I like the most about the AK is they fit in trash cans really well.🤣🤣🤣 if im low crawling, we allllllll have issues beyond a dust cover. But I know what you’re saying. I’m saying low crawl with an AK and tell me it last longer then an AR🤣 love the content DS. Just remember 11B, 19Ds are always telling you where tongo
I left a long comment with my thoughts but can you tell me what belt you're wearing and especially what holster and what are the various attachments for said holster to ride that way on your thigh? I've tried to order a Safariland holster but their website is confusing as hell, I don't know what any of their little acronyms are. What you're wearing in this video is pretty much exactly what I've been wanting.
To me the greatest weakpoint of the AR/m4/m16 series is the bolt, specifically the cam pin hole look at how thin the walls are, I've seen peoples' ARs stop functioning because of that breakage. A very good reason to keep track of your round count and inspect that bcg after every range trip, its a malfunction you most certainly dont want in a gun fight
Please don't ever stop reciting the four rules in every video. It's been baked into my thinking for years and yet I STILL appreciate hearing it. Thanks, Trench.
Im glad to see someone mention covering up the ejection port i shoot alot in the woods and where i am its very muddy and dusty so thats my number 1 priority.
I've never had an AR fail on me if the dust cover was let open and I am an Alaska hunting guide that carries an AR 15 on a pack, and they ride in the boat then get full of junk. My large dangerous game rifle that is used for all brown bear and Yukon moose hunts is an AR 10 I chambered the barrel in 375 - 300 WSM and it also gets abuse but never fails when called on to put down a danger of an angry brown bear. This person doing the video is a liar and a fraud that never has been in the military. There are videos of the AR being barred in Mud or other dirt abuses then the AR fires where the AK failed in all the same test.
A point on the AK vs AR magazines, The AK magazine retention lever is more suitable to cold climates and freezing. There's a number of videos of AR style rifles having their magazines release buttons frozen in place and unable to take the magazine out. The AK lever is more robust and can be hit with another magazine to eject.
Ya the AK was made in Russian so it’s use to -50F nights in the winter lol, and also with the AR mud or snow could get in the magazine opening if you drop it for some reason without a mag, the AK the tolerances are loose and wouldn’t matter if you dropped it without a mag
Oh really? you think the AR isn't a reliable rifle because the magazine release button freezes? Then explain to me why I live in Alaska and use AR 15s and AR 10s in -20 below without ever any problems with my ARs and I have owned AR rifles before Bill Clinton was president. My first AR 15 was bought at Great Northern guns in Anchorage Alaska 2 years before Bill Clinton was president. I now use for my guide rifle on guided brown bear hunts is an AR 10 in 375 - 300 WSM .
@@lurebenson7722 all I'm saying is if you get conditions where moisture can get into things and freeze, the AK platform is more suitable. Combat conditions (design intention for both systems) can involve rifles that have been fired and warm falling into snow etc and getting water in there and freezing.
@@FM4AMGV You are the same kind of AK fanboy fool which I have seen writings of someone cut an AK in half and the AK still shoots or someone pulled up an AK from the bottom of the Ocean that had been in the Ocean for 50 years then pulled the trigger and 100000 rounds a second fired or US Marines in Vietnam threw away the US government owned M-16s and mysteriously there are AKs laying around in the jungle and ammo they picked up/ or real stupid things like it takes a full weak to break down and clean any AR/ or bullets fired from the AR tumble out of the barrel. and the 223 is so weak it can't kill even squirrels all of this is AK fanboy nonsense.
I agree with your points on the AR. Especially the Magazine point you made. From what I understand the military trains to insert the magazine and do a tap and pull to make sure its secure. But from my experience simply as a hobbyist and some what of a prepper, A GOOD AR-15 lower will lock in a 30 round magazine on a closed bolt no issues at all. I mean you gotta use SOME muscle inserting it but not a lot, a good AR will not need the tap even with a 30 round magazine. A also agree with your points on the AK. The magazine fitment (Given you own a quality AK) is better and quicker and more reliable under stress. I can attest to the YUGO's. They are beautifully made. For ME the safety selector isn't an issue and that's because I shoot rifles left handed. The AK operating system if that's what we can call it, is actually very good for left handed shooters, not requiring us to ever take our finger off the trigger to do things like change out a magazine or charge the weapon. It flows pretty naturally for a left handed shooter tbh. I actually disagree with you on customization of the AK platform and argue that it is a better experience IMO than building an AR. AR's are like legos and that's cool, takes no time and your done. AKs you gotta do a little more work. You often times have to fit your piece to your gun. Things like modern handguard systems could require you to do permanent modifications to the firearm. Things you gotta weigh out in your head as is this worth it to me to do this mod... You can fuck it up and waste your money. When you install a new part on an AK, its way more involved and the stakes are higher and when you take your time and get it just perfect, it feels way better than when you snap a holographic and a magnifier and a VFG on your AR-15. You had to sand shit down to fit, maybe you had to use a drill press or maybe you had to cut something off the gun to fit your new part. The building and customization of an AK is a way more intimate process between the owner and the gun. Giving you more of a feeling for this is MY rifle. Its a learning process for sure and takes a certain level of balls to cut something off your gun or drill out a rivet to fit a new piece or what have you. Nd there's room to fuck it up. But without this risk the reward of pulling it off is short lived and it doesnt feel quite so unique no matter how many parts you snap into place or colors you paint it. I absolutely LOVE my AK because I fit everything myself and I did it all perfect. Ive achieved turning a basic M92 into a modern fighting gun. But I also have a 16 inch AR-15 ready to go as well lol. Because both platforms are fantastic I chose both.
AK gang for life ✌️❤ I was literally discussing this topic with my AR girlfriend as this came out. Personal choices aside, the fam that gats together stays together and we're all same team. Much love.
