AK47 vs AR15
 

What are the main differences between AK47 and AR15 given that they are both manufactured and not modified for comparison sake and that they have the same auto or semi-auto capability?

This is one of those threads that could go on forever...

Gads!!!

One is piston driven, one is gas driven without the piston.
One uses peep sights, one uses open sights. ( not including scope mounts )
Magazine insertion/removal is different.
Safeties are different.
No bolt hold open on last shot, and one with it.

I believe that about covers the basics.

-Bidah

AKs are generally stamped sheet metal receivers these days while ARs are machined from castings or forgings.

Don't forget they shoot different calibers. ;)

Yes, but...

I have an AK in 223 Rem and an AR upper in 7.62x39.

How about this.

One is spendy, is very accurate, has hightolerances and comes with a "purse handle" (as my wife says)., needs regular cleaning ans maintenance and always looks sexy.

They other one is cheap, not quite as accurate. has low tolerances and is portrayed as evil in almost all movies. not to mention doesnt require cleaning or much maintenance and looks better dirty:D

Does that work or did I open a can of worms?

I thought we were talking about the original incarnations of both. The first mass produced ones.

You opened a can of worms, with incorrect statements flying out the wazoo.

The rifle AK can be just as accurate as the AR. The difference comes, primarily, from the nut behind the trigger usually not being able to shoot as well with the AK sight system as with the AR system. Throw on top of that the differences in ammo standards (6 MOA for the AK vs 2 MOA for the AR) and the AK can be less accurate.

The AK does need regular cleaning and maintenance. Like any mechanical device, it needs lubed.

And there is nothing quite as sexy as an AR covered in dust...

I must have missed that. Where was it?