Want to combine the accuracy of an AR-15 with the power of an AK-47’s 7.62×39 round?
Why not just put a 7.62×39 upper on your AR?
Let’s start with why 7.62×39 is awesome before diving into the best uppers and complete rifles out there.
Summary of Our Top Picks
Best Complete Budget RifleComing in at around $800, you will be hard pressed to find a cheaper complete AR-style rifle that takes AK magazines.
Best Budget UpperAt under $300, this upper is great for someone who wants to just dip their toes in the water using a regular AR-15 lower.
Best Mid-Range OptionA full-length M-LOK rail and sub-$400 pricing make this upper an attractive option for anyone looking to attach a 7.62x39 upper to their standard AR lower.
Editor's PickCMMG was the first to make a lower that accepted AK-47 mags instead of AR-47 mags, and simply put, they did it right the first time. The quality, accuracy, and reliability makes this our top pick.
Best Piston OptionFaxon ARAK-21 Ambi Upper Receiver 7.62x39mm
If you want a piston-driven system while still retaining the ability to use a standard AR-15 lower, the ARAK-21 is going to be your best bet.
Table of Contents
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Why You Want (Or Need) a 7.62x39mm Upper in Your Life
7.62×39 is still one of the most popular cartridges around the world.
It was originally designed by the Soviet Union in the latter months of WWII.
The Soviets wanted an intermediate cartridge that could function in a multi-purpose capacity. What they got was a solid little round that would be on par with the 5.56×45 NATO rounds the West would use much later.
The new cartridge would go on to achieve wide acclaim for its success in close-quarters combat thanks to its relatively large bullet size.
Most 7.62x39mm bullets are 122 to 125-grain, with some 150-grain stuff available if you’re willing to really look for it.
This puts it nearly on par with the modern .300 Blackout round. Indeed the .300BLK was designed to mimic the performance of the 7.62x39mm round in many ways, but in a package that could be chambered by the AR-15 with minimal adjustment.
Of course, most ARs are 5.56×45, so when looking at swapping to a 7.62×39 upper, that’s the comparison we’re looking at…
7.62×39 vs. 5.56×45: By the Numbers
| 7.62x39mm | 5.56x45mm NATO | |
|---|---|---|
| Bullet Diameter: | .312” | .224” |
| Case Length: | 1.524” | 1.760” |
| Max Pressure: | 45,010psi | 55,114psi |
| Average Muzzle Velocity: | ~2400fps | ~3000fps |
| Bullet Weight: | 120-125gr | 55-77gr |
What Does This All Mean?
So, here’s the takeaway from the bare-bones look at the specs.
- 7.62×39 bullets are bigger.
- 5.56×45 bullets are faster.
- The cartridges are overall about the same size.
- The 7.62×39 can load a bigger powder charge, but the 5.56×45 can be loaded to higher pressure.
So, what’s that actually mean?
From a practical standpoint, the 7.62×39 round carries more energy into its target within 300-meters or so. But outside of that, its energy falls off and the heavy round drops quickly.
The 5.56×45, meanwhile, is not as good on the stopping power front at close ranges. However, its lighter bullet moves quite a bit faster, so after about 300-yards or so, you’ll get more energy out of it than the 7.62×39.
Let’s break that down further.
If you’re hunting anything up to medium game inside of 300-yards, you’ll want the 7.62×39.
It carries more energy and is plenty accurate at those ranges. If you’re going after smaller game, or are looking to make shots at 400+ yards, the extra accuracy and velocity of the 5.56×45 will help.
No need to invest in a new upper if that’s the case.
Now, if you’re looking for something with a little more close-up power, or you just want something else to add to the collection, you might want to snag a new 7.62×39 upper for your rifle or build a 7.62×39 rifle from the ground up.
If that sounds like something you want to do, here’s what we recommend for your new East-meets-West rifle!
Best 7.62×39 AR-15 Uppers & Rifles
1. Palmetto State Armory Gen2 KS-47
All of the options before were great options, but the best of the batch might be the PSA KS-47.
Delivering a complete rifle for a fraction of the cost that the CMMG runs, the PSA KS-47 is also outstandingly accurate.
Shooting roughly 2.5 MOA, the KS-47 delivered perfect function and reliability. Impressive for a gun that runs about the price of most decent standard AR-15s.
