AKM or AK-74?

[Mickael81]

I know there are other threads in regards to this topic but here it goes...

I want to buy an Arsenal Saiga SGl-21 or the SGL-33 (akm or ak-74).

I know they are priced high around $800 for either model.

I don't have any experience dealing with either calibers.

My question is: Beyond the price of ammo, which is a better round? I don't plan on doing any shooting beyond 300yrds but I do care about how tight my shot groups are from 300yrds.

It is a lot of money for an AK, so I want to get the right one.

I already own two AR's and a M1A scout. I guess I'm just itching for something in between.....

What do you guys think? Does anybody own both and could tell me the pros and cons?

Thanks.

[IllTemperedCur]

Can't comment on the rifles themselves. However, keep in mind that non-magnetic 5.45 ammo for the 74 is virtually non-existent, limiting your range choices (magnetic ammo = risk of starting brushfires in the fire season).

There's still the Yugo 7.62x39 surplus available out there, which is non-magnetic, as well as new commercial ammo.

[Caseless]

My question is: Beyond the price of ammo, which is a better round? I don't plan on doing any shooting beyond 300yrds but I do care about how tight my shot groups are from 300yrds.

Better round for what? Hunting, range plinking, action match?
You can expect 3MOA group with commercial Russian ammo for the SGL-21/AKM at 300 yards. 1.5 MOA group with Lapua ammo($1.50 per round)
The AK-74 pattern does not have a Lapua-equivalent match round. Both surplus and Hornady ammo can print 2MOA groups at best.

It is a lot of money for an AK, so I want to get the right one.
The SGL series are medium-priced and the longevity of the U.S. made parts reflect that(at least on mine). The higher end AKs cost twice as much.

I already own two AR's and a M1A scout. I guess I'm just itching for something in between.....
Then you need an AKM. The SGL-31/33/AK74 has the same recoil impulse as an AR-15, minus the annoying 'sproing' from the buffer tube.

What do you guys think? Does anybody own both and could tell me the pros and cons?
Just get an SGL-21 and be done with it. You can refine your preferences after running the platform for a few years.

[Mickael81]

SGL-21 it is....