Century Arms: Leading U.S. Firearm Importer & Maker

Century Arms is among the most recognizable names in the American firearms marketplace. Known for its many military-style rifles, pistols, and imports, the company has become a significant driving force in civilian firearm enjoyment, competitive shooting, and collecting. Century Arms has been a mainstay with firearms with classical heritage and modern upgrade platforms from AK-47s to roller-delayed blowback systems. This article will walk through the brand and corporate history, give you highlights of the most recognized firearms, including your selections, and explain why so many gun owners have supported Century Arms.

Introduction: The Legacy of Century Arms

Established in the 1960s, Century Arms began operation as a Vermont-based surplus firearm importer. Over time, it transitioned as a significant firearms manufacturer and assembler that consolidated its operations domestically.  By offering parts kits in conjunction with manufacturing American-made components, Century Arms provided access to military rifles that were previously hard to obtain.

Century Arms is known for its durable AK-47 variants, roller-delayed platforms like the AP5 and C93, and proprietary models like the BFT47 and VSKA. Those weapons combine historical authenticity with modern materials and technology, easily making them a favorite for collections and utility.

Century Arms AK-47: The Company’s Flagship Platform

When people think of Century Arms, they think of AK-47s. AK-47s are the basis of their identity and sales. Century Arms makes and imports several AK-style rifles, generally with varying brand names like WASR-10, VSKA, and BFT47.

Key features of Century’s AK-47 rifles include:

• Chrome-lined or nitride barrels 
• Stamped or milled receivers 
• Magpul or traditional wood furniture 
• Side rail optics mounts 
• Semi-automatic operation for civilian compliance
  

Whether used for sport shooting, home defense, or collection, Century Arms AKs deliver rugged performance at an accessible price point.

Century Arms VSKA: Modern AK for the American Shooter

The VSKA (Vermont Stamped Kalashnikov) is Century Arms’ flagship 100% American-made AK-47. It stands out due to its use of advanced materials and improved ergonomics.

Highlights of the VSKA include:

• 4140 heat-treated steel bolt and front trunnion 
• S7 tool steel bolt carrier 
• Laminated American maple wood stock 
• Nitride-treated barrel for durability
  

Although traditionalists may prefer imported AKs, the VSKA caters to modern shooters who want a domestically produced option with upgraded internal components.

Century Arms BFT47: Forged for Strength

The BFT47 (Built For Tough) is Century’s response to calls for a more durable AK-pattern rifle. The “BFT” line makes it even more challenging than before, remaking every aspect of the weapon with forged trunnions and bolt carriers, making them reliable over time and heavy usage.

Why shooters choose the BFT47:

• Cold hammer-forged chrome-moly barrel 
• Enhanced bolt hold-open safety lever 
• Traditional wooden furniture or tactical Magpul options 
• AKM parts compatibility
  

The BFT47 represents a blend of modern manufacturing with AK heritage, satisfying both purists and modern shooters.

Century Arms WASR-10: The Classic Import

The most well-known Century Arms AK rifle is the WASR-10. The WASR-10 is imported from Romania and assembled in the U.S. as a compliant firearm under 922r. The WASR-10 has developed a reputation based on reliability and authenticity as a battlefield firearm.

WASR-10 key features:

• Chrome-lined barrel 
• Stamped receiver 
• Slant muzzle brake 
• Bayonet lug and cleaning rod (on earlier models)
  

While early batches were criticized for canted sights or loose mag wells, current WASR-10 models are known for solid construction and AK reliability.

Century Arms Draco: Compact Power

The Draco is a compact AK-style pistol designed for portability and high-caliber firepower. Chambered in 7.62x39mm, it’s ideal for close-quarters applications and tactical customization.

What makes the Draco special:

• Pistol-length barrel (typically 11.5” or less) 
• Standard AK controls and compatibility 
• Accepts all standard AK mags 
• Popular base for brace or SBR builds
  

The Draco gained pop culture fame through music videos and action movies, but it’s more than just a flashy prop—it’s a powerful and practical firearm for those seeking AK performance in a compact form.

Also Read: Savage Arms: Precision, Reliability, Innovation in Firearms

Century Arms AP5: MP5 Clone with a Reputation

The popular AP5 (Apparatus Pistol 5) is Century’s civilian-legal copy of the famous Heckler & Koch MP5. MKE produces it in Turkey under license. Chambered in 9mm, the AP5 utilizes a roller-delayed blowback action and is a pleasure to shoot in such a small package!

