The AK-47 is celebrated for its reliability and simplicity, becoming a staple in firearms history. Over time, its pistol variant has garnered interest among gun enthusiasts and practical users alike. If you’re looking to add an AK-47 pistol to your collection or choose one for specific use, this guide will help you navigate through the options available to choose the Best AK-47 Pistols, highlighting factors to consider and showcasing top models.
Factors to Consider When Choosing an AK-47 Pistol
Caliber: 7.62x39mm or Other Options
The caliber of your AK-47 pistol impacts its performance. The classic 7.62x39mm round is favored for its powerful impact and range. However, some pistols offer alternative calibers that may better suit different needs or preferences. Consider what caliber aligns with your shooting goals.
Barrel Length: Impact on Accuracy and Maneuverability
Barrel length plays a crucial role in accuracy and maneuverability. Shorter barrels offer better handling and portability, ideal for close-quarters use. Longer barrels enhance accuracy and ballistic performance. Choose a barrel length that fits your primary use.
Muzzle Device: Flash Hider, Compensator, or Suppressor
The type of muzzle device can affect shooting comfort. A flash hider reduces visible muzzle flash, a compensator helps manage recoil and muzzle rise, and a suppressor decreases noise. Select the device that best complements your shooting environment and needs.
Ergonomics: Grip, Stock, and Controls
Comfort is key in effective shooting. Look for features such as ergonomic grips, adjustable stocks, and accessible controls. Your choice should enhance handling and shooting accuracy.
Accessories: Rails, Optics, and Other Attachments
Modern AK-47 pistols often come with accessory rails for optics, lights, and other attachments. Evaluate the accessory options available to customize your firearm according to your needs.
Intended Use: Home Defense, Competition, or Recreational Shooting
Your intended use will guide your choice. For home defense, a compact, manageable model might be preferable. For competition, accuracy and accessory compatibility are important. For recreational shooting, comfort and aesthetics might take precedence.
Top AK-47 Pistols on the Market
Model 1: Century Arms Romanian Micro Draco
The Century Arms Romanian Micro Draco is a compact and formidable AK-47 pistol that stands out for its rugged design and reliable performance. It is a variant of the AK-47 series known for its reduced size while maintaining the powerful features that characterize the classic AK-47. This model is designed for those who need a firearm that is both powerful and easily maneuverable, making it an excellent choice for various applications, from personal defense to recreational shooting.
Features
- Caliber: 7.62x39mm
The Micro Draco is chambered in the 7.62x39mm caliber, a well-regarded round known for its significant stopping power and effectiveness in a wide range of shooting scenarios. This caliber is famous for its performance in both short and long-range engagements, providing a balance of power and accuracy. - Barrel Length: 6.25 inches
With a relatively short 6.25-inch barrel, the Micro Draco is designed to be highly compact and portable. This short barrel length enhances maneuverability, making the pistol easier to handle in confined spaces or for quick target acquisition. However, the shorter barrel does affect the effective range and ballistic performance compared to longer-barreled rifles. - Build Quality:
The Micro Draco boasts a robust build, constructed with high-quality materials that ensure durability and longevity. Its design reflects the ruggedness typical of AK-47 variants, with a solid metal frame and reinforced components that can withstand heavy use and adverse conditions.
Pros
- Highly Portable:
The compact size of the Micro Draco makes it exceptionally portable. This feature is advantageous for users who require a firearm that is easy to carry and store while still delivering substantial firepower. Its small footprint also allows for more flexible handling, whether in tactical situations or recreational shooting. - Solid Performance:
Despite its size, the Micro Draco offers solid performance in terms of reliability and accuracy. The 7.62x39mm caliber provides effective stopping power, and the pistol’s design ensures consistent functioning even under demanding conditions. This performance makes it a reliable choice for users who need a dependable firearm. - Reliable:
The Micro Draco inherits the legendary reliability of the AK-47 platform. Known for its ability to function well in harsh environments, the Micro Draco is less prone to malfunctions and jams compared to many other pistols. This reliability is a key feature for users who need a firearm they can trust in critical situations.
