Introduction
Pistol-caliber carbines (PCCs) like the Palmetto State Armory AK-V 9mm and the CZ Scorpion EVO 3 S1 have surged in popularity for home defense and recreational shooting. These firearms offer rifle-style stability and capacity while firing the common 9×19mm pistol round, making them fast-handling and relatively low-recoil options. The PSA AK-V (sometimes called an “AK-M 9mm”) is an American-made homage to the Russian Vityaz-SN submachine gun, blending AK-style features with modern updates. The CZ Scorpion EVO 3 S1 is a battle-proven Czech design, known for its reliability and extensive aftermarket support. In this article, we’ll compare the two in their pistol configurations (no stock, often equipped with arm braces) to see how they stack up for home defense and range use. Lets dive in to our CZ Scorpion vs PSA AK-V HEAD 2 HEAD!

We’ll start with a side-by-side spec comparison, then dive into key considerations like reliability, ergonomics, customization, maintenance, price, and legal factors. Finally, we’ll give an overall verdict with recommendations based on different buyer priorities.

Specifications: Side-by-Side Comparison

Below is a detailed table comparing the core specifications and features of the PSA AK-V 9mm pistol and the CZ Scorpion EVO 3 S1 pistol:

Table: Specifications and features of the PSA AK-V 9mm pistol vs. CZ Scorpion EVO 3 S1 pistol.

Ergonomics & Handling CZ Scorpion vs PSA AK-V

Palmetto State Armory AK-V 9mm pistol with a Magpul MOE handguard and SBA3 brace (collapsible). The AK-V mirrors AK-style controls and ergonomics in a compact 9mm platform.

Both firearms are compact and maneuverable, but there are notable differences in ergonomics due to their design heritage. The PSA AK-V feels like a mini AK-47 in hand. It has the typical AK safety lever on the right side (enhanced with an extended tab for easier use)​

palmettostatearmory.com, and an AK-style magazine release lever. Fans of the AK platform will find this layout familiar, though not ambidextrous. Magazine changes on the AK-V require rocking the mag in/out, which can be slower for new users. The AK-V’s hinged top dust cover with Picatinny rail is a welcome modern touch – it stays in place when lifted for cleaning and maintains zero for optics​

soldiersystems.net. The included brace on many AK-V models (either an adjustable SBA3 or a folding triangle brace) greatly improves stability when shooting and folds to the side to reduce length for storage. At about 6.5–7 lbs, the AK-V is on the heavier side for a 9mm pistol, but that steel construction and weight help soak up recoil. Overall, it’s easy to control and points naturally, though the stock AK grip can be swapped if a different angle or texture is desired (it accepts standard AK grips).

CZ Scorpion EVO 3 S1 pistol. The Scorpion features ambidextrous controls, polymer construction, and multiple accessory rails, making it a modern PCC with a unique look.

The CZ Scorpion EVO 3 S1 was designed as a modern subgun, and it shows in its ergonomics. It has ambidextrous controls: safety selectors on both sides and a paddle-style magazine release accessible by either hand​

floridagunexchange.com. Many shooters find the mag release and oversized trigger guard allow quick, intuitive reloads (you can use your trigger finger to drop the mag). The charging handle is non-reciprocating and swappable to either side, accommodating left or right-handed shooters. One complaint from some users is the factory safety lever can rub the trigger finger – this ergonomic quirk is well-known, and many replace or trim the safety selector in the aftermarket for comfort. The Scorpion’s pistol grip has an adjustable reach to trigger (the grip can rotate slightly to suit different hand sizes), which is a thoughtful feature. With no brace, the Scorpion pistol is very compact (only 16″ long) and lightweight at 5 lbs – making it extremely agile in tight spaces. Adding a folding brace (many Scorpion owners opt for an SB Tactical side-folding brace or telescoping brace) will increase weight and length a bit, but it remains maneuverable. The lighter weight does mean you’ll feel a bit more recoil impulse (the heavy bolt cycling inside a mostly polymer gun gives a noticeable thump). Still, recoil is very controllable and both guns allow rapid follow-up shots.

