AK-47 vs. AR-15

The Small Arms Showdown
The AR-15 has become the best-selling rifle in the U.S., while the AK-47 is one of the most widely recognized assault rifles on Earth. Both controversial weapons might be similar in appearances, but on closer observation, they are truly worlds apart. We go beyond all the tactical gear and accessories to compare the basic functionality and facts of these two popular guns.

	AK-47	AR-15
Maximum Effective Range	400 yards	600 yards
Caliber	7.62 x 39 mm	5.56 x 45 NATO
Standard Length	34.3 inches	39.5 inches
Weight (loaded, 30 round magazine)	10.9 pounds	8.8 pounds
Muzzle Energy	1,500 foot-pounds	1,300 foot-pounds
Cyclic Rate of Fire	600 rounds per minute	700-950 rounds per minute
Standard Magazine Capacity	30 rounds	30 rounds
Base Price	$350 - $600	$750 - $1,500
Manufacturers (including variants)	30+ manufacturers	150+ manufacturers
Service Life (assuming propper maintenance)	20-40 years	40+ years
Accuracy (16" barrel)	8-12 MOA	6-8 MOA