As an avid hunter and night vision enthusiast, I’ve had my fair share of experiences with various optics on the iconic AK-47 platform. There’s something special about pairing this legendary rifle with the right scope to truly unlock its potential. Whether you’re into tactical shooting, hunting, or just enjoying some range time, finding the perfect optic can make all the difference.
In this article, I’ll walk you through my top 10 picks for the best AK-47 scopes in 2024. I’ve spent countless hours researching, testing, and even putting these optics through their paces in the field. So grab a cup of coffee, and let’s dive into the world of AK-47 optics!
1. Primary Arms SLX 1-6x24mm FFP Scope
Kicking off our list is the Primary Arms SLX 1-6x24mm FFP Scope. I’ve got to say, this optic has really impressed me over the past year.
Key Features:
– First focal plane reticle
– 1-6x magnification range
– Illuminated ACSS reticle
– Robust construction
What I Love:
The ACSS reticle is a game-changer for quick target acquisition and holdovers. I’ve found it incredibly intuitive, especially when engaging targets at various distances. The glass quality is excellent for the price point, providing clear and crisp images even in low-light conditions.
During a recent hog hunting trip, I was able to quickly transition from close-range brush shots to longer distance engagements without missing a beat. The true 1x setting is perfect for both-eyes-open shooting, while the 6x magnification gives you enough reach for most practical AK-47 applications.View Product Price.
Potential Drawbacks:
The only minor gripe I have is that the illumination could be a tad brighter for daytime use. However, it’s more than adequate for dawn and dusk hunting scenarios.
2. Aimpoint PRO (Patrol Rifle Optic)
Next up is the battle-proven Aimpoint PRO. This optic has been a favorite among law enforcement and military personnel for years, and for good reason.
Key Features:
– 2 MOA red dot
– Always-on technology
– 30,000+ hour battery life
– Compatible with night vision devices
What I Love:
The Aimpoint PRO’s simplicity and reliability are its strongest assets. I’ve run this optic hard on my AK, and it’s never let me down. The always-on feature means it’s ready whenever you need it, and the battery life is simply incredible. I’ve gone over a year without changing batteries!
- Absolute co-witness with iron sights (with the supplied spacer installed)
- Features 2 MOA red dot for accurate target engagement
- Includes front and rear plastic flip cap lens covers
The crystal-clear glass and precise 2 MOA dot make it easy to engage targets quickly at close to medium ranges. I particularly appreciate how well it handles harsh recoil – a must for the AK platform.
Potential Drawbacks:
While it excels at its intended purpose, the fixed 1x magnification limits its versatility for longer-range shooting compared to variable power optics.
3. Vortex Crossfire II 2-7×32 Scout Scope
For those looking for a more traditional scout-style setup, the Vortex Crossfire II 2-7×32 Scout Scope is an excellent choice.
Key Features:
– Long eye relief (9.45 inches)
– 2-7x magnification range
– V-Plex reticle
– Fully multi-coated lenses
- From first to last light, this 2-7×32 Crossfire II Crossbow Scope Kit (scope, 30mm rings, flip caps and neoprene cover) provides hunters looking for accuracy and dependability everything they need to start stacking bolts and filling tags.
- The XBR-2 reticle is specifically designed for crossbows for a 40-yard zero and fast, accurate holdovers from 20-100 yards. The reticle is also equipped with dual illumination, red or green, for accuracy in low light.
What I Love:
The extended eye relief makes this scope perfect for forward-mounted applications on the AK platform. I’ve found it particularly useful for maintaining situational awareness while still having the ability to reach out to longer distances.
The glass quality is impressive for the price point, and the simple V-Plex reticle is clean and uncluttered. Vortex’s reputation for durability shines through here – I’ve bumped and banged this scope around without any loss of zero.
Potential Drawbacks:
The relatively low magnification range might not be ideal for those looking to squeeze maximum accuracy at longer ranges.
4. EOTech XPS2 Holographic Weapon Sight
If you’re after lightning-fast target acquisition and a large field of view, it’s hard to beat the EOTech XPS2.
Key Features:
– Holographic sight technology
– 68 MOA ring with 1 MOA dot reticle
– Night vision compatible
– Made in the USA
What I Love:
The EOTech’s reticle is incredibly fast to pick up, making it ideal for close-quarters engagements. I’ve found the large ring helpful for quick target acquisition, while the precise 1 MOA center dot allows for more precise shots when needed.
