Sub $1000 AK74 options?

[shotgunjoel]

So I'm interested in buying a 5.45 AK, but the only options that I can find are the Molot Vepr at $1000 with the too thick/too heavy 1.5 mm receiver, the Arsenal SLR-104 at $1100, and the SGL31 at $1400+. Why can you find 47s in the $600-800 range, but no 74s below $1000!?

 

[illinoisburt]

Importation bans on the parts kits limits what's available from builders. Most of the less expensive 47's you see now are US built from US parts. The market for the 74 was never very big compared to other models. The main draw was inexpensive surplus ammo which was banned a while ago drying up much of the demand which had existed further limiting the likelihood of US made rifles.

 

[Jackal]

Even though they shipped out a few stinker towards the end of their stint in the AK industry, my Waffen Works '74 was awesome. Has a couple thousand rounds through it and no problems yet. They were well liked, but after shipping out some bad receivers, their rep went into the toilet.

 

[brunowbe]

If you are on a budget seek out a Romanian SAR2 or WASR2, both can be found below $750 easy.

My advice, pony up the extra cash and get the SLR104, it's a great rifle and well worth the money. I've got both the SLR and a WASR2, won't part with either.

I am interested in getting one of the new Veprs, for under $1,000, it seems like a pretty decent deal. If prices come down with the new administration, I will get one for sure.