Love this channel brother was an 0311 for 12 years got out and man I miss being surrounded by grunts, your channel gives me my fill before going and being surrounded by civilians these days. Keep your videos coming brother, I appreciate the hell out of them
Good video. I think you highlighted some pros and cons of both platforms not often discussed such as the magazine locking issue and the dust cover issue. I personally favor the AK but the 5.45 AK-74 platform. So much that i own 3 in that caliber and none in 7.62 yet.
I've been an AK guy all my life, but after getting the SCAR 17, I have begun to realize why the SCAR 17 is so damn highly praised. It is light weight yet fires an actually battle rifle cartridge.
Good points. I was never in the military so I never experienced ar15 failures like you described. Not sure why guys argue what is better when they’re so different and both rifles absolutely are great choices for fighting rifles. I would add that in a SHTF situation in the US it’s massively beneficial to have the most ubiquitous weapon system available for parts/ammo compatibility. That’s why I own many ar15s and Glock 19s. Are there better choices? Maybe. But these two are reliable and parts/ammo are everywhere
Your reloads will generally be faster with an AR, but like he mentioned you could think it's seated in a firefight and the mag will fall out once you get back on target. Also the 5.56 will drastically change trajectory with any debris or cover that it impacts after fired so if you're engaging a target in the woods and it hits small twigs or brush it will most likely miss. If a target is behind cover it will punch through the cover but may not hit the target on the other side. For these reasons I picked the AK in 7.62x39 because it generally turns their cover into concealment and when the mag locks in you'll know. The last thing you want in a firefight is a malfunction and a target you can't hit behind cover/brush.
Very interesting video, especially for us civilians! I as a civilian prefer my AK! It’s easy to use and reliable, un trained individuals can utilize the Al easier! In my completely untrained opinion! Plus in the false set up stress situations Ak malfunction is very easy to fix! But my experience is all civilian and fake bs! Thanks a lot for the video and the information
.... that is when PT, comes into play.... 😂 Thanks, from a 50+ guy, You're always reminding us of the basics.. AR size with better punch, draws me to my AK. . Truly because I'm too out of shape to fight with the M1A.
Dude, awesome video. Clicked on to see what the vid was about and ended up watching the whole thing. Great points and delivered in a humble and grounded matter.
This is good stuff with actual usable information that most don't talk about. Everyone has cqb on thier minds due to the overabundence of spec ops guys on you tube, but you hit the nail on the head about crawling on the ground, rushes, etc..I don't even think I have thought about that in a long time because things like closing the dust cover are so ingrained in my head.
Nice one brother. I will say, another downfall of M4/ AR-15 platforms is the Direct Impingement, literally "sharting in it's own mouth" causes excessive fouling and contributes to the heavy use function issues even with the ejection port closed during movement (you know exactly what I mean with the hell of cleaning a well used Service Rifle). That is where I feel and prefer a Short Stroke Piston System on the platform, better reliability and far less to no fouling in the Receiver, Chamber, and Bolt/ BCG (really the only fouling comes from the residual during ejection of the spent brass). Also notwithstanding there's now AR platform rifles that are chambered in 7.62x39, so that's a cool bit for trying to win the best of both worlds. AK definitely has pitfalls with modular options and the safety is something to be desired though easy to learn the manual of arms, but the reliability of the Long Stroke Piston System and better power (and performance in heavy brush or thick woods) of the 7.62x39 cartridge definitely keeps it in the game and with an edge in many applications, absolutely. They really don't weigh that much more than a decked out AR to anyone who is remotely fit. I'm torn, because I also love 7.62x51/ .308 Battle Rifles too-- they have their pros and cons just as much, but the cartridge definitely beats out 5.56 or 7.62RU.
If you run an AR15 platform rifle, load the mag one round short. 29 in a 30 rounder. It's a little easier to load on a closed bolt. I haven't ever seen a big issue with getting lots of gunk in the ejection port, but he's 100% right about having trouble getting the mags in. Even if it's not a problem for you on the flat range, when the adrenalin hits and you're tired as balls, it's easy to fail to get the mag seated. The AR bolt handle also can catch your gear and unlock the bolt so don't buy one without a forward assist.
Excellent video, with an accurate assessment of both platforms. I own both platforms, and agree with your statements completely. I live in the woods, 50 miles from town and have my own shooting range. I train a lot due to that. When I'm going for a hike with my dogs in the mountains, I grab my AK for the reasons you mentioned.
Agree 100% I have recently started playing with a 545 Ak and quickly becoming my favorite for both moving and fighting. I think the Army is making a bad choice with the spear. Going to a heavier gun and back to 20 round mags. Once again guys will pay in blood to realize that it’s all he wrong move. The first privates that have to hump those 13 lb rifles around will be pulling all of the extra shit off of them. Then basically left with an AR in a different caliber.
No basis for experience for me, but I thought the exact same thing about the new rifle. Seems like they would have been better off going to Grendel or something to give the AR more legs and knockdown power. Don't lose much by the way of mag capacity and the change is easy. Just my thoughts.
@@trench_grenade So true brotha . I’m really hoping that PSA starts pumping that stuff out soon. My plan is to use the 545 I got and if it doesn’t come back to reasonable prices I’m going to switch out the barrel to a 556
Good shit. Personally I've had and used both platforms pretty extensively and my go to is the ar. Just more ergonomic, easier to maneuver and can carry more ammo, plus a more accurate system. Yes I know I'm lacking the knockdown power if you will.... but I've had extremely good results with the 5.56 cartridge and you can say reliability.... but honestly I've had no issues with that either. The power and reliability is so minimal in my opinion between the two, I'd say leave it to the end user to what they prefer. God bless bud from ole Carolina.
Great points, although the same principle of stress and adrenaline will be valid for the ak mags as well. I live the AK, but cuz soldier fail to insert the ar mag doesn’t mean same soldier will insert the mag right with ak. Ak mags tent to be off specs where some fit lose some fit very tight and that can be an issue as well.
