The 8 Best Red Dot Sights For AK47 You Should Buy in 2024

The AK47 has been used in more wars and revolutions than any other firearm. In fact, there are an estimated 100 million AK47s in circulation, which breaks down as one per 70 people on the planet. Also, the Kalashnikov is reportedly the deadliest weapon ever created, killing approximately 250,000 people each year.

So, I decided to review some of the best red dot sights for AK47 to find out what makes this weapon so reliable, popular, and widely used in combat. When you have absolutely, positively got to deal with everyone in the room, accept no substitutes!

The 8 Best Red Dot Sights For AK47 in 2024

1 Bushnell Trophy TRS-25 Red Dot Sight 1x25mm – Best Affordable Red Dot Sight for AK47

This Trophy TRS-25 is one of the best-selling red dots from a brand that sometimes has a love-hate relationship with gun owners. They manufacture some high-quality sights, although some of their elk riflescopes reportedly sometimes need improvements. But fortunately, this red dot sight for the AK-47 is a top choice that worked well and was always right on the money.

This red-dot-only scope has 11 brightness settings and runs on one simple CR2032 battery. Bushnell claims the battery has 3,000 hours of battery life, but I haven’t used it long enough to confirm those reports. But as with all batteries, it depends on how you use them. Other reports claim the battery has closer to 1,000 hours of life when used in operation, which is still good.

Oversized 3 MOA red dot reticle…

It uses a 3 MOA dot reticle that’s massive for a riflescope but also works well with handguns and shotguns. It also holds zero very well, even after loads of rounds down at the range. It’s quite a compact unit at 5 ½ inches long and 3 ½ inches wide and weighing about 3.7 ounces. It wasn’t heavy at all. But it can take some proper bumps and handles recoil stresses well.

The tube is sealed with O-rings and nitro-purged to make it waterproof and submersion-proof. This is a solid effort by Bushnell that gives me the confidence to try some of their other products at some point. I liked this red dot because it was rugged, durable, has a long battery life, and an affordable price tag.

Want to find out more? Then check out our in-depth Bushnell Trophy TRS 25 Red Dot Sight Review.

2 Vortex FS-RG 501 Strikefire II Red Dot Sight – Most Durable Red Dot Sight for AK47

The Strikefire II has a reputation for being a fantastic choice for use with an assault rifle. However, when used on a non-AR platform, they are good instead of great.

I’m a fan…

Personally, I’m in love with Vortex Optics’ products, but that’s just me. I like the company because its scopes are constructed from high-grade alloy aluminum and use clear multi-coated glass. And this Strikefire II conformed to all these ideals.

The 30mm body was quite wide, the way I like it, and weighed around 7.2 ounces. It was heavier than I thought, but the sturdiness also worked to its advantage because it was immensely durable. Therefore, if you’re a clumsy klutz, you might be happy about the extra weight. But to be fair, I didn’t really notice, and this is hardly the heaviest red dot sight I’ve used before.

Several adjustable brightness settings…

Little details go a long way in my book. The sight is fitted with plastic flip caps that helps to keep dust out of the objective lens. The reticle is 4 MOA and offers ten adjustable brightness settings that can be configured for red or green dot functionality. It runs off a single CR2032 battery that gives it a decent lifespan out in the field.

The eye relief is obviously unlimited, and it has a solid construction and is waterproof, shockproof, and fog-proof. It can be used in temperatures as low as -22 degrees. The only drawback was the optic could have come with more mounting rings. But apart from that, this is one of the best red dot sights for AK47 in the marketplace.

Need more info, then take a look at our review of the Vortex Strikefire II Sight.

3 TruGlo Dual-Color Red Dot Sight – Best Dual Color Red Dot Sight for AK47

As with the Vortex I just reviewed, this TruGlo Dual-Color sight also gives you the choice of either red or green dots.

The TruGlo brand is currently making big waves in the industry, and this was the first time I had tried one of their products. Thankfully, they didn’t let me down. This sight can be used with all manner of rifles, handguns, and even shotguns, but the 5 MOA reticle is perfect for those who want to shoot a bit longer.

