This article is intended to help the first time AK buyer get the necessary information to make an informed purchase of an AK-47 or AK-74 rifle.
This is not for the current AK owner and collector, and as such, you may feel unchallenged by this information. That’s OK. We still love to have you here. Feel free to read along with us anyway.
Century International Arms M70AB Underfolder Rifle
Here, we are only talking about purchasing the civilian legal semi-automatic version of the “Automatic Kalashnikov Model 47″ or AK-47, which can go by many trade names and designations, but is still a rose by any other name.
Today’s semi-automatic AK market is flooded with Kalashnikovs ranging from marginal to excellent quality. You may find that the deciding factor is your “hip-pocket national bank” (your wallet). We can work with you as well as the guy with deep pockets who is ready to buy but just needs a push in the right direction. Let’s begin.
Some Basics
The AK-47 and AK-74 rifles are by far the most produced modern small arms in the world. Some estimates are as high as 100 million copies. That means the AK accounts for one out of every five firearms in the world. In addition, they are quite the “bad-boy” of the firearms world. There is good reason for this. The AK has earned a reputation for being an extremely reliable weapon under all possible conditions. This is a good thing. Since it is such a good weapon, and the full auto version is relatively cheap on the international black market, many find it to be their weapon of choice, especially gangs and drug traffickers, not to mention terrorists in all parts of the world. Also, the US military has faced the AK-47 in just about every conflict from Vietnam to the present day–thus, the “bad-boy” reputation. You should have already gotten over the “not invented here” syndrome or you would not be thinking about buying one to start with. Believe it or not, and much to their loss, many folks suffer from this malady.
To keep a mental tab on how long the AK has been in service, the AK-47 was introduced in 1947 and the AK-74 in 1974. Pretty easy to remember, huh? Actually, this method of model numbering is common to the European world where the rifle is simply named after the year it was designed or introduced.
The 7.62x39mm round has good stopping power and can be favorably compared to the .30-30 cartridge. 7.62x39mm is plentiful in that countless ship loads of ammo have been brought into the US over the last 20 years, to the extent it is virtually a universal cartridge. The AK-74 5.45x39mm round is a bit less well known. It is essentially the Soviet answer to the 5.56 NATO round. For the past few years, inexpensive (and corrosive) surplus 5.45 ammo has been available, but it seems to be drying up. New production ammunition is still available in great numbers, so ammo availability isn’t a factor. The AK is also available in 5.56 NATO for those who would find that convenient. Most folks looking to buy their first AK will stick with the original 7.62×39 caliber.
75 Round Magazine
Millions of AK magazines have been brought in over the years, undoubtedly. The basic AK-47 mag is the steel, 30 round “banana clip.” While these have gone up in price over the years, used surplus and unissued condition magazines are still available for under $20. The great thing about AK mags is the demand is so high they are being made new right here in the US! These are mostly the polymer variety and most are of high quality and very usable. However, the very best polymers are from places like Bulgaria which produces the “waffle mag” with the “Circle 10″ arsenal mark at the bottom. These are highly recommended if you go polymer. Of course, all the polymer mags are impervious to rust (not including the springs) and are very robust. East German and Polish steel mags are about the best. There is a whole world of information in identifying AK mags as they all are similar. Perhaps we will also add that information in the future. For now, the number one recommendation is the military surplus, 30 round steel magazine.
AK rifles are available in two major receiver groups: milled and stamped. This is where you must decide if you want to go high or low dollar. Just about any milled AK is going to be on the pricey side. That’s just the way the market is, a milled reciever is going to cost you more. To explain the difference between the two, the milled receiver starts life as a solid chunk of quality steel and is put through over 100 machining stages until there is a finished monobloc receiver. That’s the primary reason for the greater cost; all the machine work. The stamped receivers are, just as the term implies, stamped out of a flat sheet of steel and then formed in a series of bending operations until the final box-shaped receiver is completed. There are added operations for the stamped receiver such as adding the front and rear trunions, spot welding the bolt carrier rails to the inside, and installing a number of heavy rivets that are the trademark of the stamped AK receiver. However, there is something aesthetically pleasing about the solid chunk of steel on the milled receiver, and the action is generally smoother on milled guns. Let your pocket book be your guide. For your first AK-47, most folks go with the much more common 1mm stamped reciever. It is every bit as serviceable as the milled and will more than likely cost you a bunch less. Look at one of the Romanian models for around $500-$600. Be sure it accepts the standard double stack hi-capacity magazine, however.
Manufacture
Let’s face it, the days of importing a complete, functioning AK-47 into the US are over. Those days ended on March 14, 1989 when President G. H.W. Bush created an Executive Order banning the import of 43 different semi-automatic rifles. This is where the term “pre-ban” started and is still in use almost 20 years later. If you want one of these pre-ban rifles, by all means get one. The thing to keep in mind is they cost-a-plenty. We are talking in the realm of $1,000 to $2,000 or higher for rare variants. That’s great if you have the money. You can be assured of getting a quality rifle if you buy a Norinco, Polytech, Valmet, Maadi, Hungarian, Bulgarian, Yugoslavian, or any other pre-ban, imported AK- 47. You may find yourself owning a rifle so nice that you will be afraid to shoot it! Especially one that is still new in box (NIB). Don’t be afraid to shoot it unless you just want to keep it for posterity’s sake or as an investment which is sure to appeciate in value. But that is not what this article is focusing on, we are looking at buying a shooter.
AK-47
US manufacturers are producing their AK’s from imported “parts kits.” These were once complete, fully functioning, select fire rifles that were demilled in the country of origin (or possibly the US importer) to conform to BATFE specs. This means cutting and removing the receiver between the front and rear trunions and carefully removing all the small parts to be shipped forward for import. In 2006 the BATFE restricted the import of original barrels from these kits. That’s just another part that has to be replaced with a US-made unit, which in turn raises the cost of the finished rifle. These import restrictions have been successfully overcome by many AK makers here in the U.S.A. The demand is there to justify doing all the work of producing the receivers and barrels here at home. As a matter of fact, Arsenal Inc. produces an absolutely outstanding “Bulgarian” AK made in Las Vegas!
Price isn’t always a true judge of quality, but most of these quality AK’s are going to run at least $750. The old phrase, “You get what you pay for” runs true here. You cannot cut corners and have a first class firearm. However, fear not, you can get a quality AK at reasonable prices. There are many Romanian AK’s out there that are certainly worth owning for around $500-$600. Fit and finish on these may not be the absolute best, but they are very functional AK’s that will serve you well. You would be cautioned to make a close check of the front sight tower (FST) if you decide to go this route. We have seen many FST’s on Romanian and Yugoslav AK’s that are not properly aligned (canted left or right) and need to be set straight before you can have a successful shooting adventure. If you special order one sight unseen, you may have to resort to having a gunsmith perform this service for you if it comes in canted.
Furniture
The decision to buy an AK comes with several choices, one being “furniture” —the buttstock, pistol grip, and handguards. However odd it may sound, furniture is the accepted term to refer to the exterior parts of the rifle other than the barrel and receiver. Furniture is divided into two major groups: wood and synthetic. Both are equally good.
Wood Furniture
UTG Quad Rail for Romanian WASR AK Rifles
The Soviet AK started with wood furniture. This is the way to go if you want a traditional AK-47. There are a variety of woods to choose from as well as laminated woods. The laminated wood is probably the best choice for overall durability. You can go with original Soviet bloc wood or go with one of the many US made stock sets. If you buy an AK and want to change-out the furniture for any reason, that is easily done. You may buy a synthetic furniture AK and want to go wood, or vice versa. Or, you may have a blond Hungarian stock set and want to change to walnut. It’s easy to do. These sets are available prefinished and ready to install, or bare and ready to apply the finish you desire. One popular fad is to duplicate the red toned Russian finish with a gloss topcoat. Looks very nice on any AK.
Synthetic Furniture
Command Arms 6-position adjustable stock for stamped AK receivers
Synthetic AK furniture came along sometime in the late 60′s or early 70′s. East Germany may have been the first to use a plastic furniture set. This is known as the “pebble finish” and was medium brown in color. This is not the most robust choice of furniture as it appears to be more of a PVC plastic as opposed to the later, tougher, glass filled nylon, but you may like the look. Later came the black synthetic furniture by the Bulgarians. Some people like the all black AK look the best. As with the wood options, changing looks is very easy. Synthetic furniture sets are now available in OD green, Plum, and black to name a few. You may even find them in various camouflaged patterns. Stencils for doing your own multi-color camo paint job are available as well. Also, you may buy your AK with standard AK length buttstock or in the longer “US” or “NATO” version, which adds about 1.25 inches to the overall length, which is more comfortable for taller shooters.
Folding Stocks
AK’s offer several buttstock options other than the classic fixed position. You can find an under folder, a right side folder, or a left side folder. These are now legal to own in most states since the sunset of the Clinton 1994 – 2004 “Assault Weapons Ban.” If you want to leave tradition behind, you can also buy an AK with an AR-15 style collapsible buttstock. The under folder is perhaps the most recognizable version, but the side folders have certainly been around for a while. Many side folders come in the triangular shape, which approximates the basic shape of the wooden buttstock. Or you can still find what is called a “wire stock”, which is a single rod extending from the rear trunion and ending at the buttplate. This is also called a “crutch” folder since it resembles the end of the crutch that goes under the armpit. The beauty of the side folders is that they can be retrofitted to a conventional buttstock AK with little work. Because of its unique rear trunion design, the underfolder is an underfolder for life.