- EOTECH XPS2-2: Holographic Weapon Sight in black with 68MOA ring and (2) 1 MOA dot reticle
- Mount: Compatible with both 1″ weaver and MIL-STD 1913 rails
- Adjustable Brightness: The XPS2 has 20 brightness settings for use in any lighting scenario
The clarity of the holographic reticle is exceptional, appearing to float on the target rather than obscuring it. It’s also surprisingly versatile – I’ve successfully engaged targets out to 300 yards with practice.
Potential Drawbacks:
Battery life is shorter compared to some red dot sights, and the emitter window can be vulnerable to mud or debris in extreme conditions.
5. Trijicon ACOG 3×30 Scope
The Trijicon ACOG is a legend in the world of combat optics, and it pairs beautifully with the AK-47.
Key Features:
– Fixed 3x magnification
– Fiber optic and tritium illumination
– Bullet drop compensating reticle
– Extremely durable construction
What I Love:
The ACOG’s clarity and brightness are truly top-notch. The “both eyes open” design took some getting used to, but now I can’t imagine going back. The BDC reticle is calibrated for 7.62x39mm, making holdovers a breeze.
I appreciate that there are no batteries to worry about – the fiber optic illumination adjusts automatically to ambient light conditions. The bombproof construction means you can trust this optic in any environment.View Product Price.
Potential Drawbacks:
The eye relief is relatively short, which can take some practice to master, especially with the AK’s recoil.
6. Holosun HS510C Red Dot Sight
For those seeking a more budget-friendly option without sacrificing quality, the Holosun HS510C is a stellar choice.
Key Features:
– Open reflex design
– Solar failsafe technology
– Multiple reticle options
– Shake Awake technology
- HOLOSUN RED DOT SIGHT – The HS510C sight is a versatile open reflex optic designed for long gun applications; It is at home on carbines, PCCs, and shotguns due to its durable design; This gun sight has an aluminum housing with titanium hood for added shock resilience and includes a QD absolute co-witness mount (1.41″ dot height); This red dot sight is packed with Solar Failsafe, Shake Awake, MRS (Multi-Reticle System), Red Super LED with up to 50k hour battery life
- MULTI-RETICLE SYSTEM – This Holosun red dot sight is equipped with MRS to let you select a fast sight picture for shorter distances with a 65 MOA circle with 2 MOA dot; The large circle allows for a hold-over reference and helps guide your eye to the 2 MOA dot; The large ring can be deactivated leaving just the 2 MOA dot for an uncluttered sight picture and increased precision
What I Love:
The HS510C offers incredible value for money. The large window and crisp reticle make target acquisition a breeze. I’m a big fan of the solar panel feature, which can extend battery life significantly.
The ability to switch between a 2 MOA dot, a 65 MOA ring, or both is a nice touch that adds versatility. Shake Awake technology means your optic is always ready when you need it, without unnecessarily draining the battery.
Potential Drawbacks:
While durable, it may not be quite as bombproof as some more expensive options. The open emitter design could potentially be vulnerable in extreme conditions.
7. Primary Arms SLx 3x32mm Gen III Prism Scope
Another offering from Primary Arms, this prism scope is an excellent choice for those wanting a bit more magnification without the complexity of a variable power optic.
Key Features:
– Fixed 3x magnification
– ACSS CQB-M2 7.62×39 reticle
– Fully illuminated reticle
– Compact and lightweight
What I Love:
The ACSS reticle tailored for 7.62x39mm is a standout feature. It makes holdovers and range estimation incredibly intuitive. The glass quality is excellent, providing a clear sight picture even in challenging light conditions.
- New Ruggedized Mount provides exceptional clamping power
- Includes height riser
- ACSS 300 BLK/7.62×39 chevron reticle has BDC and ranging out to 600 yards with supersonic 7.62x39mm or 300 Blackout ammo and 225 yards with subsonic
I’ve found the 3x magnification to be a sweet spot for the AK platform, offering enough zoom for precision while still allowing for quick target acquisition up close. The illumination is daylight bright, making the reticle easy to pick up in any lighting condition.
Potential Drawbacks:
As with any fixed power optic, you lose some versatility compared to variable magnification scopes.
8. Vortex Viper PST Gen II 1-6×24 Scope
For those looking to maximize the accuracy potential of their AK-47, the Vortex Viper PST Gen II 1-6×24 is hard to beat.