There are some things I liked and some things I didn’t. It does have both a red and green dot reticle and adjustable brightness settings. And although I like the option, the brightness setting can be changed via a knob that is pretty much like a rheostat. That might be good for use in the heat of the battle, which is, after all, what an AK47 was originally designed for, but it’s not that easy to quickly hone in on the exact settings you need.

Solid, sturdy, and dependable…

The tube was solid enough, constructed from a high-grade aluminum that is water-resistant, fog-proof, and shockproof. I dropped it a couple of times out in the field, and it stood up well. It’s powered by a decent CR2032 battery, but the manufacturers didn’t include the lifespan. However, these types of batteries are known to last a long time, but, as always, it all depends on how you use them.

It was quickly and simply mounted in Weaver style, which is why it’s better suited to older guns like the AK47.

This is a reliable and durable AK-47 sight that is tried, tested, and trusted by myself and a myriad of Kalashnikov owners.

4 EOTech XPS2-0 Holographic Red Dot Sight – Most Accurate Red Dot Sight for AK47

The XPS2-0 Holographic is a daytime red dot sight and does not feature any night time modes. However, if you want a similar sight for nighttime use, you should opt for EOTech’s XPS3-0 instead.

This model has three red dot reticles – Circle and Dot, Dot, or just Circle. The 1 MOA dot was perfect when I needed precision shooting with my rifle. The circle picks up the reticle quickly, giving me therapid target acquisition I was looking for.

Take advantage of 20 brightness settings…

It has 20 brightness settings, which is more than most red dots. And EOTech state the battery can last 1000 hours on brightness setting 10. But I only used it for around 20 hours, so we’ll have to take their word for it.

Reflex style optics like these are parallax-free and offer unlimited eye relief. If you are using this sight in low temperatures beware, it can only stand temperatures of around -2 degrees, which is not that impressive when compared to similar red dot scopes.

If you need more information, simply take a look at our in-depth EOTech XPS2 Transverse Red Dot Halo Sight Review.

5 Burris FastFire II Reflex Red Dot Sight – Best Recoil Red Dot Sight for AK47

This Burris FastFire II Reflex sight might be one of the best red dot sights for AK47 that I’ve had the joy to review. Lofty praise from the get-go. I had to stand back for a second to enjoy engineering and design. It made me feel like a cross between James Bond and Rambo. But that’s just my opinion.

Although the FastFire was originally built for handguns, its heavy recoil absorption was so great that it rated at 1000 Gs. Because it’s lightweight and can take a serious beating, it’s used for assault rifles and slug shooters of all types.

The 4 MOA red dot reticle is sometimes perceived as too big for a rifle, and better for other gun types, but it was more than okay for me. With unlimited eye relief and parallax-free at 50 yards, it works well on anything.

Auto-adjustable brightness settings…

The FastFire II utilizes a target-directed light sensor that is auto-adjusted for the reticle brightness. My hands stayed firmly on the handle, and I didn’t have to mess up my aim by manually fiddling with the brightness. This might not suit some users, but it was practical and convenient for me.

This optic also comes with a Picatinny or Weaver mounting plate included. And at only two ounces in weight, the sight is light yet durable and is waterproof, shockproof, and fog-proof. It works very well in conjunction with the ambient light conditions and can be used at any time of the day or night.

6 Vortex Venom Red Dot Sight for AK47 – Best Lightweight Red Dot Sight for AK47

I couldn’t wait to try this Vortex Venom Red Dot Sight. I have already mentioned how much I love Vortex Optics, so I couldn’t resist not reviewing another one of their most popular red dot sights for AK47 models. Like all Vortex Optics, this one is built to exceptionally high levels with its impressive alloy aluminum body. The tough alloy is light, so it’s not bulky or obstructive in any way.

Using high-quality glass as always, alongside multi-coated lenses, I was all in from the start. Beginning with the alloy casing, it’s O-ring sealed and will keep most moisture, debris, and dust out.

