AK-47 vs SKS

1949–Present

1945–1990s

Approximately 100,000,000+ units (including all variants and licensed copies)

Over 15 million

870 mm (34.3 in) with stock extended, 640 mm (25.2 in) with stock folded (rifle with folding stock)

1020 mm

415 mm (16.3 in) standard, 375 mm (14.8 in) for AKM shortened models

520 mm

3.47 kg (7.7 lb) empty, 4.3 kg (9.5 lb) loaded with 30‑round magazine

3.85 kg

30 rounds standard detachable box, 10‑round magazine for civilian use, 40‑round drum, 75‑round drum (rare)

10 rounds (fixed)

Gas‑operated, long‑stroke piston, rotating bolt, closed bolt

gas-operated, tilting bolt

Single‑stage military trigger with selector lever for safe, semi‑auto, and full‑auto

two-stage

Adjustable rear notch (range 100–1000 m) and hooded front post; some models equipped with side‑mounted night sights

Iron sights