I’m looking for some optics to put on my AK and was wondering, from a tactical perspective, what is better? Both are vortex optics:
Should I go with a scope or should I do I go with a red dot with a magnifier? Here’s what is going on in my head:
A scope would be great for longer range targets but if I need to switch to close range quickly, I need to take off the entire optic mount to use the ironsights on my AK.
A red dot with a magnifier would be fantastic since it provides a very clean picture at range and if I have a flip up mount for the magnifier, I can change range engagements quickly BUT if my red dot gets EMPd or breaks, I’m screwed (though I could just take off the optics mount and use the ironsights).
I’m stuck. So I figured I should let all you wonderful gun nuts debate it out before I make a final decision.
I have one AR with a Romeo Juliet combo. The AR I’m currently building is getting a scope, 3-12x44. My AR pistol is strictly a red dot. Whatever I build next I’ll more than likely go the 1-6 LPVO.
LPVO is best of both worlds. They normally have a red dot and you can use it on 1 power as a red dot….if the need arises or a precision shot is needed, just turn up the power and your set.
Another advantage with a LPVO is you can focus it for your eye sight so you don’t need glasses. Those of us with older eyes Appreciate the value of being able to just pick up the weapon and not have to worry about glasses.
I use both, like both, and will use both solutions again. That said, I haven’t found an LPVO that felt good on anything with sub-16" barrel. I feel like the rds with a flip to side mounted magnifier is a little more tolerant of budget-focused shopping, whereas the LPVO really outshines the combo if you have a bit to spend on it. 1x/3x is quick and fun, but a full range 1-8x or 1-10x with a big occular lens just does everything better if you get a really good one, plus nearly always an etched reticle, though you can get etched prism 1x.
TL,DR: budget or compact=combo, big or best-in-slot=LPVO
I don’t have an AK (maybe in the future) but mounting optics on one confuses me - probably because I’ve had ARs for quite a while. Trying to remember the last time I saw something similar to an LPVO on an AK just brings back images of the RPK or Dragunov. It seems that the AK is built for close-range battle and that its looser tolerances help guarantee its fame for never failing (but having maybe 2 to 4 MOA precision). Not sure if this accurately describes American-made AKs, but - if it does - it would warrant something like a red-dot sight for fast target acquisition. I’ve probably brought up more questions than I’ve answered, but it is a curious subject!
They were designed around a very different battle doctrine. Ian of Forgotten Weapons has LOTS of very insightful content on the matter. I suggest starting with his video on the Type 1 and go from there.
