AKs are available in many differfent chamberings.
Welcome to How to Buy an AK-47, the most complete buyer’s guide to the Kalashnikov platform on the web. We provide unbiased reviews and commentary to help you decide what rifle and third party parts are best for you.
All the info on this site is derived from my book, How to Buy an AK-47–How to Purchase, Maintain and Customize an AK Rifle.
You can navigate to the content you’re interested in by going to specific areas, ie optics, muzzle brakes, etc. Or, you can browse the text links.
You can also purchase the entire book from Amazon by clicking on the cover photo.
New information is added on a regular basis and if there’s a product missing that you think deserves attention, feel free to email us at ontargethawaii@gmail.com.
AK Product Spotlight
Primary Arms Silver Series 1-6x24mm FFP Rifle Scope – Illuminated ACSS-RAPTOR-300BO/7.62×39
Primary Arms Silver Series 1-6x24mm SFP Rifle Scope Gen III – Illuminated ACSS-300BO/7.62×39
Primary Arms Silver Series Advanced Push Button Microdot Red Dot Sight
Holosun Paralow HS503G Red Dot Sight – ACSS CQB Reticle
Ultimak – AK Scout Mount Mode M1-B
RS Regulate – AK47/AKM Optic Mount System
Trijicon ACOG 1.5x16S Low Compact Scope – Dual Illuminated ACSS CQB-M5 – Green
Primary Arms Silver Series Compact 1×20 Prism Scope – ACSS-Cyclops
TangoDown BG AK BATTLEGRIP (Black)
XTech Tactical MAG47 (7.62x39mm) 30 Round AK47 Magazine
ProMag AKSL-30 AK-47 Magazine – 7.62x39mm
How to Buy the Best AK
Choosing the right optic for your AK–an interview with ACSS Designer, Dimitri Mikroulis
Editor’s Note: Dimitri Mikroulis is perhaps the most influential reticle designers in the industry. His ACSS design, sold on Primary Arms, has proven to be the simplest, quickest method of ranging a human-size target, compensating for bullet drop, leading a moving target, and holding for crosswind. In essence ACSS fuses an accurate rangefinder into the[Read More…]
Jim Fuller’s AK buyer’s guide
Jim Fuller, founder of Rifle Dynamics in Las Vegas is considered one of the premier custom AK builders in the business. Jim (shown here with his wife and business partner, Karen)has some great tips for finding the right rifle.
AK Buying Tips from Mike Owen
Mike Owen, founder of Meridian Ordnance LLC in Mount Sterling, Kentucky, has some great advice to help first-time buyers sort out what to look for when choosing an AK.
Chase Sisgold on choosing an AK
Chase Sisgold, co-founder of Definitive Arms in St. Petersburg, Florida is one of the leading builders of custom AKs in the nation. Here are his tips on what to look for when buying your rifle.
How to Buy the Best AK-47 for your dollar
How much should you fork out for that AK? Here’s what to consider when you’re shopping around.
Best aftermarket parts
Planning to customize your AK-47? Read this first.
If you’re planning to customize your rifle with third party parts, read this before you starting spending money.
Tips from Marc Krebs on finding the best AK-47 parts
One the most influential AK gunsmiths on the planet, Wauconda, IL based Marc Krebs reflects on what add-on parts to consider for your rifle.
AK parts tips from Larry Vickers
Former Delta Force operator and trainer extraordinaire, Larry Vickers offers his advice on the best aftermarket parts for your AK.
Parts Customization Tips from Tim Harmsen
Veteran firearms journalist and AK enthusiast Tim Harmsen proffers his favorite aftermarket parts.
Chase Sisgold’s favorite aftermarket parts
Chase Sisgold offers his take on the best aftermarket parts for your AK.
Jim Fuller on choosing the best aftermarket parts
Jim Fuller provides advice on choosing the best parts to customize your AK.
2018 AK Optics Buyer’s Guide from Tim Yan
Journalist and former Marine Corps marksman instructor Tim Yan is one of the top optics experts in the firearms industry. Read his top picks for AK optics.
Best aftermarket parts
Planning to customize your AK-47? Read this first.
If you’re planning to customize your rifle with third party parts, read this before you starting spending money.
Tips from Marc Krebs on finding the best AK-47 parts
One the most influential AK gunsmiths on the planet, Wauconda, IL based Marc Krebs reflects on what add-on parts to consider for your rifle.
AK parts tips from Larry Vickers
Former Delta Force operator and trainer extraordinaire, Larry Vickers offers his advice on the best aftermarket parts for your AK.
Parts Customization Tips from Tim Harmsen
Veteran firearms journalist and AK enthusiast Tim Harmsen proffers his favorite aftermarket parts.
Chase Sisgold’s favorite aftermarket parts
Chase Sisgold offers his take on the best aftermarket parts for your AK.
Jim Fuller on choosing the best aftermarket parts
Jim Fuller provides advice on choosing the best parts to customize your AK.
2018 AK Optics Buyer’s Guide from Tim Yan
Journalist and former Marine Corps marksman instructor Tim Yan is one of the top optics experts in the firearms industry. Read his top picks for AK optics.
Resources, Maintenance and Shooting Tips
AK Calibers
Converting a “Sporterized” AK
We discuss the process of converting a sporterized rifle into a recognizable AK.
Where are AK-47s built?
Ever wonder who builds these rifles? We discuss the foreign and domestic manufacturers.
Why Buy an AK-47?
Why get an AK in the first place when there are so many more modern rifle designs on the market. We tell you why…
How do you define AK-47?
The term “AK-47” and Kalashnikov are used interchangeably but what exactly do these terms mean? Read all about it.
Before you buy an AK-47 Optic
A short piece on how optics work and what kinds are available.
Start with the Right Mount
Choosing the right mount is just as important as picking the right optic.
Cleaning and lubricating your AK
Cleaning and lubing your AK is a snap to do. We show you how.
Field stripping your rifle
The good news is that field stripping your AK is quick and easy.
Adjusting the Front Sight
Adjusting the front sight is not difficult. We show you how.
AK Nomenclature
A handy guide to Kalashnikov nomenclature and terminology.
Milled vs. Stamped Receivers
Are you better off with a milled or a stamped receiver? We look at the pros and cons of each.
Safety lever Upgrade
Swapping your stock safety lever for a upgraded model will aide shooting technique.
AK Minimalism—Lessons from Larry Vickers
When it comes to adding handguards and other accessories, less can be more. Larry Vickers says “seriously resist the urge to over-accessorize the gun”.
The co-witness concept
Setting up your red dot optic to co-witness will keep you on target.
Short discourse on cheek weld
Getting a good cheek-weld is key to shooting your rifle accurately.
Upgrading iron sights
One of the least expensive, most effective upgrades to help your shooting is an iron sight upgrade.
Choosing an AK optics mount
Chances are, adding an optic will improve your shooting. An optics mount is essential if your AK doesn’t have a rail-ready option.
Online Resources
Find all the resources you need…dealers, manufacturers…