Best PSA JAKL Upgrades & Accessories - First World Crusader (2024)

Want to know the best PSA JAKL upgrades and accessories? I’ve compiled a list of all the best gear to make this the ultimate fighting rifle.

This article will focus on the rifle version of the JAKL, but many of these parts will also transfer over to the pistol version.

PSA makes good firearms, and they are known for constantly improving their designs and making new generations of their guns.

This post will cover the best PSA JAKL upgrades and accessories to make this the ultimate fighting rifle.

Table of Contents hide

What Is The PSA JAKL?

Why Upgrade the PSA JAKL?

Where To Purchase A PSA JAKL?

Best PSA JAKL Upgrades

Optic

Stock

Suppressor

Trigger

Weapon Light

Sling

Final Considerations

Best PSA JAKL Upgrades FAQ

PSA JAKL Questions

Complete List of Items Mentioned

What Is The PSA JAKL?

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The JAKL is chambered in 5.56, and the platform is built around a monolithic upper receiver designed to be compatible with any Mil-Spec AR-15 lower receiver. The buffer system is fully captured, so there is no need for a buffer tube.

They also make this in 300 Blackout.

It is similar to the Sig MCX and the SCAR 17 and much more affordable. It comes in different stock configurations and different colors. This is also available in both rifle and pistol lengths.

The JAKL uses a long-stroke piston design that is adjustable. It also has a side non-reciprocating charging handle that is ambidextrous.

Why Upgrade the PSA JAKL?

To unlock the PSA JAKL’s full potential, you should add an optic, better stock, weapon light, and more.

Adding all of these best PSA JAKL upgrades and accessories will make the gun more effective and easier to use, and be accurate.

These upgrades essentially work on any AR-15 style rifle as well, and if you want to learn how to set up one of those, check out my post.

Where To Purchase A PSA JAKL?

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The PSA JAKL guns are in high demand but because of how large of a company PSA has become, they are normally in stock.

Good luck finding one at your local gun store or FFL dealer because I have never seen any in stock by me.

Your best bet is to order one from PSA’s website and ship it to your local FFL.

Click Here to check the current prices of the PSA JAKL

Best PSA JAKL Upgrades

This list is made up of all the best equipment I recommend. There are plenty of other more budget-friendly alternatives, but this is if you want the very best.

So this rifle is geared towards a general-purpose setup that can do everything pretty well. Precise shots at a distance and combat effective at a close distance.

A rifle setup like this will work great for everyone.

Optic

The optic you choose will mainly vary on the environment and your preference. I suggest three different types of optics but all of them will have 1x and magnified capabilities.

You will want some distance if you live in the middle of nowhere. If you live in an urban setting, you will want CQB capability.

So all three optic setups I suggest will work in all situations.

EOTech EXPS3 w/G33 Magnifier

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First recommended optic setup is the EOTech EXPS3 w/G33 Magnifier. This EOTech weapon sight gives you a high-quality optic and a magnifier to engage distant targets or be fast up close.

These have 30 brightness settings so that you can customize your reticle to match your ambient lighting conditions best.

The water-resistant EOTech OPMOD EXPS3-0 HHS-I Adjustable Holosight w/G33 3x Magnifier isnight vision-compatiblewith Gen 1-3+ devices so that you can take on dark environments with peak precision.

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At brightness level 12, you’ll get about 600 hours of power off a single CR123A battery.

If you favor a true 1x optic but also want to be able to shoot medium distance, this is the best optic setup.

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Specs:

Manufacturer:OPMOD
Color:Tan
Fabric/Material:Aluminum
Magnification:1 x
Reticle:68 MOA Circle w/ 1-MOA Dot
Illumination Type:Holographic
Illumination Color:Red
Brightness Settings:30
Eye Relief:Unlimited
Adjustment Type:MOA
Adjustment Click Value:0.5 MOA
Attachment/Mount Type:MIL-STD 1913, Weaver
Battery Type:CR123A
Battery Quantity:1
Battery Life:600 continuous hours at nominal setting 12 at room temp.
Water Resistance Level:Submersible
Water Resistant Mark:33 ft
Length:3.8 in
Width:2.1 in
Height:2.5 in
Weight:9 oz
Additional Features:quick switch-to-side (STS) mount
Condition:New
Magnification Type:Fixed

