10 Best Optics for the AK Platform
improve your rifle performance with the 10 Best ak optics
While the AR platform may be the more popular choice for optics and other attachments, the use of optics AK platform is gaining traction among shooters who want to enhance their AK rifles with a little bit of glass, helping to improve accuracy whether that be in close quarters or at a distance.
The AK, with its storied history and reputation for reliability, is a formidable weapon that rivaled the AR style rifles for decades. However, the AK is something that can benefit from the added accuracy and target acquisition provided by optics. However, finding the best and suitable AK optics can be a bit more challenging compared to the AR platform, as the AR platform typically has attachment friendly rails for you to throw things on like foregrips, and in this case, optics. The AK's design, which dates back to the end of World War II, does not lend itself easily to optic mounting. But fear not, there are several solutions available that allow AK owners to mount a variety of optics, including red dot sights, holographic sights, and even magnified scopes.
Our team at Core Vision Training is going to explore the top 10 AK optics that you should consider for your rifle, taking into account factors such as compatibility, durability, and performance. Whether you're a seasoned AK shooter or new to the platform, this guide will help you find the best optics to enhance your AK experience.
Top 10 AK Optics quick list
AK rifles with no optic are certainly difficult to master. That being said, if you're in the market for AK optics, here are the top 10 options worth considering:
Vortex Optics StrikeFire II Red Dot Sight
Aimpoint PRO Patrol Rifle Optic
Primary Arms SLx Advanced 30mm Red Dot
Holosun HS510C 2 MOA Dot & 65 MOA Circle Reflex Sight
EOTech 512.A65 Tactical Holographic
Sig Sauer Romeo5 Compact 2 MOA Red Dot Sight
Trijicon ACOG 4x32 BAC Dual Illuminated Riflescopes
Bushnell Trophy TRS-25 Red Dot Sight Riflescope
Leupold VX-Freedom RDS 1x34mm Red Dot Sight
Nikon P-Tactical Spur Reflex Sight
top 10 ak optics
Now, let’s actually dive into the best AK optics that we have hand selected and tested ourselves.
1. Vortex Optics StrikeFire II Red Dot Sight
The Vortex Optics StrikeFire II Red Dot Sight is a top choice for AK rifles, offering a clear and sharp red dot for quick target acquisition. With its rugged construction and long battery life, it's a reliable option for both seasoned shooters and beginners looking to enhance their shooting experience. Optics StrikeFire II Red Dot Sight is a popular choice among AK shooters. It features a bright red dot reticle that allows for quick target acquisition and improved accuracy. The battery life on the StrikeFire II is impressive, with long hours of continuous use on a single CR2032 battery. This makes it suitable for extended periods in the field.
The sight is also built to withstand rugged conditions, with a durable construction that can handle recoil and harsh environments. With its affordable price point and excellent performance, the Vortex Optics StrikeFire II is a solid option for AK owners looking to enhance their rifle with a red dot sight.
Price: $274.99
2. Aimpoint PRO Patrol Rifle Optic
The Aimpoint PRO Patrol Rifle Optic is a high-quality red dot sight that is specifically designed for law enforcement and military applications. With its rugged construction and reliable performance, the Aimpoint PRO is a top choice for AK owners. Some key features of the Aimpoint PRO include:
Long battery life, allowing for extended use in the field
Compatible with night vision devices, providing enhanced visibility in low-light conditions
2 MOA red dot reticle for precise aiming
Multi-layer coated lenses for excellent light transmission and clarity
Flip-up lens covers for added protection
With its durability, long battery life, and night vision compatibility, the Aimpoint PRO is a reliable and versatile optic for AK rifles.
Price: $497.00
3. Primary Arms SLx Advanced 30mm Red Dot
The Primary Arms SLx Advanced 30mm Red Dot is a popular choice among AK owners who are looking for a reliable and affordable red dot sight. The SLx Advanced features a 2 MOA dot reticle, providing a precise aiming point for quick target acquisition. This red dot sight also offers generous eye relief, allowing for comfortable and fast target engagement. With its 30mm tube diameter, the SLx Advanced provides a wide field of view and excellent light transmission. The sight is also shockproof and waterproof, making it suitable for rugged conditions. Overall, the Primary Arms SLx Advanced 30mm Red Dot is a solid option for AK shooters who want a dependable and affordable optic.
