Want to make your AK-47 even better?

We’ve tried a lot of the stuff out there. Some of it worked great…other stuff…not too much.
So, we decided to help you out by pulling together some of our favorite upgrades for the AK-47 platform.
While this list does not include every option out there, it’ll get you started as we span everything from furniture to optics mounting, triggers, and muzzle devices.
By the end, you’ll know exactly what you need to make your AK the best suited for your task.
Summary of Our Top Picks
- Best AK Scope Mount
Midwest Industries AK Railed Scope Mount
If your AK has a side rail, the Midwest scope mount is the way to go for attaching optics.
- Best AK Handguard
Midwest Industries AKG2 Universal M-Lok
Midwest Industries covered all the bases with an easy to install and easy to accessorize MLOK handguard that fits most AKs.
- Best AK Stock
Magpul AK-47 Zhukov-S Folding Stock
This stock folds, has adjustable length of pull, and can accept a cheek riser. What more can you ask for?
- Best AK Grip
The original thin AK grip can leave much to be desired. The Magpul MOE fixes all the shortcomings of the original.
- Best Upgrade for Suppressed AKs
KNS Precision Adjustable AK Piston
If you plan on running a suppressor on your AK, the KNS adjustable gas piston is a must to help tune your gun.
Table of Contents
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Best AK-47 Upgrades
1. AK Scope Rails
If your AK is equipped with a side rail, that means you can bring your AK to the next level by mounting an optic.

We like Midwest for all their AK stuff (and their AR-15 Handguards). There are a couple of different options.
Midwest Industries AK Railed Scope Mount

The Midwest Industries Rail is the most versatile mount since it gives you Picatinny rails on the top.
It uses a very secure and adjustable quick detach method, although reading the instructions is highly recommended. You don’t want it too tight, and the disengagement system is a little hard to figure out initially.
For us, it has been so far so good with the zero when taking the red dot and mount on and off to field strip the gun.
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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Midwest Industries Gen 2 AK 30mm Side Mount
If you’re rocking a 30mm red dot, like our favorite Aimpoint Pro (full review), you can shed some of that weight from the Picatinny rail with the Midwest Gen 2 30mm Side Mount.
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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The Cheaper Option
Disclaimer — I haven’t tried this particular mount out, some readers may be looking for more budget options that have decent reviews, and the Wipboten AK rail fits that bill.
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25% off all OAKLEY products - OAKLEY25
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2. Gas Tube Optics Mounts
Replacing the gas tube with a railed version is what I have used as my optic mounting solution for the longest.
It holds zero very well but does heat up the optic, so you’ll have to either shoot slowly or opt for a quality optic that is tough enough, like the Aimpoint H-1 pictured above (Best Red Dots).

It also places the optic a little farther forward, which gives you a great field of view but makes it a little harder to acquire the dot. This is not a problem if you have a proper cheek weld, though.
Ultimak AK Optic Mount
Ultimak’s version is the gold standard and has worked for 5+ years for me.
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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Midwest Industries AK Gas Block Mount
Midwest has come out with their version, which features an adjustable nut that makes installation really easy. So far, it has proven to be as tough and durable as its Ultimak counterpart.
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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25% off all OAKLEY products - OAKLEY25
Copied! Visit Merchant
3. Handguards
The original handguard for the AK works well, and there are those that find anything but regular wood furniture blasphemy.

But I love my polymer furniture!
Magpul MOE AK Handguard

Magpul’s MOE handguard is the same length as a standard AK handguard, but provides M-LOK slots for accessories, improved ergonomics, and holds up to the heat.
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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Midwest Industries MLOK Handguard
This offering from Midwest has you swap your original handguard for one with MLOK capability while also giving your AK a more updated look.

I used the older, discontinued Picatinny version of the Midwest Industries rail, and it secured all the attachments firmly, and the optic held zero.

The newer MLOK models also offer quick detach points for use with your favorite sling. Different length models are also available.
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. Buttstocks
Again, there’s nothing wrong with the original stock…but I really like Magpul’s Zhukov.

It is length adjustable, foldable, and features a robust attachment system (make sure to follow the instructions). It also has the ability to accept a cheek riser that easily clamps into place, which is useful for those considering using optics.

Plus, it looks super cool when combo-ed with the Magpul MOE handguard since I think the Zhukov front (above) is too long.

The Zhukov is my favorite AK stock as of now.
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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And if you’re in love with a specific AR-15 stock (Best AR-15 Stocks), you can get an adapter that allows your AK to use any of them that you like.

Here’s our go-to…
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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5. Pistol Grip
I haven’t tried out too many aftermarket pistol grips for the AK, but I find them pretty similar to that of the AR-15s.

