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Magnification: 1-6xObjective Lens: 24mmReticle: ACSS Gen III (Illuminated)Focal Plane: Second Focal Plane (SFP)Weight: 17.9 ozTube Diameter: 30mmOptimized ACSS reticle for 5.45x39mm and 5.56mm roundsExcellent clarity and fast target acquisitionAffordable without sacrificing qualityIllumination could be brighter in direct sunlightSlight distortion at max zoom
Magnification: 1-8xObjective: 24mmFocal Plane: First Focal Plane (FFP)Reticle: EBR-8 Illuminated BDCTube Diameter: 30mmReticle stays proportional at all magnificationsExceptional light transmissionIncludes throw lever and flip capsSlightly heavier (23.5 oz)Pricey compared to SFP alternatives
Fixed Magnification: 4xObjective: 32mmReticle: Illuminated Chevron (tritium + fiber optic)Eye Relief: 1.5 inchesAlways-illuminated reticle (no batteries)Built like a tankPhenomenal clarity and light transmissionExpensiveLimited eye relief
Magnification: 1-8xObjective Lens: 28mmTube: 34mmReticle: VHR Illuminated FFPTrue 1x with razor-sharp imageWide field of viewDurable construction with precise turretsSlightly bulky for an AK
Magnification: 1-6xObjective: 24mmTube Diameter: 34mmReticle: Guerrilla Dot BDC (FFP)Reticle designed for fast ranging and holdoversDaylight-bright illuminationDurable, aircraft-grade constructionSlightly heavier than comparable 1-6x scopes
Magnification Range: The AK-74’s effective range is 400–500 yards. A 1-6x or 1-8x LPVO offers flexibility for both close and mid-range engagements.Durability: Choose scopes that are shockproof, fogproof, and waterproof—AKs are rugged rifles and your optic should match that reliability.Eye Relief: Look for optics with 3.5 inches or more. This ensures comfort and protection from recoil.Reticle Type: BDC or ACSS reticles are optimal, allowing quick holdovers suited to 5.45x39mm ballistics.Mounting System: The AK platform may require side mounts (like RS Regulate or Midwest Industries) or dust cover rails.Weight and Balance: Lightweight LPVOs preserve the AK’s natural balance. Anything over 25 oz may feel front-heavy.
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5 Best Scope for AK 74: Top Tactical Optics for Precision and Durability
Finding the best scope for AK 74 can completely transform how your rifle performs on the range or in the field. The AK-74, chambered in 5.45x39mm, offers superb accuracy for a military-pattern rifle, and pairing it with a modern optic unlocks its full potential. Whether you're a tactical shooter, competitive marksman, or weekend plinker, the right optic can make all the difference in target acquisition, precision, and confidence.
In this comprehensive guide, I’ve field-tested several scopes ideal for the AK-74 platform—balancing weight, eye relief, durability, and optical clarity. Below, you’ll find my top picks, each offering exceptional value and performance for both short- and mid-range shooting.
Top Product List: 5 Best Scope for AK 74 of 2025
1. Primary Arms SLX 1-6x24mm SFP ACSS Gen III
This is one of my go-to optics for an AK platform. The SLX 1-6x24mm offers a true 1x for CQB (close-quarters battle) and a clean 6x magnification for medium-range precision. The patented ACSS reticle is designed for rapid ranging and holdovers—a perfect match for the AK-74’s ballistic profile.
Specs:
Pros:
Cons:
Glass Clarity & Reticle: Glass is surprisingly crisp for its price range. The ACSS reticle provides instant range estimation and bullet drop compensation.
Eye Relief & Eye Box: Consistent at 3.5 inches, providing safety even with heavy recoil.
Durability: Shockproof, fogproof, and waterproof—it handled over 500 rounds on my AK without losing zero.
My Experience: I mounted it using a Midwest Industries side mount on my PSA AK-74. Zeroing took about 15 rounds at 100 yards, and it held zero perfectly even after repeated mag dumps.
Verdict: The Primary Arms SLX is a balanced, tactical-ready LPVO that transforms the AK-74 into a modern precision carbine.
