Mounting an optic on your AK-47 can feel like a daunting task, but the right scope transforms this classic rifle into a modern, versatile tool. Whether you’re navigating dense woods for hunting, competing in a tactical match, or defending your home, a quality sight picture is crucial. The AK’s distinct ballistics and rugged nature demand optics that are equally tough and purpose-built.
This guide cuts through the noise to present the best scopes specifically suited for the AK-47 platform. We have selected a range of options, from budget-friendly red dots to advanced prism scopes with specialized reticles. Our goal is to help you find the perfect optic to match your shooting style and maximize your rifle’s potential.
Our Top Picks for AK-47 Optics
- Vortex Optics Spitfire 3X Prism Scope
- Primary Arms SLX 3x32mm Gen III Prism Scope
- HOLOSUN HS510C Multi-Reticle Green Reflex Sight
- Vortex Optics Crossfire II 2-7×32 Scout Riflescope
- AT3 Tactical RD-50 Micro Red Dot Sight
- Trijicon ACOG 3.5×35 BAC Riflescope
- Sig Sauer Romeo5 1x20mm Compact Red Dot Sight
- UTG 3-9X32 1″ BugBuster Scope
Vortex Optics Spitfire 3X Prism Scope
The Vortex Spitfire 3X is a fantastic choice for shooters who need speed and precision at close to medium ranges. Its prism-based design results in a compact and lightweight scope without compromising optical clarity. The etched EBR-556B reticle is always present, with a selectable red or green illumination to enhance visibility against any background.
Fully multi-coated lenses provide a bright sight picture, which is a significant advantage in low-light conditions. The fast-focus eyepiece allows you to quickly adjust the reticle to your eye for a sharp image. This scope is built to handle recoil and is an excellent, reliable partner for your AK-47.
Primary Arms SLX 3x32mm Gen III Prism Scope
If you want an optic specifically designed for the 7.62x39mm cartridge, the Primary Arms SLX is a top contender. It features the acclaimed ACSS reticle, which includes bullet drop compensation and ranging marks calibrated for the AK-47’s trajectory out to 600 yards. This takes the guesswork out of engaging targets at various distances.
The Gen III model comes with a new, ruggedized mount that offers exceptional clamping power for a secure fit on your rifle’s rail. It also includes a height riser for optimal ergonomics. This scope is a purpose-built tool that makes your AK-47 a more effective and accurate platform.
HOLOSUN HS510C Multi-Reticle Green Reflex Sight
For lightning-fast target acquisition, the Holosun HS510C open reflex sight is an outstanding option. The large, unobstructed window provides a wide field of view, perfect for close-quarters situations. You can choose between a 2 MOA dot, a 65 MOA circle, or both, giving you flexibility for different shooting scenarios.
This sight is packed with smart features, including Shake Awake technology that conserves battery life by putting the optic to sleep when not in motion. The Solar Failsafe feature adds a layer of redundancy, allowing the sight to operate using ambient light if the battery fails. Its durable construction with a titanium hood is ready for hard use.
Vortex Optics Crossfire II 2-7×32 Scout Riflescope
The Vortex Crossfire II Scout scope is an ideal choice for hunters using an AK-pattern rifle. The extended eye relief of the scout configuration allows for a comfortable heads-up shooting position, which can be faster and more natural. The 2-7x magnification range is versatile, offering a wide view at low power for close targets and more precision at higher power for longer shots.
With its fully multi-coated lenses and a fast-focus eyepiece, this scope provides a clear and bright image. The durable one-piece construction is O-ring sealed and nitrogen purged, making it fogproof and waterproof. It’s a reliable and affordable way to add magnified capability to your setup.
AT3 Tactical RD-50 Micro Red Dot Sight
The AT3 Tactical RD-50 is a compact and budget-friendly red dot that is perfect for keeping your AK lightweight and maneuverable. Its small footprint mounts low on the rail, and the 3 MOA red dot is ideal for quick shots at close range. Despite its size, it is built to be shockproof and hold zero under recoil.
This sight offers multiple brightness settings to adapt to various lighting conditions. It’s an excellent entry-level option for those new to optics or for a rifle where a minimalistic sight is preferred. The RD-50 proves that you don’t have to spend a lot to get a functional and durable red dot.
Trijicon ACOG 3.5×35 BAC Riflescope
The Trijicon ACOG represents the pinnacle of rugged, battle-proven prism scopes. Its legendary durability and reliability are matched by exceptional optical performance. The 3.5×35 model provides a good balance between field of view and magnification for a variety of engagements.
A key feature is the Bindon Aiming Concept (BAC), which allows for both-eyes-open shooting for rapid target engagement. The fiber-optic and tritium illumination system powers the reticle with ambient light or in total darkness, requiring no batteries. This is a premium, no-compromise optic built for a lifetime of service.
