AKs still suck

Published on April 20, 2026
Duration: 16:42

This video argues that the AK platform is an outdated and poor choice for new firearm owners in 2026, particularly in the United States. The presenter, Trench Grenade, cites higher ammunition costs for AK calibers (7.62x39mm and 5.45x39mm) compared to 5.56x45mm NATO, limited and often unreliable American AK market options, and significant disadvantages in modularity, accuracy, optics mounting, and suppressor compatibility when compared to the AR-15 platform. The presenter, drawing on personal experience and professional training, concludes that the AR-15 offers a more cost-effective, versatile, and user-friendly platform for most shooters.

Quick Summary

The AK platform is considered outdated in 2026 due to higher ammunition costs for 7.62x39mm and 5.45x39mm compared to 5.56x45mm NATO. The American AK market is unreliable, and the platform lacks the modularity, accuracy, and ease of optics mounting found in the AR-15, making the AR a more practical choice for new shooters.

Chapters

  1. 00:06Introduction: AKs Still Suck
  2. 00:47The American AK Market is Extinct
  3. 01:01Motivation for the Video: PSA AK Failure
  4. 01:46Why I Choose the AR-15
  5. 02:23Ammunition Cost Comparison
  6. 04:50The Actual Weapons: American AK Market Issues
  7. 05:28Kalashnikov USA and Other AK Brands
  8. 06:36AR-15 Cost vs. AK Cost
  9. 07:07Key Advantages of the AR-15
  10. 07:24High-End AKs vs. AR-15s
  11. 07:54Arsenal, WBP, and Other AK Options
  12. 09:23Modularity: AR-15 Upper Swap
  13. 10:16Capability: Accuracy Comparison (MOA)
  14. 11:30Ballistics: 5.56 vs. 7.62x39
  15. 11:49Reload Speed and Ergonomics
  16. 12:12Optics Mounting Challenges on AKs
  17. 12:43Suppressor Issues with AKs
  18. 12:54Weight and Handling
  19. 13:18Maintenance and Parts
  20. 13:22The Reliability Myth
  21. 13:37Factors Against the AK Platform
  22. 14:02Summary: Why AR-15 Wins
  23. 14:46The AK as an Outdated Dinosaur
  24. 15:11Bad Advice for New Shooters
  25. 15:33WROL Scenario: Ammo and Parts Availability
  26. 16:13Conclusion: AKs are Outclassed

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is the AK platform considered outdated in 2026?

The AK platform is considered outdated due to higher ammunition costs for its common calibers (7.62x39mm, 5.45x39mm) compared to 5.56x45mm NATO. Furthermore, the American AK market offers limited and often unreliable options, and the platform lags behind the AR-15 in modularity, accuracy, optics mounting, and suppressor compatibility.

What are the main advantages of the AR-15 over the AK platform for new shooters?

The AR-15 offers significant advantages for new shooters, including cheaper ammunition, a more affordable and reliable rifle market, superior accuracy, greater modularity for customization, easier optics mounting, and better suppressor compatibility. These factors make it a more practical and cost-effective choice for training and general use.

How does ammunition cost compare between AK and AR-15 calibers?

Ammunition for AK calibers like 7.62x39mm is generally more expensive than for AR-15s chambered in 5.56x45mm NATO. Steel case 7.62x39mm can cost around 54-58 cents per round, while 5.56x45mm brass case is around 40-42 cents. Brass 7.62x39mm can reach 70-71 cents per round, making it 30-60% more expensive.

Is the AK platform still considered reliable in the US market?

The presenter argues that the 'AK reliability myth' is largely internet folklore. Factors like sanctions, tariffs, and ammunition supply chain issues have negatively impacted the practical reliability and availability of AKs and their ammunition in the United States, making them less dependable than commonly perceived.

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