How to Change an AK-47 Rear Sight

The AK-47 is easy to maintain.

The AK-47 is one of the most common weapons in use by the military around the world. Although the military version is automatic, civilian varieties exist that are very popular in the United States. Sport shooters and military rifle collectors alike enjoy the AK-47. Because it was designed to be simple and robust, dismantling and replacing parts on the AK-47 is easy and requires almost no tools. The stock rear sight can be removed for cleaning or replacement with a preferred sight.

Things You'll Need

• Thin metal rod or wooden dowel

Instructions

Remove Current Rear Sight

1. Confirm that your rifle is unloaded by removing the magazine and visually inspecting the chamber for any cartridges.

2. Push downward on the spring mechanism at the end of the flip-up sight using your rod or dowel. A wooden dowel is preferred if you want to avoid scratching the rifle's finish.

3. Pull the sight towards the butt of the rifle as you press down on the spring. The sight will release and separate from the rifle.

Install Rear Sight

1. Press down on the spring using your dowel or rod.

2. Insert the rear sight back into position on the rear sight base. On the side of the sight are nubs that will slide into place.

3. Release pressure on the spring mechanism to lock the sight back onto the rifle.

Tips & Warnings

• If you want to remove the rear sight and the base completely, you will need to disassemble the rifle much further. The base is secured with pins that you must tap out and the barrel must be disassembled.

References

• AK-47: Service Manual (PDF)
• Gun Reports: Taking Down the AK-47