Trigger: The AK-V and Scorpion have very different trigger feels. The PSA AK-V uses a single-stage AK-style trigger (compatible with PSA’s AK triggers). Reviewers have measured it at about a 3.0 lb pull weight, which is surprisingly light out of the box​

thetruthaboutguns.com. However, it has a long, somewhat mushy travel and a hard reset – not a crisp match trigger by any means​

thetruthaboutguns.com. It’s usable for fast shooting but can hinder precision. In contrast, the CZ Scorpion’s stock trigger is notoriously heavy. Due to the subgun trigger pack design, many Scorpion pistols come with ~8–9 lb trigger pulls from the factory​

czfirearms.us. The pull is long but generally smooth​

shootingillustrated.com. This heavy trigger can affect accuracy potential and shooter comfort, but it’s deliberate (possibly to meet import requirements or prevent accidental discharges in a military context). The good news is that aftermarket trigger kits for the Scorpion are plentiful – for example, simple spring kits can reduce it to ~5 lbs or even ~4.5 lbs​

mcarbo.com. Meanwhile, the AK-V can accept any upgraded AK fire control group if one desires a different trigger feel, since it uses a standard single-hook AK trigger setup​

palmettostatearmory.com. In short: AK-V has a lighter trigger out of the box, while Scorpion might need some aftermarket love to lighten the pull.

Sights and Accuracy: Both guns come with usable iron sights. The PSA AK-V often ships with standard AK-style iron sights – a front post (shielded by “ears”) and a fixed rear notch on the Picatinny dust cover. They co-witness with many low-mounted red dot optics​

palmettostatearmory.com. These sights are robust for close-range use but not easily adjustable. The CZ Scorpion includes excellent factory sights: a hooded front post and a rear drum sight with four aperture sizes (from wide open to peep) that are fully adjustable​

floridagunexchange.com. Many praise the Scorpion’s irons for being among the best stock sights on a PCC. In terms of accuracy, both are more than capable at typical home-defense ranges (0–25 yards). The AK-V’s 10.5″ barrel might offer a bit more velocity and a longer sight radius than the Scorpion’s 7.7″ barrel, but in practice each can hold ~2-3″ groups at 50 yards with quality ammo. For home defense, accuracy is more than sufficient, and both have top rails ready for mounting a red dot sight, which is the preferred aiming solution for most PCC owners.

Reliability & Maintenance

When it comes to reliability, both the AK-V and Scorpion have earned high marks – but let’s break down the nuances. The PSA AK-V had some early teething issues in initial releases (as is common with new designs), but current generations are regarded as very reliable. Its blowback operation is simple and robust, and Palmetto State Armory built it with numerous reinforced components (forged trunnion, bolt, and carrier) to handle high round counts​

soldiersystems.net. In a 500-round test (including 400 rounds in one day, much of it suppressed), a reviewer reported zero malfunctions with the AK-V – no failures to feed, fire, or eject​

thetruthaboutguns.com. This was with a mix of ammo (115gr, 124gr +P, 147gr, etc.) and even +P+ loads; the AK-V is rated for +P+ 9mm and runs well suppressed​

palmettostatearmory.com​

soldiersystems.net. Such reliability is impressive, especially for a 9mm AR/AK hybrid platform, and PSA’s use of CZ Scorpion-pattern magazines (which are a proven design) likely contributes to smooth feeding. Maintenance on the AK-V will be familiar to AK owners – it field-strips like a scaled-down AK. The hinged top cover makes accessing the internals easy, and since it’s a direct blowback system, there is no gas system to clean – just keep the bolt, recoil spring, and chamber clean and lubed. The barrel is nitrided for longevity​

palmettostatearmory.com, so it can handle high round counts with minimal wear. One thing to note: if shooting suppressed, PSA recommends using a jam nut on the muzzle threads for proper alignment (since the AK-V’s barrel lacks a traditional 9mm shoulder for muzzle devices)​

palmettostatearmory.com. This is a minor consideration for heavy suppressor use.