Features:

  • Reticle is a 68 MOA circle with a 1 MOA aiming dot
  • Single transverse 123 battery to reduce sight length
  • Compatible with Gen I-III+ Night Vision Systems (tandem operation)
  • Shortened base only requires at most 2 3/4 inches of rail space
  • Battery cap and latch are eliminated and replaced with a simple O-ring, tethered cap; better sealing is achieved
  • The average battery life at brightness level 12 is roughly 600 hours
  • Side buttons, NV compatible with a single quick detach throw lever

Click Here to check the current prices of the EOTech EXPS3 w/G33 Magnifier

Vortex Razor Gen II-E 1-6×24

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One of the best all-around LPVO scopes is the Vortex Razor Gen II-E 1-6×14. This scope provides some of the highest levels of clarity, color accuracy, and resolution out of many rifle scopes on the market now.

This is a second focal plane scope, but for a general-purpose rifle, that is perfect. The glass clarity is amazing; if you have never looked through one of these, you need to see it to believe it.

If you want to have mid to far-range capabilities, the 6x works great, and the clear glass makes spotting targets easy.

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When flipping it down to 1x magnification, it is not as good or fast as an EOTech, but still very good. There will always be pros and cons when wanting a rifle that can do it all.

But if you are a person that prefers LPVOs, this is one of the best ones I recommend.

Specs:

Manufacturer:Vortex
Objective Lens Diameter:24 mm
Magnification:1 – 6 x
Tube Diameter:30 mm
Reticle Focal Plane:Second Focal Plane (SFP)
Exit Pupil:4 – 24 mm
Illumination Color:Red
Finish:Hard Anodized
Field of View, Linear:115.2 – 20.5 ft at 100 yds
Eye Relief:4 in
Color:Stealth Shadow
Weight:21.5 oz
Length:10.1 in
Parallax:100 yds
Illumination Type:LED
Battery Type:CR2032
Width:13 in
Fabric/Material:Aircraft Grade Aluminum
Height:3.75 in
Focus Range:100 yds to infinity
Lens Material:Glass
Optical Coating:XR Plus Fully Multi-Coated
Brightness Settings:11
Battery Life:150 hours
Water Resistance Level:Waterproof
Shockproof:Yes
Fogproof:Yes
Battery Quantity:1
Package Type:Box
Magnification Type:Variable
Condition:New
Attachment/Mount Type:Ring

Features:

  • APO System
  • Optically Indexed Lenses
  • HD Lens Elements
  • XR Plus Fully Multi-Coated
  • Plasma Tech
  • Second Focal Plane Reticle
  • Illuminated Center Dot
  • Locking Illumination
  • Tube Size
  • Single-Piece Tube
  • Aircraft-Grade Aluminum
  • Waterproof
  • Fogproof
  • Shockproof
  • Hard Anodized Finish
  • ArmorTek
  • Large Diameter Turrets
  • Friction Reduction System
  • Turret Screws
  • Erector Tube System
  • Fast-Focus Eyepiece
  • Locking Side Illumination

Click Here to check the current prices of the Vortex Razor Gen II-E 1-6×14

Trijicon 4×32 ACOG w/RMR

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So now to my preferred optic of choice for the PSA JAKL. The Trijicon 4×32 ACOG w/RMR is the best-fixed magnification scope with the RMR piggybacked on top.

This optics setup will cover all situations pretty damn well. The only downside to this setup is if you want to use night vision optics, the RMR gets in the way.

But you could always relocate the RMR or use an IR laser.

As far as which color and which reticle, I could write an entire post on that topic. To keep it quick and simple, get the red color and the crosshair reticle for the best performance.

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The Trijicon 4×32 3.25 MOA ACOG ECOS Rifle Scope/Red Dot RMR is prepared to handle harsh outdoor conditions as it is waterproof up to 11m.

These have been fielded in the military for a long time now, and they are some of the most battle-proven optics available to civilians.

