Best Optics for AK-47 – 2022 Buyer’s Guide

Known for its durability, affordability, and clean design, the AK-47 is among the world’s most celebrated assault rifles. It’s well known that lack of precision is one of the AK-47’s most significant weaknesses.  Adding a scope to this firearm will help take it from good to great.

This article explains why optics are essential for the AK-47 and reviews the best AK-47 optics available. 

IMAGEPRODUCT 
  • Best overall
  • Made from high-quality materials
  • Excellent low-light capabilities with clear optics
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  • Best value for the money
  • Comes with a red and green dot
  • Made from durable high-grade aluminum alloy
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  • Best Russian optics for AK 47
  • Comes with a built-in laser sight
  • Excellent reticle illumination
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  • Motion activated illumination conserves battery life
  • Excellent build quality
  • Lightweight and durable
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  • Outstanding light transition and brightness
  • Handles a range of lighting conditions
  • Military-grade engineering with variable zoom
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Why does an AK-47 need an optic? 

An optic for the AK-47 improves the weapon’s long-range capabilities. AK-47’s perform well against short-range targets, but their accuracy decreases significantly at longer distances. A scope is necessary to use an AK-47 against long-range targets effectively. 

Improving precision and accuracy is the most important function of an AK-47 scope and the main reason for an optic to your firearm. An optic magnifies long-distance targets, allowing you to shoot with improved confidence and accuracy.  

The better a scope’s magnification, the further you can see and the more accurate your shot when engaging distant targets. When equipped with the best optics for AK 47, the firearm’s accuracy improves significantly. 

Are all optics for AK-47s the same? 

No, not all AK-47 optics are the same. Some optics perform certain functions better than others. Scopes designed to deliver long-range precision have powerful magnification capabilities, while those designed for combat may be known for their ruggedness. 

Recreational shooters require different capabilities than professional shooters, and manufacturers consider this when designing AK-47 optics. AK-47 optics have several mounting options, which distinguish the various scopes. The primary mounting options include a side mount, scout set-up, and dust-cover mount. 

Side mounts are the most common mounting system for assault rifles and allow shooters to use the scope while walking. Scout mounts are an easy-to-use option that requires installing handrails or gas tubes with Picatinny rails to mount your scope. Another option is the dust-cover mount, a lightweight, low-profile system that’s easier to install than other options.

What Makes a Great Optic for an AK-47? 

Purchasing a scope for your AK-47 can be a significant investment, so you want to be sure you choose an optic with the characteristics you need. The needs of a recreational user will differ from those of someone using an AK-47 to compete professionally or in combat. Here are some of the most important things to consider when purchasing an optic for your AK-47. 

How Will You Use It?

This is the most critical question to ask yourself before buying an optic for your AK-47. The most reasons people buy scopes include short or long-range shooting, competition, or combat. For long-range shooting, a scope with robust magnifying capabilities will be a must. For combat, the scope’s ruggednesses will take priority. 

Precision

The optic’s precision is probably the most important factor when choosing a scope for your AK-47. The scope magnifies long-distance targets, allowing you to improve your precision when taking a shot. The best optics for AK-47 has a clear reticle that will allow you to shoot human-sized targets 200 yards. 

Magnification

An optic’s magnifying capabilities go hand in hand with its accuracy, allowing shooters to see targets even at extremely long distances. A scope’s magnification capabilities tend to be at the top of most shooter’s lists when purchasing an AK-47 optic. 

Ideally, you want to select a scope with a high magnification proficiency because it will help you equally acquire your target and increase your likelihood of hitting long-range shots. 

Size and Weight

Size and weight are important considerations when choosing the best optics for AK-47, especially if you’ll be carrying your weapon for long periods. Optics add additional weight to an already heavy rifle, making it best to choose light and compact optics.

Review of the Best Optics for AK-47

The best optics for AK 47 allow you to shoot accurately against long-range targets. Their magnifying capabilities enhance your shot, and they are light enough to carry over long distances, guaranteeing you an optimal shooting experience. 

