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- Alfred Mendoza
- February 28, 2024
Having a reliable mount allows you to have that connection with your rifle. It is not just simply pulling the trigger when you see your target on the scope. You need AK scope mounts to help you take a stable shot to make the hit, but which one should you pick?
To help you make that right choice, we rounded up the top names that can be the best fit for you.
- Good fit
- Locks in very securely
- Sturdy lever mechanism
- Very affordable
- Good compatibility with AK variants
- Quality Construction
- QD lever is sturdy
- Lightweight
- Centered to the bore of the rifle
- Great strength and functionality
Table of Contents
Top Scope Mounts for AK
1. NTC ELITE GEN 4 Scope Mount
Why We Picked It:
The best AK scope mounts fit plenty of scope models and went through quality inspection to ensure a good fit. This is something NTC Elite made sure of before releasing this scope mount.
This goes with Picatinny rail or even the standard quality side rail from Russia, China, the US, and the Yugo models. In cases wherein you need to re-zero in, there is a quick detach system which is an issue in some other tactical scopes.
Compatibility-wise, this is compatible with Russian guns and all other models. The fit was quality checked and centered on the bore axis.
Who Should Use It:
This scope mount is good for target shooting as well as competitive shooting since it works with most models, which makes this one of the best AK scope mounts in the market.
Summary:
If you want a secure fit that locks in right away, this is the best product to look at. You won’t have any issues making it fit any AK models, regardless of which country it originated or if this is a standard side rail or a Picatinny.
PROS
- Good fit
- Locks in very securely
- Sturdy lever mechanism
- Very affordable
- Good compatibility with AK variants
CONS
- The design could be improved
- Not for serious setup
2. Midwest Industries, Inc. - AK-47/74 Scope Mount
Why We Picked It:
Midwest Industries are known in the industry, and their products usually have great designs and functionality. This particular scope mount is made for 30mm scopes, but the necessary rings are included upon purchase of this scope mount.
Midwest Industries assure users that this fits any AK variant. There are no necessary tools needed since the fit is secured. Durability is also not a problem with Midwest Industries since this is made from 6061 aluminum and has a black hard-coat anodized finish.
Midwest Industries made this with the lowest mount possible for the convenience of the user.
Who Should Use It:
This is a product that would be very useful in most shooting scenarios. It works while hunting. It can also be for occasional shooting or competition.
Summary:
If you want to rely on reputation, this manufacturer is known for high-quality products. This AK railed scope mount is an edge since the adjustment is no longer a problem with including a scope ring in every purchase.
PROS
- Quality Construction
- QD lever is sturdy
- Lightweight
- Centered to the bore of the rifle
- Great strength and functionality
CONS
- Has some issues with accuracy
- Difficult to adjust
3. Ultimak - Ak Scout Mount Mode M1-B
Why We Picked It:
This particular AK 47 scope mount is classified as the best red dots or reflex optic (1) mount. Also, this is the right AK platform for three gun competitions since it needs a lightweight, reliable, and fast target acquisition system, which is exactly what this AK 47 rifle mount offers.
This has a Picatinny mounting option that can position the iron sight axis perfectly. This is also considered one of the best scopes because of its sleek design and durability.
Once installed, you will directly clamp it on the barrel. In turn, it will be stable with optimal bore alignment resulting in enhanced accuracy.
Who Should Use It:
It is exemplary with competitive shooting as well as hunting and tactical use. Because of its precise alignment, accurate hits are almost assured with this piece.
Summary:
If you want something that can provide stability with your weapon, this is the best scope. You will enjoy an easy-to-install, durable, and lightweight mount that can help enhance your accuracy.
PROS
- Accurate
- Easy To Adjust
- Lightweight
- Quality Construction
- Solid built
CONS
- Cannot be removed easily
- Somehow expensive
4. RS Regulate- AK47/AKM Optic Mount System
Why We Picked It:
Unlike other mounts, RS Regulate scope mount is customizable, with three lower mount choices. It has a full-length lower rail, forward and rear, giving the user to position anywhere and still have a vision in front, left or right, or rear sight.
This is also a good choice because of its co-witness location for the optics. The lower rail needs to be settled to allow any positioning of the optics, whether front or back. It is extremely easy to install, remove and reinstall without losing zero.
The best scope mounts for an AK rifle should maintain zero even after repeated removal, which is one of this product’s features.
Who Should Use It:
Those who are into the competitive shooting will enjoy this rail mount from RS Regulate. This is also a good product for hunting and tactical shooting because of its accuracy and lightness.
Summary:
If you are looking for a product with the most updated designs and is ready for customization, this would be the RS Regulate optic mount. It can also hold zero regardless of the number of times you mount and unmount your scope.
PROS
- Lightweight
- Affordable
- Accurate
- Sturdy construction
- Customizable
CONS
- Fitting issues
- Requires a lot of adjustments
5. UltiMAK M2-B AK Forward Optic Mount
Why We Picked It:
If you are searching for low mounting options, this would be the lowest you can get. There wouldn’t be any need for a comb riser since your tubular sight will be mounted low. Also, for those weapons that use gas tubes, this can be a replacement as well as the upper handguard of the AK.
It comes with magnified optics that provide faster and easier target acquisition, and it holds zero very well. Even if you dismount your scope, it will not lose zero. Also, since this has a low mounting, you will have the best cheek weld, which should aid inaccuracy.
Who Should Use It:
This AK scope mount is best for hunters who want low mount models. The AK scope can be easily mounted on the left-hand side and as low as the user wants it without compromising the target image.
Summary:
This is the best AK scope for shooters who have mastered the art of shooting with both opened. It has a magnified optic that can help with faster target acquisition. This is also the best choice for those who want to have low-scope mounts.