A forged aluminum housing ensures this optic can handle rigorous missions without limiting your mobility. Bright fiber optic and tritium illumination bring a bright aiming point to the battlefield at any time of day. Best PSA JAKL Upgrades & Accessories - First World Crusader (10)

Specs:

Manufacturer:Trijicon
Objective Lens Diameter:32 mm
Magnification:4 x
Reticle Focal Plane:Second Focal Plane (SFP)
Exit Pupil:8 mm
Finish:Matte
Field of View, Linear:36.8 ft at 100 yds
Eye Relief:1.5 in
Color:Cerakote FDE
Adjustment Click Value:1/2 MOA
Adjustment Type:MOA
Illumination Type:Tritium
Width:2 in
Adjustment Range:40 MOA
Lens Material:Glass
Optical Coating:Multi-Coated
Water Resistance Level:Waterproof
Water Resistant Mark:100 m
Shockproof:Yes
Fogproof:Yes
Package Type:Polymer hard case
Included Accessories:Quick Release Mount, Backup Iron Sights, LED 3.25 MOA Red Dot RMR Type 2
Magnification Type:Fixed
Attachment/Mount Type:Quick Release
Fit:Picatinny

Features:

  • Fiber optic and tritium illumination
  • Forged aluminum housing
  • External windage and elevation adjusters – no tools required

Click Here to check the current prices of the Trijicon 4×32 ACOG w/RMR

Stock

Hopefully you have the version with the F5 stock. If not, you can get by with the skeletonized stock but I suggest getting the F5 stock as it is more comfortable and allows you to get a better cheek weld.

If you have the standard M4 style adjustable stock, you’re good.

Skeletonized stocks look cool but suck to use. They are uncomfortable and don’t allow the user to get a good cheek weld.

F5 MFG Modular Stock System

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The F5 MFG Modular Stock System kit for the Palmetto State Armory JAKL will take your gun to the next level and turn it into a modern-day SCAR.

The modular left-side folding stock system is adjustable, ultra-rugged, lightweight, and simple to operate.

Not to mention it looks great. Comes with all hardware for easy installation.

Specs:

Manufacturer:F5 MFG
Color:Black
Weight:5 oz
Gun Make:Palmetto State Armory
Gun Model:Palmetto State Armory Dagger
Fabric/Material:Billet 6061 Aluminum
Condition:New

Click Here to check the current prices of the F5 MFG Modular Stock System

Suppressor

You should get a suppressor if you live in a state that allows more freedom. Unfortunately, not everyone will be able to, and some people do not want to go through the process of getting one.

If you want one, please ensure you know and follow all of your local laws.

SureFire RC2

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The SureFire SOCOM556-RC2 is the 5.56 Rifle/Carbine Suppressor optimized for rifles with 10” or longer barrels. This suppressor is the second generation of the USSOCOM selected SOCOM556-RC suppressor.

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This option is designed to limit visible signature, having minimal and consistent impact shift (if any), and being under 140dB, which is considered ear safe.

This suppressor is compatible with all 5.56 SureFire SOCOM Suppressor Adapters and attaches with the same Fast-Attach technology as seen throughout the SOCOM Series of suppressors from SureFire.

  • Caliber: 5.56mm (.223 caliber)
  • Weight: 17.0oz (482g)
  • Diameter: 1.5” (3.8cm)
  • Length: 6.2” (15.75cm)
  • Construction: High-Temp Alloy
  • Advanced features based on the Winner of the US Special Operations Command (USSOCOM) extensive and rigorous suppressor trial
  • Optimized for 5.56/.223 rifles with barrels 10” or longer
  • Full-auto rated
  • Patented front-plate design and proprietary gas-flow improvements virtually eliminate first-round flash.
  • Effective attenuation of noise and dust signatures
  • Patented Fast-Attach® design attaches and removes in seconds
  • Minimal, consistent point-of-impact shift compared with unsuppressed weapon
  • Constructed of advanced high-temperature alloys
  • Long service life
  • Made in the USA

NFA Restriction
You must be 21 years of age or older to purchase. This product requires aFederal Firearms License (FFL)andSpecial Occupational Tax Stamp (SOT) to be on file. The purchaser’s responsible for contacting the FFL/SOT holder if we do not have a copy of these licenses on file. Check your state and local laws before ordering.