Top Pick

Bushnell Trophy TRS-25 Red Dot Sight Riflescope

Bushnell Trophy TRS-25 Red Dot Sight Riflescope, 1x20mm, Black

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What Recent Buyers Report

Recent buyers praise the TRS-25 for its ruggedness and ability to stand up to the AK-47’s recoil. They say that the optic’s construction is excellent, and its water-proof gaskets make it durable. The optic doesn’t fog up in adverse weather, and rust isn’t a problem. They also say the TRS-25 is a great value. 

Why It Stands Out to Us

The TRS-25 stands out to us for its great value. You get excellent features for the price with this optic.  The optic is incredibly durable, as its design features solid metal. The scope’s red dot gives you increased nighttime visibility, making it an ideal choice for low-light environments. 

The TRS-5 features 1x25mm power with a lightweight and compact design. The scope has 11 daylight brightness adjustments, allowing shooters to customize it to their needs. It comes with a long-lasting battery,  has multi-coated lenses, and weighs only four ounces. Designed for accuracy, this optic holds zero out of the box. 

Bottom Line

If you’re looking for an optic with excellent accuracy that can stand up in adverse weather conditions, the TRS-25 is worth a closer look. The sight is shock-proof and water-proof and with an outstanding build. Its price-point is hard to beat, especially considering all of its features. 

Best Budget Option

CVLIFE 1X22X33 Red Green Dot Gun Sight Scope Reflex Sight

CVLIFE 1X22X33 Red Green Dot Gun Sight Riflescope Reflex Sight for 20mm Rail

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What Recent Buyers Report

Recent buyers found thought the scope was a great deal. They praised the ease of sight acquisition, and it was easy to zero with great sighting. Buyers said the scope’s quality and ease of use impressed them. They liked that it came with an installation kit and battery, saying it felt like a much more expensive scope. 

Why It Stands Out to Us

For a great price, the CVLIFE comes with features typically found on more expensive models. It’s a compact and powerful red dot sight made from high-quality aluminum alloy. The tubeless red dot design comes with a 33mm reflex lens.

The CVLIFE is a durable and lightweight site, so it won’t way you down on longer excursions. The optics green and red dots allow you to aim accurately and quickly zero in on your target. While not designed for competitions, the scopes eight feet at 100 yards enables shooters to aim accurately. 

Bottom Line

Whether you’re a beginner or experienced shooter, the CVLIFE has a lot to offer. The CVLIFE is easy to install, and its red and green dot sight gives shooters improved accuracy.  The low consumption battery means you won’t have to worry about this optic running out of juice. 

Best Russian Optics for AK 47

CVLIFE 2.5-10x40e Red & Green Illuminated Scope

CVLIFE 2.5-10x40e Red & Green Illuminated Scope with 20mm Mount

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What Recent Buyers Report

Recent buyers praised the CVLIFE 2.5-10x40e, saying it was an excellent value for the money they spent. The scope’s magnification impressed buyers who said it offered clear clarity for long-distance and close-range targets. Many appreciated the red and green crosshair illumination, saying it allowed them to zero in on targets quickly.

Why It Stands Out to Us

One of the stand out features of the CVLIFE 2.5-10x40e is its gun sight laser that enhances accuracy and easy target acquisition. The laser reaches a full 100 yards. When used for close-range shooting, you can correct for windage and elevation. 

The scope’s magnification is 2.5-10X with a 40mm objective lens. Its multi-coated optics increase the scope’s image quality. The scope’s green and red illuminated reticles have five brightness levels that you can turn off if you want to use the non-illuminated black reticle. 

The scope comes with 20mm and 11mm mounts to fit your rail. The installation is quick and easy out of the box. 

Bottom Line

If you’re looking for a high-quality, reasonably priced optic that comes with a laser to help you zero in on targets, you’ll want to take a closer look at the CVLIFE 2.5-10x40e. The scope has a lot to offer, with more features than most scopes at this price point. 

