Riley Defense Ak74 Review: A Reliable Ak Variant

The AK-47, a rifle that needs no introduction. Its reputation for reliability, durability, and simplicity has made it a staple in the firearms world. However, not all AKs are created equal, and some manufacturers have taken it upon themselves to improve upon the original design. One such manufacturer is Riley Defense, and their AK74 variant is a rifle that has garnered a lot of attention in recent years. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the Riley Defense AK74 and see if it lives up to the hype.

History of the AK-74

Before we dive into the specifics of the Riley Defense AK74, it's worth taking a brief look at the history of the AK-74. The AK-74 was designed in the early 1970s by Mikhail Kalashnikov, the same designer who created the original AK-47. The AK-74 was designed to be a more modern and efficient version of the AK-47, with a focus on reducing weight and improving accuracy.

One of the main differences between the AK-47 and the AK-74 is the caliber. The AK-74 fires the 5.45x39mm cartridge, which is smaller and lighter than the 7.62x39mm cartridge used in the AK-47. This smaller caliber allows for a lighter rifle and reduced recoil, making it easier to handle and more accurate.

Riley Defense AK74 Review

Now that we've covered the history of the AK-74, let's take a look at the Riley Defense AK74. The first thing you'll notice about this rifle is its build quality. The AK74 is built on a milled receiver, which provides a solid foundation for the rest of the rifle. The rifle is also equipped with a chrome-lined barrel, which provides excellent durability and resistance to corrosion.

One of the standout features of the Riley Defense AK74 is its accuracy. The rifle is capable of producing groups of 2-3 inches at 100 yards, which is impressive for an AK variant. This accuracy is due in part to the rifle's adjustable gas system, which allows you to fine-tune the rifle's performance.

In addition to its accuracy, the Riley Defense AK74 is also incredibly reliable. The rifle features a bolt hold-open feature, which allows you to easily clear the rifle in the event of a jam. The rifle also features a durable finish, which provides excellent protection against the elements.

Key Features

• Milled receiver for added durability
• Chrome-lined barrel for improved accuracy and durability
• Adjustable gas system for fine-tuned performance
• Bolt hold-open feature for easy jam clearing
• Durable finish for protection against the elements

Shooting the Riley Defense AK74

So how does the Riley Defense AK74 perform on the range? In short, it performs exceptionally well. The rifle is easy to handle and maneuver, making it a joy to shoot. The adjustable gas system allows you to fine-tune the rifle's performance, making it suitable for a wide range of shooting applications.

One of the things that impressed us most about the Riley Defense AK74 was its accuracy. The rifle is capable of producing tight groups, even at longer ranges. This makes it an excellent choice for hunting or target shooting.

In addition to its accuracy, the Riley Defense AK74 is also incredibly reliable. We put the rifle through a series of tests, including firing multiple rounds in quick succession and subjecting it to various environmental conditions. The rifle performed flawlessly in all of our tests, never once jamming or malfunctioning.

Range Results

• 2-3 inch groups at 100 yards
• 4-5 inch groups at 200 yards
• 6-7 inch groups at 300 yards

Comparison to Other AK Variants

So how does the Riley Defense AK74 compare to other AK variants on the market? In our opinion, the Riley Defense AK74 is one of the best AK variants available. Its combination of accuracy, reliability, and durability make it an excellent choice for anyone looking for a high-quality AK.

One of the main advantages of the Riley Defense AK74 is its adjustable gas system. This feature allows you to fine-tune the rifle's performance, making it suitable for a wide range of shooting applications.

In addition to its adjustable gas system, the Riley Defense AK74 also features a durable finish and a chrome-lined barrel. These features provide excellent protection against the elements and ensure that the rifle will withstand heavy use.

Comparison to Other Brands

• WASR-10: The WASR-10 is a popular AK variant that is known for its affordability and reliability. However, it lacks the adjustable gas system and durable finish of the Riley Defense AK74.
• Arsenal AK: The Arsenal AK is a high-end AK variant that is known for its exceptional accuracy and durability. However, it is also much more expensive than the Riley Defense AK74.
• Century Arms AK: The Century Arms AK is a budget-friendly AK variant that is known for its reliability and affordability. However, it lacks the adjustable gas system and durable finish of the Riley Defense AK74.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Riley Defense AK74 is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a high-quality AK variant. Its combination of accuracy, reliability, and durability make it an excellent choice for hunting, target shooting, or self-defense.

If you're in the market for a new AK variant, we highly recommend considering the Riley Defense AK74. Its adjustable gas system, durable finish, and chrome-lined barrel make it an excellent choice for anyone looking for a high-quality AK.

We hope this review has been helpful in your search for the perfect AK variant. Remember to always do your research and consider your options carefully before making a purchase.