I liked your presentation a lot! I'm more of an AK fan, but both platforms have a seat at the table. I would probably carry a 16" AR 10 in the specified situations.
@@stillshakes5499 It would for sure be heavy! For me, the 7.62x51 is a compromise. I won't be able to carry as much ammo as I could with 5.56 and 7.62x39, and it would be a little more fatiguing to use. I think the AR-10 allows me to reach both close targets and far away targets in a way that is less affected by barriers like brush and thin steel. Could also leave a short 12 Gauge upper and a few loaded magazines at the base of operations when the mission changes from outdoors patrol to city fighting.
@@TacticalTerry Don't be fooled by people telling you 7.62x51 will not be affected by brush. It absolutely will. If you're going to need to punch through heavy brush and still hit and actually knock down what you are aiming at, you need something like a 45/70.
@@stillshakes5499 Well, that is true! That's why I mentoined it as being "less affected" by barriers. Should see a difference in deflection through thicket between a 55 grain fmj at 3100fps and a 150grn fmj traveling at 2750fps (roughly). 45-70 is one of my favorite cartridges! I'm glad you mentoined it. Haven't seen anyone take a lever rifle to war in a few generations, but launching some big hardcast bullets during a firefight is an interesting thought experiment.
Love your DD brother! I used to be a BCM guy but recently purchased my first DD and fell in love! I have the 16 inch Daniel Defense DDM4v7 Factory Custom in MilSpec FDE and running what I’m used to and used the most in my prior job which is the EoTech EXPS3-0 with the newer EoTech G43 both in the FDE! Salute 🫡 brother! @Trench Grenade
I like both so it was a hard choice. I'm not in military or law enforcement just a regular joe. I don't go out on patrol or get into fire fights but I do use my rifle for different types of situations. I got both but use the ak a lot more for the fact I'm always getting fire wood in the summer and I am always in the thick of the woods miles from home in bear country. Always got the ak103 on me.
Finally a dude, that gives a realistic down and dirty take on this stuff. There's a lot of good stuff on YT and I'm not trying to bash anyone at all. But there are way too many flat range dudes and SOF guys that are very CQB oriented. Nothing wrong with this at all and still a lot to be learned from that content. But I was infantry for the better part of a decade and you kind of figure stuff out. It doesn't make you better than anyone else but you have a lot more experience with what works and doesn't work (you get to run obstacle courses in your kit), you have to run training exercises in crap conditions, then you get to deploy and do real world stuff. The biggest thing I would want to add to the overall conversation is do stuff in your kit (not often but just to test it out). The gear may be cool, sexy, and gucci as can be, but walk in it for five miles, crawl, go through some thick brush, go over a wall, do some sprints and then you might reevaluate some things. Easier said than done if you don't have a place to train/do said things but please try. Hell, just the other day I was running a true north concepts adapter with a tek lok adapter (cool modular way to move it between different belt systems). I wore it for a few hours while putting up a fence. Good lord the hot spot that developed from the way it was riding sucked. I got rid of the tek lok attachment and wore it the next day for a few hours with the belt attachment that came with it while doing some physical labor and I had zero issues. I would never have figured this out if I only wore it for an hour or less or was static the whole time. Utility is important, but so is comfort (gotta free up mental bandwidth whenever you can).
Very true about AR. I have a super reliable FN 15 that never failed me, except when I was doing a mag reload in a prone condition on my side and it jammed so bad, I had 2 ROs using a mullet to fix it. True story. AKs are great, but their sights are atrocious. It takes a master gunsmith to customize the AK, while any Jo shmo can do that with an AR. Great video BTW.
Miyamoto Musashi said a capable warrior should be proficient with all weapons and should not overly specialize in one as favoritism of weaponry is a weakness.
Great video you did a good discussion of the advantages and disadvantages of both. People just need to humble themselves and train and be realistic about capabilities (of both their rifles and themselves). Btw my grandpa was a drill sergeant during the Korean War at Ft. Jackson, SC.
My favorite firearm is the AK-102 (12.5" barrel chambered in 5.56) and mine is set for night vision use. I don't feel like I have any disadvantages from AR-15 users.
I personally strongly recommend becoming proficient with both platforms OTB with no upgrades or customizations. In world WROL you may be eventually forced to use whatever you can take off a dead body. Learn them both well and realize the blessing of having either if the time comes.
all im gonna say is most malfunctions are user induced (as in the user of the Firearm causes the malfunctions), almost every person who train other people will say this so the "malfunctions" you mentioned are valid
Why I operate AKs, I hated the AR platform, I have my AKs tricked out with Zenitco, I use AKM wasr10 for shtf, and for range toy use 5.56 AK, and ak-74 for back up.
Dumb question but why don't we just remove the latching detent on the ejection port cover and reverse the spring so it stays shut instead of open? Leave the latching detent body so the bolt carrier itself still kicks the cover open and configure the spring to be slow to close. Better yet, make it hinge from the top as well so the weight helps it close when in normal orientation.
It is really something else when a guy talks about firearms and actually uses it as work tools compared to a guy who can just afford firearms and video equipment and make videos. This channelnis a gem among the multitide of firearms channels in YT. AK vs AR would be like Toyota vs Jeep IMO. Tons of after market accessories for jeeps but cant hold a candle to Toyota or other Japanese brands in general. Most who can buy a car or a rifle will not have a budget to accessorize so its best to appreciate something when it comes in stock form. I like the AK for this. When it come to tech, tech will fail you. I have an RMR that I took off a G34. It functions fine and normal for almost 3 years but now on its 2nd battery the RMR eats new batteries in one day. Already tried other brands of batts and maybe more than a dozen batteries. Its useless now.
I’d use the AR for both only because that’s what I’ve trained with. I love my 7.62x39 AK but haven’t dedicated nearly as much time on that platform as I have the AR. I also don’t have a suppressor for my AK yet but that’s something I’m working on.
