Few firearms are as iconic as the rugged, reliable AK-47 and its many variants. Part of what makes these rifles so special is the aftermarket support and extensive pool of upgrades available for shooters, from folding stocks to tactical handguards.

Top 8 AK Upgrades

Best Upgrades For Your AK-Platform Rifle

With so many options available, it can be difficult to choose where to start customizing your rifle. The Classic Firearms team has assembled our list of the top 8 AK upgrades you should make (along with our rationale for each modification).

Magpul Zhukov-S Folding Stock

A new stock can transform your shooting experience, and the Zhukov-S Folding Stock from Magpul is one of the best on the market. It features QD sling mounts, modular cheek risers, a recoil-absorbing rubber butt pad, and is compatible with side-mounted optics. 

Magpul Zhukov-S Folding Stock For AK Rifles

Purchase the Magpul Zhukov-S Folding Stock today!

Hogue Rubber Grip W/ Finger Grooves

Made from non-slip textured rubber, Hogue's replacement AK-47 / AK-74 grip offers superior ergonomics and fits the hand well. This allows for a better purchase on the firearm and improves control when firing.

Hogue Rubber Grip W/ Finger Grooves for AK-47 / AK-74

Purchase the Hogue Rubber Grip W/ Finger Grooves today!

FAB Defense Vanguard AK Handguard

This low-profile handguard includes two QD sling swivel sockets and various M-LOK slots for mounting accessories at the desired position. The Vanguard also incorporates an innovative heat shield for increased comfort and performance. 

FAB Defense Vanguard AK Handguard

Purchase the FAB Defense Vanguard AK Handguard today!

Franklin Armory BFSIII AK-C1 Binary Curved Trigger

Perhaps the most impactful upgrade you can make, installing a binary trigger from Franklin Armory enables faster shooting with tighter groups. It is compatible with most standard AKs and is easy to install without a gunsmith. 

Franklin Armory BFSIII AK-C1 Binary Trigger

Purchase the Franklin Armory BFSII AK-C1 Binary Curved Trigger today!

RS Regulate AK-301M Lower Optics Mount

The RS Regulate AK-301M Lower Optics Mount allows you to attach your choice of optic to any rifle with a standardized side rail, without adding unnecessary bulk. Plus, this mount is completely modular and pairs well with all upper optics mounts from RS Regulate.

RS Regulate AK-301M Lower Optics Mount

Purchase the RS Regulate AK-301M Lower Optics Mount today!

Strike Industries JComp V2 Muzzle Device

Strike Industries has totally re-engineered the Type 89 compensator, adding increased muzzle rise compensation for better recoil control. The JComp V2 is also compatible with the Opressor and FerFrans concussion reduction devices. 

Strike Industries JComp V2 Muzzle Device

Purchase the Strike Industries JComp V2 Muzzle Device today!

CAA Extended AK Magazine Release

The CAA Extended AK Magazine Release attaches to existing mag releases and provides more material for easier, faster reloads. It's a small part that can make a huge difference, whether you're practicing reload drills or plinking at the range.

CAA Extended AK Magazine Release

Purchase the CAA Extended AK Magazine Release today!

Magpul PMAG AK / AKM Gen M3 7.62x39 30rd Magazine

Although uncommon, AK-platform rifles can experience the occasional failure. A solid aftermarket magazine like the PMAG AK / AKM Gen M3 from Magpul can help reduce the number of malfunctions. Also, consider pairing with a Magpul mag coupler for faster reloads. 

Magpul PMAG AK / AKM Gen M3 7.62x39 30rd Magazine

Purchase the PMGA AK / AKM Gen M3 7.62x39 30rd Magazine today!

Get a Magpul MagLink Magazine Coupler!

Customizing AK-Platform Rifles

AK-platform rifles are admittedly less modular than AR-15s, but there is still a great deal of customization you can perform to make your rifle the best it can be. To learn more about the best modern AK setup, be sure to check out our video below.

Shop all AK parts and accessories!