Florida Shooters Network

Im looking At buying my first Ak. What to avoid and what is half decent. Don't want to spend too much, budget is around $400 to $650
Thanks

Tons of information out there. If you want something in 7.62x39, I love Chinese Mak90s. Very well made, but have no flash hider or bayo lug, and will likely not have a pistol grip or standard buttstock, as they're ban era guns. I have the stock black polymer stock on both of my Maks and I love 'em. Tantals are pretty inexpensive and are well made, and include a folding buttstock, but if you've never shot with one, they're a bit short. Tantals also shoot 5.45x39, which is cheaper than the 7.62 and have less recoil.

Other than that, just find one you like...and avoid WASR10s unless it's under $400 and has straight front sights.

Get a decent Bulgarian or get yourself a Saiga and convert it.

SergeK wrote:get yourself a Saiga and convert it.

I disagree for a first AK choice. Doing a complete conversion of a Saiga to a classic AK look is alot of work, and could be overwhelming to someone not familiar with AKs in the first place. Get familiar with the platform, then go big.

Thanks for the responses.