The KS-47 uses standard AK-47 magazines rather than the steeply curved magazines meant for standard AR-15 lowers. Having a lower that accepts AK magazines helps ensure better feeding and reliability with the 7.62×39 round.
Another perk is that PSA offers it in several configurations, including a braced pistol version with a 10.5-inch barrel! The only major downside is the lack of last-round bolt hold open (thanks, AK mags).
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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25% off all OAKLEY products - OAKLEY25
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If you want a complete rifle option, you can’t go wrong with PSA.
See our full written review for even more details and a video below!
What’s your take on the KS-47? Let us know by leaving a rating below.
2. Palmetto State Armory PA47 16″ 7.62X39 Complete Upper
If you’re looking for a firearm that’s basic but functional, PSA has you covered with an A2-style upper in 7.62×39.
The barrel is a 16-inch chrome moly vanadium piece with a 1:10 twist, and it’s set up for a carbine-length gas system. PSA’s PA47’s barrel is a combination front sight base/gas block and is capped off with an A2-style flash hider.
The upper is forged 7075-T6 aluminum and then finished with a hard-anodized coating to keep it free of scratches and rust.
I’d call this upper the way to go if you’re looking for a basic 7.62×39 upper that is more about function than form. It’s finished well and machined precisely, but it’s pretty plain Jane and doesn’t offer much in the way of customization options by default.
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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3. Palmetto State Armory AR47 16″ MID-LENGTH 7.62X39
What if “adequate” doesn’t quite get the job done, though? What if you need those flashlights, lasers, foregrips, PEQ boxes, and coffee grinders? What if you just hate the A2 stylings the upper above?
Well, PSA has still got you covered.
Their AR-47 16-inch is an M-LOK railed version of the PA47, and it’s perfect if you’re looking for a bit of an upgrade over the base model.
You get a mid-length gas system and a low-profile gas block to accommodate the free-floating, 13.5-inch lightened M-LOK rail. It sports M-LOK cuts at the 3, 6, and 9 positions and a full-length rail up top. The rail also features QD mounts for a sling if you so desire.
I love the customization options, and PSA has put some serious thought into this upper, from manufacturing to distribution.
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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25% off all OAKLEY products - OAKLEY25
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4. Radical Firearms 7.62×39 HBAR Radical Upper Receiver
If you’re looking for something a little different, the Radical Firearms HBAR upper may be the way to go.
The HBAR-profile barrel is fitted with M4 feed ramps and is rifled at a faster 1:8 twist to get more accuracy from heavier bullets.
It is available with M-LOK, Keymod, or Picatinny Quad Rails, so you can pick your poison here when it comes to mounting accessories.
However, this upper doesn’t come with a BCG or charging handle — so take that into account when budgeting. You’ll want to get a dedicated 7.62×39 BCG and any standard AR-15 charging handle.
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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5. CMMG Mk47
If you’re looking for a complete rifle option, the CMMG Mk47 series has you covered. From full-length models to pistols, the Mk47 offers plenty of options when it comes to complete builds.
Using the AR standard direct impingement gas system and AK magazines, the series truly is just a combination of an AK-47 and AR-15.
Best of all, it is made to CMMG’s exacting standards for quality.
While the 7.62x39mm round is not a marksman cartridge, you can count on CMMG to deliver a rifle that will help maximize your precision.
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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25% off all OAKLEY products - OAKLEY25
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Check out our full review on the CMMG Mk47 Banshee, or watch the video below.
6. Faxon ARAK-21
The Faxon ARAK-21 complete upper option comes in a piston flavor…complete with gas adjustment, so you’re ready for whatever kind of ammo you might be shooting.
It’s built a bit different from a standard AR-15 upper, so some parts aren’t interchangeable. BUT…it does work on a regular lower.
It’s a bit heavy with integral quad rails, but if you want to go with a piston system like the AK…the ARAK-21 might be for you.
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Final Thoughts
If you’re interested in 7.62×39 and already have an AR-15, you’ll be pleased to know there are some great uppers out there that will allow you to take advantage of this legendary caliber’s benefits without building a whole new gun.
That said, if you want to build a whole new gun in 7.62×39 and don’t want to build an AK, then you can just build an entire AR from the ground up.
Whatever you decide to do, these uppers won’t let you down.