Barrel Length
The vast majority of Kalashnikovs have barrels that are 16.1 inches long. This is true to the original rifle and has held constant since the AK was first introduced. Of course, like many military weapons, there are shorter and longer barreled varients. Short barrel AK rifles fall into the NFA area and are restricted from private ownership without the BATFE tax stamp and federal NFA paperwork. Legal ownership is not insurmountable, but most folks don’t want to go through the process. One alternative is to get a “Krinkov” (AKSU) which was originally designed with a 10 inch barrel, and that has been modified by permanently attaching a fake “can” or suppressor. You can have the best of both worlds; short barrel rifle and legal. As long as the barrel and attachment combine for an overall length of over 16 inches, you are good to go. Keep in mind, barrel length is measured from the bolt face in the ready-to-fire position to the very end of the barrel or permanently attached device. Most manufacturers go an extra quarter to half an inch just to be sure they are not short by a fraction.
Long-barreled AKs usually fall into the sniper category such as the Russian SVD Dragunov, Romanian PSL/Romak III, or light machine gun “RPK” style guns. The Chinese made several long barrel AK’s as well as many other Soviet bloc countries. These are great, but be warned, Soviet and Chinese SVD’s are VERY expensive, usually a minimum of $2500 up to $4000, depending on condition and accessories provided. These are more for the serious collector as opposed to the first AK buyer. The PSL/Romak IIIs are much more reasonably priced and available for less than $1000 with optics included. Don’t assume that the long barrel is a guarantee of tack driver accuracy. Soviet bloc accuracy is considered hitting a human in the vital parts at extended range. Anywhere in the chest area or head is considered a good shot. While we Americans like to think in terms of a sniper rifle being able to shoot sub-minute-of-angle (MOA), I would expect the SVD to shoot 1 to 1.5 MOA at best with carefully handloaded match ammunition. The PSL/Romak III is a 2 to 3 MOA rifle, and most standard barrel Kalashnikovs will shoot 4 MOA. That’s a 4 inch group at 100 yards with a good shooter and standard ammo. For the purists who may be reading, the SVD is not technically an AK-47, but it is close enough to include in this discussion.
Muzzle Attachments
The muzzles of virtually all AK barrels are threaded to accept some type of muzzle attachment. This thread pattern is 14 x 1mm, left hand. The most common attachment is the slant brake. The idea behind the slant brake is that the escaping gases will work to push the rifle down and to the left to compensate for the tendency for the recoil to push the rifle up and to the right. Sometimes a plain muzzle nut is installed just to protect the threads. There are many other muzzle attachments for the AK. If you like the AR-15 style flash hider, you can find one threaded to work. The AK-74 style flash hider or muzzle brake is also popular to install on the AK-47. It is very effective in controlling recoil, and its very loud noise and blackblast also make it effective in preventing others from standing near you as you shoot!
U.S. Made Parts
If you buy an AK made from an imported parts kit, it must conform to the 922r guidelines (The Imported Parts Law, 1990). This is a code that was developed by the BATFE to set a standard for the manufacture of an AK style rifle (actually any semi-auto rifle on the ban list) from parts kits. The imported parts count cannot exceed 10 parts. This is not just any 10 parts on the rifle, but 10 parts from a possible list of 20 parts that must be complied with. 16 parts on this list apply to the AK design. To comply with this federal law, you must be sure that the AK you purchase has at least 6 US made parts substituted in the build. The most common US made parts that are used in AKs are the hammer, trigger, disconnector, gas piston, buttstock, pistol grip, upper and lower handguards (both count as one part), slant brake or plain muzzle nut, magazine follower, and magazine floor plate. It only takes 6 of these, so it is up to the manufacturer how they want to work the build. Also, if using the magazine parts as US made parts, you must always use the magazines that have these parts when firing the rifle– using an imported steel magazine would create an illegal configuration. As mentioned earlier, there are several US made magazines available that would give 3 US made parts to the build (the mag body also counts), but most manufacturers do not setup their rifles this way as it would preclude the use of those original issue AK mags, which are very likely to be used by the purchaser. You can reasonably expect an AK from a reputable manufacturer to be in proper 922r compliance. Most US made AK’s will also have a certificate stating that the rifle has been found to be in full 922r compliance by the BATFE. This is your best guarantee of being legal. The above discussion is for stamped receiver AKs: milled receiver AKs only require 5 US made parts since the front and rear trunions are integral to the milled receiver and are not counted as applicable 922r parts.
Finishes
AKs are available with a number of metal finishes. The most common is the Parkerized finish. This is a durable and traditional finish for a military firearm. All it needs is an occasional oiling. The Egyptian MAADI uses a paint finish which isn’t as durable as the parkerized job, but that’s the way they did it. Some US manufacturers use a combination of parkerizing to “prime” the bare metal followed by a high-tech coating over that. Also, there is the traditional blued finish as used on Chinese, Polish and original Yugoslavian AKs as imported by Mitchell Arms in the late 80′s. These are perhaps the nicest finished AK-47′s out there. Of course, finish is something that can be changed later if the mood suits you.
Wood finish on the AK is usually a tung-oil type but can be linseed oil or polyurethane. Original, imported wood furniture often has been dipped in a laquer or shellac that creates a hard clear coat around it. Since these were military issued furniture sets, the look of the rifle wasn’t a consideration at all and the thick laquer will have obvious drips and runs. Many American AK owners refinish their wood furniture as a result.
Polymer furniture needs no additional finish.
1994 – 2004 Ban Models
You may find some remnants from the 1994 – 2004 Clinton Gun ban for sale. These are referred to as “post-ban” models. Post-ban AKs have had their bayonet lugs ground off, muzzle attachment removed or permanently attached to the barrel, either absent a folding stock or the folding stock welded or fixed in the open position, or possibly with a thumbhole buttstock. These can be fine shooters at more reasonable prices since most AK seekers want all the whistles and bells of the pre-ban AK-47s. It is legal to modify these to “no-ban” configuration as long as you remember to comply with the 922r regulation.
Most post-ban rifles still in possession of the factory or distributor were sent back through a re-assembly or upgrade process and were brought up to no-ban status effective September 14, 2004. There may be one or two minor features that were not brought up to date on no-ban rifles, such as leaving the muzzle attachment permanently attached, as it would not be cost effective to remove it. The same logic applies to the bayonet lugs. These are rather small issues that don’t affect the operation of the AK as far as live fire. They simply fall under the heading of aesthetics, but could give you a potential way to save a few bucks on the cost of an AK if you don’t mind them.
Shooting your new AK
This is the best part! The only drag in the last couple of years is the higher cost of all ammo. In years past, AK ammo was as little as 9 cents per shot. Oh, for the good old days to return! In any case, ammo is plentiful and still fairly inexpensive due to the sheer bulk available. Steel cased ammo is perfectly fine in the AK, as that is what it was designed for. Some ranges will not permit any steel jacketed or bi-metal ammo such as TulAmmo, so keep that in mind.
Before you leave home, carefully inspect the bore for any grease that may be in the barrel. US made firearms rarely have it, but it may be there just the same. Light oil is not usually a problem and will be burnt out after the first round or two. In either case, go ahead and run some patches down the bore to see what you have. When they come out fairly clean, go to the range.
Once out to the range, get it sighted in. You will need to have purchased a sight adjustment tool before hand as nothing else will work for you there. Keng’s Firearms Specialties has some of the Polytech armory-grade models for around $35. This is the one to get! It is built like a tank. Older after market adjustment tools can break the first time you try to move that front sight for elevation, be gentle with them. I won’t go into the actual sighting process, just remember that when correcting the windage, move the front sight away from the desired direction, or, toward the wayward grouping, which is the opposite for the standard western style firearm with adjustable rear sight. So, if your group is to the right of the bull’s-eye (or whatever you like to aim at), you must push the front sight to the right to get on target. The rear tangent sight has a setting at the very rear which is called the “battle setting.” At this setting, and after properly sighting in at 100 yards or meters, by aiming at center of body mass, you will hit an enemy between the shoulders and hips at ranges from zero to 300 meters or yards. Of course, you have the traditional ranges also listed from 100 to 700 or 800 meters or yards. For general use, sight-in at 100 meters or yards.
Feeding Problems
The beauty of the AK is that it eats just about any ammo you feed it with ease. That’s just the way it was designed. Of course, you may encounter problems as with any firearm. Any new rifle may need a break in period, so don’t be alarmed if you have a few failures feeding or extracting. Be sure it is properly lubed and oiled before you shoot, that may curb any problems before they crop up. Some AKs, such as the Yugoslavians, have a three-position gas setting which should be in the middle position. The other two are for very dirty rifles (more gas) and very hot loads (less gas). Be sure to check here if you have short stroking problems. In rare cases, you may have a bad magazine follower. Bent magazine bodies are more likely and this is easy to spot once you suspect a problem. If the rifle fails to run the bolt carrier to the rear AT ALL, then you have a block in the gas orifice between the bore and the gas tube. This may shut your shooting down for that session since it is going to require getting a probe in there to clean out whatever is blocking the orifice. Its pretty rare, but possible.