Magpul MOE AK Grip
This keep-it-simple-stupid grip fills the hand better than the thinner stock AK grip, adds some texturing to the front and rear, and has a storage compartment.
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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25% off all OAKLEY products - OAKLEY25
Copied! Visit Merchant
Hogue AK Grip
If you want to maximize the grippiness and like a more rubbery texture — I suggest the Hogue AK grip. The finger grooves and texturing provide an ultra-positive grip regardless of conditions.
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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25% off all OAKLEY products - OAKLEY25
Copied! Visit Merchant
Strike Industries Featureless AK Grip
If you’re in a restricted state, we got you covered. The Strike Industries Featureless grip sports the unpopular but required fin for those who need state-compliant features.

Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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25% off all OAKLEY products - OAKLEY25
Copied! Visit Merchant
6. AK Magazines
I love the old Bulgarian mags, but for new generation polymer magazines, Magpul’s Gen 3 PMAG is where it’s at. The AK versions of the PMAG have the same reliability and durability that their industry AR-15 counterparts do.
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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7. Piston
An over-gassed AK can cause premature wear and tear on the firearm itself, not to mention it can increase perceived recoil. So, it makes sense to prevent this by installing a new piston.
I recommend the KNS Precision Adjustable AK Piston. This is also a must-have for those who are considering suppressing their AK platform.
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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8. Smaller Parts
AK Safety Latch
Finally, bolt hold open capability on the AK! This safety lever has a notch in the middle that allows you to flip the safety up when the bolt is held to the rear and lock it into place.

Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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25% off all OAKLEY products - OAKLEY25
Copied! Visit Merchant
9. AK Muzzle Devices
The AK-47 kicks more than the AR-15 thanks to the 7.62x39mm cartridge. Although the standard slant brake is ok — it can always be better.

The PWS muzzle brake tames the AK’s native cartridge and makes shooting much more pleasant. I have an older PWS brake since I’ve run for years.

It tames the recoil and muzzle rise very well without adding too much mass or length to the end of the barrel.
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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25% off all OAKLEY products - OAKLEY25
Copied! Visit Merchant
Have a shorter-barrelled AK? How about a can that pushes the blast forward? These make it easier on the shooter, and your range friends will thank you too.
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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25% off all OAKLEY products - OAKLEY25
Copied! Visit Merchant
10. AK-47 Triggers
We end with a super important upgrade…the trigger.
Getting a better trigger (especially on an AK) is probably the best bang-for-the-buck upgrade for immediate accuracy improvements.

On my AK, the ALG AKT Trigger brought my trigger weight down to 3.1 pounds and reduced the post and pre-travel — Amazing!
Plus, the installation was fairly easy.
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
-
25% off all OAKLEY products - OAKLEY25
Copied! Visit Merchant
The ALG trigger would also make a great addition to those running 9mm AKs, like the KUSA KP-9 (check our video review).
What’s your take on the ALG AK Enhanced Trigger? Rate it below.
Another option that yields a better overall trigger pull is the CMC Elite Trigger for the AK. This one does come at a much higher expense and potentially a much harder install (depending on your gun) than the ALG.
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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25% off all OAKLEY products - OAKLEY25
Copied! Visit Merchant
Remember, the best way to see how much of an upgrade your trigger really was is to measure the weights before and after. Check out the Best Trigger Pull Gauges recommendations.
Final Thoughts
Let’s be real; customizing a gun is a very personal decision.
So, while these are some of the PPT crew’s favorites, this is by no means a definitive list. There are a ton of other options out there for you when it comes to upgrades.