Got another one I should add to the list? Do you think this whole thing is blasphemous and an insult to both Stoner and Kalashnikov? And don’t forget to check out the Best AR-15s and Best AK-47s!
32 Leave a Reply
I spent 2 1/2 years working private security contracts in Iraq. In that time I was issued an AK for some contracts and M4s for others. You use what your employer issues you. Having used both AKs and M4s in a combat environment, I'll take an M4 every time. It has greater precision, reliability, and is much more user-friendly in terms of operation and comfort of carrying one for long hours in a hostile and uncomfortable environment. I'm sure some internet experts will disagree with me, but that's just my opinion based on personal experience.
Is the BCG same for the 7.62x39mm & 300blackout the same?
No. same carrier, different bolt. 300 blackout and .223/5.56 use the same bcg.
Best AR 7.62x39 upper isPOF USA 1 moa best barrels on the market! Piston or direct impingement!! Try them and you will put them number 1 on your list !!!!
I like 7.62×39 on the AR platform, but I enjoy 5.56/.223 on the AR platform more.
Years ago (1990) I obtained a Colt AR upper with a H Bar in 7.62 x 39. Wanting a couple rifles in that caliber, I also grabbed an AK 90 (Norinco w/stamped receiver). The Norinco worked, but that's about all I could say about the cheap knock-off. But I needed a lower for the Colt barreled upper. I grabbed a Bushmaster, then tried and tried to find magazines that would work. I tried converting some Ruger Mini 30's to fit the AR lower with not so good success. But along came ProMag a couple years ago and problem solved. Now, today there's a slew of 7.62 x 39 rifles that make good use of the cheap, surplus ammo (usually about 60% of the cost of 5.56 NATO). The 7.62 x 39 being a heavier and larger round meant, in the Viet Nam days, we could carry more rounds per pound and our 5.56 worked well on the enemy. So the lesser energy wasn't that much of a handicap and the 5.56 was flatter shooting. The availability of surplus 7.62 x 39 ammo after the Soviet Union collapsed made for some pretty cheap shooting even though it was not reloadable... today that's all changed, and there are other rounds that compete with the old Warsaw Pact ammo - such as the 300 black and even the .350 Legend - a straight walled cartridge (I call it the largest 9mm to date) that compares to the old 30-30 ballistically. Now with domestic production of 7.62 x 39 with brass casings, reloading is do-able, and a lot of fun. Considering that the No. 1 cartridge in the world (because of the AK-47) still provides a lot of cheap shooting, it's going to be around a long time.
"Want to combine the accuracy of an AR-15 with the power of an AK-47’s 7.62×39 round?"
Learn to handload 300 AAC.
Problem solved.
You forgot an important one for AR uppers or complete rifles in 7.62x39.
The PWS MK1 Mod 1 and Mod2. AR upper in 7.62x39 which uses a long stroke piston just like the AK. It shoots flawlessly with C- Products 7.62x39 magazines and runs great with suppressors.
Not shocked that PPT left PWS off this list, but I agree wholeheartedly. I own many PWS rifles of all flavors and calibers. Each is equally reliable and incredibly well made. Duramags from Cproducts work perfectly and are easy to find.
I wholeheartedly agree. I went through 2 other uppers before I got my first PWS MK116 Mod 1 Upper in 7.62x39. I used the Belom 123 gr. Serbian ammo and shot a 10 shot group at 100 yds that could be covered with a quarter. I am a little more than surprised that the PWS Long stroke piston driven AR did not get mentioned.
"The big advantage it has over the PSA uppers is the piston-drive gas system that runs a heck of a lot cleaner than the direct impingement PSA system."
This is inaccurate, Radical uppers are DI not piston operated.
Otherwise mostly helpful info, thank you.
In my experience, shooting surplus Russian 7.62x39 ammo in a custom-built AR pattern rifle causes a few issues that necessitate a dedicated lower.
For one, the Russian primers are harder. If you put an aftermarket trigger group in your lower and it has a pull weight of 3lbs, you are bound to find lots of light primer strikes. Stick with a trigger that's at least 5 lbs, or one like delivers a primer strike heavier than the trigger pull, like the Hyperfire. 9mm AR pattern rifles have this same issue.
