By: Fifty Shades of FDE
In 2023, I got my hands on my first AK platform rifle from Palmetto State Armory: the PSAK-47 GF3 California Compliant version. I held off on getting an AK47 for a very long time for a few reasons. The main reason was having to get another type of ammunition, magazines, and accesories. The other reasons were due to some lazy thinking on my part, I wasn’t very knowledgeable with the platform and didn’t have a lot of time or experience shooting it.
When I was offered an opportunity to do a review of the PSAK47 GF3 made California Compliant, I took it as a sign that it was time to start learning about the platform.
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where you can get the ammo you need for your firearms at a great price. *note: at the time of this article, they are unable to ship to California due to restrictions.
The stock PSAK47 GF3 is a nice rifle with the classic black finish and furniture. I prefer that every firearm I have is able to be used for self-defense, and therefore will require modifications and accessories.
I got into contact with a few companies who focus specifically on the AK platform.
J Mac Customs sent me a muzzlebrake and blast shield, handstop, and stock assembly.
Sureshot USA sent me their MK3 Chassis.
I had my go-to Cerkote artist, Chuck from Rifle Supply Cerakote in Huntington Beach, do a custom finish on it. He did an amazing job with cerakoting the entire rifle in FDE Tigerstripe, and it looks awesome!
Walker Defense sent me their NILE MLOK rail covers, and they added plenty of grip on the front end for my support hand.
I threw on the Primary Arms version of the Trijicon TA44 ACSS for the optic and a Cloud Defensive REIN 1.0 for the Weaponlight.
I put the SlyTactical Padded two-point sling on to finish it up.
I am very happy with the end result. It is setup very similarly to my AR Platform rifles, so it is easy for me to transition to my AK whenever I want to run it.
After shooting it with all of the upgrades, I find it much easier to handle and shoot. Getting a sight picture is also much more effortless than it was with the iron sights. Overall ergonomics have improved, which helps with recoil management and control. Having mounts to attach a quick detach sling is a bonus as well. A Weaponlight allows me to identify targets in low light conditions.
With many range trips and dry fire practice, I have improved upon my manual of arms and overall knowledge and understanding of the AK-47 platform. I am confident in my ability to run it effectively in a defensive situation.
I will be more open-minded in the future whenever the opportunity arises to try a different platform.
Feed your AK-47 with some 7.62×39:
https://www.ammunitiontogo.com/rifle-ammo-762×39
For more info and to purchase the PSAK47 GF3 California Compliant Rifle:
https://alnk.to/6bW7PEy
To Go to Palmetto State Armory:
https://alnk.to/aLJPADn