CMMG spiced things up a bit when they released the MK47, a Frankenstein-morphed rifle that is part AR-15 and part AK-47. Interesting, but is it a worthy self-defense platform? That’s what we’re here to discuss today. Obviously, deciding if the MK47 has a purpose in the home/self-defense world is going to vary from one person to the next, but regardless of whether you are an AR-15 or AK-47 fan, this gun may offer some features you’ll like.
While there is a little more AR-15 in the MK47 than there is AK, the gun is chambered in 7.62x39mm, an intermediate-range cartridge with a lot of power when shooting out to 200 yards or less. It provides enough penetration to handle most threats, while its moderate recoil is manageable.
Some view it as a perfect balance of power between larger cartridges and the 5.56 NATO. Of course, the 5.56 NATO is a smaller, faster bullet capable of hitting targets further away, but some shooters prefer the 7.62×39 as a defensive round. For those who like the cartridge but prefer the AR platform, the MK47 could be a viable consideration. Before we get into that, though, let’s look at a brief overview of CMMG and the MK47.
Who is CMMG?
CMMG, Inc., founded in 2002 by the Overstreet family, has established itself as a reputable manufacturer of high-quality firearms and firearm components. Located in Boonville, Missouri, CMMG started with a focus on producing AR-15 rifles and quickly gained a following for their innovative designs and commitment to quality. Their products have become known for their reliability, accuracy, and cutting-edge performance.
From its humble beginnings, CMMG has grown significantly and now offers a variety of rifles, pistols, and firearm accessories. The company has consistently pushed the envelope, introducing new models that appeal to a wide range of firearm enthusiasts.
One of these designs is the CMMG MK47.
CMMG MK47 Mutant
The CMMG MK47, often referred to as the “Mutant,” is a hybrid rifle that combines the strengths of the AK-47 and the AR-15. Built on their Banshee lower, the MK47 was built to have the power of the 7.62×39 combined with the ergonomic and modular design features of the AR-15. This fusion results in a rifle that some love and some view as an abomination. I like morphed guns and find them somewhat intriguing.
The MK47 is available in various lengths, but I chose the pistol version with an 8-inch barrel. With a barrel this short, there is some muzzle velocity loss, but I wanted something compact.
The MK47 has an AR-15 ambidextrous safety, making it an easy shooter for left- and right-handed users alike. I also like the oversized AK-style mag release, which makes it easy to use during mag changes. Even though I’m an AR-15 guy, I love my AK as well, and this combination was hard to pass up.
Specifications
- Caliber: 7.62x39mm
- Operating System: Direct Impingement
- Barrel Length: Typically available in 16.1 inches, with other lengths offered
- Weight: Approximately 7.6 pounds (varies by configuration)
- Overall Length: 33 inches (stock collapsed), 36.5 inches (stock extended)
- Magazine: Standard AK-47 magazines
- Handguard: Free-floating M-LOK handguard
- Stock: Collapsible AR-style stock
- Trigger: CMMG single-stage trigger
- Sights: Typically equipped with a full-length Picatinny rail for mounting optics
What stands out on the CMMG MK47?
The MK47 uses a unique upper receiver that combines the AR-15-style design with an oversized bolt carrier group, allowing it to chamber and fire the 7.62x39mm cartridge reliably. This design also means the MK47 accepts standard AK-47 magazines. So far, I haven’t had any trouble with any of the mags I’ve used in it.
Unlike the traditional AK-47, the MK47 features the familiar AR-15 ergonomics. This includes a collapsible stock, pistol grip, safety selector, trigger, and charging handle. A perfect idea for those already comfortable with the AR platform.
The MK47’s Picatinny rail and free-float M-LOK handguard allow for the easy mounting of a wide variety of accessories and optics. This is one of the AR-15’s popular features. You can customize it quickly, and there are a ton of aftermarket accessories available.
