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Who makes a quality AK47 rifle worth buying?

12/2024
Dec 30, 2024
🕒 4 mins

The AK47 Platform: Exploring the Yugo and Zastava AK47 and AK74 Rifles

The AK-47 is one of the most recognized and respected firearms in the world. Known for its reliability, simplicity, and rugged design, this rifle has been a staple for militaries, law enforcement, and civilian enthusiasts for decades. Among the many variants available, the Yugo AK-47 and Zastava AK-47 rifles stand out as exceptional examples of craftsmanship and performance. Manufactured in Serbia (formerly Yugoslavia), these rifles offer unique advantages and have earned their place as top contenders in the AK market.

What Makes the Yugo AK47 Special?

The Yugo AK47, particularly the Zastava M70 and ZPAP series, diverges from standard Russian-pattern AKs in several significant ways. These distinctions make them ideal for shooters seeking enhanced durability and versatility.

Key Features of the Yugo and Zastava AK-47s:

  1. Chrome-Lined Barrels Zastava rifles feature chrome-lined barrels—a major improvement over earlier NPAP and OPAP models. Chrome lining extends barrel life, resists corrosion, and makes cleaning easier, ensuring reliability even under harsh conditions.
  2. Thicker Stamped Receivers The Yugo AK-47 rifles boast a 1.5mm stamped receiver, compared to the standard 1mm receiver found in most AKs. This added thickness enhances the rifle’s durability, though it does increase the overall weight slightly.
  3. RPK-Style Front Trunnions Borrowing from the RPK light machine gun, the forged front trunnions provide superior strength and reliability. This design improves performance during sustained firing and under heavy use.
  4. Nickel-Moly Steel Bolt Carrier Corrosion-resistant and built for longevity, the bolt carrier is crafted from nickel-moly steel. This material ensures smooth operation and reduces wear over time, setting the Zastava AK-47 apart from competitors.
  5. Bolt Hold-Open Safety A unique feature of the Zastava AK-47 rifles is the bolt hold-open mechanism integrated into the safety selector. This enhances safety and convenience, particularly at shooting ranges where visual confirmation of an open bolt is beneficial.
  6. Improved Trigger Systems Zastava rifles are equipped with factory triggers that provide a crisp break and smooth reset, making them suitable for both precision shooting and rapid-fire drills.

The Impact of U.S. Import Restrictions

In 2021, U.S. sanctions limited the importation of Russian firearms and ammunition, creating a gap in the market for AK rifles and related accessories. As a result, alternatives like the Zastava AK-47 have gained popularity. With Russian brands such as Kalashnikov and Tula facing import restrictions, firearms enthusiasts have turned to high-quality options like the Yugo AK-47.

This shift has also increased the appeal of non-Russian ammunition and accessories, such as those from Serbia and other Eastern European nations. The availability of Zastava rifles and their excellent performance have made them a favorite among American buyers.

Customization and Aftermarket Support

While the Yugo AK-47 differs in design from standard Russian-pattern AKs, aftermarket support for these rifles has grown significantly in recent years. Manufacturers are increasingly offering accessories and upgrades tailored specifically to the Zastava platform.

Popular Upgrades for Zastava AK-47 Rifles:

  • SLR Rifleworks Handguards: These handguards feature M-LOK compatibility, offering extensive customization options while maintaining a lightweight profile.
  • Midwest Industries Components: Midwest Industries produces a range of rails, mounts, and other accessories that integrate seamlessly with Zastava rifles.
  • JMac Customs Stocks and Accessories: Known for their innovative designs, JMac Customs offers stocks, muzzle devices, and other components tailored for Yugo-pattern AKs.
  • Texas Weapon Systems Dust Covers: These Gen 3 dog-leg dust covers provide additional rail space for optics and maintain zero effectively, even under heavy use.

Performance and Shooting Experience

The Yugo AK-47’s robust construction contributes to its impressive performance. The thicker receiver and RPK-style trunnions help reduce felt recoil and improve stability, while the chrome-lined barrel ensures consistent accuracy over extended shooting sessions.

Advantages of the Zastava AK-47:

  • Durability: The enhanced receiver and trunnion design make the rifle exceptionally rugged.
  • Versatility: Customization options have expanded, allowing shooters to tailor their rifles to specific needs.
  • Reliability: High-quality internals and chrome-lined barrels ensure consistent operation in diverse conditions.

Downsides to Consider

While the Yugo AK-47 offers numerous benefits, there are a few limitations to keep in mind:

  • Weight: The thicker receiver adds durability but also increases the rifle’s weight, which may be a factor during extended use.
  • Furniture Compatibility: The longer handguards and unique stock mounting system mean standard AK furniture may not fit without modification.

Comparing the Yugo AK-47 to Other AK Platforms

When compared to other AK variants such as the AKM or AK-74, the Yugo AK-47 stands out for its durability and modern enhancements. While Russian and Hungarian AKs have their own strengths, the Zastava rifles’ robust construction and growing aftermarket support make them an appealing choice for many enthusiasts.

Should You Buy a Yugo AK-47? Check out our stock here

For shooters seeking a reliable, durable, and customizable AK-47, the Yugo-pattern rifles—including the Zastava M70 and ZPAP series—are excellent options. Whether you’re looking for a dependable out-of-the-box rifle or a platform for extensive customization, these firearms deliver outstanding value.

The Yugo AK-47 and Zastava AK-47 rifles have carved out a niche in the firearms world by combining traditional AK reliability with modern upgrades. From chrome-lined barrels and thicker receivers to a growing array of aftermarket options, these rifles offer something for every shooter. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or a seasoned collector, the Zastava AK-47 is a worthy addition to any arsenal.

For those ready to invest in a top-tier AK platform, the Yugo AK-47 provides a balance of performance, durability, and versatility that is hard to beat. Explore the options available today and experience why these rifles have become a favorite among enthusiasts worldwide.

See our selection of quality AK47 ak74 rifles. We have many brands and would be happy to assist you with your next rifle. BMGAA.com AK rifles.

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Michael Christopherson

I'm a regular person who wants to do something positive for others. I've owned a construction company, a WW2 Jeep parts business, a Bullet manufacturing business, and a few other small private businesses. My Gun business was a hobby. I intended to make play money and possibly have a small shop when I retired in 2031. I wanted my shop to be the best experience people could have; I wanted the store to be of value to many people. I want to provide good jobs for people in my town. The call to be the best is attainable because I keep trying to improve on what I have already built. My parents and my 10 years with the Navy Seabees instilled this drive in me. I have also been influenced by many other successful people; I thank my wife, Rachael, and my kids; they are the reason I try so much, as I want to leave them with something if they want it. I thank God as he blesses me with high-quality people in my life.

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