2. Vortex Optics Strike Eagle 1-8x24 FFP
The Strike Eagle series is a staple for AK users who want versatility and reliability. This FFP (First Focal Plane) model maintains reticle consistency across all zoom levels—a huge advantage for variable-distance shooting.
Specs:
Pros:
Cons:
Glass & Reticle: The EBR-8 reticle is highly functional with BDC marks out to 600 yards—perfect for a 5.45mm AK.
Eye Relief & Eye Box: Consistent 3.7-inch eye relief and wide eye box allow for quick transitions.
Durability: Aircraft-grade aluminum housing with O-ring sealing and nitrogen purging ensures rugged reliability.
Personal Experience: I ran the Strike Eagle during a 2-gun match mounted on a Zastava M74 clone using a RS Regulate 303 mount. Turrets tracked precisely, and the optic stayed zeroed after 800 rounds.
Verdict: The Strike Eagle 1-8x24 FFP is a professional-grade LPVO that gives the AK-74 serious reach and clarity.
3. Trijicon ACOG 4x32
The ACOG needs little introduction—it’s the optic trusted by militaries worldwide. On an AK-74, it provides battle-proven dependability and unmatched optical clarity.
Specs:
Pros:
Cons:
Glass Clarity: Edge-to-edge clarity is flawless—one of the brightest fixed-power optics ever made.
Durability: Survives heavy recoil, dust, rain, and rough field handling. It’s military-grade toughness.
Personal Experience: Mounted on a Zenitco-railed AK-74M, I found the ACOG ideal for 100–200 yards combat accuracy. Its bullet drop compensator perfectly matches the 5.45 ballistic curve.
Verdict: If you want ultimate reliability for your AK-74, the ACOG is a premium choice worth every penny.
4. Arken Optics EP8 1-8x28 FFP LPVO
Arken Optics has been impressing shooters with premium features at an affordable price. The EP8 is their answer to high-end LPVOs, featuring a 34mm tube and full FFP design.
Specs:
Pros:
Cons:
Glass Clarity: Comparable to optics twice its price; contrast and color rendition are excellent.
Eye Relief: Comfortable and forgiving for fast target transitions.
Durability: It shrugged off 600 rounds of 5.45x39mm without losing zero.
Verdict: The Arken EP8 offers cutting-edge optical tech and build quality, making it an incredible value.
5. Swampfox Warhorse 1-6x24 FFP
Swampfox’s Warhorse is a modern, battle-ready FFP optic perfect for the AK-74 platform. It combines a tactical reticle with outstanding illumination.
Specs:
Pros:
Cons:
Glass Clarity: Superb sharpness and contrast even at max zoom.
Durability: Passed my 400-round test flawlessly; maintained zero under recoil.
Verdict: The Warhorse is a tactical powerhouse, ideal for shooters who want speed and precision.
How to Choose the Right Scope for AK-74
FAQs
1. What magnification is best for an AK-74? A 1-6x or 1-8x LPVO is ideal, balancing CQB capability and mid-range precision.
2. Can I use a red dot instead of a scope? Yes, red dots are great for close-range, but a scope offers better precision beyond 150 yards.
3. Do I need a special mount for an AK-74? Most AKs require a side-rail or top-cover mount—I recommend RS Regulate for best alignment.
4. Is an FFP scope better than SFP on an AK? FFP is great for variable magnification precision, while SFP is lighter and often cheaper—it depends on your shooting style.
5. How far can an AK-74 shoot accurately with a scope? With a good optic, you can achieve accurate shots up to 500 yards.
6. Are illuminated reticles worth it? Absolutely—they make low-light and fast-acquisition shooting far easier.
7. Which reticle type works best? The ACSS or BDC-style reticle is best suited for the AK-74’s ballistics.
Conclusion
Choosing the best scope for AK 74 depends on how you use your rifle—tactical, hunting, or competition. After extensive field testing, my top recommendation is the Primary Arms SLX 1-6x24mm SFP ACSS Gen III for its unbeatable combination of reticle design, durability, and value. The Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8x24 FFP is a close second for those wanting a professional-grade optic with more magnification.
Whatever your pick, the right scope will elevate your AK-74’s performance, transforming it from a classic Soviet design into a precision-capable modern rifle.
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