Cleaning
This is going to involve some disassembly of your new AK. Not a problem. Just pop the dust cover off and proceed to take it down. Instructions are furnished with all A’s these days and plenty are available online. The best policy for cleaning is to assume that your ammo is made with corrosive primers, especially if it came from overseas. Note that Wolf and TulAmmo are not corrosive. If you don’t clean your rifle after shooting corrosive ammo, the bore will rust as well as the bolt face and breech areas. It’s a really ugly mess, but will not actually affect the operation of your AK unless it is an extreme case and you let the situation go without ever stopping the rust. However, why take a chance on ruining the value of you rifle? Hoppe’s No 9 cleaner is the best to use to clean up after corrosive primers. Use it generously and you will sleep well at night. Even if the primers are not corrosive, it is still a good policy to properly clean (from the rear of the bore) after a firing session. Lightly oil after cleaning and reassemble your AK.
Accessories
Not much is needed for the AK-47 except a sling. However, if you think you may want to add a scope, then you want to make sure your rifle comes with a scope mount. These can be added later, but the problem is finding someone to mount it accurately. It’s much easier to get it on the rifle from the start, which is something to consider, especially if you are getting near the “50″ mark where the old eyes start losing a bit of their sharpness.
A bit of information on the mount. The traditional AK-47 scope mount is on the left side of the rifle, which is different from most modern rifles. It is a matter of necessity since there is not a solid mounting point to mount the scope on the top rear of the rifle. Dust cover mounts are available, but will not hold a steady zero. That method is OK for iron sights as on the Galil, but just not practical for a scope. The side mount does provide a nice feature in that it provides easy removal and replacement without losing “zero.”
Other scope mounting options are available, now that the accessory market has greatly expanded. Picatinny rail handguards are available that replace the front handguards. On the Picatinny rails you can easily mount an optic. The potential problem here is the fair amount of heat generated from firing is quickly transferred to the scope. The picatinny rails are usually made of aluminumm, which can get pretty hot on the hands even if no scopes are attached. Of course, mounting a scope that far forward usually requires a long eye relief scout or pistol scope, or just a zero magnification red dot sight. If this method of sight attachment appeals to you, then you are covered.
There are many AK scopes to pick from. Since the traditional scope mount for the AK is on the left side, you need to either get a scope with integral mount such as a Russian PSO-1 or similar, or buy a left-side mount and add your favorite scope. The PSO-1 style scopes are good and are made to the military spec and configuration of the original Soviet model. In fact, you can still get one made in the Belarus military factory. Keep in mind, as with the accuracy of the AK, Russian scopes are not quite as good as we are used to here in the West. They get the job done, however. Sighting in a Russian scope is a bit different in that the windage and elevation knobs operate a bit different for the sighting- in process. Also, the reticle does not stay centered as on a Western scope. There are instructions online (AK-47.net) on how to sight-in a Russian-style scope. If you go with the side scope mount by itself, you can add just about any scope you like, including one you may have sitting around unused. Such a deal! To the AK purists, mounting anything other than an AK style scope on an AK-47 is not kosher; just doesn’t look quite right. But, each to his own!
The accessory market for AKs continues to expand at a rapid pace. Keep in mind that the more equipment you apply, the less handy and rugged your AK may become. It was designed as a rough and tough, reliable basic weapon and many believe it should be kept that way; the simpler the better.
If you’re looking for more advice on purchasing your first AK, feel free to ask questions on our facebook page at www.facebook.com/cheaperthandirt or call our tech support folks at 800-421-8047.
The mission of Cheaper Than Dirt!’s blog, “The Shooter’s Log,” is to provide information—not opinions—to our customers and the shooting community. We want you, our readers, to be able to make informed decisions. The information provided here does not represent the views of Cheaper Than Dirt!
[...] Happiness is a warm AK-47 [...]
Comment by Ride Fast — September 29, 2009 @ 1:06 pm
Overall, a well written piece. Just one correction I can see. Russian and Chinese SVD rifles do not fall into the Kalshnikov family. They do not even have the same method of operation as the AK. Dragunov rifles work under the short stroke gas system meaning there is a small piston and an operating rod with spring that pushes the bolt carrier out of battery. Kalashnikov rifles utilize a long stroke gas system whereby the gas is directed upwards though the gas block onto the face of the gas piston which is attached (screwed into) the bolt carrier group, and is thus pushed backwards out of battery to cycle the weapon.
There are only two communist bloc designated marksman weapons that utilize the AK long stroke gas system. They are the Romanian Puska Semiautomata Luneta (Scoped Semiautomatic Rifle) or PSL chambered in standard 7.62x54r (there were a few imported a couple of years ago in .308, but they are increasingly harder to find and the mags are nonexistent) and the Yugoslavian M-76 in 8mm.
Just thought I’d let you know.
Comment by hazmat — September 29, 2009 @ 3:02 pm
Excellent primer on AKs. Is there one available for SKS?
Comment by Rivrdog — September 29, 2009 @ 4:05 pm
Hazmat – thanks for the clarification.
Rivrdog – Next week, SKS!
Comment by CTD Blogger — September 29, 2009 @ 4:29 pm
I own a Romanian WASR-10 AK, very pleased with its’ performance. I have mine set up with a Leapers sniper scope (for the occasional deer or terrorist). And that’s the whole trick – I don’t own an “assault rifle”, I own a “homeland defense rifle”.
My AK, along with my newly purchased Howa 30.06 (an actual deer rifle), will protect my home and homeland from invaders.
Comment by Doug Story — September 29, 2009 @ 6:58 pm
You really cannot go wrong with one of the nicer/newer Romanian WASR-10′s for a “go and shoot it” rifle. Great products for the $$, just like ‘Cheaper Than Dirt’.
Comment by fallout11 — October 1, 2009 @ 9:25 am
I’am a new to the ak-world and i’am going to buy a ak-74 I found ammo for about 8 1/2 ct a round . I found this piece to be very informative and I will buy a ak-47 In the future
Comment by bambambob — April 5, 2010 @ 11:11 pm
[...] From our friends at The Shooter’s Log; a how to guide on buying your first AK. [...]
Pingback by Beginner’s buying guide to the AK rifles « Gun Nuts Media — October 13, 2010 @ 7:01 am
Used an AK47 for 8 years in Veitnam.Found it to be a very dependable weapon compared to the AR 16.We were in the bush for sustained periods of time,consequently the use of the AK47 supply of ammo was the deciding factor and of course its limited jamming feature compared with the AR16.Was assigned to 5th Special Forces based at Pleaku South Veitnam.
Comment by Ronald Lanter — March 16, 2011 @ 4:52 pm
Got me a arsenal SA-93 (bulgarian import) chrome lined hammer forged barrel, milled receiver. Couple problems with this model are the fact that there is limited aftermarket parts for the bulgarian milled receiver. Also, they were forced to replace the original stock with a thumbhole stock that is awkward and uncomfortable. Barrle was never threaded either. The receiver is hard to fit a buttstock on because, instead of the traditional 2 tangs, it has a single tang attachment point. This can be fixed by buying one of the kits from k-var or the like. It adds the lower tang onto the receiver so that normal furniture kits can be applied (this requires a gunsmith, or very thorough research). You can also buy one of the stock sets from timbersmith (not sure if thats the name of the company) that has a stock set specifically designed for these different “special case” models. All that being said, it has never jammed (1500 rounds through it so far), its extremely accurate despite the lack of a muzzle brake or compensator, and c’mon its an AK-47! lol best rifle I’ve ever owned.
Comment by Saxxon — March 24, 2011 @ 1:59 pm
[...] is an AK Buyer Guide on Gun Nuts Media, an article on CTD’s blog about buying an AK47 or AK74 rifle for the first time, a collection of AK47 user manuals, and The Kalashnikov Magazine Primer from MilCopp [...]
Pingback by AK Information | savethegun — May 28, 2011 @ 10:08 pm
Very informative. Thank you very much!
Comment by Kevin Morang — June 2, 2011 @ 4:24 pm
i have found this to be very informitve read as i am a VERY long time fan and inthoueist of the AK-47 i always had conserns about buying one but this has cleared them up thank u
Comment by Ryan Reap — June 11, 2011 @ 1:23 pm
I’m new to the ak world. very informative reading and helpful to me. thanks
Comment by joe l — July 25, 2011 @ 7:39 pm
Hi I want to buy an Ak-47 I’m 20 years old and I’m scared of how many different models of ak’s there are which ones the best I just love the durability of the rifle itself its been out since 1947 I want this rifle please I would. Love some advice thanks
Comment by brey — July 27, 2011 @ 2:41 am
So I am buying an ak this weekend not from a dealer but from somewhat of a friend and Ive been wondering is there any special paperwork or license or anything ill need to do to make it legal?
Comment by Dustin — August 24, 2011 @ 3:52 am
If your buying your AK from a friend and the gun is used it should be considered a private sale and no transfer paperwork is needed,But all states have there different laws.Call your local police dept or ATF office and they will help you.
Comment by Patrick — August 25, 2011 @ 6:52 am
@Dustin: Patrick is right, most states don’t have any rules for private transfers but I know here in Maryland (harsh on gun laws) the ak is considered a “Controlled firearm” meaning they have to be registered with the state police and transferred through a FFL. And if you call the police here in Maryland you’ll get various B.S. responses and usually a “What do you need that for?” kind of response… Sorry for the rant on Maryland gun policy
Comment by final — September 25, 2011 @ 8:48 pm
Just found this post and noticed there was talk of an SKS one to follow. I have been unable to locate a similar writeup about the SKS and was wondering if it was ever done. If so is it possible to post the link?
Comment by Brent — September 30, 2011 @ 4:25 pm
As someone who knows very little about the AK,I found this article very lacking in information.
