The AK47 has made a huge surge in popularity over the last few years. Shooting Enthusiasts are looking for something different than another black rifle, which has rekindled a romance with Mikhail Kalishnikov’s most famous creation. The AK47 is known all around the world as a reliable, simple, and effective rifle and can be found in quite a few different variations.
One big thing to remember when looking to upgrade is that all AK47’s are NOT the same. The country of origin plays a large part in the cut of the receiver in most cases. You also must be sure to get parts that match the material and the way it was manufactured. Stamped and milled AK’s have different dimensions which can affect the parts you buy for any installs. Most manufacturers of these parts can be reached out to for questions relating to their parts going in your guns. Its common, so don’t be afraid to talk to someone from the factory.
Here are a few of my favorite upgrades for 2025:
Ace Limited was one of the first companies to manufacture American made parts for AK’s. Starting as a college project for creator Bob Weir, Ace grew their lineup to include many variations of Aks and the folders and stocks to go with them. Their system, now owned and operated by DoubleStar Corp in Winchester, KY, is modular which means that you can use any folder or stock with the receiver block for your rifle. It’s a great way to give your rifle and new stock that will stand the test of time.
Palmetto State Armory has a huge selection of not just AK parts but all variations of AK47. From traditional 7.62x39mm guns to the more recent 9mm releases, PSA has a complete lineup of guns to fill your need at a great price. My pick from their website is their billet handguard. Both top and bottom half are included and allow you to mount your favorite accessories to MLOK slots. This is a great way to get rid of that wooden handguard and match up to that sweet stock you just ordered.
Husband and wife team Justin and Ashley started JMAC customs the old American way. It was a hobby that turned into a side hustle that has now turned into one of the biggest names in AK upgrades. Manufactured in America, JMAC’s offerings are not the average. JMAC is known for their style and outrageous designs that not only catch the attention of everyone at the range but perform beautifully just like they should. The RRD 2 Port Comp is a smaller, lighter version of the 4C. With a slimmer profile and two ports, this compensator will help tame the mightiest of recoils in a smaller package and is 14.1 LH threads.
ALG Defense is a brand well known in the firearms industry for top-of-the line triggers made right here in America. The AK 6 lb. Enhanced trigger is another fine example of why they continue to do well. The AKT Enhanced is a single stage trigger that will work with both the AK47 and AK74 platforms. It breaks at 6lbs and is machined from triple alloy steel with a Manganese Phosphate finish. The Enhanced version is then hard lubed, and the hammer is Black Nitride coated for corrosion resistance. If you are looking for a way to steady your shot, the AKT Enhanced will help you get there.
A magazine made the list?? Why is the PMAG here? Simple… it works. Magpul’s incredible story started with rubber magazine handles that slid over the ends of magazines so they could be pulled from pouches easier. Simple but effective. Dr. Drake continued that philosophy with a decade or two of simple, easy to use products that enhanced guns across the industry. Their PMAG is no different. While it is a polymer mix, the PMAG is known the world over as one of the most reliable and price conscious magazines out there. If the magazine isn’t feeding, the gun isn’t shooting. Make sure your mags aren’t the problem. Get a few PMAGS and keep shooting.
-Nick
.png)
.png)
.png)