Click Here to check the current prices of the SureFire SOCOM556-RC2

Trigger

Another nice feature of the PSA JAKL is that it is a regular AR lower, accepting any AR-15 trigger.

If you have a favorite trigger, you can install it in the gun. My preferred trigger, which I always recommend, is the Geissele SSA-E trigger.

Geissele SSA-E Trigger

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The Geissele SSA-E Trigger is the best all-around trigger, in my opinion. It is very smooth and has a clean break.

It will increase the accuracy and speed of the PSA JAKL.

The Geissele Automatics Super Semi-Automatic Enhanced Target Trigger is a non-adjustable, two-stage trigger that improves trigger control and accuracy while reducing the first and second-stage pull weights.

These finely-tuned triggers are made from quality tool steel. The Geissele SSA-E is easy to install with the safety on and disassemble for cleaning.

Specs:

Manufacturer:Geissele
Color:Black
Trigger Shape:Curved
Trigger Pull Weight:3.5 lb
Trigger Pin Size:Mil-Spec
Hand:Ambidextrous
Gun Make:AR Platform
Gun Model:AR-10, M4, AR-15
Gun Type:Rifle
Included Accessories:Standard
Condition:New

Features:

  • A wire edm machine cuts sear surfaces
  • A full-force hammer spring is used for quick lock time and positive ignition of all types of ammo
  • There are no adjustment screws to come loose
  • All springs are captive
  • The entire trigger can be dissembled for cleaning
  • The trigger can be installed without removing the safety
  • Sear engagement is pre-set from the factory

Click Here to check the current prices of the Geissele SSA-E Trigger

Weapon Light

No serious setup is complete without a good weapon light. Being able to see in the dark and properly identify targets is crucial.

Even if you run night vision, it’s a good idea always to have a good-quality white light on your gun.

Again, this setup is kind of a do-it-all build and a general purpose-built rifle.

SureFire M640DF Scout Light Pro

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I’ve been using SureFire lights for a long time, and they are considered an industry standard. There are a lot of different companies making good weapon lights, but on my go-to rifle, I run SureFire.

The SureFire M640DF is a 1500-lumen light and is a newer model that can use rechargeable batteries or the standard CR123 batteries.

These come with a mount and will sit very close to the center line of your rifle.

These are bright and very durable. They can take a lot of abuse and still function.

Specs:

Manufacturer:SureFire
Light Output:1200 – 1500 lumens
Bulb Type:LED
Battery Type:18650
Beam Color:White
Length:5.56 in
Weight:5.5 oz
Bezel Diameter:1.125 in
Battery Life:1.25 – 1.5 hours
Finish:Mil-spec Hard Anodized
Battery Quantity:1
Condition:New
Attachment/Mount Type:M-LOK, Picatinny
Fabric/Material:Aluminum

Features:

  • Dual fuel light can be powered by an SF18650B lithium-ion rechargeable battery or two 123A lithium batteries
  • Generates up to 1,500 lumens of TIR-focused light with included SF18650B or 1,200 lumens with 123A batteries
  • Versatile Low-Profile Mount (LPM) allows the user to optimize the lights position relative to the rail
  • Virtually indestructible ultra-high-output LED
  • TIR lens shapes versatile beam with enough reach and surround light for close-to longer-range operations
  • Mil-Spec hard-anodized aluminum body and tempered window make it light rugged, durable, and combat ready
  • O-ring seals keep out moisture
  • Activation via Z68 momentary/constant-on pushbutton switching with protective shroud

Click Here to check the current prices of the SureFire M640DF

SureFire Pressure Pad Switch

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To get the most out of the weapon light, it’s recommended to have a momentary on/off pressure pad.

The light itself has a constant on/off button on the tail cap. The SureFire Pressure Pad Switch gives you the best of both worlds.

Also, you can mount the switch in a better placement for easier activation.

Click Here to check the current prices of the SureFire Pressure Pad Switch

Cloud Defensive Light Control System

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Now to complete the light setup, you need a mount for the pressure pad. You can always use some electrical tape, but I suggest the Cloud Defensive LCS for a cleaner setup.