Who makes the AK in the milled receivers ? Who makes the AK in the 1.6 stamped steel receivers?
What is the name of the company that makes
Bulgarian AK that is located in the US?
Comment by David — October 28, 2011 @ 6:04 pm
Thought the info. very helpful and informative.
Comment by Al — October 29, 2011 @ 9:28 am
Good article! Ive had my romanian wasr10 for a few years now and i love it! Yeah its no sniper rifle but thats not what its intention was. Mine actually had metal chips in the chamber when i bought it new(high cap mod?). Cleaned it out, sighted it in, and i get good groups rapid fire at 50 and 100 yards. Center mass all day! Its got a great trigger too, guess i lucked out! Lol. I strongly recommend Break Free clp to clean and protect these cause i know mine LIKED to rust, but not any more. Break free clp is the best cleaner/protectant ive ever seen/used! (Didnt mean to drop a plug, but seriously, its awesome for every firearm!!) HAPPY SHOOTING!!
Comment by jonny ringo — November 20, 2011 @ 2:21 am
The AK-47 is by far my bar none favorite! I currently have the WASR Romanian AK with a accuratly milled magwell so my mags fit nice and snug (unlike most). I’d like to get another, any suggestions as to where to find a deal?
Comment by WASR10 Accessory — November 26, 2011 @ 4:50 am
The AK-47 is by far my absolute favorite! I currently have the WASR Romanian AK with a very well milled magwell so the mags fit nice and tight (unlike some). I’d really like to get another, any suggestions on where to find a deal?
Comment by WASR10 STOCK — November 26, 2011 @ 11:15 am
Anywhere to find a steal on a new AK47? Maybe an Arsenal. I currently have a WASR 10 (Romanian version) but I’d like another.
Comment by AK47 Accessory — November 26, 2011 @ 4:05 pm
Have you noticed how much the prices of accessories vary on the AK? I have quite a few and it’s difficult to tell the difference in what makes some of the accessories cost so much more than the “so called” cheapos or knock offs. What’s your view on it?
Comment by WASR10 AK47 — November 26, 2011 @ 5:05 pm
Have you noticed how much the prices of upgrades vary on the AK-47? I own many and it’s almost impossible to tell the difference in what makes some of the upgrades worth so much more than the “so called” cheapos or knock offs. What’s your view on it?
Comment by AK47 Guy — November 26, 2011 @ 8:01 pm
Anywhere to find a sale on a wartime AK-47? Maybe a WASR. I currently own a Arsenal AK but I’d like another.
Comment by WASR10 STOCK — November 27, 2011 @ 1:04 am
The AK-47 is by far my bar none favorite! I currently have the WASR 10/63 with a good milled magazine well so the mags fit nice and snug (unlike others). I’d like to get another, any suggestions as to where to find a deal?
Comment by AK47 Accessory — November 27, 2011 @ 1:26 am
The AK-47 is by far my absolute favorite! I currently have the WASR 10/63 with a good milled mag well so my magazines fit nice and tight (unlike most). I’d really like to get another, any suggestions as to where to look for a deal?
Comment by WASR AK47 — November 27, 2011 @ 5:02 am
Where can I get a deal on a tactical AK-47? Maybe an Arsenal. I currently have a WASR 10 (Romanian version) but I’d like another.
Comment by WASR10 AK47 — November 27, 2011 @ 5:19 am
I honestly can’t fathom how on point the AK 47 is. Truely one of the most on point firearms I have (or the am really good with I guess lol)
Comment by WASR AK47 — November 27, 2011 @ 6:45 am
Has anyone noticed how greatly the prices of accessories vary on the AK 47? I own quite a few and it’s hard to tell the difference in what makes some of the accessories cost so much more than the “so called” cheapos or knock offs. What’s your view on it?
Comment by AK47 AmmoGuy — November 27, 2011 @ 8:17 am
Where can I get a deal on a aftermarket AK47? Possibly an Arsenal. I currently have a WASR 10 (Romanian version) but I’d like another.
Comment by AK47 Guy — November 27, 2011 @ 9:43 am
Has anyone noticed how much the cost of upgrades vary on the AK47? I own quite a few and it’s hard to tell the difference in what makes some of them worth so much more than the “so called” cheapos or knock offs. What’s your view on it?
Comment by AK47 Accessory — November 27, 2011 @ 10:23 am
I truely cannot fathom how accurate the AK47 is. Honestly one of the most well sited in firearms I own (or the am best with I reckon lol)
Comment by AK47 Accessory — November 27, 2011 @ 12:23 pm
Have you noticed how astronomically the prices of accessories vary on the AK-47? I have several and it’s almost impossible to tell the difference in what makes some of the upgrades cost so much more than the “so called” cheapos or knock offs. What’s your view on it?
Comment by AK47 AmmoGuy — November 27, 2011 @ 3:17 pm
Anywhere to find a steal on a wartime AK47? Maybe an Arsenal. I currently own a WASR 10 (Romanian version) but I’d like another.
Comment by AK47 Accessory — November 27, 2011 @ 4:10 pm
I truely can’t fathom how on point the AK 47 is. Really one of the most accurate firearms I have (or the am best with I guess lol)
Comment by WASR AK47 — November 27, 2011 @ 4:23 pm
The AK-47 is by far my most favorite! I currently have the WASR 10/63 with a perfectly milled mag well so the mags fit nice and tight (unlike most). I’d really like to get another, any suggestions on where to find a deal?
Comment by AK47 Accessory — November 27, 2011 @ 4:56 pm
Has anyone noticed how greatly the prices of accessories vary on the AK47? I own several and it’s almost impossible to tell the difference in what makes some of the accessories cost so much more than the “so called” cheapos or knock offs. What’s your view on it?
Comment by WASR AK47 — November 27, 2011 @ 8:50 pm
I really can’t fathom how well sited in the AK-47 is. Really one of the most well sited in firearms I own (or the am best with I guess lol)
Comment by WASR10 Accessory — November 27, 2011 @ 11:18 pm
I really can’t fathom how accurate the AK47 is. Honestly one of the most on point firearms I own (or the am best with I reckon lol)
Comment by WASR10 STOCK — November 28, 2011 @ 12:24 am
The AK-47 is by far my bar none favorite! I currently have the WASR 10 with a very well milled magwell so the mags fit nice and snug (unlike some). I’d really like to get another, any ideas where to find a deal?
Comment by AK47 Guy — November 28, 2011 @ 2:21 am
The AK-47 is by far my most favorite! I currently have the WASR Romanian AK with a good milled magazine well so the mags fit nice and snug (unlike others). I’d prefer to get another, any ideas where to find a deal?
Comment by WASR10 Accessory — November 28, 2011 @ 6:35 am
I honestly can’t fathom how on point the AK 47 is. Really one of the most accurate firearms I own (or the am really good with I reckon lol)
Comment by WASR AK47 — November 28, 2011 @ 8:06 am
Has anyone noticed how greatly the prices of accessories vary on the AK 47? I have several and it’s hard to tell the difference in what makes some of the accessories cost so much more than the “so called” cheapos or knock offs. What’s your view on it?
Comment by AK47 AmmoGuy — November 28, 2011 @ 8:53 am
Has anyone noticed how astronomically the prices of accessories vary on the AK? I own quite a few and it’s hard to tell the difference in what makes some of the upgrades cost so much more than the “so called” cheapos or knock offs. What’s your view on it?
Comment by AK47 Accessory — November 29, 2011 @ 11:02 am
Has anyone noticed how much the cost of accessories vary on the AK-47? I own quite a few and it’s difficult to tell the difference in what makes some of the accessories worth so much more than the “so called” cheapos or knock offs. What’s your view on it?
Comment by AK47 Accessory — November 29, 2011 @ 1:40 pm
The AK-47 is by far my absolute favorite! I currently have the WASR Romanian AK with a very well milled magwell so my mags fit nice and snug (unlike most). I’d really like to get another, any suggestions on where to look for a deal?
Comment by AK47 Accessory — November 29, 2011 @ 5:50 pm
Has anyone noticed how much the cost of accessories vary on the AK? I have quite a few and it’s almost impossible to tell the difference in what makes some of them cost so much more than the “so called” cheapos or knock offs. What’s your view on it?
Comment by WASR10 AK47 — November 30, 2011 @ 3:38 am
Anywhere to find a deal on a used AK47? Possibly an Arsenal. I currently own a WASR 10 (Romanian version) but I’d like another.
Comment by AK47 Guy — November 30, 2011 @ 5:18 am
I truely cannot fathom how well sited in the AK47 is. Really one of the most on point firearms I have (or the am best with I guess lol)
Comment by AK47 Accessory — November 30, 2011 @ 7:41 am
Jadnil Enterprises produces by FAR the highest quality AK-47 stock sets for several different versions of the AK 47. They are a small business and do almost eveyrhting by hand andthe quality of thier work far surpasses buying some cheap set from “Crapco” or one o fthos eguys. I collect different versions of the AK-47 and I always get my furniture from these guys and have been happy every time. jadnil.com
Comment by Jim — December 31, 2011 @ 1:10 pm
No offense to Jadnil, but they are not even close to the best quality furniture. IF you want wood and IF you like the Laminated set, Timbersmith is the best. IMHO of course
Comment by BlackCayman — January 6, 2012 @ 11:58 am
i want a tactical ak already set up. i found a Century WASR i beileve on gunbroker.com for under $600 brand new. in reading up on ak’s the thing it doesnt have is a dimple on the side to keep the magazine tight. any thoughts? http://www.gunbroker.com/Auction/ViewItem.aspx?Item=269460086
Comment by syno24 — January 14, 2012 @ 1:11 am
The one thing I have to say about this topic is stay away from the Yugoslavian M-70 series if you want to modify it much. I have one I’ve hardly shot. It has an Aimpoint M3 Comp mounted on a Scout Scope Mount. It’s a solid rifle and shoots well but the stupid Yugo measurement system makes it impossible to install some of the most helpful aftermarket parts manufactured by Krebs Custom. Some parts, such as some rails and hand grips fit but one has to pay attention to whether they are made for the M-70. If not, nothing will fit. I like the heavy duty frame and trunnion on the Yugo and standard magazines fit. It’s a durable, reliable and surprisingly accurate carbine but one has to accept it as manufactured. I’m even thinking about selling mine because I really like the Krebs aftermarket parts; especially the bolt hold-open device.