By utilizing the AR-15’s direct impingement operating system and a free-floating handguard, the MK47 achieves improved accuracy over traditional AK-47s, which often suffer from less precise manufacturing tolerances and design limitations. Because of the 8-inch barrel, this little mutant struggles to even make it to the 200-yard mark before experiencing a significant bullet drop. But I didn’t buy it for long-distance shooting, so I’m fine with that.
Is it reliable?
Because the gas system of the CMMG MK47 is designed around the AR-15, it is reliable but maybe not as reliable as an AK-47. Not many rifles can go toe-to-toe with a mud gun in the worst conditions. That’s not to say the AR-15 is not reliable, but an AK is built to run dirty in less-than-desirable environments, whereas an AR likes to run wet and clean.
With an AR design, you get tighter tolerances and better accuracy. While the AK is known for its durability, it’s not known for its accuracy. Building the 7.62×39 into an AR-based system can improve that some, especially the versions with longer barrels. Overall, I would say CMMG did a great job at making a reliable AK/AR hybrid.
Is the CMMG MK47 a viable self-defense option?
The power of 7.62×39 appeals to some for a self-defense cartridge. One advantage of this gun, specifically, is those who are used to an AR-15 platform can use their AK mags and ammo in a rifle/pistol platform that is more familiar to them. This is one thing that drew me to the MK47.
One reason I like the AR-15 platform is that it’s so easy to modify. You can modify an AK to use an optic, light, or other accessory, but it’s not as easy as an AR-15 platform. With the MK47, you can use AK mags and 7.62×39 ammo and have the customization of an AR-15. To some, adding a light, red dot, or laser is important for their home defense setup.
So, answering the question, does it make a good self-defense weapon? I would say that it is. If you already have AK mags and 7.62×39 ammo and want an AR platform, I think it’s a viable contender. If you are just wanting something larger than a 5.56, there are other options that may be cheaper. .300 blackout, for example, is a great option for AR-15 users who want a compact weapon with a little more stopping power. It all depends on what you already have and what you like.
Are there any drawbacks to the CMMG MK47 for home defense?
Yes. No firearm platform is perfect. However, there are benefits and drawbacks to just about any weapon you select for home/self-defense defense. Of course, the obvious drawback with the 7.62x39mm cartridge is overpenetration. Some choose this cartridge because they want a bullet with some power behind it. However, just about any effective cartridge will also have some overpenetration concerns.
This is why it’s important to consider all factors when selecting a home/self-defense weapon. The same weapon will not work for everyone. Where you live compared to others and the population density are important considerations.
It’s also feasible to have more than one self-defense weapon for different situations. I don’t use a high-powered rifle for my go-to home defense gun, but I like having a backup with a larger caliber, just in case.
One downside to the MK47 is its price. While I like the idea of an AK/AR hybrid gun, it’s a little on the pricy side. I was able to get a great deal on mine during a close-out sale, but the $1,500+ full price tag is a little steep for me. This may come down to each person and how much they want one. As I mentioned above, I tend to drift toward those weird guns because I think they’re neat. When looking at it strictly from a home/self-defense standpoint, there are lots of other, cheaper options out there. But, to each his own.
Parting Shots
The MK47 pistol is compact, uses just about any AK-47 mag, and is easy to customize. I’m more familiar with AR-15s than I am with AK-47s, so it’s a good combination for me. I added the Stern Defense Rab-Ad quick detach to the buffer tube so I could quickly remove the tube and arm brace. This allows me to carry it in a backpack or other small area, and it only takes a couple of seconds to deploy.
For those familiar with the AR platform who want the stopping power of the AK-47’s cartridge, the MK47 presents an attractive solution. I’ve been shooting mine for over a year now, and I love it. It did have some problems with the steel-cased ammo sticking in the chamber when it got hot, but after several hundred rounds, this problem went away.
Everyone has their own preference for caliber and weapon platforms when it comes to self-defense. This is just another option to consider. Add it to your home or self-defense arsenal, or pick one up for another range toy. When found for the right price, it’s a cool gun to have.
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