Best Starter AK

[seanmcp]

Okay, let me preface this by saying I've got 0 background in these weapons, and am just now starting research. So, I'll be doing a boatload of reading. But, to answer my short term curiosity, what would you folks recommend as the best starter AK, in terms of affordability, parts availability (for the non gunsmiths among us who have to have drop in parts, not stuff that's 'pretty close and can be made to work'), and durability/reliability? I see all the different countries that sourced the AKs, and some are $ and some are $$$$$. What's a good place to start for someone who wants an inexpensive one to see (beyond just shooting a friend's) how much he wants to get into these puppies? Yes, I've been lucky enough to shoot various models (semi auto and full auto, yay Kentucky and the Knob Creek Machine Gun Range and friends with too much money and crates of ammo), but within reason to my untrained eye, they're pretty much all and the same, since all of the ones I've fired have been wellmaintained, I wouldn't know a cheap crappy one from a good one :)

Thanks!

[GunZnWomen]

A Romanian AK is going to be your least expensive option at about $260 give or take $15. However, I would never buy one sight unseen.

There are WAY too many that have canted front sights or problematic gas blocks.

If you can find a local Romak for sale in that price range, and take a friend who has knowledge about AKs who can check it out for you, that's the best way to go.

If you want to step up to the plate in terms of quality, you're eventually going to have to spring for a VEPR or Arsenal anyways. The only real question is whether now, or later. Just a thought (hint - buy quality and cry once ;) ).

[Optimus Prime]

Best starter AK......

Is with out a doubt a Romanian SAR-1, or now more easy to find the WASR. These are great inexpensive gun to learn the in and outs of Dr. K's creation. If you replace the FCG and customize your furniture or just replace it you will have a new favorite rifle!!!

[dglockster]

I bought a SAR1 this last December. That has been my only experience with the AK and so far, I really like the little rifle. One of the best online sites I have found for the AKs with good info and tutorials is:
http://www.gunsnet.net/Linx310/index.shtml

[Optimus Prime]

Originally posted by dglockster
One of the best online sites I have found for the AKs with good info and tutorials is:
http://www.gunsnet.net/Linx310/index.shtml

Been a member over there for years, they turned me on to this forum! ;f

[KinderGlocken]

Get a Saiga in 7.62X39 $180. They are good quality and are made in the original AK47 factory in Russia. Shoot it for a while. Then you can spend $100 on a conversion. It will be the best AK for around $300 total. If you spend a little more you can put in the best trigger group made for an AK (Red Star Arms ajustable). This site shows you how to do the conversion step by step http://harringt.home.mindspring.com/Pages/kalashnikovs.htm

[p01ic3m4n]

i have a hi-cap WASR-10. it's more reliable than sunrise. just check it out and make sure the gas tube is straight. the canted sights don't seem to be a problem on the WASRs. you can buy 30 round mags for less than $10.

if you get a WASR-10, make sure it will take hi-cap mags. some won't. if you can find an SAR-1, get that, but either way, they're almost identical. 1000 rounds for about $80 = good times.