Comment by Sivispace — February 29, 2012 @ 4:24 pm
One other observation I have about pre-ban Chinese AKMs is it may be cool to own a Polytech. I had one that was pre-Polytech and it was a beautiful rifle. It was basically a mil-spec type 58 which I found out to my chagrin one day at the range. While the rifle had a semi auto sear, this range trip convinced me that the bolt carrier was automatic. AS long as I used steel cased rounds, the rifle did fine. But on this particular outing, I had not been able to buy Russian ammo so I bought Remington. Remington is higher quality and brass cased. I loaded up my magazines and proceeded to crank off round one, round two, round three and then brrrratt. The rifle gave me a four-round burst. And it continued that way for the rest of the range session. We packed up and left in a hurry and I promptly sold the rifle because Washington is not a class III state and it would have been an unregistered machine gun. It only had this problem with brass ammunition so I sold it with that caveat. But those old semiautomatics should be checked out by a qualified gun smith because some have soft sears that can malfunction.
Comment by Sivispace — February 29, 2012 @ 4:44 pm
I missed your article on SKS measuring system. Is it still available? I’m trying to find out what size machine screw is used in the bayonet mount. It doesn’t appear to be metric. I took the old screw out so I could replace the bayonet with a bipod . Since the screw was centerpunched in, the screw threads were damaged taking the screw out. I would to know where I could buy a new screw, tap , and die for this. Thank you for any help. Jim.
Comment by James Umbarger — April 22, 2012 @ 4:43 am
hey great piece for the ak newbies, covers all the basics and then some… if you are in the market for any firearm, do as much research as possible before you spend your hard earned money…I once sold a wasr 10 for 900.00 stock to someone who has never touched an ak before….dont be that guy unless you buy one from me…lol
Matt,
Comment by matt — April 26, 2012 @ 10:45 pm
IMHO to comment # 55 timbersmith is crap compared to ironwood designs… hands down the highest quality remakes for any ak variant you can buy. just got a set for a nhm 90 (193.00 dollars though)… check them out….just my 2 cents
Comment by matt — April 26, 2012 @ 10:55 pm
I appreciated the post ban 1994-2004 commentary. I had been wondering about my EAA (European American Amory) AK rifle which I purchased in Nov 2003 as to whether it was a pre-ban. I had assumed that since I bought it during the AWB and it had the hi-cap 30 rd mag. But it is evidently the post ban type described since it has no bayonet lug and the muzzle break has been permanently attached to the barrel which answers my question. Thanks.
Comment by Ron W — May 21, 2012 @ 8:42 pm
Cool site you have! Iff you still post more topics like these I’ll subscribe your site even more…
Comment by tramadol kopen — May 23, 2012 @ 12:09 pm
Excellent well written articlle from An NCO. USMC. 0317 Vietnam 66-67,68
Comment by Clifford A Johnson — June 4, 2012 @ 1:13 am
There are many instances where we come across various kinds of individuals. There are so many different kinds of people that numerous of them could be bad and there could be some people who have a criminal past. This means that they could have their criminal nature lurking somewhere in their hearts and this could cause them to indulge in some other criminal activity soon. So, you have to make sure that you do a Background Check to stop getting too close to such people.
Comment by Alicia Nosel — June 14, 2012 @ 8:41 pm
Wow what great info. thanks
Comment by Eric — July 1, 2012 @ 4:11 pm
Hello, after reading this amazing post i am too cheerful to share my experience here with friends.
Comment by Free Airsoft Guns — July 10, 2012 @ 10:45 pm
Might I suggest looking into Saigas and Veprs for NEW rifles(and yes AK shotguns). They are built on heavier(RPK, light machine gun) recievers and have chrome barrels. They can be had for $400-800 unconverted(sporterized for importation) and you get the fun and pride of converting it back to origional or custome AK styleing yourself.
Comment by Mikel — July 29, 2012 @ 12:13 pm
I live in the Peoples Republik of Kalifornia, so my choices are somewhat limited. I chose the saiga AK47′s, one in 762X39 and another in .223. The .223 will NOT (according to the manufacturer) handle the 5.56 round due to chamber pressure. I have fired nearly 1000 round through each of them and they have worked flawlessly. Cleaning is not a complicated process and the weapons come apart and go together easily.
In looking at the fired cartridges, the mouth of the cartridge has a slight flat spot and about half way down the body, there is a little ding. I haven’t reloaded any of the brass but I dont think these marks will affect the reloading process.
The bi-metal ammo for these is pretty cheap and if you look around, you can usually find a range where you can use them. The range where I shoot only prohibits ammor piercing and tracer ammunition, so it’s a pretty cheap day at the range.
If you are looking for a tack driver, buy a bench rest rifle in one of the proven calibers, but iff you want reliable, cheap shooting fun, an AK is the way to go.
Comment by Thirdwheelbro — September 3, 2012 @ 12:48 pm
Not sure if I saw a reference to it. What is the MAK? saw lots of them around 10-15 or so years ago. tnx
Comment by Robert Garrard — September 9, 2012 @ 1:23 am
The MAC was a product of Polytech in China. It is a semi-auto version of the type 58 which is a clone of the AKM. It is a high quality rifle and highly sought after.
Comment by Sivispace — September 9, 2012 @ 1:34 am
I’ve read all of the articles you’ve posted and appreciate the time taken. However, one thing I noticed was the specific absence to any mention of the Norinco AK-47. Next to the Yugo AK, I think the Norinco is one of the most desired AKs out there. And arguably one of the best stamped receiver AKs on the market. Also, after talking with the guys at AK-47 world, they and many others do not share your enthusiasm regarding miller receivers for the AK. There are so many more stamped that milled and the milled receivers have their own special set of problems, not the least of which is the non-interchangeability of parts with stamped receiver AKs. Because the receiver is milled from a single billet, and the inherent weakness if it is milled below certain thickness, the machinists make it thicker to avoid the possibility of metal fatigue after strenuous use, whereas with the stamped receiver it can be hardeded after manufacture if needed.
Comment by Jack W. — September 9, 2012 @ 10:19 am
Bought a Vector AK 47 underfolder some time ago. Special Forces Four tour Vietnam vet
had a Valmet. When Vector started upgrading Uzi’s with superior parts he became a fan. I found a Vector AK that had parts “reworked” by Vector. I understand this involves heat treating giving essential parts greater durability. Anyone have info on the accuracy of this info… thanks. Number one essential necessity with any weapon…. shot placement !
Comment by Thom W — September 22, 2012 @ 12:18 pm
I wanted to mention the Chinese 30-rd Steel Magazines as a Top-Notch Option to the East German and Polish magazines.
Comment by Mike — September 22, 2012 @ 11:05 pm
unless u move the gas block, float the barrell, integrally suppress and put some less ugly furniture on it,no i’m not planning on buying any kalishnikov type weapons…nuff said
Comment by Winston Buie — September 30, 2012 @ 10:16 am
I own 2 AK’s very happy with both although I do have to say the one I’m not as happy with is the 10rd single stack only model I have I have to carry twice as many mags to get the same ammo count as my 30rd double stack model I own, and try finding the 10rd single stack AK mags you might as well be looking for a needle in a hay stack you’d have better luck. In the 15 years I’ve owned it I’ve only found 6 10rd single stackers. So make sure you’ll be happy with every aspect of the weapon I might be willing to sell my little AK to someone in California just so they can have a piece of heaven.
Comment by Trooper Smith — October 6, 2012 @ 10:14 pm
Great article. I just wanted to say that the first Ak type weapon I bought was a stamped Saiga chambered in .223. I just love this rifle. It was also my first modification I had done replacing and moving the trigger group foward using a Tapco G2 set. I replaced the gas tube and forearm (upper and lower) added the pistol grip, and changed the buttstock. I also changed the magazines to made in U.S.A. mags. It is totally 922r compliant and the conversion cost about $200.00. The Saiga cost $500.00 out the door with all the fees and taxes, which in Calif. is not bad. All in all, a real nice absolutely TRUE Kalashnikov AK-47 with the exception of the caliber being a .223 instead of the 7.62. I bought a Chinese sks afterwords for $200.00 to the fill the 7.62 catagory! My point…you can do a lot worse than Saiga, a great rifle!
Comment by Bigmag47 — October 7, 2012 @ 7:07 am
[...] A Buyer’s Guide to the AK Family of Rifles [...]
Pingback by So, You’re Thinking of Buying an AK-47? « YouViewed/Editorial — October 8, 2012 @ 10:16 am
I bought an Century arms AK47 Wasr 10 for $485 delivered. Nothing wrong with it and shit straight out of the box. I also bought a Century Arms Centurion 39 100% USa made with milled receiver. best AK I have fired. That sent me back $820 but well worth the money.