Sig Sauer Romeo5 1x20mm Compact Red Dot Sight
The Sig Sauer Romeo5 is widely regarded as one of the best value red dots on the market. It strikes an excellent balance between performance, features, and cost. The MOTAC (Motion Activated Illumination) system turns the sight on when it senses motion and powers it down when stationary, conserving battery life.
With a crisp 2 MOA dot and ten illumination settings, it performs well in all conditions. It’s housed in a rugged, compact aluminum body that is shockproof and waterproof. The Romeo5 includes both a low and a high mount, making it easy to achieve a proper cheek weld on your AK-47.
UTG 3-9X32 1″ BugBuster Scope
The UTG BugBuster is a compact, feature-packed scope that is an excellent fit for the AK platform. Its short overall length makes it easy to mount without interfering with the rifle’s operation. The 3-9x magnification range is highly versatile, suitable for everything from close-range brush shooting to more precise shots at a distance.
This scope is built with a true strength platform, including a generous eye relief and fully multi-coated lenses. It is also nitrogen-filled to be fogproof and rainproof. With its included rings and built-in range estimator, the BugBuster offers a lot of functionality for its category.
Buying Guide: How to Choose a Scope for Your AK-47
Choosing the right scope for your AK-47 is a bit different than picking one for a typical bolt-action rifle. The AK platform has its own quirks, and getting a scope that works in harmony with them makes all the difference. I have mounted a lot of optics on AKs over the years, and I want to share what I look for to help you make a smart choice.
First and foremost, you need to think about durability. The AK-47 is famous for running dirty and taking a beating. Your scope needs to be its equal. Look for optics that are nitrogen-purged to prevent internal fogging and are sealed with O-rings to be fully waterproof. Shock resistance is non-negotiable. That sharp, distinctive recoil impulse of the 7.62x39mm round can destroy a scope that is not built to handle it. A rugged, one-piece tube is a good sign of a tough scope.
Next, consider the mounting system. This is arguably the biggest hurdle with the AK. You have a few main paths. You can get a scope that mounts directly to a side rail, which is a solid option but can be a bit high for a good cheek weld. Another popular method is to replace the standard dust cover with a dedicated optic mount, but you need to ensure it holds zero. My personal preference for a rock-solid zero is to use an aftermarket handguard with a Picatinny rail, which allows for a more forward and stable mounting position.
Finally, match the optic’s features to your intended use. For a classic, close-to-mid-range setup, a low-power variable optic (LPVO) or a red dot sight is perfect. If you are stretching the legs of your AK for hunting, a scope with a BDC (Bullet Drop Compensator) reticle calibrated for the 7.62×39 cartridge is incredibly helpful. Eye relief is also critical; you want a comfortable distance between your eye and the ocular lens to stay safe during recoil. By focusing on toughness, a reliable mount, and the right features for your shooting, you will find a great partner for your rifle. This guide to the 8 Best Scopes For AK-47 Rifles [2025 Buyer’s Guide] – Hunting Mark is built on these exact principles.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best type of mount for an AK-47 scope?
There is no single “best” mount, as it depends on your priorities. The factory side rail is very robust and a great choice if you do not mind a higher optic position. For a lower profile that allows for a better cheek weld, an aftermarket Picatinny rail handguard or a quality dust cover replacement mount from a reputable company are excellent options. The key is ensuring the mount returns to zero after being removed and reattached, which higher-end mounts are designed to do.
Can a standard AR-15 scope mount be used on an AK-47?
Sometimes, but not directly. If your AK has a Picatinny rail section—either on a handguard or via a side rail adapter—then yes, a standard AR-15 ring or mount can be used. However, you cannot attach an AR-15 mount directly to the AK’s receiver without an adapter. The mounting systems are completely different. Always check what base system your AK has before buying rings or a mount.
Is the 7.62×39 round hard on scopes?
It can be. While not a massive magnum round, the 7.62×39 has a sharp, impulsive recoil that can be tough on optics over time. This is why I always stress getting a scope built with shock resistance in mind. Cheap scopes often cannot handle the long-term stress and will lose zero or fail internally. Investing in a scope from a brand known for its durability is money well spent for an AK platform.
What magnification range is best for an AK-47?
For most uses, a low-power variable optic (LPVO) like a 1-4x or 1-6x is the sweet spot. It gives you a 1x setting for fast, close-range shooting, which is where the AK excels, while allowing you to zoom in for more precise shots out to 200-300 yards. A simple red dot is also a fantastic choice for purely close-quarters work. Higher magnifications are generally overkill for the effective range of the cartridge.
Do I need a special reticle for the 7.62×39 cartridge?
You do not need one, but it certainly helps. A reticle with holdover points, especially a BDC reticle calibrated for the 7.62×39’s trajectory, can make shooting at varying distances much faster and more intuitive. Instead of guessing or dialing, you can use the marked points in the reticle to compensate for bullet drop. When reviewing the 8 Best Scopes For AK-47 Rifles [2025 Buyer’s Guide] – Hunting Mark, I made sure to include options with both standard and cartridge-specific reticles.