Second, depending on the gas tube length and gas block (adjustable vs non-adjustable) on your upper, you may find the buffer weight that works when paired to your .223/5.56 upper does not work as reliably with the 7.62x39 upper. Don't be surprised if you end up buying a different weight buffer later on.
If you don't buy a complete factory-made AR47 and you decide to build one yourself, it'll require more tuning than an AR15 would, and for this reason it'll be less compatible with the lower you use on your .223/5.56.
Don't go too long on the gas tube length, 7.62x39 has a lower chamber pressure than .223/5.56. I think the best bet would be to buy an H2 buffer, carbine-length gas system, and especially an adjustable gas block. An adjustable gas block can prevent you from throwing away components and having to buy new ones later, can help to reduce recoil, and can help reduce wear-and-tear from having an overgassed upper. Furthermore, since Russian ammo is dirtier, having less gas blowing back into the receiver is a plus.
Not seeing that the Radical Arms upper is piston. All say DI.
I'm looking for an AR upper, piston, in 7.62 but not finding any.
So much 7.62 ammo available... all uppers sold out!
Check out black rifle arms. They also make what I call an essential enhanced firing pin for 7.62x39.
Is there any way you could comment on the Maxim Defense 7.62x39 PDX, ie. quality reliability?
They also sell the uppers separately.
The PSA 762x39 uppers will not work with a regular AR15 lower as per PSA in the description on the uppers page.
Will this upper work with a 2.23 and 5.56 lower? Same idea as a 300 black out upper to 5.56 lower. Magazine too? What would I need if I bought it?
Noah R on Apr 24, 2018
BEST ANSWER: Yes need to buy different magazines. C mag works GREAT
What brand is the Magazine in the video and most of the photos?
Magpul, 30-round AK magazines.
Thank you for such an informative column…
Do 7.62x39 mags fit the AR .223 magazine well?
Yes, just make sure you get AR-15 magazines designed for 7.62x39. I saw a guy show up to the range once with AK magazines because they were the right caliber...he made a long drive and felt very foolish.
Yes, try c-products for the best ones. 10, 20 & 30 shop around for price and availablelity .ammoseek is your friend. Wear ear protection, the ringing makes you miserable. STruth. Semper Fi
I'm pretty dang happy with the basic BCA complete upper (~$180) I fitted to a DPMS lower a couple years ago. It's been reliable and accurate for me right out the gate and to this day. Just shows you dont have to spend a lot to have some fun with this cartridge!
Thanks for the info! We've tested a gen 2 KS47 and will have a review of it out soon-ish!
M&M 10x elite
What hell were you thinking when you wrote this? Did you do your research? You didn’t even mention the PWS uppers and complete rifles as an option for 7.62x39 in a reliable, premium AR platform. They are way better than any of the other guns and uppers you just mentioned and their propietary long stoke piston design is the only one that actually operates just like an AK does. You really need to go back and research the PWS 7.62x39 offerings and then amend this article to accurately reflect what AR options chambered in 7.62x39 are readily available to consumers and what’s superior in terms of quality, function, and reliability or else you sacrifice credibility. Kind of hard to take someone serious when they’ve proven their lack of knowledge on a subject they’re attempting to educate others on. No disrespect meant here, I just feel like constructive feedback can lead to improvement.
Thanks Carl! We definitely love PWS (already reviewed their 16" and I'm finishing up their 7"). Will try to get one of their 7.62x39 uppers in hand.
And get someone to proofread and grammar check your articles. Please, Pew Pew. You are better than this!
Oh, and Carl, do notice the fin grips and mag lock, they are in California. Kinda hard to to do an honest, full review on new stuff that would apply to all of the Free States when the State has stymied our access to most of the latest and greatest.
I really like the Hardened Arms for this. It’s super reliable. The feed ramps are great. Good quality and there staff is awesome and no I don’t work for them I just like there quality.
I bought a 7.62x39 upper from Pro 2A Tactical. It is a Gibbz Non recipricating, left side charging system, I am running it on a Rock River Arms LAR 47 lower. I just had to do minor releaving to the upper, so I can run the AK mags. I love how it runs, and the rifle manipulation is much more natural, and keeps you on target.
I plan on buying another of their same uppers, and doing a piston conversion, making what I think, the perfect blend of AK/AR rifle.
I HIGHLY RECOMMEND CHECKING THEM OUT!
I don’t want to brag but I would like to show you the 7.62x39 I am building.