder? Is there a specific stock?

      March 17, 2022 2:50 pm
    • Commenter Avatar
      Evan

      I have a question, I want to get a magpul Zhukov stock for my ZPAP Serbian m70, and I want to make sure I get the right one, one of them is a regulak stock the other is a yugo stock.

      January 20, 2022 4:16 pm
    • Commenter Avatar
      Sean

      For those keeping it simple with iron sight, you should check out the Tech-Sight adjustable aperture rear sight and replacement top cover. The sight mounts at the rear of the receiver where it belongs, increases the sight radius. Outstanding addition to an AK truck gun.

      November 17, 2021 4:48 pm
    • Commenter Avatar
      sound awake

      so now that its been established that a $750 to $1500 ak requires at least $200 to $250 in additional parts for it to do what any bare bones plain jane ar 15 does right out of the box...
      here is the list i compiled of the best ak add ons by far:
      1 bear creek arsenal ar 15 complete upper chambered in 7.62x39 with mlok rail - $250
      2 palmetto state armory ar 15 complete lower with enhanced polished trigger $200

      November 17, 2021 7:47 am
      • Commenter Avatar
        Sean Tyler

        And your still stuck with a jam matic poodle shooter instead of a real rifle.

        December 13, 2021 8:25 pm
    • Commenter Avatar
      Jason

      SLR and J-MAC make the sexiest stuff for this platform IMHO. Great content as usual!

      November 16, 2021 10:06 am
      • Commenter Avatar
        Drew

        SLR GOR THE WIN!! I went with SLR hand guard and gas tube, FAB defense receiver/dust cover. It’s super sexy and functional as a mfer.

        December 19, 2021 11:19 am
    • Commenter Avatar
      Patrick

      Article is great! I've gotta know what kind of camo pattern you used on the top AK.

      November 15, 2021 4:39 pm
    • Commenter Avatar
      Tom Stinson

      Thanks Eric. However, the featureless pistol grip photo is for an AR not an AK.

      July 29, 2021 2:55 pm
    • Commenter Avatar
      Alpha AF

      this is article garbage except for the brake and trigger.

      June 24, 2021 7:37 pm
      • Commenter Avatar
        Alpha AF

        this article is*

        June 24, 2021 7:39 pm
    • Commenter Avatar
      Patrick

      I've got a Norinco MAK90 from back in the 90s. Shoots as smooth as butta. Never liked the hardware though. I'm seeing plenty of items out there, but seem to always get tripped up by the upper receiver attachment for stocks. Any recommendations out there? (Already own several USA products, thank you)

      September 26, 2020 11:02 am
    • Commenter Avatar
      Patrick

      What happened to item 7?

      July 18, 2020 4:57 pm
    • Commenter Avatar
      Bull o' the Woods

      How do the Midwest rail systems stand up to heat? Have to wear gloves? The Russian Molot AK grip is popular for those with large hands (if you can find one). I'm running the RS Regulate scope mount and it seems to work well but it is almost too adjustable. It is a two-piece affair with a bunch of screws that must be perfectly aligned and then Loctited securely. The add-on which seems to be getting the most press lately is the KNS Precision Adjustable Gas Piston. I have one on order. Allows you to custom-tune the gas settings and is essential for those running suppressors. I tried a Texas Weapons System top cover and found the aluminum too soft. Very delicate piece of kit that is easily deformed on installation (don't ask me how I know). The TWS product is not sufficiently robust to run on the AK platform. Stick to the side scope mount. I run a standard AK-100 side-folding stock and the length of pull is perfect for me. While the triangle side-folder looks way more cool, the full stock is far more comfortable to shoot.

      May 26, 2020 6:43 pm
    • Commenter Avatar
      Matt

      Everything is upgradeable and its mostly a matter of preference but my top picks are 1. CMC trigger 2. Texas Weapons Top Cover 3. Iron Claw Tactical Magwell 4. KNS Precision Adjustable Gas Piston and 5. Krebs MKVII Safety Selector. I have upgraded other things but I think these are what make my AK what it is.

      January 24, 2020 6:07 am
    • Commenter Avatar
      Jerzy

      Anyone ,Im looking for barrel clamp on mossberg 930 spx.So far Im not sure what choice I have.

      October 29, 2018 2:28 pm
    • Commenter Avatar
      Matthew

      Eric, why do you think the full-length Magpul Zhukov handguard is "too long"? Is it an aesthetics issue or something else?

      October 21, 2018 2:48 pm
    • Commenter Avatar
      Xochitl

      RS Regulate blows Midwest Industries junk out of the water. MI scope mount is garbage and unusable on any AKM - won’t fit due to rear sight or sits back too far to view.

      There’s a lot more out there than what’s listed and feel this is luke warm at best from an informational and practical perspective. TWS products are nice but I’ve experienced shift in zero so can’t recommend them. Longer sight radius is offset by loss of range adjustments.

      Troy and VLTOR handguard options are sweet and rival MI. Troy also makes a railed gas tube option.

      October 18, 2018 10:33 pm
      • Commenter Avatar
        Eric Hung

        Thanks for the recs!

        October 18, 2018 10:40 pm
      • Commenter Avatar
        Warrenhontas

        I am a bit disappointed with my 2 piece drop in Mlok handguard from Midwest Industries on my AR upper. There’s a bit of play and rattle, and I know the upper is good. It’s not terrible but I am a bit ocd and it’s enough to bother me at times. The Magpul MOE was much tighter (pain in the butt to take off without the handguard tool actually). I don’t want to make this upper low profile for free float either.

        October 19, 2018 7:23 am
      • Commenter Avatar
        smurf211

        I have a MI mount on PSA AK with 1x6 ACSS scope. No problems whatsoever. Returns to zero every time. Works fine, last a long time. Added a .75 in cheek riser to the Z MOE stock.

        December 24, 2019 7:09 am
    • Commenter Avatar
      Patrick

      Great article, definitely look into the Texas Weapon Systems Dog Leg Rail, Gen-3 - AKM, AK-47 / 74. I have it on two rifles and it is rock solid when mounted and makes mounting and getting a good cheek weld really easy. Not really added bulk/ weight and you can easily swing your dust cover up and off to field strip without any difficulty. No crazy drilling holes required either!

      October 18, 2018 8:20 pm
      • Commenter Avatar
        Eric Hung

        Will do thanks for the recs!

        October 18, 2018 10:39 pm
    • Commenter Avatar
      John KY

      Best upgrade to the commie AK? An AR, you're welcome. America, love it or leave it.

      October 18, 2018 7:47 pm
      • Commenter Avatar
        Eric Hung

        Lol, best comment yet

        October 18, 2018 10:39 pm
    • Commenter Avatar
      Mr.Try Hard

      Definitely loving the increase in AK related articles.

      October 18, 2018 3:50 pm
      • Commenter Avatar
        Eric Hung

        We'll keep em coming!

        October 18, 2018 10:39 pm
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