Great video, great commentary, sorry I missed the live broadcast. I would choose…the M224 LWCMS and a 1911, Lol. If that were not available, I would have to choose the M4 because I do not have any experience with the AK. However, most of the infantry “riflemen” I know, who had experience with both, choose the AK as the better FIGHTING rifle….hmmm. After retiring, I was shocked to see the love affair with the AR15 in this country. The AR is a good weapon that has GREAT marketing. I have personally seen this weapon fail many times in training, on the trail and in combat. It is a tool and must be handled and maintained correctly. Keep it lubed, keep the ejection port cover closed when not firing (there is a reason for that Private!) watch the DAMN safety, know how to insert a magazine correctly and know how to clear a GDMFing double feed correctly! Carry on Drill Sergeant, loving this content.
I was always surprised the army loads 30 when I was a Marine we used 28 rounds and we had junky gi mags. Honestly the ak and ar have the same weak points that allow dirt into the trigger group and chamber. Both have dust covers the aks saftey the ars ejection port cover. I have had ars jam ive seen catastrophic failures with m16s and ive had catastrophic failures with 2 of my aks. I kinda think the accuracy thing on aks was made up by the military to boost our confidence imo
I've come to the same conclusion as you. The 7.62x39 AK hits harder and I just think is a great round. My personal Bulgarian AK is the most reliable gun I have... it's also heavy AF. I'd take the AR for patrolling over it any day. Love them both though.
One data point I would like to add is that in my experience, when AKs do malfunction it's tends to be a harder failure to fix. Think shoving a cleaning rid down the barrel to remove a steel case that then needs to be grabbed with pliers because the case I so mangled. Less likely to happen, but when it does its gonna need tools and some time.
Depends on location for me… I was in Ukraine earlier this year and in that particular area the 74 (as most former Soviet countries) was king. Of course a million different types of weapons are being used there, including AR style. Abut at the end of the day it’s whatever the common round is. Here in the US I love my LWRC but also the AK 104 is quite a healthy balance of size and performance. I think the best answer is…. Train and be proficient with both systems 🖤
Jesus Christ didn't use an AK and he was the greatest American to ever live! Lmao, heard it from another guntuber and it's been living rent free in my head ever since 😂
Love the knowledge shared here. Although I watched garand thumbs video on torture testing the ar vs Ak and the only test which the Ak was superior was the freeze test. AR demolished the Ak in the dirt/mud tests
Don't be afraid about offending people thanks for the information D.i. This generation of young people need to grow up and realize not everything is roses.
I hope everyone enjoys the video. Relax and learn from eachother in the comments. At the end of the day it’s just a tool and you are the weapon. ✌️
Agreed 🤙🏻
I like the most about the AK is they fit in trash cans really well.🤣🤣🤣 if im low crawling, we allllllll have issues beyond a dust cover. But I know what you’re saying. I’m saying low crawl with an AK and tell me it last longer then an AR🤣 love the content DS. Just remember 11B, 19Ds are always telling you where tongo
I left a long comment with my thoughts but can you tell me what belt you're wearing and especially what holster and what are the various attachments for said holster to ride that way on your thigh? I've tried to order a Safariland holster but their website is confusing as hell, I don't know what any of their little acronyms are. What you're wearing in this video is pretty much exactly what I've been wanting.
Education can be disturbing but it shouldn't be offensive. But you gotta have the mindset going in. You might not expect or like what you learn.
To me the greatest weakpoint of the AR/m4/m16 series is the bolt, specifically the cam pin hole look at how thin the walls are, I've seen peoples' ARs stop functioning because of that breakage. A very good reason to keep track of your round count and inspect that bcg after every range trip, its a malfunction you most certainly dont want in a gun fight
Thank you for validating my credit card debt on Gucci AK’s 😂😂
Great talking point about the dust cover. I'm pretty sure out of all the videos I've watched you're the 1st one to highlight that detail.
It’s key
Please don't ever stop reciting the four rules in every video. It's been baked into my thinking for years and yet I STILL appreciate hearing it. Thanks, Trench.
💪
Who the hell would talk crap about this? This is free knowledge gold. I honestly learn something new from each of your episodes. Thank you!
It’s the internet tho.
Im glad to see someone mention covering up the ejection port i shoot alot in the woods and where i am its very muddy and dusty so thats my number 1 priority.
It’s a key thing
I've never had an AR fail on me if the dust cover was let open and I am an Alaska hunting guide that carries an AR 15 on a pack, and they ride in the boat then get full of junk.
My large dangerous game rifle that is used for all brown bear and Yukon moose hunts is an AR 10 I chambered the barrel in 375 - 300 WSM and it also gets abuse but never fails when called on to put down a danger of an angry brown bear.
This person doing the video is a liar and a fraud that never has been in the military.
There are videos of the AR being barred in Mud or other dirt abuses then the AR fires where the AK failed in all the same test.
I’m the guy in class with an AK and Trench ain’t wrong. Ups and downs.
“Take a deep breath.” HA, love it!
Excellent, thanks!
Relaxation episode
A point on the AK vs AR magazines, The AK magazine retention lever is more suitable to cold climates and freezing. There's a number of videos of AR style rifles having their magazines release buttons frozen in place and unable to take the magazine out. The AK lever is more robust and can be hit with another magazine to eject.
Agreed
Ya the AK was made in Russian so it’s use to -50F nights in the winter lol, and also with the AR mud or snow could get in the magazine opening if you drop it for some reason without a mag, the AK the tolerances are loose and wouldn’t matter if you dropped it without a mag
Oh really? you think the AR isn't a reliable rifle because the magazine release button freezes?
Then explain to me why I live in Alaska and use AR 15s and AR 10s in -20 below without ever any problems with my ARs and I have owned AR rifles before Bill Clinton was president.