This will mount securely to the rail and has channels underneath it to route the excess cable.

I really love this setup and have been very happy with it.

Click Here to check the current prices of the Cloud Defensive LCS

Sling

High-quality slings are often overlooked. Every serious setup isn’t complete without a good sling.

I always recommend a 2-point sling for full-size rifles and only use a single-point sling setup on smaller PCCs or PDWs.

A 2-point sling is more versatile and comfortable. It can also be used to tuck the gun into your shoulder tighter and stabilize your non-dominant hand.

Blue Force Gear Vickers Combat Sling

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The Blue Force Gear Vickers Sling is about as good as it gets and is one of the best on the market today.

This is a 2-point padded sling that is quickly adjustable with a pull tab. This means you can easily transition the sling to but tight against your body for carrying or loosen it when ready to engage targets.

It comes in many different colors and camo patterns as well.

I always come back to this one out of all the numerous slings I have used.

Click Here to check the current prices of the Blue Force Gear Vickers Sling

Ammo & Magazines

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The last piece to the puzzle is having enough ammo and extra mags. The good thing about the PSA JAKL is that it accepts standard AR-15 magazines.

You will likely already have some of these, but they are cheap and available almost everywhere if you need more.

At a minimum, you should have about 10 AR mags.

I recommend the Magpul Gen 3 Magazines. They are well made and very reliable.

Click Here to check the current prices of the Magpul Gen 3 Magazines

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As far as ammo, you will always need more and never be satisfied with how much you have.

With ammo prices increasing all the time, this makes it harder for gun owners to keep and maintain a decent stockpile.

5.56mm Ammo prices have also skyrocketed, and unfortunately, ammo companies are in no rush to drop prices.

The best advice is to look for deals and buy ammo whenever possible.

Click Here to check the current prices of 5.56mm Ammo

Final Considerations

The biggest decision most people will have difficulty making is which optic setup to go with.

The EOTech is probably the best choice if you plan on running night vision. I know LPVOs are very popular, but the newest gear isn’t always better.

For me, the ACOG is simple and perfect for a general-purpose rifle, and with the RMR piggybacked on top, it covers close quarters and medium range.

Also, nothing really mentioned in this post is cheap stuff. If you want the best PSA JAKL upgrades and accessories, you must pay for them.

Sometimes the saying “you get what you pay for” doesn’t apply in all situations, but it usually does when it comes to firearms and firearms gear.

Best PSA JAKL Upgrades FAQ

What is the PSA JAKL a copy of?

Many people have compared the PSA JAKL to the FN SCAR 17, but like most modern firearms, it uses inspiration from many similar weapons in its design.

Is the PSA JAKL a piston-driven gun?

The PSA JAKL is a long-stroke piston gas rifle with an adjustable gas tube. This increases the firearm’s reliability and allows the user to fine-tune it for use with a suppressor.

Is the PSA JAKL a good truck gun?

Palmetto State Armory now makes a rifle version of the JAKL. The pistol version was an instant best-seller with great features and sold at a good price. Many people use it as a truck or backpack gun. Because of all the confusion with pistol braces and the legal chances, rifles are becoming more popular again than pistol-braced weapons.

PSA JAKL Questions

If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to drop a comment below. I’ll try my best to answer.

And in case I don’t know the answer, I’ll do some research to find the answer for you.

Furthermore, if you’re curious about the value of any parts not covered in this post, feel free to leave a comment, and I’ll give you my opinion on whether they’re worth investing in.

Complete List of Items Mentioned

(Click the links for the most up-to-date prices)

Related articles mentioned in the post

I’m curious to hear everyone’s thoughts on the PSA JAKL and if it is a good alternative to a traditional AR-15.

Leave a comment down below and let me know. Also, other people reading may find your comments and feedback helpful.

Thanks for reading. Stay safe, and God bless!

Need more ammo? Who doesn’t? Look at my Best Ammo Deals page to stock up on ammunition and see the current deals.

Best PSA JAKL Upgrades & Accessories - First World Crusader (2024)
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