Century Arms Tantal Barrel Question

General Firearms Other Semi-Automatic Rifles
1

I found a store locally selling Century Arms Tantals for less than $400. At that price, it is really tempting to snatch one up and give the 5.45x39 a try. I have been doing research, and found out about the keyholing problems they have due to a .223 barrel, instead of a .221 barrel thats needed for the slightly smaller round. The main thing is, all articles I have been finding date back anywhere from 2-5 years.

Does anybody know if this has been corrected?

As far as Century Arms, I know their rep, so please don’t turn this into a bashing thread. I have a WASR 10/63 that I handpicked from the 10 or so rifles that were at the store, and it so far is a pretty damn good rifle (2500 rds). It’s actually more accurate than I would have expected. With that being said, I have some faith in them being able to produce good rifles once in a while…

Thanks for any input.

Justin

2

Give it a good once over & then jump in.

I bought one a year ago & it shoots good. From what I have heard, they finally got the bores correct.

I like it so much, I am having one built by AK gunsmith Ted Marshall.

3

If the serial number begins with TTL it is an older model and probably will keyhole rounds, if the serial number begins with Y it is a newer model and supposedly will not keyhole rounds.

Regardless both us a US made barrel that is NOT chrome lined.

4

For what it’s worth…I wouldn’t personally buy any AK with a US barrel, not until someone is willing to pay the barrel manufacturers to do it right.

http://m4carbine.net/showthread.php?t=74120

5

The more I sit and think about it, I’ll probably wait til the funds allow for me to pick up an AK from Arsenal. That’s what I really want. Looks like I have a couple months to decide if I want another 7.62x39, or if I will venture into 5.45x39. Thanks to all of you for your input…

Justin

6

IMO, you can’t go wrong with an Arsenal… mine is the best AK I own.

7

This is your answer. I’d love to have a Tantal, but I just can’t, not with Century’s ignorance of basic AK facts (5.45 =/= 5.56, different numbers are different, guys :D) If you REALLY want an Arsenal, get an Arsenal. You’d just be disappointed with the Century, even if it didn’t keyhole.