Description
The Century Arms Draco 7.62 x 39mm 12.25 in Pistol is a compact, AK-inspired semi-automatic handgun built in Romania. It uses a stamped steel receiver with a polymer pistol grip and a Russian red wood handguard, and ships with a rear Picatinny rail for brace or accessory mounting. The 12.25 inch hard chrome-lined barrel and standard AK-style iron sights deliver consistent, serviceable performance for range and recreational use.
| Manufacturer | Century Arms |
|---|---|
| Model | Draco |
| Material | Stamped steel receiver, polymer grip, Russian red wood handguard (per manufacturer specs) |
| Compatibility | AK-pattern magazines and accessories (7.62 x 39mm) |
| Finish | Blued steel |
| Weight | Approx. 5.5 lbs (unloaded, per manufacturer specs) |
| Condition | New |
Key Features
- Compact AK Pistol Design — The Draco brings the proven AK platform into a pistol form factor, making it easy to handle at the range or store in a vehicle safe. Why it matters: you get the reliability of an AK in a shorter, more portable package.
- 12.25 Inch Chrome-Lined Barrel — The hard chrome lining resists corrosion and wear, extending barrel life through thousands of rounds. Why it matters: less maintenance and consistent accuracy shot after shot.
- Rear Picatinny Rail — An integrated rail on the rear trunnion lets you mount a brace, red dot, or other optics. Why it matters: you can customize the Draco to fit your shooting style or legal requirements.
- Classic AK Iron Sights — Standard adjustable rear and front post sights give you a familiar, rugged aiming system. Why it matters: no batteries, no electronics — just reliable sight picture every time.
Who It’s For
This pistol is built for families and recreational shooters who want a compact, easy-to-use handgun chambered in 7.62 x 39mm. It works well for plinking, range training, or as a truck gun. Beginners will appreciate the simple controls and low recoil of the AK action, while experienced shooters can use it as a platform for customization.
Pros & Cons
- Pro: Proven Romanian build quality and AK reliability
- Pro: Chrome-lined barrel for long life and easy cleaning
- Pro: Picatinny rail ready for brace or optics
- Con: The 12.25 inch barrel and overall length make it less concealable than typical handguns; best as a range or vehicle gun
Comparison
| Feature | Century Arms Draco | Zev Technologies OZ9 | Agency Arms AOS G17 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Caliber | 7.62 x 39mm | 9mm | 9mm |
| Barrel Length | 12.25 in | 4.49 in | 4.49 in |
| Action | Semi-auto, AK-style | Semi-auto, striker | Semi-auto, striker |
| Weight | ~5.5 lbs | ~1.5 lbs | ~1.6 lbs |
| MSRP | $997.32 | $1,200+ | $1,100+ |
The Draco is heavier and larger than typical 9mm pistols, but its AK heritage and 7.62 x 39mm cartridge offer a unique shooting experience. The Zev and Agency Arms models are more concealable and lighter, but cost more and lack the Draco’s raw reliability and power.
FAQ
What caliber does the Century Arms Draco fire?
The Draco fires 7.62 x 39mm ammunition, the same round used in AK-47 rifles.
Does the Draco come with a brace?
No, the pistol ships with a rear Picatinny rail but no brace. You can mount an aftermarket brace or stabilizer if desired.
Is the Draco legal to own in my state?
Firearm laws vary by state and locality. Check your local regulations before purchasing. We ship nationwide to all 50 states where legal.
What magazines does the Draco use?
It accepts standard AK-pattern 7.62 x 39mm magazines. Most aftermarket AK mags will work.
How accurate is the Draco?
With its 12.25 inch chrome-lined barrel and AK iron sights, the Draco delivers 3-4 MOA accuracy at 50 yards with quality ammunition — plenty for recreational shooting and plinking.
Why Choose the Century Arms Draco?
With over 1 million AK-style pistols sold in the U.S. (according to industry data), the Draco remains a top choice for shooters who want a compact, reliable 7.62 x 39mm platform. It’s built in Romania under strict quality control, and every unit is inspected before shipping.
- ✔ Nationwide delivery (all 50 states)
- ✔ Ships 1-2 business days
- ✔ 30-day returns
- ✔ Secure checkout
Explore more in our Semi Auto Handguns or AK Pistols categories.
Last updated: April 2026
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