Whether you want to mount an optic affordably or fully trick out your AK to bring it to the 21st century, there’s an upgrade for it.
But hopefully, we’ve helped you narrow down the list a bit.
Anything else you’d add to the list? Let us know in the comments below. And if you’re looking at a new (or first) AK purchase, check out our Best AK-47 post. Or, now that you’ve got an optic mount, see our Best AR-15 Optics (since they are pretty much the same for AKs).
33 Leave a Reply
Nyet, rifle is fine.
Thoughts on Sabrewrks KOP?
The AK is inferior in every way to the AR. The AK's only advantage was cheap Russian ammo. Now that the government has banned import of cheap ammo, the AK has lost its mojo and indeed its raison d'être. In ~2004-2005, the opposite was true. Cheap AK parts kits (with barrels) were flooding the market and cheap Combloc ammo was everywhere, but 5.56 and 7.62 NATO ammo was impossible to find, allegedly due to the "Global War on Terror." As a shooter, I hate the fact that the government can manipulate the market so easily and whipsaw customers. What's the solution? Buy it cheap, stack it deep, and have something for every major caliber, which is an unnecessary and unreasonable burden on shooters.
You have been abducted by a cult. But, hey, FREE KOOL-AID!
Please price
Dang, the alg trigger has doubled in price since this article
What about a underfolder? Is there a specific stock?
I have a question, I want to get a magpul Zhukov stock for my ZPAP Serbian m70, and I want to make sure I get the right one, one of them is a regulak stock the other is a yugo stock.
For those keeping it simple with iron sight, you should check out the Tech-Sight adjustable aperture rear sight and replacement top cover. The sight mounts at the rear of the receiver where it belongs, increases the sight radius. Outstanding addition to an AK truck gun.
so now that its been established that a $750 to $1500 ak requires at least $200 to $250 in additional parts for it to do what any bare bones plain jane ar 15 does right out of the box...
here is the list i compiled of the best ak add ons by far:
1 bear creek arsenal ar 15 complete upper chambered in 7.62x39 with mlok rail - $250
2 palmetto state armory ar 15 complete lower with enhanced polished trigger $200
And your still stuck with a jam matic poodle shooter instead of a real rifle.
SLR and J-MAC make the sexiest stuff for this platform IMHO. Great content as usual!
SLR GOR THE WIN!! I went with SLR hand guard and gas tube, FAB defense receiver/dust cover. It’s super sexy and functional as a mfer.
Article is great! I've gotta know what kind of camo pattern you used on the top AK.
Thanks Eric. However, the featureless pistol grip photo is for an AR not an AK.
this is article garbage except for the brake and trigger.
this article is*
I've got a Norinco MAK90 from back in the 90s. Shoots as smooth as butta. Never liked the hardware though. I'm seeing plenty of items out there, but seem to always get tripped up by the upper receiver attachment for stocks. Any recommendations out there? (Already own several USA products, thank you)
What happened to item 7?
How do the Midwest rail systems stand up to heat? Have to wear gloves? The Russian Molot AK grip is popular for those with large hands (if you can find one). I'm running the RS Regulate scope mount and it seems to work well but it is almost too adjustable. It is a two-piece affair with a bunch of screws that must be perfectly aligned and then Loctited securely. The add-on which seems to be getting the most press lately is the KNS Precision Adjustable Gas Piston. I have one on order. Allows you to custom-tune the gas settings and is essential for those running suppressors. I tried a Texas Weapons System top cover and found the aluminum too soft. Very delicate piece of kit that is easily deformed on installation (don't ask me how I know). The TWS product is not sufficiently robust to run on the AK platform. Stick to the side scope mount. I run a standard AK-100 side-folding stock and the length of pull is perfect for me. While the triangle side-folder looks way more cool, the full stock is far more comfortable to shoot.
Everything is upgradeable and its mostly a matter of preference but my top picks are 1. CMC trigger 2. Texas Weapons Top Cover 3. Iron Claw Tactical Magwell 4. KNS Precision Adjustable Gas Piston and 5. Krebs MKVII Safety Selector. I have upgraded other things but I think these are what make my AK what it is.
Anyone ,Im looking for barrel clamp on mossberg 930 spx.So far Im not sure what choice I have.
Eric, why do you think the full-length Magpul Zhukov handguard is "too long"? Is it an aesthetics issue or something else?
RS Regulate blows Midwest Industries junk out of the water. MI scope mount is garbage and unusable on any AKM - won’t fit due to rear sight or sits back too far to view.
There’s a lot more out there than what’s listed and feel this is luke warm at best from an informational and practical perspective. TWS products are nice but I’ve experienced shift in zero so can’t recommend them. Longer sight radius is offset by loss of range adjustments.
Troy and VLTOR handguard options are sweet and rival MI. Troy also makes a railed gas tube option.
Thanks for the recs!
I am a bit disappointed with my 2 piece drop in Mlok handguard from Midwest Industries on my AR upper. There’s a bit of play and rattle, and I know the upper is good. It’s not terrible but I am a bit ocd and it’s enough to bother me at times. The Magpul MOE was much tighter (pain in the butt to take off without the handguard tool actually). I don’t want to make this upper low profile for free float either.
I have a MI mount on PSA AK with 1x6 ACSS scope. No problems whatsoever. Returns to zero every time. Works fine, last a long time. Added a .75 in cheek riser to the Z MOE stock.
Great article, definitely look into the Texas Weapon Systems Dog Leg Rail, Gen-3 - AKM, AK-47 / 74. I have it on two rifles and it is rock solid when mounted and makes mounting and getting a good cheek weld really easy. Not really added bulk/ weight and you can easily swing your dust cover up and off to field strip without any difficulty. No crazy drilling holes required either!
Will do thanks for the recs!
Best upgrade to the commie AK? An AR, you're welcome. America, love it or leave it.
Lol, best comment yet
Definitely loving the increase in AK related articles.
We'll keep em coming!