My first AR 15 was bought at Great Northern guns in Anchorage Alaska 2 years before Bill Clinton was president.
I now use for my guide rifle on guided brown bear hunts is an AR 10 in 375 - 300 WSM .
@@lurebenson7722 all I'm saying is if you get conditions where moisture can get into things and freeze, the AK platform is more suitable. Combat conditions (design intention for both systems) can involve rifles that have been fired and warm falling into snow etc and getting water in there and freezing.
@@FM4AMGV You are the same kind of AK fanboy fool which I have seen writings of someone cut an AK in half and the AK still shoots or someone pulled up an AK from the bottom of the Ocean that had been in the Ocean for 50 years then pulled the trigger and 100000 rounds a second fired or US Marines in Vietnam threw away the US government owned M-16s and mysteriously there are AKs laying around in the jungle and ammo they picked up/ or real stupid things like it takes a full weak to break down and clean any AR/ or bullets fired from the AR tumble out of the barrel. and the 223 is so weak it can't kill even squirrels all of this is AK fanboy nonsense.
This is the best gun channel on UA-cam I've found in last 5 years! keep up the good work!
Filming another video today on rifle painting
Mane. I love the let’s just calm down; relax, take a Breath. 😂😂😂😂
Yep lol
I agree with your points on the AR. Especially the Magazine point you made. From what I understand the military trains to insert the magazine and do a tap and pull to make sure its secure. But from my experience simply as a hobbyist and some what of a prepper, A GOOD AR-15 lower will lock in a 30 round magazine on a closed bolt no issues at all. I mean you gotta use SOME muscle inserting it but not a lot, a good AR will not need the tap even with a 30 round magazine.
A also agree with your points on the AK. The magazine fitment (Given you own a quality AK) is better and quicker and more reliable under stress. I can attest to the YUGO's. They are beautifully made. For ME the safety selector isn't an issue and that's because I shoot rifles left handed. The AK operating system if that's what we can call it, is actually very good for left handed shooters, not requiring us to ever take our finger off the trigger to do things like change out a magazine or charge the weapon. It flows pretty naturally for a left handed shooter tbh.
I actually disagree with you on customization of the AK platform and argue that it is a better experience IMO than building an AR. AR's are like legos and that's cool, takes no time and your done. AKs you gotta do a little more work. You often times have to fit your piece to your gun. Things like modern handguard systems could require you to do permanent modifications to the firearm. Things you gotta weigh out in your head as is this worth it to me to do this mod... You can fuck it up and waste your money. When you install a new part on an AK, its way more involved and the stakes are higher and when you take your time and get it just perfect, it feels way better than when you snap a holographic and a magnifier and a VFG on your AR-15. You had to sand shit down to fit, maybe you had to use a drill press or maybe you had to cut something off the gun to fit your new part. The building and customization of an AK is a way more intimate process between the owner and the gun. Giving you more of a feeling for this is MY rifle.
Its a learning process for sure and takes a certain level of balls to cut something off your gun or drill out a rivet to fit a new piece or what have you. Nd there's room to fuck it up. But without this risk the reward of pulling it off is short lived and it doesnt feel quite so unique no matter how many parts you snap into place or colors you paint it. I absolutely LOVE my AK because I fit everything myself and I did it all perfect. Ive achieved turning a basic M92 into a modern fighting gun. But I also have a 16 inch AR-15 ready to go as well lol. Because both platforms are fantastic I chose both.
AK gang for life ✌️❤ I was literally discussing this topic with my AR girlfriend as this came out. Personal choices aside, the fam that gats together stays together and we're all same team. Much love.
Thanks brother
or just choose the superior best of both worlds... scar
I watched this all the way to the end. Something i dont always do. I gotta say all your points are spot on. Thank you for a great video.
I’ve learned on a bolt closed reload. You gotta wait for that click so it’s actually in there
Love this channel brother was an 0311 for 12 years got out and man I miss being surrounded by grunts, your channel gives me my fill before going and being surrounded by civilians these days. Keep your videos coming brother, I appreciate the hell out of them
I’ll keep ‘em coming my dude
Don't forget the simplicity of the AKM, which makes it easier to operate by a minimally trained fighter.
Honestly, this was my favorite versus video. Best application for each one.
Thanks
Good video. I think you highlighted some pros and cons of both platforms not often discussed such as the magazine locking issue and the dust cover issue. I personally favor the AK but the 5.45 AK-74 platform. So much that i own 3 in that caliber and none in 7.62 yet.
Thanks brother
Excellent video. All the remember keep calm had me laughing!
Glad you enjoyed it
Starbucks? Ahhh, heck no! I'm out!
I’m an AK guy- really love the 7.62x39- but I’m not so autistic as to not appreciate the AR platform and what it can do- I own both btw
I've been an AK guy all my life, but after getting the SCAR 17, I have begun to realize why the SCAR 17 is so damn highly praised. It is light weight yet fires an actually battle rifle cartridge.
Train with it
Light weight? Lmao!
@@revolutionanarchy713 Very light weight for a 308 semi auto. It weighs 1.5 lbs more than your standard AR15 with m4 plastic handguards.
Good points about keeping your dust cover closed and checking your safety lever.
I concur with your assessment
Just for the dust cover thing alone im glad I watched this one. I feel pretty dumb though just having this realization
Training is key for all of us
Good knowledge delivered by a visible expert. Appreciate that you spending your time putting this content together and making it available for all.
Absolutely
Both of those would get the job done but, 308 in a AR10 platform for me. Still have 5.56 to fall back on if ever necessary.
I like the drink breaks. Safety first then teamwork!