Size-wise, I think it suits a handgun better than an assault rifle. The sight is 2 inches long and only weighs 1.6 ounces, and that’s with the included low rail mount. This type of mount is perfect for pistols, but you will probably need to purchase a riser to lift it up to fit your AK47.

Ten adjustable power settings…

The 3 MOA red dot is parallax-free, but it can be had with a 6 MOA if that is more suited to you. The reticle comes with ten adjustable power settings located on the left-hand side, which could be okay or an obstacle depending on your shooting action. The auto-adjusted brightness feature uses a light sensor, which simplified targeting for me by allowing the rifle to remain perfectly still.

The top-loading battery offers 150 hours of life when used on high settings and can last up to 30,000 hours if used on low settings. It all depends on how you use this beauty. Although I enjoyed using this red dot, I preferred the Vortex Strikefire II, but that’s just my opinion.

7 Aimpoint PRO Red Dot Reflex Sight – Most Waterproof Red Dot Sight for AK47

The Aimpoint PRO’s 2 MOA red dot reticle gave me super accuracy and a precise shot every time, which is excellent, especially for this price range. The reticle has a host of options with four night settings and six day settings. There’s also an Extra Bright High NOON mode that is similar to a sunshine setting and is like no other I’ve ever seen.

Waterproof at depths of 150 feet…

This NV-compatible sight is submersible up to 150 feet in depth. It’s one of the most waterproof Red Dots you can buy, while also offering fog-proofing and shockproof capabilities. You can use it any time of the day or night, and even in temperatures down to -49 degrees. It is parallax-free and has unlimited eye relief.

To be honest, I preferred the EOTech model to this one as long as you only need it for daytime shooting, although there’s nothing wrong with this Aimpoint PRO. But that doesn’t take away from this being a high quality red dot scope for your AK47 or other rifles.

8 Holosun Open Red Dot Circle Sight – Best Smart Red Dot Sight for AK47

And finally, to my last review, but it was worth the wait. It is one of the more accurate models on my list and comes with a choice of reticles. You can switch between a 2 MOA Dot, 2 MOA Dot with a 65 MOA ring, or just a 65 MOA ring. However, I found it was much heavier than it appeared or expected it to be, at around 8.3 ounces in weight.

One thing I did like was the Auto On-Off function, whereby it goes into sleep mode when it is not used for 10 minutes. Then you only need to nudge it, and it will come back on automatically, which is great in emergencies. The feature is a real lifesaver because I’m constantly leaving my scopes on and taking huge chunks out of my battery life.

Solar-powered red dot sight…

In regards to battery life, this is one of the most unique red dot sights out there because it features two power sources. There’s the normal battery source as well as a solar cell. Solar power is a supplementary source because, on its own, it cannot power the highest brightness levels. But it does have enough juice to power the lower ones.

I also enjoyed the auto-brightness feature that detected the surrounding ambient light and used its settings to balance everything perfectly. Although I did feel that my brightness level sometimes didn’t work too well in the darkest of conditions. All in all, this is an impressive red dot sight that worked nicely with my AK47.

Interested? Then find out more in our in-depth Holosun HS510C Review.

Best Red Dot Sights for AK47 Buyer’s Guide

When the U.S Intelligence Agency (CIA) funneled millions of AK47s to Afghanistan in the 1970s to help the locals defeat the Russians, they unknowingly made it the most used assault rifle in the world. And although it was originally invented by Mikhail Kalashnikov in 1947 for the Soviet Army, as of today, 50 standing armies across the planet use this as their weapon of choice.

But why is it so popular?

Because it’s solid, reliable, dependable, affordable, and rarely breaks even when covered in mud or other substances.

When you’re thinking of getting yourself a red dot sight for your AK, you’ll need to consider a few things before purchasing a sight for this monumental weapon. So, let’s go through them…

Red Dot Types

There are three different types of red dots in the marketplace. They are…

Reflex Sights

These feature a low-powered LED that’s reflected in the objective lens to create the red dots. This type of sight is usually very light and less cumbersome than other holographic sights in the marketplace. The Aimpoint PRO Red Dot Reflex Sight I reviewed is a good example of this red dot type.