Comment by Don — October 9, 2012 @ 8:43 pm
I am not certain why everyone wants to modify or change the AK pattern rifle..they are designed for a specific purpose and they work quite well at that. All the would be Rambos adding lots of after mkt crap…well, arm chair commandos always think adding more toys will make them an ‘operator”;…wrong..The Ak was never designed to be a weapon with superior accuracy…Russian manuals allow for 4in or more at 100 meters as acceptable…the Ak was never desiged to have a hold open bolt…but those in the know…buy Yugo and some Hungarian mags…that are designed to hold the bolt open…and work quite well. Many pros also use 20 rd mags depending on the situation to allow you to get down and maneuver quickly in tight spaces. The mags change sequence is very differnt from an AR..and training inproper technique is essential to be good at it. People who say the AK will not jam etc have never used one in combat…they will and can jam…are they tough and robust..absolutely…but they are not fail proof. To everyone looking for a deal…why?..when was the last time you gave anyone a deal?…..
Comment by WSP — October 20, 2012 @ 10:44 am
Ex Yugoslavian or Serbian gunas and ammo is numero uno’!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Comment by Srecko — October 20, 2012 @ 11:55 am
Very important note. Make sure you get an ak with g2 fire control, most American ak’s have “trigger slap”, a painful result of us modification. You can have the g2 installed by a gunsmith or buy the ak with it installed. I got my ak74 at Atlantic firearms, huge selection. The ak is always a treat to shoot. Just google “ak trigger slap” for more info.
Comment by Robert — November 3, 2012 @ 4:35 am
I have owned several variants including the WASR-10 Pistol and the WASR-10 Bullpup. The Bullpup was surprisingly accurate but cooked your hand with the heat right there at the trigger! Not a smooth trigger, ha ha, but I was trained to pick up anything and roll. I finally settled on an RPK and a Polish AKMS underfolder. The RPK only needed a good bonding coat of Militec 1 when hot to be flawless. It now has done over 8,000 rds and with no failures save the unreliable drum and trying synthetic aftermarket magazines. Any surplus steel mags rock. I refinished the wood myself a dark walnut and left the top wooden fore end piece off for the smoke and for cooling. Saved me money for pining for my old M60! I took off the clangy bipod and put on a Grip Pod with clamp on Picatinny rails. I opened up the rear notch slightly, and can eat up tennis balls on the deck at 350 yds. A side mounted LED light illuminates the sights and target. I use oil based flat black paint for eliminating any glare on top of and inside the rear sight notch, and use model paint in safety orange for the front sight. The LED flashlight is Sportsmansguide Guide Gear 700 Lumen light, and it is set just on the left side and back about 6 inches from the muzzle. To be exactly specific, the RPK is an AES-10. As for the Polish AKMS underfolder, I went straight out and set the rear sight for just under 100yds and it is dead on from 50-100yds. I love it. I paid $550 for it, and had the RPK reduced from $800 to $500 as no one would go for the heavier weapon. By far my gain!
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Comment by bandenspanningsmeter — November 5, 2012 @ 8:51 am
David in Comment 20: Most of the AKs you’ll find have stamped receivers.
I don’t know off the top of my head of any AKs in the US market that have milled receivers, except those from Bulgaria, though I’m sure there are others.
The majority of the inexpensive AKs available will be Romanian, and will be made from fairly cheap, light-weight stamped steel, and are pretty much at the bargain-basement entry level of quality, and won’t win any beauty contests. Don’t let that discourage you: the Romanian rifles will still generally be decent rifles: tough, reliable, and deliver plenty of bang for the buck. The basic pre-ban Romanian rifles will be pretty close to what you expect a typical AK to look and feel like, and will generally have all the bells-and-whistles you could want: the side-mounted scope rails, the bayonet lugs and bayonets, 7.62x39mm, the threaded muzzles, the pistol grips and quite recognizable AK outline – these will generally make a fine first AK, and, the occasional quality-assurance problem aside (canted sights, for example), chances are good that an AK buyer will be quite happy with a WASR-10 and similar Romanian AKs.
The Russian Saiga and VEPR rifles and shotguns, the Yugoslavian rifles, and the Romanian PSL will typically be several steps up in quality, with thicker, higher-quality stamped sheet metal receivers. You’ll typically pay a couple hundred dollars more for these AKs than you would the basic rifles, but these are generally quite nice-looking guns. The standard Saigas are very nice rifles but are, out-of-the-box available in a sporting configuration without pistol grips which won’t look at first glance like a traditional AK, which can be a selling point in California and similar locations, but for the rest of us the conversion, if desired, isn’t a Herculean task (several American companies specialize in nice Saiga conversions), and the Saigas come a fantastic range of calibers (ranging from standard AK-47 and AK-74 cartridges, to the same cartridges used by western rifles, to .410, 20-gauge, and 12-gauge shotgun rounds). The PSL is a slightly higher-quality Romanian AK over-built to handle the common, inexpensive, full-sized Russian 7.62x54R cartridge, and will typically be available with a scope rail and a somewhat crude AK-style “sniper” scope to go with it; it bears a superficial resemblance to the infamous Dragunov sniper rifle; the PSL makes a fine addition to anyone’s collection. Most of the Yugo rifles are beefed-up basic AKs, similar in many ways to the basic Romanian AKs, but of a higher quality; most of these were designed to be used with muzzle-mounted spigot-style grenade launchers, and are overbuilt to handle that added stress; there’s also a nice, large-sized Yugoslavian “sniper” AK variant similar to a higher-quality PSL which uses the common, relatively inexpensive full-sized 8mm Mauser-style cartridge, which should also make a nice addition to an AK collection. I’m not as familiar with the VEPRs, but they seem to be similar in quality and price to the Saigas, with a similar variety of calibers available.
I’m also not very familiar with the Chinese, Egyptian, or German AKs – these all seem to have their fans, though, and I’m sure you’ll be happy with any of these. I’m pretty sure most, if not all, of these will have stamped receivers, and would surely be fairly comparable in quality and price to the Yugo and Russian rifles.
It seems that all-American AKs have their fans as well, and these are apparently of fairly high quality, with a price to match. I know almost nothing specific about American AKs, though; I’m sure many of these American guns use stamped sheet metal, but I wouldn’t be surprised if one or more of the American manufacturers made milled AKs instead. Your best bet there would be to do your own homework here, though.
Czech and Israeli rifles are available that at least pretty closely resemble the AK; I don’t know much about these, either, but these seem to be a quality comparable to the Russian and Yugo rifles. I believe them to have stamped receivers, but I don’t know compatible these guns will be with standard AK accessories (the Czech rifles in particular seem to be their own animals.)
Thanks to the gun laws, almost all the cheaper imported rifles will be built with a combination of surplus, used, left-over, and American-built parts, all of varying quality, and will be assembled in various factories ranging from competent workers who care about what they are doing, down to unskilled labor that critics often compare to drunk monkeys or trained vegetables. The Romanian guns in particular have a reputation for having hit-or-miss quality. It’s normal for even the best of the low-end rifles to look rough out of the box, but you will want to do your shopping in person, and avoid problems like loose-fitting magazines (which will rattle right off the rifle in extreme cases), those canted/crooked front sights, Post-Ban shenanigans like welded muzzle devices and ground-off bayonet lugs, and that sort of thing. That said, I wouldn’t worry too much about the dangers of buying a lemon: I think it must surely be rare for anyone to buy a cheap AK that has anything worse than minor cosmetic problems, and I’m sure if you ask before you buy from most reputable dealers, you’ll find they will probably be willing to exchange the gun if you do get a total lemon.
As for the original article: it seems like a very good primer to me… sure, it doesn’t cover everything about semi-auto AK’s, but I would bet entire books can be written on the subject! So, good job to CTD Blogger
Comment by General Protection Fault — November 8, 2012 @ 6:10 pm
I am a Vietnam vet and saw the ak-47 in action the Arvin’s carried them I have had mine for about 15 years and never cheaned it,just a little break free every now and then..two or three cases of ammo and never a misfire EVER. Pleiku ,camp Holloway 1968-70
Comment by john w Texas — November 19, 2012 @ 3:50 pm
Dont buy a I.O. ak47! my trigger group fell out shooting the first box of ammo.
I’m so disappointed it has to go in for repair,not back for warranty.If they
can’t put it together right the first time they probably won’t the 2nd time.
Comment by Diablo — November 20, 2012 @ 4:51 pm
I think that a valid option is to Build-Your-Own. I built my AK from an AK Builder Parts Kit. I took a Hungarian AMD65 and modified it with a Triangle Folding Stock, a custom-made Integrated Front Sight Base / Gas Block, my own design Muzzle Brake, a Magpul 870 Shotgun Foreend as Handguard and a MD Arms Molot type pistol Grip.
Pics can be seen here – ZOMBAT Carbine:
http://www.ar15.com/forums/t_4_64/100995_New_AK_pic_thread___Lets_see_them_Fellas__.html&page=115
Comment by Mike — November 21, 2012 @ 12:37 am
I tend to agree with most of CTD bloggeers stuff but in this case one has to pipe up.
No one has made an AK -47 in decades not even NoKorea. What he is describing incorrectly and an AK-47 is an AKM.
This ha snothing to do with the full-auto vs semi auto issues.
Even the picture in the illustration shows an AKM as cna be easily seen by the dimple over the magazine well.