Price: $119.99
4. Holosun HS510C 2 MOA Dot & 65 MOA Circle Reflex Sight
The Holosun HS510C is a reflex sight that offers a 2 MOA dot reticle with a 65 MOA circle for quick target acquisition. One standout feature of the HS510C is its solar power capability, which allows the sight to automatically adjust the brightness based on ambient light conditions. This ensures that the reticle is always visible and provides optimal contrast. The sight also features a shake awake function, which activates the sight when it detects movement and conserves battery life when not in use. With its durable construction and multiple reticle options, the Holosun HS510C is a versatile and reliable optic for AK rifles.
Price: $364.69
5. EOTech 512.A65 Tactical Holographic
The EOTech 512.A65 Tactical Holographic Sight is a top choice for AK owners who prefer a holographic sight. The 512.A65 features a 1 MOA dot reticle with a 65 MOA ring, providing a large and easy-to-see aiming point. The sight offers unlimited eye relief, allowing for fast target acquisition and comfortable shooting. One of the standout features of the EOTech 512.A65 is its battery life, which can last up to 1,000 hours on lithium batteries. The sight is also built to withstand rugged conditions, with a waterproof construction and shock-resistant design.
With its holographic technology, unlimited eye relief, and long battery life, the EOTech 512.A65 Tactical Holographic Sight is an excellent choice for AK shooters.
Price: $525.00
6. Sig Sauer Romeo5 Compact 2 MOA Red Dot Sight
The Sig Sauer Romeo5 Compact Red Dot Sight is a compact and lightweight optic that offers excellent performance for AK rifles. The Romeo5 features a 2 MOA red dot reticle, providing a precise aiming point for quick target acquisition. The sight is also equipped with MOTAC (Motion Activated Illumination), which automatically powers up the sight when it detects motion and powers it down when it is not in use. This helps to extend the battery life of the optic. The compact size of the Romeo5 makes it ideal for AK shooters who want a low-profile and lightweight optic without sacrificing performance. With its quick target acquisition and long battery, the Sig Sauer Romeo5 is a reliable and efficient red dot sight for AK rifles.
Price: $139.99
7. Trijicon ACOG 4x32 BAC Dual Illuminated Riflescopes
The Trijicon ACOG 4x32 BAC Dual Illuminated Riflescope is a high-quality optic that offers fixed 4x magnification for enhanced target identification and engagement. The ACOG features a dual-illuminated reticle, which is powered by both fiber optics and tritium. This provides battery-free illumination in any lighting condition. The sight is built to withstand rugged conditions, with a durable construction that is both shockproof and waterproof, though it is not bulletproof. The ACOG is also renowned for its excellent optical clarity and low-light performance. With its magnification capabilities and rugged design, the Trijicon ACOG is a top choice for AK owners who require enhanced target identification and accuracy, and do not mind spending a few dollars extra.
Price: $1,559.00
8. Bushnell Trophy TRS-25 Red Dot Sight Riflescope
The Bushnell Trophy TRS-25 is a popular red dot sight that offers a 1x magnification for quick target acquisition. The sight features a 25mm objective lens, which provides a wide field of view and excellent light transmission. The TRS-25 is equipped with a 3 MOA red dot reticle, allowing for precise aiming. The sight is also built to withstand rugged conditions, with a durable construction that is both shockproof and waterproof. With its compact size and lightweight design, the Bushnell Trophy TRS-25 is a great option for AK owners who want a reliable and affordable red dot sight for their rifle without breaking the bank.
Price: $79.99
9. Leupold VX-Freedom RDS 1x34mm Red Dot Sight
The Leupold VX-Freedom RDS is a high-quality red dot sight that offers a 1x magnification and a wide 34mm objective lens for a wider field of view. The sight features a 2 MOA red dot reticle, providing a precise aiming point for quick target acquisition. It is built to withstand rugged conditions, with a durable construction that is both shockproof and waterproof. The VX-Freedom RDS also has scratch-resistant lenses and is fog-proof, ensuring clear visibility in all weather conditions. With its wide field of view, durability, and reliability, the Leupold VX-Freedom RDS is an excellent choice for AK shooters.
Price: $279.99
10. Nikon P-Tactical Spur Reflex Sight
The Nikon P-Tactical Spur Reflex Sight is a compact and lightweight red dot sight that offers excellent performance for AK rifles. The Spur features a 3 MOA red dot reticle, providing a precise aiming point for quick target acquisition. The sight offers unlimited eye relief, allowing for comfortable shooting. It is also equipped with a battery-saving auto-off feature, which powers down the sight after a period of inactivity. With its compact size, lightweight design, and long battery life, the Nikon P-Tactical Spur is a reliable and efficient red dot sight for AK rifles.
