It basically is what I thought it would be: A nicely finished, classic style AK. The fit and finish is definitely head and shoulders above a WASR, which is what I wanted. For $499, I think it is a very good deal. At $850+, I would have been more hesitant to say it was a good deal. Why, you ask? Because while the parts are nice, I still think the VEPR was a little better in the "quality feel" category, and I got my VEPR for around $620 OTD back in the day. The primary reasons I sold the VEPR (which I now regret) were the weight, and the non-standard furniture. The SGL21 does differ on both these points with the 1mm receiver, light barrel, and standard furniture. Some observations, questions, and further musings:
-The Warsaw stock feels like a nice, correct LOP. It has a spring loaded trap door in the back... what the hell are you supposed to put in there? A cleaning kit or something? I am also going to have to research what folding stock options are really viable for this rifle.
-The rear sight is elevated out to 1000 yards (heh)... I guess I'll feel like a dumbass momentarily, but I don't see how to adjust the windage on this thing? The VEPR had a screw for drifting the rear sight left or right. This one doesn't. The included 25yd test target looks pretty close, but I'm guessing I will still want to make an adjustment for 100yd zero.
-The finish on the receiver is pretty nice. This actually might be more durable than that of the VEPR.
-The machining and whatnot on the bolt and carrier are pretty nice, like on the VEPR, and they feel just a little bit lighter weight also. There is currently *not* any noticeable play at the joint between the rear of the piston and the front of the carrier, like there is supposed to be on a good AK build. The VEPR had some, but if I remember correctly, it didn't develop until the rifle was broken in with a couple hundred rounds. So, I hope this doesn't represent a problem, and will reserve judgement until after I get a chance to shoot it.
-My Bulgarian waffle mags currently fit pretty tight in the magwell. I'd rather have tight than loose, but it wouldn't hurt my feelings if this loosened up just a little bit with some shooting.
-The little standard AK style pistol grip, while having the "correct look", has never been at all comfortable in my big hand. I'll likely be looking to replace this with something else.