AP5 standout features:

• Classic MP5 look and feel 
• Roller-delayed blowback operation 
• Welded scope mount for optics 
• Compatible with MP5 stocks, handguards, and magazines
  

Praised for its accuracy and low recoil, the AP5 has become a top pick for enthusiasts looking for a reliable MP5-style firearm without paying German import prices.

Century Arms MP5: Why the AP5 Stands Out

Though not labeled directly as “MP5,” Century’s AP5 is often referred to as an MP5-style pistol. Compared to competitors like PTR or Zenith, the AP5 offers:

• Excellent build quality via MKE 
• Factory-sourced components using original HK machinery 
• Lower price point for budget-conscious buyers 
• Availability of variants like AP5-P and AP5-M
  

If you’re looking for an MP5 clone for range fun, home defense, or tactical training, Century’s AP5 offers both performance and value.

Century Arms C308: The Battle Rifle Reborn

The C308 is Century Arms’ take on the G3 battle rifle, chambered in .308/7.62x51mm NATO that is built with CETME parts kits paired with U.S. manufactured receivers. The roller-delayed action allows for powerful performance.

Why choose the C308:

• Semi-auto battle rifle heritage 
• Solid mil-spec construction 
• Optic rail welded to the top receiver 
• Affordable .308 rifle option
  

While heavier than modern AR-10s, the C308 appeals to those who love old-school military design and recoil-heavy shooting experiences.

Century Arms C93: 5.56 NATO Roller-Delayed Option

The C93, also a roller delayed rifle offered by Century Arms, is chambered in .223/5.56mm, based on the HK33 rifle, and offers the same reliability and design principles as the MP5 or G3, this time for an intermediate cartridge.

C93 features:

• 16” barrel with flash hider 
• Welded scope rail 
• Compatible with HK33 magazines 
• Roller-delayed blowback system
  

The C93 serves as a cost-effective option for those interested in roller-delayed rifles with AR-15 ballistic characteristics.

Comparing Popular Century Arms Firearms

This breakdown shows how Century Arms caters to a variety of shooting styles, from pistol-caliber carbines to full-size battle rifles.

Are Century Arms Firearms Reliable?

Century Arms’ standing has come a long way. Criticism in the past focused on inconsistent build quality – spotty quality control mainly on early RAS47 and early AK builds – but today, you can find modern Century Arms offerings – such as the VSKA, BFT47, and even the Mini-Draco – getting reasonable praise on their durability and overall performance.

Many users and gun experts note:

• Better metallurgy in newer lines 
• Improved parts compatibility 
• Competitive pricing for performance 
• Backed by a limited warranty and U.S. support
  

Whether for range fun, prepper readiness, or collection, Century’s firearms now rival more established names in quality.

Collectibility and Aftermarket Support

Century Arms rifles benefit from wide aftermarket compatibility. AK enthusiasts can outfit their VSKAs and BFT47s with:

• Magpul stocks and handguards 
• Enhanced safety levers 
• Muzzle devices and rails 
• Optic mounts and red dots
  

Similarly, AP5 owners enjoy abundant MP5-style upgrades like:

• SB Tactical braces 
• Collapsible stocks 
• Ambidextrous controls 
• Paddle mag releases
  

This mod-ability makes Century Arms rifles and pistols favorites among tinkerers and custom builders.

Century Arms and Compliance: 922r and Beyond

For rifles like WASR-10 or C308 to be sold legally in the United States, Century Arms must demonstrate it complies with 922r, a federal law requiring a specific number of U.S. parts in all imported firearms and combining U.S.-manufactured parts with imported kits allowed Century to continue doing business legally and affordably in the United States.

Conclusion: Why Century Arms Stays Relevant

Century_Arms has transformed from a surplus importer to a serious firearm manufacturer. Their line contains iconic platforms such as the AK-47, G3, and MP5, redesigned for the American civilian market. Whether you are looking to purchase your first firearm and need something trustworthy or are an avid collector interested in old-school military designs, Century Arms has a rifle or pistol worth aiming for. With models such as the VSKA, BFT47, Draco, AP5, and WASR-10, Century Arms remains more than relevant in the U.S. firearms world, embodying the best old-world warfighter heritage and new-world craftsmanship.