Cons
- Limited Aftermarket Parts:
One of the drawbacks of the Micro Draco is the limited availability of aftermarket parts and accessories. While there are some options available, the range of modifications and enhancements is not as extensive as with other more popular AK-47 models. This limitation might restrict customization and upgrades. - Heavier Recoil:
Due to its compact size and powerful 7.62x39mm caliber, the Micro Draco has a noticeable recoil. The shorter barrel and smaller frame amplify the felt recoil, which can be more challenging to manage, especially for shooters who are not accustomed to high-recoil firearms. This aspect may affect shooting comfort and accuracy during prolonged use.
Overall, the Century Arms Romanian Micro Draco offers a blend of power and portability, making it a compelling option for those who need a compact, reliable AK-47 pistol. While it does have some limitations, its strengths in performance and reliability make it a notable choice in its category.
2. Century Arms BFT47
The Century Arms BFT47 is a well-regarded AK-47 pistol that strikes a balance between size and power. It features a 12.6-inch barrel, which makes it longer than many other AK-47 pistols while still retaining the compact characteristics of a pistol configuration. This extended barrel offers several advantages, including improved accuracy and ballistic performance, making the BFT47 a versatile choice for various shooting needs, from recreational use to more serious applications.
Features
- Caliber: 7.62x39mm
The BFT47 is chambered in the 7.62x39mm caliber, a standard choice for AK-47 platforms. This caliber is known for its powerful impact and effectiveness across different shooting ranges. The 7.62x39mm round is widely used due to its reliability and performance in both close and mid-range scenarios. - Barrel Length: 12.6 inches
One of the standout features of the BFT47 is its 12.6-inch barrel. This longer barrel length enhances the pistol’s accuracy and effective range compared to shorter-barreled models. The extended barrel also contributes to improved ballistic performance, providing a more stable shooting experience and better precision. - Build Quality:
The BFT47 is built with high durability in mind, featuring a robust construction that can withstand rigorous use. The materials and craftsmanship reflect the AK-47’s legendary ruggedness, ensuring that the BFT47 remains reliable even in challenging conditions. Its design incorporates quality components that contribute to its longevity and overall performance.
Pros
- Good Accuracy:
The extended 12.6-inch barrel enhances the BFT47’s accuracy, allowing for more precise shooting. This makes it a suitable option for users who prioritize accuracy in their shooting experience. The longer barrel helps in achieving better groupings and a more predictable trajectory. - Durable Construction:
The BFT47’s build quality ensures that it is a durable firearm, capable of withstanding heavy use. Its construction is designed to handle the stresses of frequent shooting, making it a reliable choice for both regular practice and field use. This durability is a hallmark of the AK-47 series, known for its resilience. - Versatile Use:
Due to its balance of size and power, the BFT47 is versatile in its applications. It is suitable for various uses, including home defense, recreational shooting, and even some tactical scenarios. The combination of accuracy and durability makes it adaptable to different shooting environments and purposes.
Cons
- Bulkier than Other Options:
Compared to more compact AK-47 pistols like the Century Arms Romanian Micro Draco, the BFT47 is bulkier. Its longer barrel and overall size can make it less convenient to carry and handle, especially in close-quarters situations or when portability is a priority. - More Expensive:
The BFT47 tends to be more expensive than some other AK-47 pistols due to its extended features and high build quality. While it offers enhanced performance, the higher price point might be a consideration for those on a tighter budget. The cost reflects its advanced features and durable construction.
Overall, the Century Arms BFT47 offers a compelling combination of size, power, and accuracy, making it a solid choice for those who need a versatile and durable AK-47 pistol. While it is bulkier and more expensive than some alternatives, its extended barrel and reliable build quality provide significant benefits for users who can accommodate its size and cost. For those interested in exploring more options, you might also check out the Century Arms Romanian Micro Draco or visit the Apex Gun Shop store for additional selections.