The CZ Scorpion EVO 3 S1 has a reputation as a workhorse. It’s been adopted in various forms by military and police units around the world, so the design is well-vetted. The simple blowback action and fewer steel parts (thanks to a polymer lower) mean there’s little to go wrong. Owners often report many thousands of rounds through Scorpions with no major issues besides expected spring replacements over time. In fact, the Scorpion is regarded as “one of the most reliable and respected firearms of its kind.”​

floridagunexchange.com It digests a wide variety of 9mm ammunition without fuss, and its magazines (be they factory CZ, Magpul PMAG 35 EV9, or PSA’s own U9 mags) are sturdy and feed well. One consideration: the Scorpion’s lightweight polymer frame and heavy bolt can result in more felt recoil and wear when shooting +P or +P+ ammo or running suppressed. Some enthusiasts who shoot suppressed extensively install a heavier aftermarket bolt or recoil spring to slow the cyclic rate and soften recoil. That said, running the Scorpion suppressed is straightforward – the muzzle is threaded (with both 1/2×28 and 18×1 thread patterns from factory) for attaching common suppressors​

cz-usa.com. Maintenance of the Scorpion is very easy: it breaks down with a few push pins, separating the upper and lower receiver. The trigger pack is a self-contained unit in the polymer grip frame – you can clean the bolt and barrel without needing to detail-strip the trigger mechanism. The absence of a gas system means just clean out the carbon from the bolt and inside the receiver, and you’re good to go. Both guns being 9mm blowback will run dirty over time (especially when suppressed), but neither has a reputation for needing frequent deep cleaning to remain reliable.

In summary, both the AK-V and Scorpion are reliable PCCs. The AK-V benefits from AK-like overbuilt toughness and has shown it can run flawlessly even under high round count days​

thetruthaboutguns.com. The Scorpion’s track record worldwide speaks for itself, and it is praised as a firearm you can “trust your life to” in the context of home defense. Either one should function reliably if you feed it decent ammo and perform basic maintenance.

Modularity & Customization CZ Scorpion vs PSA AK-V

One of the biggest draws of these PCCs (especially the Scorpion) is the ability to customize them to your liking. Here’s how they compare in modularity and aftermarket support:

• Accessory Mounting: Both guns make it easy to add optics and accessories. The PSA AK-V has a full-length Picatinny rail on the dust cover for optics​palmettostatearmory.com, and the Magpul MOE handguard it ships with includes M-LOK slots for attaching lights, grips, or rails (the MOE AK handguard has slots at the 2, 6, and 10 o’clock positions for accessories). If one opts for a different handguard, the AK-V’s receiver will fit many AK-47/AK-74 handguard replacements (with some fitting considerations for the shorter barrel). The CZ Scorpion comes with a factory forend that has integrated Picatinny rail segments: typically a short rail on each side and on the bottom, in addition to the top rail​floridagunexchange.com. This means out of the box you can mount a light, laser, or foregrip (foregrip only if you register it as an SBR, since a vertical grip on a pistol is legally a no-go without a tax stamp). The Scorpion’s popularity has led to many aftermarket forend options – you can get aluminum handguards with M-LOK slots (for a sleeker feel) from companies like HB Industries, Midwest Industries, etc. In short, both are very accessory-friendly, but the Scorpion has more third-party handguard choices designed specifically for it. The AK-V, by virtue of being an AK, can use AK rail systems if desired.
• Upgrades and Aftermarket Parts: The CZ Scorpion EVO 3 S1 has an extensive aftermarket community. There are replacement trigger packs, trigger shoes, spring kits, mag releases, safeties, charging handles, grips, and even different stock/brace adapters designed specifically for the Scorpion. CZ-USA themselves noted the “wealth of accessories and attachments available for the Scorpion platform” from various makers. Want a better trigger? There are drop-in trigger kits (like from Timney or HB Industries) that can bring the pull down to ~4 lbs​mcarbo.com. Don’t like the grip angle or size? Aftermarket pistol grips (e.g., Yeti Wurks) can give you a more AR-like grip or different textures. Many owners swap the ambi safety for a smaller profile safety to fix the finger rub issue. There are also adapter kits to add an AR-15 buffer tube to the rear of the Scorpion if you prefer AR braces or stocks. In contrast, the PSA AK-V, while newer on the scene, benefits from compatibility with many AK-pattern parts. For example, the AK-V uses a standard AK fire control group, so you can install an ALG AKT trigger or other AK trigger if you want a different feel. The grip is any AK grip – so dozens of options there (Magpul, US Palm, etc.). The AK-V’s magazine is proprietary to PSA’s design, but it intentionally matches the shape and dimensions of CZ Scorpion mags​palmettostatearmory.com. This means you can use CZ Scorpion or Magpul EV9 mags in the AK-V, and you can use PSA’s 35-round magazines in a Scorpion (with some reports of mixed success – generally they work, as they were modeled after the CZ mags)​soldiersystems.net. The AK-V’s dust cover rail is fixed, but if one wanted to change the rear sight or dust cover, that’s less modular (the rear sight is part of the top cover). One neat area of customization: stocks/braces. PSA made the AK-V with a modular rear 1913 Picatinny adapter system – it can take their folding triangle brace, an AR buffer tube adapter (which comes with the SBA3 brace model)​palmettostatearmory.com, or any picatinny-mount brace or stock (for SBR). In effect, you can put an MP5-style sliding brace, a Gear Head Works tailhook on a 1913 adapter, or any similar solution on the AK-V’s rear Pic rail. The Scorpion in pistol form typically comes with a blank rear plate (with a sling loop). To add a brace, you remove a pin and swap in an end cap or folding mechanism. Many third-party braces/stocks exist because the Scorpion’s back end has become a standard of its own – there are 1913 rail adapters, AR tube adapters, and OEM CZ folding stocks (for SBR use). So both allow customization of the “shoulder support” area, but AK-V might come with a great brace in the box whereas Scorpion buyers will be hitting the accessory market immediately for a brace.
• Modularity in Caliber/Magazines: Both of these firearms are dedicated 9mm platforms – neither is easily convertible to another caliber (unlike some AR-15 PCCs where you could swap uppers). The AK-V uses its unique magwell and won’t take, say, Glock mags. PSA does make an AR-9 variant (AR-V) that takes the same CZ-pattern mags, but that’s a different platform. The Scorpion now has a 3+ variant and a .22LR variant, but the EVO 3 S1 itself is 9mm only. Magazine availability and cost, however, are a plus for both: Scorpion and AK-V magazines are widely available and affordable, often around $20 each for 30-35 round mags​palmettostatearmory.com​floridagunexchange.com. That encourages owners to stock up and train with plenty of mags.