Exactly
Good points. I was never in the military so I never experienced ar15 failures like you described. Not sure why guys argue what is better when they’re so different and both rifles absolutely are great choices for fighting rifles. I would add that in a SHTF situation in the US it’s massively beneficial to have the most ubiquitous weapon system available for parts/ammo compatibility. That’s why I own many ar15s and Glock 19s. Are there better choices? Maybe. But these two are reliable and parts/ammo are everywhere
Just released a video on this lol
One of the most unbiased video I’ve seen on the Ak vs Ar debate. First video of the channel subbed.
Hell ya
Your reloads will generally be faster with an AR, but like he mentioned you could think it's seated in a firefight and the mag will fall out once you get back on target. Also the 5.56 will drastically change trajectory with any debris or cover that it impacts after fired so if you're engaging a target in the woods and it hits small twigs or brush it will most likely miss. If a target is behind cover it will punch through the cover but may not hit the target on the other side. For these reasons I picked the AK in 7.62x39 because it generally turns their cover into concealment and when the mag locks in you'll know. The last thing you want in a firefight is a malfunction and a target you can't hit behind cover/brush.
Very interesting video, especially for us civilians! I as a civilian prefer my AK! It’s easy to use and reliable, un trained individuals can utilize the Al easier! In my completely untrained opinion! Plus in the false set up stress situations Ak malfunction is very easy to fix! But my experience is all civilian and fake bs! Thanks a lot for the video and the information
Rock on
.... that is when PT, comes into play....
😂 Thanks, from a 50+ guy, You're always reminding us of the basics..
AR size with better punch, draws me to my AK. . Truly because I'm too out of shape to fight with the M1A.
M1a is a beast
Dude, awesome video. Clicked on to see what the vid was about and ended up watching the whole thing. Great points and delivered in a humble and grounded matter.
This is good stuff with actual usable information that most don't talk about. Everyone has cqb on thier minds due to the overabundence of spec ops guys on you tube, but you hit the nail on the head about crawling on the ground, rushes, etc..I don't even think I have thought about that in a long time because things like closing the dust cover are so ingrained in my head.
Nice one brother.
I will say, another downfall of M4/ AR-15 platforms is the Direct Impingement, literally "sharting in it's own mouth" causes excessive fouling and contributes to the heavy use function issues even with the ejection port closed during movement (you know exactly what I mean with the hell of cleaning a well used Service Rifle). That is where I feel and prefer a Short Stroke Piston System on the platform, better reliability and far less to no fouling in the Receiver, Chamber, and Bolt/ BCG (really the only fouling comes from the residual during ejection of the spent brass).
Also notwithstanding there's now AR platform rifles that are chambered in 7.62x39, so that's a cool bit for trying to win the best of both worlds.
AK definitely has pitfalls with modular options and the safety is something to be desired though easy to learn the manual of arms, but the reliability of the Long Stroke Piston System and better power (and performance in heavy brush or thick woods) of the 7.62x39 cartridge definitely keeps it in the game and with an edge in many applications, absolutely. They really don't weigh that much more than a decked out AR to anyone who is remotely fit.
I'm torn, because I also love 7.62x51/ .308 Battle Rifles too-- they have their pros and cons just as much, but the cartridge definitely beats out 5.56 or 7.62RU.
Heavy things suck tho. But have benefits
@@trench_grenade Yep, they all have trade offs.
@@DJTheMetalheadMercenary real life is really like a video game sometimes
@@madmenenist1464 Nope.
@@DJTheMetalheadMercenary it is I never die
Can't put your hands in your pockets now! 😂
Yep lol
Excellent points in this video that are overlooked as most participate in perfect conditions. I'll certainly remember these points. Thank you.
Rock on
If you run an AR15 platform rifle, load the mag one round short. 29 in a 30 rounder. It's a little easier to load on a closed bolt. I haven't ever seen a big issue with getting lots of gunk in the ejection port, but he's 100% right about having trouble getting the mags in. Even if it's not a problem for you on the flat range, when the adrenalin hits and you're tired as balls, it's easy to fail to get the mag seated.
The AR bolt handle also can catch your gear and unlock the bolt so don't buy one without a forward assist.
Ak without extra bs on it is based
This gets to the deep cuts - very important aspects that no one talks about.
Thanks brother
Excellent video, with an accurate assessment of both platforms.
I own both platforms, and agree with your statements completely. I live in the woods, 50 miles from town and have my own shooting range. I train a lot due to that.
When I'm going for a hike with my dogs in the mountains, I grab my AK for the reasons you mentioned.
Yep. It’s a good tool
Agree 100% I have recently started playing with a 545 Ak and quickly becoming my favorite for both moving and fighting. I think the Army is making a bad choice with the spear. Going to a heavier gun and back to 20 round mags. Once again guys will pay in blood to realize that it’s all he wrong move. The first privates that have to hump those 13 lb rifles around will be pulling all of the extra shit off of them. Then basically left with an AR in a different caliber.
No basis for experience for me, but I thought the exact same thing about the new rifle. Seems like they would have been better off going to Grendel or something to give the AR more legs and knockdown power. Don't lose much by the way of mag capacity and the change is easy. Just my thoughts.
5.45 is so expensive tho
@@trench_grenade
So true brotha . I’m really hoping that PSA starts pumping that stuff out soon. My plan is to use the 545 I got and if it doesn’t come back to reasonable prices I’m going to switch out the barrel to a 556
Good shit. Personally I've had and used both platforms pretty extensively and my go to is the ar. Just more ergonomic, easier to maneuver and can carry more ammo, plus a more accurate system. Yes I know I'm lacking the knockdown power if you will.... but I've had extremely good results with the 5.56 cartridge and you can say reliability.... but honestly I've had no issues with that either. The power and reliability is so minimal in my opinion between the two, I'd say leave it to the end user to what they prefer. God bless bud from ole Carolina.
Rock on
Great points, although the same principle of stress and adrenaline will be valid for the ak mags as well. I live the AK, but cuz soldier fail to insert the ar mag doesn’t mean same soldier will insert the mag right with ak. Ak mags tent to be off specs where some fit lose some fit very tight and that can be an issue as well.
operator cults: glock vs 1911 when?