PROS
- Easy to install
- Very solid
- Retains zero with optic
- Perfect fit
- Adjustable
CONS
- Gun compatibility issues
- Only works with a red dot
6. AK Master Mount Side Rail Kit
Why We Picked It:
We chose this side mount from AK Master for those using the traditional side rail mounts. It supports the standard AK-styled clamping optic mounts, allowing SVD styled locking optic mounts to work with a central scalloped recessed area.
This can last as long as your first AK would last because of its rock-solid steel fabrication. Any AK owner will appreciate this product since this will easily fit on the AK’s receiver hammer and the trigger axis pin holes using mounting pins from AK Master.
This means you do not have to go to any gunsmith or any need to modify your AK receiver. Since the fit is perfect, you don’t have to prioritize buying a dust cover or upgrade the handguard system.
Who Should Use It:
This is great for tactical shooting because of the secure hold. This is also best for competition shooting and hunting, and other shooting activities.
Summary:
If you want the best AK scope for your AK100 rifles, this is the best rail mount. It fits perfectly using the proprietary pins. Therefore, you do not need to worry about drilling or riveting your AK’s receiver.
PROS
- High quality
- Sturdy material
- Very easy to install
- Very light
- Looks good on the rifle
CONS
- Not for milled receivers
- Only for standard AK mounts
7. NcSTAR AK Side Rail Optics Mount
Why We Picked It:
This mount is perfect for law enforcement or the marine corps since this allows the user to mount on the side. Installation should not be a problem with these mounts. It can slide on the side mount rail easily and can be secured with three-piece Allen screws.
It is compatible with both a rifle scope and sights, which you can install at the top rail. In contrast, the side rail can be an area for lasers, flashlights, and all other accessories for the scope. An impressive fact is that this piece of equipment only weighs 6.7 ounces.
Who Should Use It:
Military and law enforcement are the best fit for this scope mount. This is similar to what was developed for a military contract.
Summary:
These are the best mounts for tactical activities, but you can also use them for hunting or home defense purposes. It has easy installation and is built with high-quality materials ensuring its durability.
PROS
- Sturdy
- Easy to install
- Compatible with most AK variants
- Reasonably priced
- Versatile
CONS
- No quick disconnect
- Short
Your Guide to Buying
Mount Type/Rail Systems
The common rails are the Picatinny and the Weaver rails, which differ on the number of slots and depth of scope. If you want a lower profile, then you opt for the weaver type. There is another option which is the dovetail or the side rail mount and the NATO Accessory Rail.
Solid Construction
Apart from the weather and corrosion factors, AK rifles are also powerful weapons with a strong pullback that can damage the scope if it is mounted in a weak type. Choose the best AK scope mount with strong quality materials and an appropriate design.
Side mount
If you are hunting or in a shooting activity, having a side mount would be beneficial to allow you to have a lower profile which will lessen the need to lift your head and view the target clearly regardless of the eye relief of your scope.
Dust Cover Mount
Dust cover mounts are designed to provide extra protection to your weapon, preventing contaminants from entering from the ejection port to the forward part of your AK frame. This is actually what the Texas Weapons System has though some are not convinced with its make.
Scout setup
If you want to use a scout setup, your rifle requires handrails or a gas tube that comes along with the Picatinny rails. These are normally easy to use, especially when cleaning and doing maintenance. However, this requires a good scope to keep up with the demands of these types of mounts.
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Cost
When it comes to ensuring your weapon is with the best accessories to practice accurate and safe shooting, there is the possibility of spending higher than expected. Somehow, quality products usually have a high price in their tag. However, some brands produce top-of-the-line mounts that are reasonably priced but are cleverly designed.
Co-witnessing
This is actually user preference, but this is still important in setting up your optical sight with your AK’s fixed or iron sight. This is simply aligning your red dot with the sights of your AK rifle.
Weight
AK-47 is already heavy, and if you add something other than the scope, the weight will be on your shoulder, affecting your shooting capability and accuracy. Pick a scope mount that weighs less than one ounce if possible but make sure it is high quality to avoid breakage.
Price
Quality doesn’t always mean you go for the expensive option. More AK parts would be needing more costly upgrades rather than a mounting piece. Choose a reasonably-priced mounting device that offers countless features.
Our Team's Selection Process
Overall Performance
As always, we look at all features presented by the product before we compare and see which one provides overall benefits and not just a specific functionality. Some are lightweight, which helps but are not sturdy to withstand recoil, which is a downside we normally disagree with.
Weapon Compatibility
Some scope mounts are not supporting all the variants of the AK models, which is very unfortunate. Installation becomes a problem if these are not the right fit and the weapon’s alteration is not usually the right decision. We tested all products to verify which of these mounts are compatible with AK variants.
Product Quality
Regardless of price, we see that the quality is never compromised just because the product is cheap. Apart from our tests, we also compare how the buyers see the scope mounts, whether these are for Micro Dot side scopes or the regular ones.
FAQs
The side mount on an AK is called Dovetail Rail because it resembles a dove’s tail that is fanned out.
Not all AK side scope mounts are the same because each one has its own specification. Picatinny models are interchangeable, but it has its own system.
What's Our Choice For The Best Scope Mount For AK?
Our choice for the best scope mount for AK is the NTC ELITE GEN 4 Scope Mount for its secure fit and broad compatibility.
EDITOR’S CHOICE
Our #1 Recommendation
NTC ELITE GEN 4 Scope Mount
- Good fit
- Locks in very securely
- Sturdy lever mechanism
- Very affordable
- Good compatibility with AK variants