In terms of pure aftermarket support and community, the CZ Scorpion has the edge simply because it’s been out longer and has global popularity. You’ll find countless forum posts, tutorial videos, and custom parts for it – whether you want to change the color with a new handguard, install a mag release fin that’s bigger, or even modify the trigger pack to remove the disconnect for a faster reset (common competition mod). The PSA AK-V, while not as mod-heavy, still offers solid flexibility out of the box – it already includes many features (good brace, decent trigger, etc.) that one might end up adding to the Scorpion after purchase. PSA also continuously updates their offerings (different furniture, colors, etc.), so you can choose an AK-V configuration that fits your taste from the start (classic look, Magpul furniture, different brace types, etc.).

Bottom line: If you love to tinker and customize every aspect, the CZ Scorpion will give you a slightly larger canvas and aftermarket to play with. If you prefer a gun that’s good-to-go out of the box, the PSA AK-V comes with most of the desirable features (optic rail, brace, extended safety, etc.) already included. Both can be tailored to your needs without much difficulty.

Price & Value CZ Scorpion vs PSA AK-V

For many buyers, cost is a deciding factor. Both the PSA AK-V and CZ Scorpion are appealing in that they deliver a lot of fun and performance without costing a fortune (especially compared to higher-end PCCs like the SIG MPX or HK SP5). Let’s compare prices and value:

• Palmetto State Armory AK-V: One of PSA’s biggest selling points is affordability. The AK-V is often praised as a “scary affordable” PCC. The base models (with a brace and one mag) typically hover around $800–$950 USD at PSA’s store, depending on sales or specific configurations. For example, at the time of writing, a basic AK-V MOE SBA3 pistol might retail around $899, and sometimes you’ll see holiday sales in the $799 range. High-end variants (special furniture or bundles with multiple mags) could be closer to $1,000. Considering that price usually includes the brace and a 35-round magazine, it’s a strong value. Magazines are about $20 each for PSA’s U9, which is cheaper than many pistol mags, so outfitting yourself with spares is economical​palmettostatearmory.com. Value-wise, the AK-V gives you a 9mm AK with modern features at roughly the cost of a mid-range handgun – a very compelling deal for what you get (a robust, fun 9mm plinker or defense tool with AK reliability).
• CZ Scorpion EVO 3 S1: CZ made waves by introducing the Scorpion pistol around 2015 with an MSRP around $849, which undercut many competitors at the time. Over the years, prices fluctuated and CZ also released variants. Generally, a new Scorpion EVO 3 S1 pistol (in 9mm, with two 20-rd mags) has an MSRP around $999, and a street price often in the $900 neighborhood. It’s not uncommon to find them on sale in the $800s (or even lower for lightly used ones, since many were sold). For instance, an FDE Scorpion might be listed at $879 on sale​centerfirereserve.com, down from an original MSRP over $1,100 for special color editions. Note that the base Scorpion does NOT include a brace – it is sold as a pistol with just an end cap. So if you plan to add an arm brace, that’s an extra $100–$200 (depending on the brace kit). Even then, you’re still around the $1k mark total. Magazines for the Scorpion cost about $15–$25 (CZ factory 30-round mags often ~$20, Magpul’s are $15), which is similarly affordable​floridagunexchange.com. The newer CZ Scorpion 3+ (released 2022) has an improved design but a higher price ($1,300 MSRP), so many budget-conscious buyers still gravitate to the EVO 3 S1 model as a deal.

In pure price comparison, the PSA AK-V is usually a bit cheaper for a ready-to-go package (especially when you factor in the brace and higher-capacity mag). You might save a couple hundred dollars by choosing the AK-V over a Scorpion once you equip the Scorpion with a brace. However, price is just one part of value. Value Considerations:

• Resale and Longevity: Both guns hold value fairly well, but the CZ name and military pedigree might give the Scorpion a slight edge in long-term desirability. On the other hand, PSA’s lifetime warranty and customer support add confidence for AK-V buyers.
• What’s in the Box: PSA tends to include nice extras (some AK-V models come with Magpul grips or even multiple mags in bundle deals). CZ’s package is more bare-bones (usually one or two mags, sling attachment, manual).
• Cost of Ownership: Both shoot 9mm which is among the cheapest centerfire ammo – great for frequent range use. There’s no significant difference in maintenance costs. If you plan to heavily customize, note that Scorpion upgrades will add to the total cost (but you can always upgrade incrementally).

For a budget-conscious buyer, PSA AK-V often represents the better value – you can get the gun and a stack of mags (and maybe a red dot sight) for the price of just a Scorpion and brace. For those who prioritize the refinements and are willing to spend a bit more, the Scorpion is still reasonably priced and has a proven track record, which many find worth the cost.

Legal & Regulatory Considerations (Braces, SBRs, etc.)

When choosing between these platforms, it’s important to consider the legal landscape, especially regarding pistol braces and potential conversion to a short-barreled rifle (SBR):

