[rbernie]

I'm putting together my first AK build, and the subject of an optics rail is next on my punch list. I want to have a side mount for optics, but it's unclear to me the degree of form factor standardization for this rail and where I might get said rail along with a LOW rail mount.

Any suggestions?

[joab]

No suggestions I just have the same question and want to monitor this thread in my User CP

[TexAg]

As to where to buy parts, mounts and/or a rail, look here: http://tantal.kalashnikov.guns.ru/

[rbernie]

I saw that last week. Maybe I'm dense, but it wasn't clear which of the rails I should get or why, or if there were any other sources...

[AndyC]

This mount (http://ultimak.com/m2-b.htm) was popular in Iraq

[Coronach]

Side Rails: Not an exact return to zero, but pretty close. Most (all?) allow a rear mounted optic and still give you access to the dustcover for cleaning. Some will cause the optic to sit high, or offset to one side. Some sit far enough to the side that you can use the irons without pulling the optic.

Ultimak Rail: More spendy, replaces the gas tube (I think), pretty solid according to every report I've read, requires a forward mounted optic (could be pro or con, depending on your preference), puts the weight of the optic and mount out on the front of the gun. I've heard nothing but good things about their quality.

[rbernie]

Thanks. I've looked at the Ultimak, but I kinda wondered how much heat that mount would transfer to the optic. :eek:

Even if I go the Ultimak route, I'd still probably want to screw on a siderail now, simply because now's the time that I have the receiver 'in the white' and unfinished...

[Coronach]

From what I understand, adding the siderail mount later is pretty darned easy.

Of course, adding it now gives you almost no disadvantage, and allows you to throw on an optic any time you want. It's not like it is in the way or weighs that much (and what weight it does have is close to the balance point anyway).

I would say that if you're handy enough to build an AK, you'd be handy enough to add it later with very little bother. Others who have actually done so should advise you, though.

Mike

[clange]

The difference between 'now' and 'later' is with later you'll have to drill out a rivet. Thats really the only difference.