✨ Complete Guide to the AK-DUO Tufting Machine (Cut Pile + Loop Pile)
The AK-DUO (also known as the AK-PRO) is a versatile electronic tufting machine that allows you to create both cut pile and loop pile rugs using a dedicated loop-pile head that swaps in and out with your scissors. This dedicated head is the main reason tufters choose the AK-DUO.
While this machine is powerful and flexible, it is not our top beginner recommendation. Our #1 recommended tufting gun for 2025 is the AK-V, which is easier to set up and produces clean, consistent results with fewer adjustments. The AK-V has no clunky cogwheel, fully internal wiring, is extremely lightweight, has very low vibration, and generally offers a longer machine lifespan and a more enjoyable tufting experience than older cogwheel-style machines.
Other tufting guns can also make loop pile with a simple adjustment (a “hack”), so most beginners do not need to buy a separate dual-mode machine.
The AK-DUO is best suited for tufters who specifically want a dedicated loop-pile head that can be swapped in and out quickly with the cut-pile scissors. If that’s you — or if you already own an AK-DUO — this blog will help you understand the machine in depth and get the best performance out of it.
📦 What’s Included With Your AK-DUO
- Heavy-duty threader
- Ruler for accurate pile-height measurement
- Dedicated loop-pile head
- Hook for spring balancer
- Spare parts kit
Please note: If the machine is damaged while making adjustments, the warranty may be voided. If you're unsure or need help, email us anytime at hello@allthingseffy.com.
📐 Technical Specifications
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | Electronic hand-tufting machine (Cut Pile + Loop Pile) |
| Factory Set Height | 14 mm (1.4 cm / approx. 0.55 in) |
| Cut Pile Adjustment | 11–18 mm (0.43–0.71 in) |
| Advanced Cut Pile | Up to ~20 mm (0.79 in) |
| Loop Pile Adjustment | 7–13 mm (0.28–0.51 in) |
| Weight | 1.5 kg (3.3 lbs) |
| Voltage | 100V–240V |
| Power | 70W adapter / 24V DC output |
| Speed | 5–50 stitches per second |
| Safety | Over-voltage, over-current, and short-circuit protection |
| Use | Works worldwide — smooth, safe, and beginner-friendly |
🔧 How the AK-DUO Works
The AK-DUO is a fully electronic tufting gun — no compressor, no pneumatic systems, and no PSI settings to worry about.
It works using:
- Scissor mechanism for cut pile
- Dedicated loop-pile head for loops
- A cog-wheel height adjustment system for precise control
Switching from cut → loop → cut takes only a few minutes and is extremely beginner-friendly, with very little risk of affecting other settings.
✂️ Pile-Height Adjustments
Your AK-DUO comes factory-set to 14 mm (1.4 cm / approx. 0.55 in), but can easily be adjusted:
| Setting | Range |
|---|---|
| Cut Pile | 11–18 mm (0.43–0.71 in) |
| Advanced Cut Pile | Up to ~20 mm (0.79 in) |
| Loop Pile | 7–13 mm (0.28–0.51 in) |
Each machine includes a ruler to help you dial in the perfect height.
📸 AK-DUO Adjustment Measurements
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Included Tools & Spare Parts |
🎥 Instructional Videos
We have step-by-step tutorials on YouTube to help you learn your AK-DUO quickly and confidently.
Visit our channel:
https://www.youtube.com/c/AllThingsEFFY
🔹 1. Generic Pile-Height Adjustment Method
🔹 2. Changing from Cut Pile → Loop Pile at 11 mm (0.43 in)
🔹 3. Changing Cut Pile Height: 15 mm (0.59 in) → 11 mm (0.43 in)
🔹 4. Changing from Cut Pile → Loop Pile at 13 mm (0.51 in)
🔹 5. Changing Cut Pile Height: 11 mm (0.43 in) → 13 mm (0.51 in)
🛠️ Troubleshooting, Care & Support
The AK-DUO is a reliable machine, but like any tufting gun it needs proper care and the right adjustments to keep it running smoothly. If something isn’t working as expected, start by reviewing your pile-height settings, checking for loose screws, and making sure your yarn is feeding cleanly.
If you still experience issues after doing the basics, you’re always welcome to reach out directly — we’re here to help. You can also visit our FAQ page or browse EFFY’s Instagram and TikTok for quick tips and visual demonstrations.
🚫 When to Stop Immediately
If any of the following occur, please stop using your machine and contact us before making further adjustments:
- The adapter light or the machine’s indicator light does not turn on
- The gun feels jammed or won’t move freely (do not force it)
- The scissors stop cutting or appear misaligned
- Any component looks loose, shifted, or has fallen out of place
🧼 Routine Cleaning & Care
Regular maintenance is key to keeping your AK-DUO in excellent condition. We recommend:
- Using a soft brush (like a toothbrush) to remove lint and yarn dust
- Re-oiling your machine frequently to protect the mechanical parts
- Checking screws and fittings to ensure nothing has shifted during use
📏 Before Adjusting Anything
Always take clear photos and measurements before making changes to your settings. This gives you a reference point if you need to restore your machine to its original setup.
And above all — enjoy the process! The AK-DUO is a fantastic tool once you understand its settings, and we’re always happy to support you on your tufting journey.
Need help? Email us anytime at hello@allthingseffy.com.
✨ Final Thoughts
The AK-DUO is an exceptional all-in-one tufting machine: lightweight, versatile, beginner-friendly, and capable of producing beautiful cut and loop pile rugs with ease. With the included accessories, measurements, and tutorials, you’ll be tufting confidently in no time.
If you have any questions or need personalised help, email us at hello@allthingseffy.com.
