Which AK?

[SIGP226]

I want an AK but can't decide between building one or converting a Saiga. Im a noob in the AK department so any suggestions or info would help. Thanks.

[Cokebottle]

Unless you can find a parts kit that it matching numbers, and includes the original barrel, I would recommend purchasing a Saiga, or a Henderson certified WASR-10.

Most parts kits today are either coming with a virgin US-made barrel, or without a barrel. Those that include the original barrel, when available, are very close in price to a Saiga.

Either way... building a parts kit, or converting a Saiga, you're going to be very close to $500-$600 by the time you're done.

[SIGP226]

Unless you can find a parts kit that it matching numbers, and includes the original barrel, I would recommend purchasing a Saiga, or a Henderson certified WASR-10.

Most parts kits today are either coming with a virgin US-made barrel, or without a barrel. Those that include the original barrel, when available, are very close in price to a Saiga.

Either way... building a parts kit, or converting a Saiga, you're going to be very close to $500-$600 by the time you're done.

Yeah I figured that the price would probably be about the same in either route. If you dont mind me asking are the Saigas hard to convert?

[Cokebottle]

Yeah I figured that the price would probably be about the same in either route. If you dont mind me asking are the Saigas hard to convert?

It depends on how far you want to go.
The bullet guide can be a bit tricky, but the trigger conversion can be done quite easily with basic hand tools and a drill. A drill press and a Dremel make it easier, but it's not required.

With the bullet guide replacement, you can use standard AK magazines.

[SIGP226]

It depends on how far you want to go.
The bullet guide can be a bit tricky, but the trigger conversion can be done quite easily with basic hand tools and a drill. A drill press and a Dremel make it easier, but it's not required.

With the bullet guide replacement, you can use standard AK magazines.

Nice. Thanks for the info!

[Outlier]

I own an arsenal ak, overpriced but its the only ak that has made anyone who has used it say "wow that's really accurate".

Worth the extra money? Guess that's in the eye of the purchaser....

[SJgunguy24]

I own an arsenal ak, overpriced but its the only ak that has made anyone who has used it say "wow that's really accurate".

Worth the extra money? Guess that's in the eye of the purchaser....

You do know the Arsenal is a converted Saiga with Bulgarian military parts?

[b00gym4n]

Figure out which AK you want and find a parts kit online for cheap. If you need help building it try looking for some ak building party events on here. Or if you do not have any time like me just buy one complete.

[SIGP226]

Is there any decent complete AKs for around 500-600 bucks?

[stormy_clothing]

for the upper end of 600 you can get Lancaster which are nicely refinished wasr's from many places like ammo bros here in ontario. - make sure the ffl has them in stock not on order though.

If you just want a good rifle buy one from peach state guns ect for 425 cal compliant config.

[RealBarber]

get a saiga

[CSACANNONEER]

Is there any decent complete AKs for around 500-600 bucks?

Yep. Many people knock WASRs but, I've never had a problem with any of mine (WASR22, WASR3, WASR10). The fit and finish isn't there but, that's just a little labor or chaning out the furniture which, many people do anyways. Or, you can build one for under $500 that will be in the exact configuration that you want it. Hell, next weekend I'm having a small build party to reweld milled AKs. If it goes smoothly, I may host some bigger milled parties. You can build a milled receiver rifle for under $400!!!!!!!!

[slomofo]

I'd get a Bulgarian or Yugo.

[nicoroshi]

1 Hell, next weekend I'm having a small build party to reweld milled AKs. If it goes smoothly, I may host some bigger milled parties. You can build a milled receiver rifle for under $400!!!!!!!!

You have a couple dedicated people showing up to ensure success with the welding end of things, and I hope after seeing just how easy it is you decide to continue on the path of milled re-weld parties in your neck of the woods to spread the 'AK builder's infection' in yet another direction. It is my pleasure to help out in that regard.

My re-welded milled Yugo has to be my favorite AK rifle (and I own a few).

[CSACANNONEER]

You have a couple dedicated people showing up to ensure success with the welding end of things, and I hope after seeing just how easy it is you decide to continue on the path of milled re-weld parties in your neck of the woods to spread the 'AK builder's infection' in yet another direction. It is my pleasure to help out in that regard.

My re-welded milled Yugo has to be my favorite AK rifle (and I own a few).

Yes, I don't think that we would have gone through with this without you and the rest of the guys coming down from up north. My biggest questions is should I do my M70 or my RPK first? I guess that question fits perfectly with this thread.