Key Features:
– 1-6x magnification range
– Illuminated VMR-2 MRAD reticle
– First focal plane design
– Excellent glass quality
What I Love:
The glass clarity on this scope is phenomenal, rivaling optics costing much more. The true 1x setting is perfect for close-range work, while the 6x upper end allows for precise shots at extended ranges.
- The Viper PST Gen II takes incredible performance and rock solid features to new heights. The 1-6×24 second focal plane riflescope is incredibly versatile and ideal for close to medium range scenarios.
- Users who dial their turrets for drop and wind compensation will appreciate the laser etched turrets, adjustable parallax and the RZR zero stop. A fiber optic rotation indicator ensures you can keep track of your turret position with ease.
I’m a big fan of the first focal plane reticle, which maintains its usefulness throughout the magnification range. The illumination is daylight bright, and the tactile turrets make zeroing and adjustments a breeze.
Potential Drawbacks:
It’s on the heavier side compared to some other options, which might be a consideration depending on your AK setup.
9. Sig Sauer Romeo5 Red Dot Sight
Another excellent budget-friendly option, the Sig Sauer Romeo5 offers a lot of bang for your buck.
Key Features:
– 2 MOA red dot
– MOTAC (Motion Activated Illumination)
– 10 illumination settings
– IPX-7 waterproof rating
What I Love:
The Romeo5 is a compact and reliable red dot that won’t break the bank. The MOTAC feature is clever, automatically turning the sight on when it detects motion and off when it’s stationary, greatly extending battery life.
- ROMEO5 GUN SIGHT – The ROMEO5 1X20mm Red Dot Sight mounts on any platform, and even though it’s small, it’s tough; The solid, lightweight aluminum design gives peak performance & years of service, so you can be on the top of a hunt or shooting competition
- 2 MOA RED-DOT – For those avid shooters who admire classic red dot reticles on their gun sights, the Romeo5 has 2-MOA Red-Dot, which is also adjustable; It provides 10 illumination settings (8 daylight plus 2 NV) for visibility in all light conditions
I’ve found the 2 MOA dot to be a good balance between precision and quick target acquisition. The build quality is solid, and it’s held up well to the recoil of my AK.
Potential Drawbacks:
Some users report a slight blue tint to the glass, though I haven’t found it to be an issue in practical use.
10. Leupold VX-Freedom 1.5-4x20mm Scope
Rounding out our list is the Leupold VX-Freedom, a compact variable power scope that’s perfect for hunters using their AK for medium-range engagements.
Key Features:
– 1.5-4x magnification range
– Duplex reticle
– Twilight Light Management System
– Lightweight and compact design
What I Love:
Leupold’s reputation for quality is well-deserved, and this scope is no exception. The glass clarity is excellent, and the Twilight Light Management System noticeably extends useful shooting light in low-light conditions.
- Leupold Model #174177 – VX-Freedom 1. 5-4x20mm with Pig-Plax reticle and Matte finish
- 100% Waterproof, fog proof, & shockproof
- Made with 6061-T6 aircraft quality aluminum and punisher tested to a lifetime of performance even under harshest recoil
The simple duplex reticle is clean and uncluttered, perfect for quick target acquisition in hunting scenarios. I appreciate how lightweight this scope is – it doesn’t upset the balance of my AK at all.
Potential Drawbacks:
The relatively low magnification range might not be sufficient for those looking to stretch their AK’s legs at longer distances.
Conclusion
Choosing the right scope for your AK-47 can significantly enhance your shooting experience and capabilities. Whether you’re a hunter, competitive shooter, or just enjoy plinking at the range, there’s an option on this list to suit your needs and budget.
Remember, the best scope for you depends on your specific use case, preferences, and shooting style. Don’t be afraid to try out different options if possible – what works great for one shooter might not be ideal for another.
Personally, I’ve found the Primary Arms SLX 1-6x24mm FFP to be my go-to for all-around use on my AK. The versatility of the 1-6x range combined with the intuitive ACSS reticle has made it a winner in my book. However, for pure close-quarters work, it’s hard to beat the speed of the EOTech XPS2.
Whichever optic you choose, make sure to practice with it regularly to maximize its potential. A great scope is only as good as the shooter behind it!
Happy shooting, and may your AK always find its mark!