The Century Arms RAS 47 has become a popular choice among AK-47 enthusiasts, offering a blend of affordability and unique features. This in-depth review will explore its strengths and weaknesses, helping you determine if it's the right firearm for you. We'll cover everything from its build quality and performance to its price point and overall value. Understanding the RAS 47's features will give you a clear picture of whether this AK variant meets your needs.
RAS 47 Key Features and Design
The RAS 47 distinguishes itself with its distinct design elements. The most noticeable is its integrated quad rail handguard, a significant departure from the traditional AK wooden or polymer furniture. This allows for the easy attachment of accessories like lights, lasers, and vertical grips, enhancing versatility for various shooting situations.
- Receiver: The RAS 47 typically uses a stamped receiver, a common and cost-effective construction method for AK-47s. While stamped receivers are generally considered durable, they might not be as robust as milled receivers.
- Barrel: The barrel length and profile vary depending on the specific model. Generally, you'll find barrels that are reasonably well-made, although some users have reported issues with accuracy in certain instances (more on this below).
- Ergonomics: The quad rail significantly impacts ergonomics. While it offers modularity, the added weight and bulk can make the rifle feel less comfortable for some shooters, especially during extended use.
Understanding the Handguard System
The handguard system is a crucial aspect of the RAS 47. The quad rail provides numerous Picatinny rails, enabling the attachment of a wide range of accessories. However, the quality of the rail system itself can vary. Some users have reported issues with the rail's stability or its fit onto the receiver, highlighting the importance of thorough inspection before purchase. A poorly fitted rail can significantly impact accuracy and overall functionality.
Build Quality Considerations
Century Arms is known for producing firearms at competitive price points. This often means trade-offs in build quality compared to higher-end manufacturers. While many RAS 47 owners report satisfactory reliability, it's essential to be aware of potential inconsistencies in build quality. Some rifles may require minor adjustments or modifications after purchase to achieve optimal performance. This can include things like tightening screws, adjusting the gas system, or addressing issues with the trigger group.
Performance and Reliability: On the Range
The RAS 47's performance is largely dependent on individual firearm variations and the quality control during manufacture. While many owners praise its reliability, reports of malfunctions, particularly failures to feed or extract, are not uncommon. These issues often stem from variations in the manufacturing process.
- Accuracy: Accuracy can be variable. While many users report acceptable accuracy at typical engagement distances, some have observed inconsistencies, possibly due to variations in barrel quality or assembly.
- Reliability: Reliability issues, when they arise, often relate to ammunition compatibility. Using high-quality, correctly functioning ammunition is crucial to ensuring consistent operation. Testing different ammo brands is advisable to identify any compatibility problems.
- Recoil Management: The RAS 47's recoil management is generally considered manageable, although the added weight of the quad rail can sometimes slightly alter the feel of recoil compared to a standard AK.
Case Study: Ammunition Testing
One user reported experiencing feeding issues with steel-cased ammunition. Switching to brass-cased ammunition completely resolved the problem. This case highlights the importance of testing different ammunition types to optimize the RAS 47's performance for your specific needs and environmental conditions.
Price and Value: Weighing the Pros and Cons
The RAS 47's primary selling point is its affordability. It's significantly cheaper than many other AK-47 variants on the market. This lower price point, however, often comes with trade-offs in build quality and potential reliability issues as discussed earlier.
Pros:
- Affordability: A significant advantage over many competitors.
- Versatility: The quad rail offers extensive modularity for accessory attachments.
- Availability: Generally readily available from numerous retailers.
Cons:
- Inconsistent Build Quality: Potential for variations in quality control.
- Potential Reliability Issues: Reports of malfunctions are not uncommon.
- Accuracy Variations: Accuracy can vary between individual rifles.
Conclusion: Is the RAS 47 Right for You?
The Century Arms RAS 47 presents a compelling option for budget-conscious shooters looking for an AK-47 with accessory mounting capabilities. However, potential buyers should be aware of the possibility of inconsistent build quality and potential reliability issues. Thorough inspection before purchase and careful attention to ammunition selection are crucial. If you're on a tight budget and are willing to accept potential compromises in build quality, the RAS 47 can be a viable choice. However, if reliability and consistent performance are paramount, investing in a higher-end AK-47 might be a better long-term solution. Consider your needs, budget, and tolerance for potential issues before making a purchase decision.