Holographic Sights

These are more powerful than reflex types and generates the red dot by bouncing a laser on mirrors. Therefore, they produce fewer parallax errors than you get with reflex sights. But they do eat up your battery rapidly. A good example from my review is the EOTech XPS2-0 Holographic Red Dot Sight.

Laser Sights

These types are quite different from the previous two in so many ways. This is simply a laser attached to your rifle with the red dot being placed on your target, not on the glass. However, these are rarely used with Ak47s.

Choosing Reticles Sizes

Single dots are the most popular reticle for red dot model sights, and these are measured in MOA. You essentially need a red dot that is large enough to see, but not too large that it covers your target to the point that you can’t take an accurate shot.

1 MOA is generally considered to be 1-inch at 100 yards, 2-inches at 200 yards, and so forth. A small MOA between 1 to 3 is better for shooting accuracy, while higher MOAs are considered better for target acquisition. A good example would be placing a shot at approximately 50 yards using a 3 MOA red dot.

The dot should be 1.5-inches in diameter, which is pretty decent and what you should be aiming for.

Understanding Reticle Shapes and Colors

We all know about the plain red dot type, but there are other shapes and colors. Some red dots can be shaped like crosshairs. Some have a circle dot, some with a semi-circle, and numerous other types. There are also many different dot colors, with the most common being red, green, and blue. Red is mainly used because it’s easier to see.

Night Vision Compatibility and Reticle Density

The idea behind a red dot is that it can be seen easily during the day or night. It should be visible in the brightest of conditions and the darkest of darks, and even in close quarter conditions with just a few lights.

Ideally, your chosen red dot sight would be compatible with Night Vision optics, but it’s not essential.

Battery Life

Battery life is one of the most important factors when you are out hunting. If you run out of battery, there will be no red dot.

Battery power and shelf life are much improved when compared to five years ago. And some red dot sight batteries can last thousands of hours if you’re using low light settings. However, holographic sights will massacre your battery life because they use lasers instead of eco-friendly LEDs.

Using sights in colder weather conditions can also drain your battery more. If you live in a colder area, you’ll need to consider that. Some sights offer other ways to supplement the power, such as solar panels. But generally speaking, solar panels only kick out enough energy to power your sight in low-light settings. Therefore, bear this in mind when finalizing your purchase decisions.

Durability

It only makes sense to purchase the toughest and most durable red dot sights. Always opt for models that are waterproof, fog-proof, and shockproof. It will save you loads of cash in the long term. Optics need to absorb lots of use and abuse, especially when considering the heavy recoil of an AK47.

Need Some Quality Upgrades or Accessories for your AK47?

Then take a look at our reviews of the Best Scopes for AK-47, our Best AK Chest Rigs Review, our Best AK Scope Mount Reviews, our Best AK Sling Reviews, the Best AR 15 AK Pistol Braces, or the Best AK-47 Muzzle Brakes you can buy in 2024.

You might also enjoy our in-depth ALG AK-47/74 Drop In Trigger Review.

Or, maybe you’re after a completely new AK47; if so, take a look at our comprehensive reviews of the Best AK 47 currently on the market.

So, What is The Very Best of The Best Red Dot Sights for AK47?

The best AK47 red dot sights offer 1-3 MOA, lightweight, and durable designs, and can withstand some serious hammer. I reviewed some highly recommended red dot sights to streamline your purchase decisions. Of all the models on my list, the winner for me is the…

EOTech XPS2-0 Holographic Red Dot Sight

It comes equipped with 20 brightness settings, a 1 MOA dot for precision shooting, and a battery that can reportedly last up to 1000 hours. It’s durable and gives you the option of Circle and Dot, the Dot, or just the Circle. I think this one performs well and has a very favorable price tag.

Happy and safe shooting.