Very soon.
Good take on the pros and cons of each. I prefer the M-4/M16 because it's our rifle.
True
I liked your presentation a lot! I'm more of an AK fan, but both platforms have a seat at the table.
I would probably carry a 16" AR 10 in the specified situations.
Thanks brother
The weight though...
If I was mountain fighting in Afghanistan I would agree. Urban I'd go m4 or ak.
@@stillshakes5499 It would for sure be heavy!
For me, the 7.62x51 is a compromise. I won't be able to carry as much ammo as I could with 5.56 and 7.62x39, and it would be a little more fatiguing to use. I think the AR-10 allows me to reach both close targets and far away targets in a way that is less affected by barriers like brush and thin steel.
Could also leave a short 12 Gauge upper and a few loaded magazines at the base of operations when the mission changes from outdoors patrol to city fighting.
@@TacticalTerry Don't be fooled by people telling you 7.62x51 will not be affected by brush. It absolutely will. If you're going to need to punch through heavy brush and still hit and actually knock down what you are aiming at, you need something like a 45/70.
@@stillshakes5499 Well, that is true! That's why I mentoined it as being "less affected" by barriers. Should see a difference in deflection through thicket between a 55 grain fmj at 3100fps and a 150grn fmj traveling at 2750fps (roughly).
45-70 is one of my favorite cartridges! I'm glad you mentoined it. Haven't seen anyone take a lever rifle to war in a few generations, but launching some big hardcast bullets during a firefight is an interesting thought experiment.
That dust cover point is pretty good info! Earned a sub mannnnn!
Awesome, thank you!
Love your DD brother! I used to be a BCM guy but recently purchased my first DD and fell in love! I have the 16 inch Daniel Defense DDM4v7 Factory Custom in MilSpec FDE and running what I’m used to and used the most in my prior job which is the EoTech EXPS3-0 with the newer EoTech G43 both in the FDE! Salute 🫡 brother! @Trench Grenade
First rule of gun safety is to have fun
you motivate me man love your content
Thanks dude
you covered some points nobody covered before. or at least its the first time ive heard about them.
Thanks brother
I like both so it was a hard choice. I'm not in military or law enforcement just a regular joe. I don't go out on patrol or get into fire fights but I do use my rifle for different types of situations. I got both but use the ak a lot more for the fact I'm always getting fire wood in the summer and I am always in the thick of the woods miles from home in bear country. Always got the ak103 on me.
103 is awesome
Good shit as always drill. All valid points.
This we’ll defend
Can't talk crap. I too am fueled by Starbucks.
I don’t understand why ppl are hating on a drink lol. It’s for caffeine
I found this video informative. Thank you.
Your welcome
Finally a dude, that gives a realistic down and dirty take on this stuff. There's a lot of good stuff on YT and I'm not trying to bash anyone at all. But there are way too many flat range dudes and SOF guys that are very CQB oriented. Nothing wrong with this at all and still a lot to be learned from that content. But I was infantry for the better part of a decade and you kind of figure stuff out. It doesn't make you better than anyone else but you have a lot more experience with what works and doesn't work (you get to run obstacle courses in your kit), you have to run training exercises in crap conditions, then you get to deploy and do real world stuff. The biggest thing I would want to add to the overall conversation is do stuff in your kit (not often but just to test it out). The gear may be cool, sexy, and gucci as can be, but walk in it for five miles, crawl, go through some thick brush, go over a wall, do some sprints and then you might reevaluate some things. Easier said than done if you don't have a place to train/do said things but please try. Hell, just the other day I was running a true north concepts adapter with a tek lok adapter (cool modular way to move it between different belt systems). I wore it for a few hours while putting up a fence. Good lord the hot spot that developed from the way it was riding sucked. I got rid of the tek lok attachment and wore it the next day for a few hours with the belt attachment that came with it while doing some physical labor and I had zero issues. I would never have figured this out if I only wore it for an hour or less or was static the whole time. Utility is important, but so is comfort (gotta free up mental bandwidth whenever you can).
Got some good info off this. The logic about the pull on the magazine is right on.
Very true about AR. I have a super reliable FN 15 that never failed me, except when I was doing a mag reload in a prone condition on my side and it jammed so bad, I had 2 ROs using a mullet to fix it. True story. AKs are great, but their sights are atrocious. It takes a master gunsmith to customize the AK, while any Jo shmo can do that with an AR. Great video BTW.
This is America:
We speak English
We eat Steak
We own ARs
And aks
@@trench_grenade
Touche’
shotgun community tribe
True
Sick chad tattoos you get thos while in
Yarp
You done did it now😂😂
Yep. I’ll take the hit
Miyamoto Musashi said a capable warrior should be proficient with all weapons and should not overly specialize in one as favoritism of weaponry is a weakness.
But but but my aks
11 years in the Infantry and I agree. I would fight with the AK but I have no problems running the AR if I need too as well.
Great video you did a good discussion of the advantages and disadvantages of both. People just need to humble themselves and train and be realistic about capabilities (of both their rifles and themselves).
Btw my grandpa was a drill sergeant during the Korean War at Ft. Jackson, SC.
True
My favorite firearm is the AK-102 (12.5" barrel chambered in 5.56) and mine is set for night vision use. I don't feel like I have any disadvantages from AR-15 users.
You probably don’t
I personally strongly recommend becoming proficient with both platforms OTB with no upgrades or customizations. In world WROL you may be eventually forced to use whatever you can take off a dead body. Learn them both well and realize the blessing of having either if the time comes.
This is my approach
Great stuff brother. Good job 👍
Good video brother, made solid points about both weapon systems. Rah
Thanks homie
Something I notice with the AK is for people who are unable to train very often the AK is just simpler to master the manual of arms.