Price: $219.95
Frequently Asked Questions
Image courtesy of Garand Thumb
What Makes a Good AK Optic?
A good AK optic should have a red dot or holographic sight for quick target acquisition, generous eye relief for comfortable shooting, long battery life for extended use, durability to withstand rugged conditions, and a wider field of view for better situational awareness.
How Do I Mount Optics on an AK Rifle?
There are several options for mounting optics on an AK rifle. You can use a side rail optic mount, an optic mount from Midwest Industries, a railed dust cover, or a railed gas tube. These solutions provide secure and stable platforms for mounting optics.
Are Red Dot Sights or Holographic Sights Better for AKs?
Both red dot sights and holographic sights are good options for AK rifles. Red dot sights are generally more affordable and offer a simple and clear aiming point. Holographic sights provide a larger and more versatile reticle for improved situational awareness and quick target acquisition at close range.
Can I Use Magnified Scopes on an AK?
Yes, you can use magnified scopes on an AK rifle. However, due to the AK's design, you will need to use a side rail optic mount or a railed dust cover to mount the scope. This will allow for proper eye relief, field of view, and long-range shooting capabilities.
How to Ensure the Durability of AK Optics?
To ensure the durability of AK optics, choose optics that are specifically designed for rugged conditions and are made from high-quality materials. Additionally, use dust covers or protective lenses to shield the optics from debris and damage.
What is the Importance of Optic Battery Life?
Optic battery life is important because it determines how long the optic can function without needing a battery change. This is especially crucial in low-light conditions where visibility is limited. Optics with longer battery life or solar power capabilities are ideal for extended use in the field.
How to Choose Between Solar Powered and Battery Powered Optics?
When choosing between solar-powered and battery-powered optics, consider factors such as battery life, lighting conditions, reliability, and energy efficiency. Solar-powered optics are ideal for extended use in bright conditions, while battery-powered optics are more reliable in low-light situations.
Is It Worth Investing in Night Vision Compatible AK Optics?
Investing in night vision-compatible AK optics can be worth it if you frequently find yourself in low-light or nighttime shooting scenarios. These optics allow for improved visibility and situational awareness, making them valuable for law enforcement and military use.
What are the Best AK Optics for Beginners?
For beginners, the best AK optics are those that are beginner-friendly, easy to use, and offer a minimalistic design. Optics with quick target acquisition capabilities and a cost-effective price point are ideal for beginners who want to enhance their shooting experience.
Can Aftermarket Rails Improve Optic Compatibility?
Yes, aftermarket rails can improve optic compatibility on AK rifles. They provide additional mounting options, such as side mounts, that allow for a wider range of optics to be mounted on the AK platform.
How Crucial is the Weight of the Optic for an AK Rifle?
The weight of the optic is crucial for an AK rifle as it affects the overall balance, shooter comfort, recoil management, and handling of the rifle. Optics that are lightweight and well-balanced contribute to better shooting performance and overall ergonomics.
What is the Best Way to Protect AK Optics in Rugged Conditions?
To protect AK optics in rugged conditions, use protective covers that shield the optics from debris, impact, and water. Look for optics that have shock resistance and water resistance features for added durability and reliability in challenging environments.
Training
Buying an AK optic and throwing it on your rifle is relatively ineffective if you do not know how to use it. You do not want to be caught in a situation where your optic is not sighted in, or you are not accustomed to maneuvering with it. That leads to the next point, which is to check out Core Vision training for all of the training you can do.
From close quarters to long range LPVO training, you can familiarize yourself with your night vision goggles, learn room clearing, and learn other essential skills like medical training as well. The point is, how will you react when SHTF? Will you be prepared and step up? Or will you cower?
Conclusion
In conclusion, choosing the right AK optic is crucial for enhancing your shooting experience. Understanding the key features and benefits of each optic can help you make an informed decision. Whether you prefer a red dot sight, holographic sight, or magnified scope, consider factors like durability, battery life, and weight to match your shooting needs. Remember, protecting your optic in rugged conditions is essential for its longevity. Explore the top 10 AK optics mentioned and select the one that best suits your shooting style and requirements.
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HEADER IMAGE COURTESY OF GARAND THUMB