There are a lot of co-witness options. Unfortunately, a true co-witness is difficult with larger optics like Aimpoints and Eotechs. An Aimpoint Micro, T1 or H1 might give you more options. A lower 1/3 co-witness is definitely possible. The Midwest Industries handguards with the specific optics mounts also allow varying degrees of co-witness depending on the optic. I think MI also manufactures super low mounts utilizing a side rail for Aimpoints and Eotechs as well as an option to replace the traditional rear sight leaf with one that allows the use of a micro dot.

Another option is the RSAKM mount or an Eastern European made mount for Aimpoints found on Kalinka.

An Ultimak might also be what you're looking for.

Thank you. I am aware of the R designation. Not to say the OP can add one if he wants to. It's not a difficult addition.

I believe adding the side rail is within my limited capabilities and is an option ive been entertaining. From my limited experience with the AK platform, i have gathered that a side rail mounted optic is probably the option that would offer the strongest most secure mount. Having said that it seems a lot of guys are enjoying their ultimak gas tubes and forward mounted micro dots. I wonder which setup would add the least amount of weight/bulk to the weapon. Ive really been enjoying the rifle in its present state and do not wa n to add a lot of weight, as its ver y handy and esily manipulated right now and i dont want to change the way it handles much. thanks for the ideas, ill check into everything you suggested. I saw where one guy was complaining about the rifle bieng harder to clean with the ultimak setup, but i didnt understand why. Since the gas tube is removed during cleaning and zero doesnt change when you remove and replace a red dot, wouldnt the cleaning process be virtually the same? If theres something im missing please advise. I dont see why you wouldnt be able to just pop the tube off with the optic still attached, clean, and reinstall the tube, no problem. Maybe im missing something?

I agree with Liquidmetal on the Ultimak. I have 4 of them currently. My favorite combo is the Ultimak and Aimpoint Micro.

Sweet setup liquidmetal, looks like what i need. I already mounted an ultimak since the post, and im loving it. I cant even tell its there. Getting an H1 this week, cant wait. My AR hasnt seen any action since i got my SLR 107F by the way. I knew i liked the AK platform from my Saiga 12 but the rifle has solidified things. Never knew what i was missing.