What to look for in an AK?

[Lumpia is sarap!®]

I need an AK, I have my AR15, but don't know much on which type of AK-47 get.

Any advice for an AK noob? I'm in LA, any good stores?
Thanks in advance.

[xxINKxx]

Charge the charging handle back multiple times and make sure it doesn't stick, or lock back. Look at the sights and check to see if they are canted (crooked, or adjust to extream left or right to counteract them being crooked)

Those were the two things that are usually wrong on cheap AKs.

I'm not an expert, so more will chime in with better things to look for

[CSACANNONEER]

If it says "I.O." or comes from here, DO NOT BUY IT! I have not seen one example of their AKs function properly sraight off the shelf. Other than that, most AKs function the same way. What sets one apart from another is either overpriced brand recognition or simply fit and finish. Also, I would never buy an AK with Arsenal's proprietary mag lock or a Radlock. I want something that can go back and forther from featureless (with oem mag release) to fixed mag easy.

[Kinsel83]

I have some questions about a possible AK purchase. This store sells Century AK's in synthetic and wood stocks. They go for $599 and $649. Is it worth my money to buy one? Regardless of excellent or good condition.

Online you can get them for $449. What do you guys think? I can see them at the store and buy it or buy online.

[Lumpia is sarap!®]

There should be a "How to buy a quality AK in CA" sticky.

Thanks a lot. I'm a TOTAL noob so any input is great!

[Kinsel83]

There should be a "How to buy a quality AK in CA" sticky.

Thanks a lot. I'm a TOTAL noob so any input is great!

Please!

[powderedtoastman]

If you can, and are patient, http://www.rifledynamics.com/services/ak.php

[Kinsel83]

Thanks for the link. I should of saved up for a Saiga instead of buying my SKS.

[ZX-10R]

Do a search here but most people on CGN contrary to most AK sites will say to get a Saiga and convert it. However, if you do your research and you do it well you will see that there are some very good AK patterns out there. Your budget is important...
- AK pattern 2-5 inch groups out to 100yrds that is expected. Some can group extremely well. I have 3 AK patterns and all three group less than 3 inches at 100yrds.
- Do not expect AR tolerances in an AK build contrary to what what other say. AK patterns have huge tolerances built into them that is why they function so well under harsh conditions.
- You may want to look into joining AK specific sites like AKFILES for further information.

What you are willing to spend will go a long way in deciding. If you say $600 then get a WASR, if you have readily available options like a Yugo, Maadi, etc then your budget comes into play.

Before spending money do your research and be careful of hearsay. I.E. CAI or WASRs are terrible. Some of us have 3 or more WASRs and could not be happier.

[Kinsel83]

Thanks ZX. Appreciate the info.

[tujungatoes]

If you just want something simple get a WASR-10. They're not as sh*tty as people say they are. You just have to give them a good in person eyeballing like one poster described already.

Avoid the IO CASAR. They actually are as sh*tty as people say.

Saigas, and any of the arsenal converted versions are generally well put together and reliable rifles.

IMO the best AK is the one you build yourself.

[ZX-10R]

Thanks ZX. Appreciate the info.

Look up some of my posts...On of them I detail what to look for. I have two WASRs and a PSL and they are champs...I would sell one but both are extremely accurate shooters. If you look carefully you will do well.

Here is some inspiration for what you can get if you look carefully and with intent.
[IMG][/IMG]

[Sanderhawk]

I have a century arms wasr 10/63 AK47 and it works great no FTF ot FTE it shoots cheap ammo and its easy to clean. Oh yeah its a hell of alot of fun to shoot.

[xxINKxx]

I have some questions about a possible AK purchase. This store sells Century AK's in synthetic and wood stocks. They go for $599 and $649. Is it worth my money to buy one? Regardless of excellent or good condition.

Online you can get them for $449. What do you guys think? I can see them at the store and buy it or buy online.

Turners sells mag locked century arms wasr 10 AKs for 469$

As most said stay away from I.O. I can first hand vouch for it being a pile-o-crap.. Basically everything on the gun has an issue. I bought one when big 5 started selling them. Omg pos. I learned my lesson

I'm selling it to my buddy next week for 100$. I made sure I explained how crappy it was

[mossy]

i got a WASR-10 form Henderson defense. do not listen to the haters WASR's are great guns mine eats anything i feed it, never jams and is a blast to shoot. the finish is not the best but who cares it's a AK, you buy them to work not sit in a corner and look pretty.