I say again no one has made AK-47′s not even china in many decades.
It’s all been AKM’s (and later of course AK-74′s).
is it still posible to buy an AK-47? yes , but its rare, expensive and more for collectors who take joy in owning a -47.
Excepting civilian derivates and their various nomentclatures the original 3 major patterns of AK are AK-47, AKM, AK-74 (not couyning the centuries series for now, which can be argueed, regardless of caliber to be AK-74 patterns)
As a result this article only serves to add to the confusion surroundig the AK family and uninformed media people comically yelling on the camera ” he has an AK-47!”
Comment by Fred — December 1, 2012 @ 8:08 am
Both pics posted in which the pattern could be id’ed where of AKM’s not AK-47s.
IN summary: The M70 series is an AKM , the WASR, the Maadhi, the Type 56, Polyetch, all Norincos ever exported to the US where AKM’s NOT AK-47′s, no matter what maagzine writers wrote in thier own confusion.
Actual AK-47′s (regardless of full or semi dress) are very rare animals.
When someone tells you something is an AK-47 they are nearly always wroig and are simply confusing an AKM with an AK-47 since the media does as well.
Comment by Fred — December 1, 2012 @ 8:14 am
Both pics posted in which the pattern could be id’ed where of AKM’s not AK-47s.
IN summary: The M70 series is an AKM , the WASR, the Maadhi, the Type 56, Polyetch, all Norincos ever exported to the US where AKM’s NOT AK-47′s, no matter what maagzine writers wrote in thier own confusion.
Actual AK-47′s (regardless of full or semi dress) are very rare animals.
When someone tells you something is an AK-47 they are nearly always wrong and are simply confusing an AKM with an AK-47 since the media does as well.
Comment by Fred — December 1, 2012 @ 8:15 am
Fred,
Just wondering if you consider the Mac-90 as an AK-47. And I don’t believe that CTD is making a definitive statement exclusive to “AK-47″ but rather weapons built on the basic AK-47 design. To be so specific one would have to exclude the Norinco Sporter, which as made in China, the WASR group which includes what many consider to be inferior design features, and basically anything not made in the AK factory in Russia, which arguably did not produce the best AKs among all of the various factories around the world.
The truth be told though, any AK produced from 1949 through 1975 and manufactured by either the Izhevsk or the Tula state arsenals are considered by the Soviets to be AK-47s even with their variations. The M designation refers to the AKs produced after the stamped receivers were found to be weak and fraught with mechanical failures and so the “modernized” milled receiver was introduced. Then with improved metals, the stamped receiver was reinstated allowing for the lighter weapon with the reliability of the milled receiver.
In my mind, what designates an AK is the basic design produced by Kalashnikov, which gave us an inexpensive, reliable battle rifle.
No matter what you call it, it’s still a fun weapon to own.
Comment by Jack W — December 1, 2012 @ 1:34 pm
Jack,
In soviet and WarPac nomenclature (I read an East German book on this in the 80′s published by Militarverlag,East Berlin) the “AK-47″ specifically refers to the milled receiver series of the rifle that was superseded in the USSR starting in 1959 (and a little later elsewhere).
Any soviet post 1959 AK (later in some other prudction sucha s CHina and NoKorea) that has astamped reciver, a pinned barrel, the dimple above the magazine well, and the slanted muzzle brake (some few were made w/o MB) are AKM’s.
I believe almost all 7.62mm guns AK sold on CTD fall into that category, UNLESS they are equivalent derivatives of the century series.
The availablity of century seroies production in 7.62 mm complicates things a bit.
The centuries series takes the improvments the AK-74 made on the design a litle furtehr (better MB etc) while being very similair and is availble in both 5.45 and 7.62 (for export).
If someone wants to call the century series the “4th generation” of AK , OR consider them part of the “AK-74 generation/series” either would be a valid view I could accept.
This complicates IDing rifles with modern MB and other “AK-74″ like features in 7.62…. and “AKM” would be acceptable or better yet “AK-74 in 7.62″ or “century series equivalent AK in 7.62″ would be acceptable and accurate nomenclature for those most modern civilian AK’s sold by CTD and otrher vendors.
“AK-47″ as nomenclature for all 7.62 AK’s is certainly incorrect though.
In other to avoid the complecates names listed above it’s probably easiest for some to just call them “AKs”.
Comment by Fred — December 1, 2012 @ 3:13 pm
This information was taken from the following website:
http://www.militaryfactory.com/smallarms/detail.asp?smallarms_id=19
Kalashnikov AK-47 Assault Rifle (1949)
Authored By Staff Writer | Last Updated: 1/27/2012
Since 1949, the timeless Kalashnikov AK-47 Assault Rifle has found many homes – and users.
Soviet Mikhail Kalashnikov was conscripted into the Red Army in 1938 and served as a tank driver when he was injured during the Battle of Bryansk in 1941. During his time at the hospital, he began work on a firearm design specifically to fulfill the requirements to a gun competition being held for the new 7.62x41mm cartridge. Despite losing the competition, Kalashnikov – now part of a team – sought to fulfill a new Soviet Red Army need for an assault weapon chambered to fire the new 7.62x39mm M1943 cartridge. While the war ended in 1945, developments of new automatic weapons continued. The Kalashnikov design (the prototype known as the “AK-46″) was successfully tested in 1946 and a revised, more reliable form appeared in 1947 for additional testing. The Red Army liked the robust qualities of the new weapon and formally accepted the type as the “AK-47″ in 1949 (AK = “Avtomat Kalashnikova”).
Outwardly, it is easy to appreciate the AK-47 as a highly modified StG44 but it invariably takes on its own form thanks to the recognizable Kalashnikov styling. The AK-47 is, in fact, a very clean design and superbly functional for its unceremonious battlefield role. The original form sported much wooden furniture that made the series instantly recognizable to any observer. The weapon was fitted with a solid wooden buttstock as well as a wood-covered pistol grip and forend. The receiver was very much slab-sided and relatively featureless save for the large charging handle and ejection port along the right side of the body. The rear sight was actually set well-forward along the upper portion of the receiver, near the forend area at the gas cylinder. The forward sight was installed just aft of the muzzle. The pistol grip was unobstructed and integrated into the slim, curved trigger unit, the trigger itself sitting within a thin guard with a magazine catch noticeable just ahead. One of the most telling features of the AK-47 series was its metallic curved detachable box magazine which held 30 rounds of ammunition. Another telling feature was the over-barrel positioning of the gas cylinder which – combined with the wooden furniture and curved magazine – gave the AK-47 its highly identifiable appearance to even the most casual of observers. The forward end of the gas cylinder was clamped to the mid portion of the barrel. The AK-47 used a gas-operated, rotating polished steel bolt system in which the gas piston was permanently affixed to the bolt carrier itself. Chromium was used to line the barrel, firing chamber and gas cylinder and this served to combat general operational abuse. The AK-47 was further designed as a select-fire weapon meaning that, by default, it fired in semi-automatic fashion (one cartridge fired for every trigger pull). A full-automatic mode (continuous firing of available cartridges per a single trigger pull) was available through management of the included selector switch. All told, the weapon was a highly utilitarian though robust assault system that seemed to hold a certain mysterious beauty about her (just ask any AK-47 owner/user).
Early production AK-47s were broken down into two distinct batch types – the version from 1948 and the version succeeding these from 1952. However, the early forms – with their stamped sheet metal receivers – proved inherently flawed, mainly due to the sheet-metal stamping technology found in throughout Russia at the time leading many production AK-47s to be rejected right at the factory. This inevitably forced the use of a machined receiver (from solid steel) instead and delayed large-scale entry of the assault rifle until the mid-1950s. The machined process covered AK-47 production from 1951 to 1959 and led to an increase in overall weight of the weapon. However, this method of manufacture itself was proving to be too expensive in the realm of Soviet mass production efforts and, thusly, forced a revision of the AK-47 family. The resulting effort went on to become the AKM (M= “Modernized”) which reverted construction of the assault rifle back to its stamped steel roots – the process refined after much study of German wartime methods – producing a decidedly cheaper and lighter rifle. A new muzzle installment (with a noted slant) was introduced to combat muzzle climb. Several other subtle modifications were also introduced and the AKM was further branched to become the AKMS which introduced a folding metal buttstock – a compact feature respected by paratroopers and vehicle crews alike. One identifying feature of the AKM series versus the AK-47 was its shortened “dimple” imprint above the magazine feed – the AK-47 sported a longer dimple there. Overall AK-47 production spanned from 1949 to 1975 with involved facilities (among others) being the famed Izhevsk and Tula state arsenals.
The RPK was a modified light machine gun development that was completed with a longer barrel assembly and bipod fixture and could serve at the squad-level role for suppression effect and heavy automatic fire. The AKS was given a downward folding metal stock for compactness (similar to the AKMS) and also intended for vehicle crews and paratroopers. A major redesign of the series occurred in 1974 with the introduction of the AK-74, this version being chambered to fire the 5.45x39mm cartridge – the Kalashnikov pattern remained the same however. More modernized AK-47s (within the last few decades) have included the AK-101/102, AK-103/104, AK-105 and AK-107/108 – all taking advantage of weight-saving, cost-effective plastics and polymers in their construction. The AK-101 became an export-friendly version chambered for the widely-accepted 5.56x45mm NATO cartridge while the AK-102 represented its shortened “carbine” form. The AKM was modernized in the AK-103 while the AK-104 was its carbine form. The AK-105 was the carbine version of the AK-74M model (a modernized AK-74 appearing in 1991). The AK-107 introduced a new gas system which changed the “AK” meaning from “Avtomat Kalashnikova” to “Alexandrov/Kalashnikov” after the system’s developer – Youriy Alexandrov. The AK-108 was simply the AK-107 chambered for the popular 5.56x45mm NATO cartridge. Other Kalashnikov-pattern weapons include semi-automatic rifle and shotgun designs.
