Completely new to red dots, where to start?

[TFin04]

Yes I've done some searching but I have a few questions that have not been answered.

I'm looking to mount a red dot site on an AK 47 via the receiver mount that comes stock on most AK's. It is a solid platform and is the best option available IMO.

I'm going to use the red dot for local 3 gun competitions and plinking around the range. Most shots are taken well within 50 yards (probably 60% taken from 25 yards or less) but there is one session that is shot at 100 yards.

I'm looking for something with quick target acquisition and something that will be accurate for the purposes listed above.

Can I accomplish this with say, a TruGlow for $50? I know some red dots cost more than this AK I'm putting it on, but I have zero experience with the quality curve on these things.

What do you guys recommend? The AK is a budget gun as it is so I'm trying not to break the bank.

Thanks!

[chevrofreak]

Most sights that mount to the side rail will sit too high to use a natural shooting position and cheek weld. That can and probably will slow you down. I don't know of any mounts that will hold the sight lower than an UltiMAK will. I would go with a tube type sight that ues regular scope rings, and get the lowest rings available. A 30mm tube is prefered for a wider field of view.

I think the UltiMAK is the best thing going.

[MrMurphy]

The Kobra is relatively inexpensive, and more importantly, designed to fit the AK and siderail.

yes it'll be a bit high, you use the "chinweld" technique.

[TFin04]

Originally posted by chevrofreak
Most sights that mount to the side rail will sit too high to use a natural shooting position and cheek weld. That can and probably will slow you down. I don't know of any mounts that will hold the sight lower than an UltiMAK will. I would go with a tube type sight that ues regular scope rings, and get the lowest rings available. A 30mm tube is prefered for a wider field of view.

I think the UltiMAK is the best thing going.

Hmmm...good points. I have used a dust cover mounted rail and it lined up well, will the side mount be higher than that?

As it sits, I think the stock sites are way too low, I have trouble getting into a good position to use the irons.

I'll have to keep reading, I guess. :)

Thanks for the info guys.

[TFin04]

Anyone else have input on the actual red dot?

[MrMurphy]

An Aimpoint or a Kobra would be my pick.

Aimpoints are not cheap, but you most definitely get what you pay for.

Mine has been abused at work daily for 2 years in a military enviroment and keeps on ticking.