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ARSENAL SM-13: Rugged Durability Meets Functionality

March 13, 2025 by Ara Leave a Comment

AKs have a sound reputation for their ruggedness, not to mention their unmatched reliability. They flourish even in the harshest environments, whether heat, cold, or even sand.

In fact, the AK’s main critique is its lack of accuracy. A remedy: Arsenal’s SM-13 Scope Mount – the perfect blend of function, reliability, and affordability.

What exactly is a Scope Mount?

In simplest terms, a scope mount is a device used to increase the efficacy of a firearm. It provides a stable and reliable platform for mounting optics like scopes, red dots, or other sights on the weapon of choice.

If an AK is a top-tier automobile, a scope mount is like the perfect set of tires to help the car perform optimally.

SM-13
The SM-13 is not only durable but also light, weighing in at 5.76 ounces.

Ironically, there’s a misconception about mounting optics on the AK. Perhaps this sentiment is rooted in traditionalism – purists may feel that adding modern accessories compromises the “essence” of the AK. This belief shortchanges the AK from reaching peak effectiveness.

Iron Sights, sure, but why not level up with a Scope?

Using the AK’s built-in Iron Sights is doable with consistent training, but at distances beyond 1000 feet, your accuracy can suffer. This is reason enough to invest in an AK mount to equip your firearm with the proper scope.

Why settle for conventional when modern tech can take your AK to another level?

Think of it like the tennis player who settles for a wooden racquet when one made of graphite is readily accessible. Would said athlete perform better with the wood or graphite racquet? The same principle applies with the AK, in this case, iron sights being a racquet made of wood.

SM-13 Construction and Efficacy

The SM-13 defines durability and strength. Why is this important? A solidly constructed mount means your optic stays securely in place, even during heavy recoil. Hence, you don’t want to settle for a poorly manufactured mount.

Despite its top-notch construction, the SM-13 weighs in at 5.76 ounces, which means your rifle remains agile as well. It is made from a single piece of aircraft-grade aluminum –  balance and strength personified.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qJ5Y-KHo36k

One of the SM-13’s standout features is its 7.5-inch-long Picatinny rail, which spans from the top cover to the rear sight leaf. This generous length provides plenty of flexibility, allowing you to mount multiple devices like a scope and magnifier or position a single optic for optimal eye relief.

Its low-profile design includes a relief cut, so you can still use your iron sights without removing the mount. It’s a thoughtful touch that keeps you versatile in the field, an invaluable asset in real-world, high-stake scenarios.

Unlike mounts that attach to less stable parts like top covers or gas tubes, the SM-13 locks onto the AK’s side rail—the most secure mounting platform on the rifle. Its quick-release steel locking mechanism is adjustable for tension, allowing for fast attachment
and removal without sacrificing zero.

Arsenal's SM-13
SM-13: the perfect blend of function, reliability, and affordability.

A Scope Mount Pays Off

Regardless of your expertise, using a scope mount on an AK can significantly enhance your shooting experience by improving accuracy, target acquisition, and versatility.

IMPROVED ACCURACY

A scope or red dot sight allows you to engage targets more accurately, particularly at longer ranges where iron sights may be less effective.

FASTER TARGET ACQUISITION

Optics like red dots or holographic sights provide a much faster way to acquire targets compared to traditional iron sights. This is particularly useful for close-quarters combat or tactical shooting, where you need to engage targets quickly.

With a red dot, for instance, you simply place the dot on the target and pull the trigger without needing to align front and rear sights. When it’s life or death, every second counts, so bank any advantage and carry on.

ENHANCED LONG-RANGE CAPABILITIES

While AKs are typically designed for short to medium-range engagements, mounting a scope can significantly enhance the rifle’s effectiveness at longer distances. With the right scope, you can engage targets at distances that would be more daunting with iron sights alone. We discussed this earlier using the tennis player analogy.

INCREASED RANGE OF USE

Using an optic allows you to adapt your rifle to a wider range of situations. Whether you’re using it in a tactical role, for hunting, or for precision shooting, a mount lets you easily swap between different optics to suit the task at hand.

Arsenal SM-13 Scope Mount: A Solid Choice for your AK

In summary, using a scope mount on an AK enhances its versatility and accuracy, making it an effective tool for various applications. 

https://blog.k-var.com/uncategorized/subsistence-lifestyle-why-so-many-are-adopting-it/

Whether you’re using it for long-range shooting, tactical purposes, or improving overall performance, a quality mount and optic can give your AK increased flexibility and precision.

An investment in the Arsenal SM-13 immediately ups your AK’s efficacy, and it does so without busting your wallet. This piece of ingenuity is currently on sale for $129.99 *limited time offer. 

A win-win if there ever was one; the enhancement of a weapon without paying an arm and a leg.

 

 

 

 


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Filed Under: Reviews, Tactics Tagged With: AK Parts, Gun Owners of America, Kalashnikov, SCOPE MOUNT

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