Best Place to get SAR-1 or Equivalent?

[matsaleh]

Please forgive me if I'm repeating a too-often repeated question. If so, just point me to the relevant thread and tell me to go away. I've been reading this board for a few months, and have learned much from you all. However, I'm now confused on the best and/or most reliable sources from which to order an SAR-1 or equivalent (e.g. WASR-10 hicap, etc.).

My parameters are:
$280-$350
double-stack mag
minimal possibilty of sight/gas tube cant
like-new finish

I've seen ads that appear to meet these critera at:
SOG (http://www.southernohiogun.com)
FAC (http://www.facamerica.com/007.asp)
AIM (http://www.aimsurplus.com)

I'm sure there are others, but I can't remember them. I'd appreciate any suggestions.

Thanks!

 

[Redlg155]

All of the SAR1s are going to pretty much look the same regardless of the distributor used. The only difference you may or may not see is the quality of service from these folks. Just make sure they consider a canted gas block to be a mechanical defect rather than a cosmetic. Otherwise you will have trouble returning the weapon.

My suggestion would be to visit the gun shows and check them. That way you can be assured you will get the rifle you want. This is also a good time of the year to purchase guns because most folks are worried about tax debt rather than purchasing. The dealers will also feel this, thus leaving you more buying power when it comes to prices. The last show in Ft Walton Beach, FL had them for $349.00. That's about the same after you pay for shipping and FFL fees. And again..at the show you can hand pick out of numerous rifles.

Canted gas blocks are still alive and well. At the last gun show I saw a couple on WSAR10s dated 2003. All of the SAR1s I saw were ok. A good way to check it to hold the rifle pointed away from you about waist level and look down the entire weapon to the muzzle. Everything should be straight. If you have a canted gas block you will definitely know in an instant.

Good Shooting
Red

 

[DMK]

I agree with what Redlg155 said. I good SAR is a nice little rifle, but Century Arms, who made these, has very spotty quality control. Not a good rifle for luck of the draw mail order, especially when you have to deal with a "man in the middle" FFL transfer.

Along with the gunshows, check your local dealer's and pawnshop's shelves. These rifles are still quite common. I'll bet you have one nearby.

Your biggest worry is canted front sights and gas blocks. If everything is straight, any other issues with them can be fixed.