• Pistol Brace Legality: Both the PSA AK-V and CZ Scorpion are sold as pistols. Often, the AK-V is sold with a brace included, and the Scorpion can accept a brace. As of this writing, pistol stabilizing braces are under scrutiny by regulators. Attaching a brace and using it as a shoulder stock could potentially fall afoul of ATF rules, effectively making the firearm an unregistered SBR. In early 2023, the ATF implemented a rule reclassifying many braced pistols as SBRs if the brace is not removed or the gun altered. Always check current laws in your jurisdiction. CZ’s own literature warns that attaching a stock (or any device used as a stock) to the Scorpion pistol constitutes making an SBR, requiring registration and a tax stamp. The same logic applies to the AK-V: if you were to put a rifle stock on it, it’s an SBR. As a pistol with a brace, legality can vary; some owners during the regulatory changes chose to remove braces or register the firearm. If pistol braces are important to you (for improved control in home defense), keep an eye on legal developments or consider going the route of properly registering as an SBR.
• SBR Conversion Potential: Both guns are excellent candidates for SBR conversion if you’re willing to navigate the NFA paperwork and pay the $200 tax stamp. With an approved Form 1, you could attach a true stock to the rear 1913 rail on the AK-V (for example, an AK triangle stock or an AR buffer tube with stock) and even add a vertical foregrip if desired, turning it into a very compact rifle. The Scorpion, likewise, can be outfitted with factory-style folding stocks (CZ makes a folding stock similar to the Evo SMG stock) once it’s an SBR​cz-usa.com. Many Scorpion enthusiasts do this, because a stocked Scorpion is extremely fun and ergonomic to shoot. Keep in mind, once an SBR, always an SBR (legally), unless you go through steps to remove it from the registry. If you don’t want the hassle of NFA, using a brace as intended (strapped to the arm) or just sticking with a sling for stabilization are your options. Some people prefer the Scorpion pistol with a simple single-point sling – pushing out against a sling can provide a stable shooting platform without any stock/brace at all.
• State/Local Restrictions: Check local laws for each. For instance, some states ban “assault pistols” or have restrictions on magazine capacity. Both the AK-V and Scorpion have large magazines (35 and 20/30 rounds respectively), which may need to be limited to 10 rounds in certain states. CZ sells 10-round low-capacity models for restrictive states. PSA’s AK-V magazines could potentially be limited or there may be 10-round mag options available. If you’re in a state with an AWB, features like threaded barrels might also be an issue. The Scorpion’s muzzle device is removable and threaded; the AK-V’s is threaded 1/2×28 as well​palmettostatearmory.com. These are small details, but worth noting if legality is a concern. Because both are pistols, they usually don’t fall under rifle-specific bans, but always double-check.

In summary on legal stuff: Right now (2025), it’s a bit of a gray area to have a pistol with a brace unless you register it. Both PSA and CZ ship these as pistols (no stock attached) to keep them Title I firearms. As a buyer, factor in whether you’re comfortable with just a bare pistol, plan to brace it (and possibly register it), or if you might SBR it. The good news is that both platforms make the conversion easy: the AK-V’s rear Picatinny adapter and the Scorpion’s drop-in stock interface were designed with the possibility of braces/stocks in mind​

palmettostatearmory.com​

cz-usa.com. This means you won’t have to jury-rig anything; just follow the law and add the part. Also, consider that even without a stock or brace, these guns can be effective – using a cheek weld on the buffer tube or end cap, or the sling tension method, can give reasonable accuracy at defensive distances.

Which One to Choose? – Buyer Considerations CZ Scorpion vs PSA AK-V

Both the PSA AK-V 9mm and the CZ Scorpion EVO 3 S1 are excellent PCC pistols, but they cater to slightly different preferences. Here we’ll break down recommendations based on buyer priorities and use-case:

