AK-47 Pistols

What Is an AK-47 Pistol?

An AK-47 pistol is an AK-platform firearm with a barrel under 16 inches and a pistol receiver — no rifle stock. Like AR pistols, they’re legally classified as pistols under federal law, can accept pistol braces, and don’t require NFA registration as short-barreled rifles. What you get is the AK’s legendary reliability and the hard-hitting 7.62x39mm cartridge in a significantly more compact package. Most AK pistols run barrels between 6 and 12 inches, making them handy for home defense, range use, and as a suppressor host.

Caliber Guide

7.62x39mm — The classic AK cartridge and the right choice for most buyers. Hard-hitting, widely available, and relatively affordable for a centerfire rifle round. Performs well from short barrels — better than 5.56 does from pistol-length tubes. This is what the platform was designed around and what the vast majority of AK pistols are chambered in.

5.56 NATO / .223 Remington — A smaller number of AK pistols — like the Zastava ZPAP85 and CMMG MK47 Banshee variants — are chambered in 5.56. These use standard AR-pattern magazines and appeal to buyers who want the AK aesthetic and manual of arms but prefer 5.56 ammo availability and cost. A reasonable option if you already stock 5.56.

7.62x39mm vs. 5.56 in Short Barrels — The 7.62x39 holds its velocity and terminal performance significantly better than 5.56 from barrels under 10 inches. If you’re building a home defense AK pistol, 7.62x39 is the stronger choice ballistically.

Country of Origin: Does It Matter?

AK pistols vary significantly in quality depending on where they’re made. Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Bulgarian (Arsenal) — Among the highest quality AKs available in the U.S. Arsenal SAM7K pistols use milled receivers and Bulgarian-made components. Premium price, premium quality.
• Serbian (Zastava) — Zastava ZPAP92 and ZPAP85 pistols are excellent mid-to-upper tier options. Well-made, reliable, and very popular. One of our most-stocked AK pistol lines.
• Romanian (Century VSKA, Micro Draco) — The most affordable entry point. Century Arms’ VSKA and Micro Draco pistols use U.S.-made receivers with Romanian-pattern components. Good value, though fit and finish won’t match the Zastava or Arsenal.
• American (Riley Defense, CMMG) — Domestically produced AK pistols have improved significantly. Riley Defense RAK-47 pistols offer solid quality at a competitive price point. CMMG’s MK47 Banshee is a premium U.S.-made option with their Radial Delayed Blowback system.

Staff Picks

Zastava ZPAP92 (7.62x39, 10" barrel) — Our most recommended AK pistol for most buyers. Serbian-made quality, excellent reliability, and widely available. The 10-inch barrel is a great all-around length for 7.62x39. If you want one AK pistol that just works, start here.

Arsenal SAM7K-44 (7.62x39, 8.5" barrel) — The premium choice. Milled Bulgarian receiver, exceptional fit and finish, and Arsenal’s reputation for consistency. More expensive, but noticeably better to handle and shoot than budget alternatives.

Century VSKA Micro Draco (7.62x39, 6" barrel) — The most compact and affordable option in our lineup. Significant muzzle blast from the 6-inch barrel, but unbeatable for the price. A good entry point if you’re new to the AK platform.

CMMG MK47 Banshee (7.62x39, 8" barrel) — The softest-shooting AK pistol we carry. CMMG’s Radial Delayed Blowback system tames the 7.62x39 recoil noticeably. Higher price, but a genuinely different shooting experience.

Legal Considerations

• AK pistols are legal in most states but check local laws before purchasing — some states restrict pistol braces, magazine capacity, or specific features.
• You cannot add a traditional rifle stock to a pistol receiver without NFA registration as an SBR. Pistol braces are legal accessories.
• We ship to your local FFL dealer. All transfers follow standard background check procedures.

Questions about which AK pistol is right for your situation? Call us at 800-917-7137 or use our live chat. We’ve been in the firearms business since 1992 and we’re happy to help.