Put the thing in the thing and rack the thing
@@trench_grenade haha truth
all im gonna say is most malfunctions are user induced (as in the user of the Firearm causes the malfunctions), almost every person who train other people will say this so the "malfunctions" you mentioned are valid
Honest man .Honest review
💪
I so need that Eotech magnifier and great video by the way info from those who are experienced is priceless!!!!
Thank you
The drink breaks crack me up
They are needed
Stand up drink, reload drink...😂
Yarp
I am an old guy (70) retired MSG, and that dust cover on the 16 needs to be closed, a pain in the ass, but muscle memory rules, safety dust cover,
Always gotta have it closed when moving
Why I operate AKs, I hated the AR platform, I have my AKs tricked out with Zenitco, I use AKM wasr10 for shtf, and for range toy use 5.56 AK, and ak-74 for back up.
Aks are awesome
Dumb question but why don't we just remove the latching detent on the ejection port cover and reverse the spring so it stays shut instead of open? Leave the latching detent body so the bolt carrier itself still kicks the cover open and configure the spring to be slow to close. Better yet, make it hinge from the top as well so the weight helps it close when in normal orientation.
Good idea. Bad execution
Well done and well said TG, thank you
Thanks brother
Great video! 👍 I like both of them but have to go with the ar only because it's what I have experience with.
Your gun your gunfight
It is really something else when a guy talks about firearms and actually uses it as work tools compared to a guy who can just afford firearms and video equipment and make videos. This channelnis a gem among the multitide of firearms channels in YT.
AK vs AR would be like Toyota vs Jeep IMO. Tons of after market accessories for jeeps but cant hold a candle to Toyota or other Japanese brands in general. Most who can buy a car or a rifle will not have a budget to accessorize so its best to appreciate something when it comes in stock form. I like the AK for this.
When it come to tech, tech will fail you. I have an RMR that I took off a G34. It functions fine and normal for almost 3 years but now on its 2nd battery the RMR eats new batteries in one day. Already tried other brands of batts and maybe more than a dozen batteries. Its useless now.
I like to think simple
I’d use the AR for both only because that’s what I’ve trained with. I love my 7.62x39 AK but haven’t dedicated nearly as much time on that platform as I have the AR. I also don’t have a suppressor for my AK yet but that’s something I’m working on.
Suppressors are legit
Great video, great commentary, sorry I missed the live broadcast. I would choose…the M224 LWCMS and a 1911, Lol. If that were not available, I would have to choose the M4 because I do not have any experience with the AK. However, most of the infantry “riflemen” I know, who had experience with both, choose the AK as the better FIGHTING rifle….hmmm.
After retiring, I was shocked to see the love affair with the AR15 in this country. The AR is a good weapon that has GREAT marketing. I have personally seen this weapon fail many times in training, on the trail and in combat. It is a tool and must be handled and maintained correctly. Keep it lubed, keep the ejection port cover closed when not firing (there is a reason for that Private!) watch the DAMN safety, know how to insert a magazine correctly and know how to clear a GDMFing double feed correctly!
Carry on Drill Sergeant, loving this content.
Thanks brother. Ak has treated me well
You most likely have been sued due to the amount of AR guys you caused to stroke out
I was always surprised the army loads 30 when I was a Marine we used 28 rounds and we had junky gi mags. Honestly the ak and ar have the same weak points that allow dirt into the trigger group and chamber. Both have dust covers the aks saftey the ars ejection port cover. I have had ars jam ive seen catastrophic failures with m16s and ive had catastrophic failures with 2 of my aks. I kinda think the accuracy thing on aks was made up by the military to boost our confidence imo
Probs
Accuracy was due the difference between the us marksmanship training vs some child soldier told to spray and pray
I've come to the same conclusion as you. The 7.62x39 AK hits harder and I just think is a great round. My personal Bulgarian AK is the most reliable gun I have... it's also heavy AF. I'd take the AR for patrolling over it any day. Love them both though.
Ak is fun as hell
One data point I would like to add is that in my experience, when AKs do malfunction it's tends to be a harder failure to fix. Think shoving a cleaning rid down the barrel to remove a steel case that then needs to be grabbed with pliers because the case I so mangled. Less likely to happen, but when it does its gonna need tools and some time.
Kind of like revolvers. Less likely to jam but when they do it’s catastrophic
Hot casing getting stuck is rare tho
My ak has never done that. Not saying it doesn't happen. Just saying.
Having used both platforms, I'll take the AR. especially during lots of movements and recon.
Good choice
Depends on location for me… I was in Ukraine earlier this year and in that particular area the 74 (as most former Soviet countries) was king. Of course a million different types of weapons are being used there, including AR style. Abut at the end of the day it’s whatever the common round is. Here in the US I love my LWRC but also the AK 104 is quite a healthy balance of size and performance.
I think the best answer is…. Train and be proficient with both systems 🖤
Yep
Good info man, I will take my AR (dust cover closed) because I can’t run an AK’s sights but i get why AK’s are chosen by many
Good choice
Jesus Christ didn't use an AK and he was the greatest American to ever live! Lmao, heard it from another guntuber and it's been living rent free in my head ever since 😂
James reeves I think
Great video totally agree
Thanks dude
Love the knowledge shared here. Although I watched garand thumbs video on torture testing the ar vs Ak and the only test which the Ak was superior was the freeze test. AR demolished the Ak in the dirt/mud tests
💪
I love and run both platforms. Great video 👍🏻👍🏻
Thanks brother
I'll add about the AK iron sights, they're not too hard to zero to get them accurate enough to work. If my POG ass can do it, anyone can do it.
Some are worst than others
Don't be afraid about offending people thanks for the information D.i. This generation of young people need to grow up and realize not everything is roses.
Input is good from all views as long as it’s productive
Question. Have you witnessed the same failures with bolts with special finishing? Just curious...
fuck, I'm tryna relax, I really am #heated
Lol