• Budget-Conscious Buyer: If you’re looking to get the most bang for your buck, the Palmetto State Armory AK-V is hard to beat. It’s generally more affordable, especially considering it includes a brace and a high-capacity mag in the base price. You’re essentially ready to rock out of the box – just add ammo. The Scorpion isn’t exorbitant, but by the time you add a brace and perhaps a trigger kit, you’ll have spent a few hundred more than the cost of an AK-V. Plus, PSA frequently runs sales or bundles (sometimes including multiple mags or a case). For a buyer on a tight budget who still wants a reliable home-defense and range toy, the AK-V offers tremendous value.
• “AK Fan” or Classic Feel: If you love the AK platform, the AK-V will put a grin on your face. It has that familiar safety lever, the bolt charging feel, and even accepts some AK accessories. Many people just find the AK-V cooler due to its heritage and looks – it’s like owning a piece of Russian SMG lineage but made in America. It also has that old-school all-metal robustness. On the flip side, if you prefer a more modern aesthetic or you’re accustomed to AR-style controls, the Scorpion might feel more natural (thanks to ambi controls and a more AR-like manual of arms for mag changes).
• Maximum Customization / Tinkerer: Are you the type who loves upgrading and personalizing your guns? The CZ Scorpion will keep you busy (in a good way). There’s a huge aftermarket, and you can change nearly anything to your liking – triggers, safeties, grips, handguards, you name it. It’s like the Honda Civic of PCCs; many “modders” enjoy turning their Scorpion into a unique creation or tuning it for competitions. The AK-V is not as widely modded beyond cosmetic or AK-part swaps, so while you can certainly change furniture or triggers, you won’t find as many dedicated third-party parts specifically for the AK-V. For the tinkerer/hobbyist, the Scorpion offers more projects to dive into.
• Home Defense (Minimalist Defender): If your primary goal is a home-defense weapon, both can serve well, but consider a few factors: The Scorpion is lighter and shorter, which might give it an edge for maneuverability in tight hallways or for smaller-stature shooters. At 5 lbs and ~16 inches (pistol), it’s very handy. You can mount a flashlight and red dot easily on it for a bedside setup. The AK-V, being heavier, will have a bit less recoil and muzzle rise, which can aid in keeping shots on target – important in high-stress situations. It’s slightly longer, but with a folding brace it stores compactly (19″ folded). Either gun should be utterly reliable if you might depend on it for defense – both have shown to be so in testing​thetruthaboutguns.com​floridagunexchange.com. One consideration: the AK-V’s safety is not ambidextrous and can be stiffer, which might be slower to disengage under stress compared to the Scorpion’s easier thumb safety. Also, the Scorpion’s magazine insertion is straight-in (easier under pressure) vs. the AK-V’s rock-and-lock (takes a bit of practice). For a “grab and go” home defense PCC, the Scorpion might be a hair more user-friendly for multiple users in a household. But if you personally train with the AK platform, the AK-V will serve you just as well. Both will benefit from a good hollow-point 9mm ammo for defense (to reduce over-penetration risk and increase stopping power), and both have enough rail space to attach the essential accessories (light, optic).
• Recreation & Range Fun: Honestly, both of these guns are an absolute blast on the range. If you’re looking for pure fun factor, consider what kind of shooting you enjoy. Do you like dumping mags and feeling like you’re shooting an AK that barely moves? The AK-V, with its soft recoil and steady weight, is great for mag dumps and casual plinking, and it gives a satisfying sense of recoil impulse (a gentle push) and that AK “clack.” It also has a bit of novelty; not everyone at the range will have a 9mm AK, so it draws interest. The Scorpion’s fun comes from its controllability and agility – it’s easy to run through drills quickly, and it feels like a sleek submachine gun (minus full-auto, of course). Its cyclic feel is snappy; some describe it as a “sewing machine” in how fast you can rip shots. If you enjoy modifying, the Scorpion lets you play around at the range with different setups (try a new grip or muzzle device and see how it feels). Ammo dumping: Both guns can empty a 30+ round mag remarkably fast. One forum comment mentioned that an AK-V and a Scorpion, both being simple blowbacks, are “a distant second to an MP5 or MPX” in refinement – and while it’s true a roller-delayed MP5 is smoother, those are far pricier. For range thrills per dollar, these two PCCs are top-notch.
• Left-Handed Shooter: The CZ Scorpion has a clear advantage for left-handed users. Its ambidextrous safety and mag release, plus reversible charging handle, mean a lefty can run it almost identically to a righty. The AK-V, like most AKs, is more right-hand centric. Lefties would have to adapt (either use the right hand to work the safety or get used to operating it unconventionally). If lefty-friendliness is a big factor, the Scorpion wins here.
• Collector or “Cool Factor” Seeker: This is subjective, but some might choose based on the coolness or uniqueness. The Scorpion EVO 3 enjoys a kind of cult status; it’s recognizable from video games and has that modern SpecOps SMG vibe. The AK-V is cool in a different way – it’s like a piece of AK evolution and has a classic-meets-modern charm. Collectors who already have an AK might love the AK-V as an addition. Those who collect military-style arms might lean Scorpion since it’s a variant of a gun in service. Both are available in various colors (black, FDE, OD green, plum for AK-V, etc.), if that matters to you.

Conclusion & Verdict CZ Scorpion vs PSA AK-V

PSA AK-V 9mm Pistol: The AK-V is an outstanding example of getting it right in the budget PCC space. It offers AK reliability with modern enhancements and does so at a price that’s very approachable. It’s an ideal choice if you want a turn-key solution – you get the brace, big mag, good trigger, and rugged construction right out of the gate. For someone who wants a home defense PCC on a budget or just loves the AK platform, the AK-V is easy to recommend. Its heavier build might be a downside for carrying all day, but for home/range use it’s actually a plus. The only real cons are the long trigger travel (if you’re trying to shoot tiny groups or at longer range, it’s not a precision trigger) and ergonomics that may not suit everyone (especially those not used to AK controls). But with its stellar reliability​

thetruthaboutguns.com, upgradeability with AK parts, and very fun shooting experience, it’s arguably one of the best value PCCs in the market. PSA’s strong customer support and the fact that it’s made in the USA are icing on the cake.

