So currently I’m torn between an AK series rifle, a G19, more AR-15 parts, or a scope for my AR but I’d rather just get used to Irons for now. My problem is with the AK I can’t decide on the chambering and what ‘brand’ to look at. Only experience with the platform is my friend’s Yugo M70 under-fold from century arms, hated the stock but I found it otherwise startlingly nice to use.
I’m partial to 5.56 on the grounds of ammo commonality in my rifles, but I’ve not heard too much on AK in 5.56. As for the classic chambering of 7.62 and 5.45, I’d prefer 5.45 for supposed cost savings but my local shops don’t carry much in stock for ammo. 7.62 would be fine, just would prefer a little bit less kick.
So, enough rambling on my part, what would you all recommend and are there any stand-out reasons I should stick away from 5.56 AK’s or are they just fine?
Look at the arsenal SLR106-31. Its chamber in 5.56. I just picked one up about 3 weeks ago, from kvar. Haven’t shot it yet, so I cant give you a range report. But the construction looks excellent. I was a little worried about the folding stock being fragile, but its rock solid. The only complaint I have about my arsenal is their “spray paint” finish. The reason I went with the ak chambered in 5.56 is because the abundance of 5.56. My friends all have ar15’s, and I was the one left out with my 7.62 ak’s. So getting the 106 made sense, in terms of ammo commonality.
Honestly, if it’s your first, I’d highly recommend sticking with one chambered in 7.62x39mm. Rifles in this caliber tend to be the most trouble free, and ammo is affordable and available. It’s also a great all around cartridge.
Daemon I was in a similar position to yours a couple months ago. Handled about a dozen rifles that were mostly Century builds and fit, finish and smoothness of action was pretty varied. After reading all the raves and recommendations for the Arsenal builds I went with a Russian SGL-21 from K-VAR. It cost a bit more but is very well built and has run like a top from shot 1. Only have 500 rounds through it so far, (:(), but it has been a blast to shoot and is very accurate. Just want to say that the recoil of 7.62x39 is surprisingly mild, esp with the comp that comes on the SGL. Hope this is helpful and good luck to you.
I’m hoping for something between $400 to $800. I also would prefer a solid stock or possible the mod to take AR stocks. How much would I be in for on a quality AK?
Honestly, if it’s your first, I’d highly recommend sticking with one chambered in 7.62x39mm. Rifles in this caliber tend to be the most trouble free, and ammo is affordable and available. It’s also a great all around cartridge.[/QUOTE]
+1 here, If I was you I would pick up one of the SGL21’s from K-VAR and call it a day.
I’m going to start calling my local shops to see what they have in the ways of K-Var. But I have a new question, is it possible to turn a '47 gas set up into a '107/108 set up?