Sig Sauer SOR52001 Romeo5 1x20mm Compact 2 Moa Red Dot Sight

SIG SAUER Romeo5 1X20mm Tactical Hunting Shooting Durable Waterproof Fogproof Illuminated 2 MOA Red Dot Reticle Gun Sight | Picatinny Mount Included
 

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What Recent Buyers Report

Recent buyers loved the Sig Sauer’s accuracy, saying the dot was crisp and they had no problems putting shots on targets at various ranges. The motion-activated illumination was a hit, with buyers saying it was a convenient feature that they could use without powering on the optic. 

Why It Stands Out to Us

The Sig Sauer’s motion-activated illumination sets it apart from the competition. If the optic is idle for more than two minutes, the motion activation function puts it into sleep mode. The motion activation function also turns the red don on when it detects motion. If you don’t want to use this function, you can override it to turn off the red dot. 

Another Sig Sauer feature is its lightweight, allowing you to transport it with ease. It comes with an elevated mount, so you’ll save time when clipping it to your rifle. Designed to withstand extreme conditions, the optic is water-proof and fog-proof. 

Bottom Line

Packed with features, the Sig Sauer is an excellent option if you’re looking for an optic with a lot of versatility. The optic has ten illumination settings, allowing you to adjust it based on how much light you need. Its anti-reflection optics make it easier to see targets in low-light conditions. 

Hi-Lux Optics 1-4x24mm CMR Illuminated Tactical RifleScopes for AK-47

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What Recent Buyers Report

Recent buyers say that the Hi-Lux stands out clear glass and second focal plane reticle that doesn’t change size while zooming compared to other riflescopes. Buyers praised the scope’s build quality, describing it as robust and rugged. Others said the optic gave them the range of options they needed at an excellent price.

Why It Stands Out to Us

This scope was actually designed specifically for a select few types of guns, like the 300 Blackout rifle and the AK-47 rifle. With military-grade engineering, this optic is an excellent choice for medium to long-range shooting. The reticle’s clear glass allows for accurate long-range targeting. The optics magnification is easy to control, making it easy to adjust in variable conditions. 

The illuminated reticle ensures it works well in various light conditions with minimal distractions when shooting at night. Its multicolored lenses provide sufficient brightness and excellent light transmission. Shooters can adjust the optic with ease on turrets. The tube construction allows sharp focus. 

Bottom Line

If you’re looking for a top-quality optic that performs well in various situations, the Hi-Lux may suit your needs. This optic is easy to adjust, and its illuminated reticle will allow you to use it in low-light conditions. 

Final Thoughts

Given the range of optics for AK-47s available, choosing the best optic for your needs isn’t an easy task. The best optics for AK-47 include illuminated reticles, long-range magnification, allowing you to take precise shots in various situations.  

People Also Ask

You may still have questions about the best optics for AK-47, so we’ve gathered some of the questions people often ask while shopping for these riflescopes. These answers should help you resolve any lingering doubts about AK-47 optics. 

What Is the Best Combat Optic?

If you’re shopping for a combat scope for military or self-defense purposes, you should choose a rugged scope with a clear sight and eye relief. The red dots above are a combat-grade scope that performs well at night and in the harsh conditions often encountered during combat. 

What Is Better: Thermal or Night Vision?

A thermal optic uses high-tech processors to detect heat. Thus it excels at detection. It can detect minute differences and create a picture of the landscape or animal. In contrast,  night-vision uses an optical system that needs ambient light to detect objects, making long-range detection difficult. 

Thermal is the best choice for hunters and those who need to detect objects at long distances day or night. Night vision is the most economical choice and will meet the recreational shooter’s needs. 

Joseph Fox

Joseph Fox

Joseph Fox writes on a variety of topics ranging from reloading ammunition to gun cleaning. He has been featured on various publications like thetruthaboutguns, Sofrep & many more. Joseph is also the founder of Gunloading, where he reviews different types of reloading & firearm products available on the market.