To date, the new “AK-200″ is the latest AK-47 derivative and the series’s official successor. It was debuted in 2010 and entered production with Izhmash in 2011, manufacture ongoing as of this writing (2012). This particular entry is, again, gas-operated with a rotating bolt firing action but can be chambered to fire the 5.45x39mm, 5.56x45mm NATO and 7.62x39mm cartridges from detachable box magazines, a “casket” type magazine or an RPK-74-style drum magazine. Additionally, support for Picatinny rail accessories has been added and construction streamlined for the most discerning of shoppers.
The AK-47 itself has been license-produced (or outright illegally copied) in a plethora of forms within a plethora of countries worldwide. The weapon type went on to prove quite popular in many places of the world, particularly former Soviet satellite states and allied nations where the 7.62x39mm cartridge also reigned supreme. China produced a copy of the system as the Type 56 beginning in 1956. Hungary modified their AK-47s to become the AKM-63, AMD-65 and AK-63 assault rifle forms. The Israeli Galil sported the Kalashnikov styling and came in 5.56mm and 7.62mm flavors while being based on the Finnish RK 62, itself based on the AK-47. In 1982, South Africa introduced the Kalashnikov-like R4 assault rifle in 5.56mm chambering, a licensed-copy of the Israeli Galil series. Yugoslavia developed their Zastava M76, M77 and M82 rifle lines (among several other notable forms) from the Kalashnikov pattern. The Type 86S of Chinese origin is based on the AKM though reworked into a “bullpup” configuration in which the magazine feed is located aft of the pistol and trigger unit.
It is believed that between 50 and 75 million AK-47s have been produced since the weapon’s inception. Additionally, a further 100 million units owing influence to the AK-47 have been produced from derivative developments making the AK family series one of the most successful firearms of all time. If the AK-47 displayed any limitations in its design, it was in its accuracy beyond 1,000 feet as well as lacking any indicator of an empty magazine (the bolt did not hold open after the last cartridge was fired). Regardless, the broad reach, ease-of-use and low-maintenance requirements of the AK-47 have proven hugely popular with both established armies and ad-hoc organizations looking to propel their movements and instill fear into the general populace.
Country of Origin: Soviet Union
Manufacturer: Izhmash – Soviet Union
Initial Year of Service: 1949
Overall Length: 869mm (34.21in)
Barrel Length: 415.00mm (16.34in)
Weight (Empty): 9.48lbs (4.30kg)
Cartridge: 7.62x39mm
Action: Gas-Operated; Rotating Bolt
Feed: 30-round detachable box magazine
Muzzle Velocity: 2,330ft/sec (710m/sec)
Rate-of-Fire: 775 rounds per minute
Range: 984ft (300m; 328yds)
Sights: Adjustable Iron
Variants:
AK-47 – Base Model Series Designation
AK-47 (1948) – Stamped sheet metal receiver
AK-47 (1952) – Milled metal receiver; chrome-lined barrel and firing chamber; wooden stock and forend.
AKS – AK-47 with folding steel butt
RPK – Light Machine Gun Form; bipod; long barrel
AKM – AK-47 “Modified”; steel stampings; more economical production practices; solid wooden stock.
AKMS – AKM production model with folding butt.
AK-74 – AKM chambered for 5.45mm cartridge.
AK-101 – Export Model appearing in 1994; chambered for 5.56x45mm NATO cartridge.
AK-102 – Carbine variant of AK-101
AK-103 – Modernized AKM; appearing in 1994.
AK-104 – Carbine variant of AK-103
AK-107 – Assault Rifle chambered for 5.45x39mm cartridge.
AK-108 – Assault Rifle chambered for 5.56x45mm NATO cartridge.
AK-200 – Most modern incarnation of AK-47; appearing 2011.
KSK – Combat Shotgun
“Tabuk” – Iraqi AK-47 Variant
Type 56 – Chinese AK-47 Variant
KLS – Iranian AK-47 Variant
IMI Galil – Israeli AK-47 Variant
RK-62 – Finnish AK-47 Variant
M60 – Macedonian AK-47 Variant
OBJ-006 – Nigerian AK-47 Variant
AKK – Bulgarian AK-47 Variant
Operators: Afghanistan; Albania; Algeria; Angola; Bangladesh; Benin; Botswana; Bulgaria; Cambodia; Cape Verde; Central African Republic; Chad; Chechnya; China; Comoros; Congo-Brazzaville; Cuba; Democratic Republic of the Congo; Egypt; Namibia; Equatorial Guinea; Ethiopia; Gabon; Georgia; Greece; Guinea; Guinea-Bissau; Guyana; Hungary; India; Indonesia; Iran; Iraq; Israel; Laos; Lesotho; Liberia; Libya; Madagascar; Mali; Morocco; Mongolia; Mozambique; North Korea; Peru; Philippines; Qatar; Romania; Sao Tome and Principe; Seychelles; Sierra Leone; Somalia; Soviet Union; Sri Lanka; Sudan; Syria; Tanzania; Togo; Turkey; Vietnam; Yemen; Zambia; Zimbabwe
Comment by Jack W — December 1, 2012 @ 3:27 pm
I inherited two new AK whatevers complete with embalmed magazines and 5000 rds of ammo in wood cases. I got them from my father in law who had them for umteen years. I dumped them as quick as I could find some sucker who had an orgasm over them. As I don’t plan for combat I have a pair of Keltec plr16′s. They seem to work fine are accurate and have a look that gives the anti gun people a case of diarrhea. I also have a plr22 which is fun an inexpensive to shoot. If I need a stock on my weapon I use my su16C. All these aforementioned weapons are made by Americans in America.
Comment by hicusdicus — December 1, 2012 @ 9:26 pm
Hicusdicus,
You have no idea of the pain you just caused those of us who had an orgasm at the mention that you sold them. (LOL) Man, what a deal. I hope you got a good price. I’m on the lookout for another AK, this one for my wife. Anyone else out there got one, let me know.
Comment by Jack W — December 2, 2012 @ 9:14 am
@ Jack W. WOW! I have a Saiga chambered in .223 and have always considered it to be (basically) an Ak47. I know, I know people say blah, blah, blah, about a “real” Ak or not. Considering the Saiga design, the manufacturing plant (Russian) and it`s die hard, no problem perfomance, after the conversion I did myself….moved trigger group foward with a Tapco G2, changed the gas tube, and added all primo wooden furniture to it, I basically consider it to be an Ak. Wether it`s an AKM or not is reguardless to me. I must say that your description of facts about this great weapon cleared up more confusion about this rifle than ANYTHING I have read so far. Fantastic job, well written, and all the info on the variations really clears things up concerning ALL the different models. I, as I think most Ak lovers believe that when we speak of an Ak47 we`re mostly speaking of it`s internal designs and action. As you pointed out there are MANY variations, however; all of them are built around Kalashnikovs design. Yea, it may be made somewhere besides Russia, or it may have folding stocks, or it may be stamped, or milled, it may have wood furniture, it may be chambered in 3 or 4 different sizes, etc. etc. etc. But, if it looks like a duck, walks like a duck, and acts like a duck, it probably is SOME type of a duck. Thanks for your article Jack!
Comment by Bigmag47 — December 3, 2012 @ 6:50 am
Jck,
That a good link. attentive reading will show it illustrates the point i was making as well.
I think at this point we can all agree that the rifles currently available are “AKs” ratrher thsn AK-47′s.
respectfully,
Fred
Comment by Fred — December 3, 2012 @ 8:53 am
I recently bought an AMD-65 (Hungarian AK)
Nice little rifle, at a good price. Comes with a side-folding stock, and foregrip, and a good muzzle brake.
There is an upgrade for the the stock available, that makes the rifle a little more acurate, and I have put an ATG quad-rail foreend on, and a different foregrip.
The rail made it possible to put a good reflex site on it.
This is a good little entry level AK, at a great price. The thing I don’t like about it,is that some poly AK mags don’t work in it. Have never had that problem with any other AK, and i’ve owned several.
If you stick to the old-style steel mags, it runs great. I ran about 120 rounds thru it right out of the box, without any problem.
Comment by James E. Barnes — December 9, 2012 @ 8:54 pm
@ James E. Barnes, have you owned a Saiga? If not, you should buy one. As far as having to use the “old steel magazines”, aren`t they cheaper to buy anyhow? At any rate, sounds like your having some fun, enjoy!
Comment by Bigmag47 — December 9, 2012 @ 9:23 pm
Im curious as to why everyone still calls them AK47′s, when from every documentation states that the AK47 has not been made in decades. The stamped receiver and other modifications made for mass production that we see in the rifles sold today, were all part of a rifle designated the AKM. The AK47 was officially dropped decades ago, but I guess do to marketing and media hype, the name continues on, wrongfully used from what I understand.
Comment by DAN — May 17, 2013 @ 9:31 pm
DAN, I agree.
My previous and lengthy multiple posts explain it in moredetail but you summarized it correctly.
Cheers,
Fred
Comment by Fred — May 19, 2013 @ 3:57 pm