3: Palmetto State Armory AK-P
The Palmetto State Armory AK-P is a high-quality AK-47 pistol designed for shooters who value both performance and customization. Known for its solid construction and advanced features, the AK-P offers a balance of power and precision. Its design incorporates modern enhancements to the classic AK-47 platform, making it a versatile choice for various shooting applications. Whether you’re a competitive shooter, a tactical enthusiast, or simply a fan of high-quality firearms, the AK-P stands out in the crowded field of AK-47 pistols.
Features
- Caliber: 7.62x39mm
The PSA AK-P is chambered in the 7.62x39mm caliber, a widely respected choice for its effectiveness and stopping power. This caliber provides a robust performance suitable for a range of shooting activities, from recreational to defensive use. The 7.62x39mm round is well-known for its reliability and impact. - Barrel Length: 10.5 inches
The AK-P features a 10.5-inch barrel, offering a compromise between maneuverability and accuracy. This barrel length allows for a balance of portability and improved shooting performance. The longer barrel contributes to better accuracy and a more stable shooting experience compared to shorter-barreled pistols. - M-LOK Rail System:
One of the standout features of the PSA AK-P is its M-LOK rail system. This modern rail system provides versatile mounting options for various accessories such as optics, lights, and grips. The M-LOK system enhances the pistol’s adaptability, allowing users to customize it to fit their specific needs and preferences.
Pros
- Excellent Build Quality:
The AK-P is renowned for its superior build quality. Constructed with high-grade materials and attention to detail, the PSA AK-P is designed to be durable and reliable. Its robust construction ensures that it can withstand the rigors of regular use and maintain consistent performance over time. - Versatile:
Thanks to its M-LOK rail system and customizable features, the AK-P is highly versatile. It can be tailored with various accessories to suit different shooting scenarios, from tactical situations to recreational shooting. This versatility makes it a valuable addition to any firearm collection. - Great Accuracy:
The combination of the 10.5-inch barrel and quality construction contributes to the AK-P’s excellent accuracy. This feature is particularly beneficial for precision shooting and allows users to achieve tighter groupings and more predictable performance.
Cons
- Higher Price:
The PSA AK-P is priced higher than some other AK-47 pistols, reflecting its advanced features and build quality. While it offers numerous benefits, the cost may be a consideration for those with budget constraints. The higher price point is indicative of its premium construction and features. - Longer Lead Times for Custom Orders:
Customizing the PSA AK-P or ordering specific configurations may result in longer lead times. This delay can be a drawback for those who require their firearm quickly. While customization allows for a tailored experience, the waiting period can be inconvenient.
Overall, the Palmetto State Armory AK-P is a standout choice for those seeking a high-quality, customizable AK-47 pistol. Its excellent build quality, versatility, and accuracy make it a top contender in its category. If you’re interested in exploring other options, you can also check out the Century Arms BFT47 or visit the Apex Gun Shop store for a variety of firearms and accessories.
Additional Models
Other notable models include the Mini Draco and various Krinkov-style AK pistols, offering different features and price points to suit various needs.
Choosing the Right AK-47 Pistol for You
When selecting an AK-47 pistol, consider your personal preferences, intended use, and budget. Each model offers unique features, so weigh these aspects carefully to find the best fit. Also, ensure you are familiar with local legal requirements and regulations for firearm ownership.
Conclusion
Selecting the best AK-47 pistol involves evaluating factors like caliber, barrel length, and ergonomics. Models such as the Century Arms Romanian Micro Draco, Century Arms BFT47, and Palmetto State Armory AK-P offer diverse features to fit various preferences and budgets. Conduct thorough research and consult with experts to make an informed choice.
Additional Tips:
- For purchasing, visit Apex Gun Shop for a range of options and expert advice.
- Always prioritize safety and responsible firearm ownership.
- Consider creating a comparison chart to visualize key features of different models.
For more information, visit the Apex Gun Shop store or reach out through their contact page.