CZ Scorpion EVO 3 S1: The Scorpion has earned its reputation as a go-to PCC for good reason. It’s highly reliable​

floridagunexchange.com, customizable, and compact. It might require a couple of aftermarket tweaks to truly shine (namely the trigger and possibly the safety selector), but once those are addressed, it’s a platform that can fill many roles – from home defense to pistol-caliber carbine competitions. The ambidextrous controls and lightweight design make it very user-friendly, and the huge aftermarket means you can continually adapt it to your needs or aesthetics. It’s a bit more expensive once you kit it out, but you are getting a well-proven firearm with decades of CZ’s firearms experience behind it. As a defensive tool, the Scorpion is hard to fault – it’s accurate, easy to handle, and holds plenty of rounds. As a range toy, it’s pure fun and tends to draw a crowd when you start dumping rounds on steel targets.

Verdict: You truly can’t go too wrong with either – it largely comes down to your priorities. If forced to choose one for general use, the CZ Scorpion EVO 3 S1 slightly edges out the AK-V for its lighter weight, ambidexterity, and deeper aftermarket; it’s a more mature platform at this point. However, for those on a budget or who prefer the AK style, the PSA AK-V is a fantastic alternative that might actually be the better choice for you. It’s possibly the best bang-for-buck 9mm AK out there and delivers performance well above its price point.

Recommendations:

• For the budget-minded or AK enthusiasts: Go with the PSA AK-V 9mm. Use the money saved to buy a good red dot optic and a bunch of 35-round mags (and ammo – you’ll want lots of it!). You’ll have a reliable home-defense unit and a fun range blaster in one.
• For those wanting refinement and customization: Choose the CZ Scorpion. Plan a bit of extra for a brace and perhaps a trigger kit. In return, you get a fully ambidextrous PCC that you can tweak to perfection and trust for serious use.
• For home defense in tight quarters or for smaller shooters: The Scorpion gets a slight nod for easier handling (lighter, shorter) and ease of use. Mount a light and it’s a very capable house gun.
• For pure shooting enjoyment: Both will put a smile on your face. If possible, try shooting each – the difference in feel might make the decision for you. The AK-V’s softer recoil vs. the Scorpion’s lighter heft is a personal preference thing.

In conclusion, the PSA AK-V and CZ Scorpion are both winners in the PCC world. They democratize the concept of a 9mm “subgun” by making it affordable and practical for civilians. Whether you prefer the rugged charm of the AK-V or the modern slickness of the Scorpion, you’ll be getting a firearm that is well-suited for defending your home and providing plenty of enjoyment on the range. Evaluate what features matter most to you, and you’ll likely find one of these stands out as your ideal 9mm pistol-caliber companion.

Sources:

• Palmetto State Armory – PSA AK-V 9mm Pistol Product Details and Specs​palmettostatearmory.com​palmettostatearmory.com​palmettostatearmory.com
• GunUniversity – PSA AK-V 9mm Review: Range Report (Travis Pike, Feb 9, 2023)
• The Truth About Guns – Gun Review: PSA AK-V 9mm Braced Pistol (Jon Wayne Taylor)​thetruthaboutguns.com​thetruthaboutguns.com
• Soldier Systems Daily – PSA AK-V Announcement​soldiersystems.net​soldiersystems.net
• CZ-USA – CZ Scorpion EVO 3 S1 Pistol Specifications
• CZ-USA – Scorpion EVO 3 S1 Pistol (with Brace) Specs​cz-usa.com
• Florida Gun Exchange – CZ Scorpion Evo 3 S1 Description​floridagunexchange.com​floridagunexchange.com​floridagunexchange.com
• CZ Firearms Forum – User-measured Scorpion Trigger Pull​czfirearms.us
• CZ-USA – Scorpion Pistol Manual/Legal Notice
• Palmetto State Armory Forum – AK-V vs. AR-V Discussion