AKOU Live 8/31/17 - Future of AK in USA...

Published on September 1, 2017
Duration: 40:15

This video discusses the current state and future of AK-pattern rifles in the US market, noting challenges with imports due to sanctions and rising parts prices. It highlights new designs from Kalashnikov Concern, like the AK-12 and AK-15, featuring modernizations such as free-floating handguards and collapsible stocks. The speaker expresses concern about the increasing cost of AKs impacting the hobby but remains optimistic about the enduring presence of AKs in the US, with potential for increased US-based production.

Quick Summary

The US AK rifle market faces challenges from reduced imports and rising parts prices, pushing up costs for consumers. However, new designs like the AK-12 and AK-15 offer modern features, and the platform is expected to remain popular with increased US production.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction and Live Stream Setup
  2. 01:07Vepr FM Rail Availability Update
  3. 02:24Gratitude to Texas Recovery Efforts
  4. 03:45Challenges in the US AK Market
  5. 04:41Rising Prices and Hobby Impact
  6. 06:36Good News: Arsenal SLR 107R Expected
  7. 07:03Optimism for the AK Market
  8. 07:30Sanctions and Political Climate
  9. 08:13Challenges for New Enthusiasts
  10. 08:53AKs are Here to Stay in the US
  11. 10:11New Kalashnikov Designs: AK-12 and AK-15
  12. 13:13Modernized SVD Replacement Rifle
  13. 15:30Viewer Questions and Discussion
  14. 16:21Vepr vs. Arsenal Finish Comparison
  15. 17:10Best AK Available in America
  16. 18:00Vepr Thumbhole vs. FM Conversion
  17. 18:44Reviewing Arsenal Milled AKs
  18. 19:27Rock Island Armory Pistols
  19. 20:11SKS Video Plans
  20. 20:59Blackheart AKs Review Inquiry
  21. 22:06Tikka T3x Review Update
  22. 22:46Vepr Spare Parts Ideas Video
  23. 23:24M+M Technologies Discussion
  24. 24:01SAM7SF vs. Galil ACE Recommendation
  25. 24:43GL Core Stock
  26. 25:24Is the US AK Platform Doomed?
  27. 26:00AK-47/74 Recon Spring Update
  28. 26:13Ruger Mini 14/30 Review Inquiry
  29. 26:23WBP AK (Atlantic Firearms) Worth?
  30. 28:03Is 7.62x54R Still Worth Getting?
  31. 29:146.5 Grendel AK Review Suggestion
  32. 30:26Reading Live Chat Questions
  33. 30:47Atlantic Firearms Manufacturing AKs
  34. 31:27Polish AK Importation Status
  35. 33:20Definitive Arms Facility Update
  36. 33:54Galil ACE Review Series
  37. 34:34MAC-90 Collectibility
  38. 35:167.62x25 AK with PPSh-41 Magazines
  39. 36:14AK Magazine Identification Guide
  40. 37:20M10 Stock Recommendations
  41. 37:43Support for Build Parties
  42. 38:35New AK-15 Variants Replicated in US
  43. 39:12What Happened to DDI?
  44. 39:34Conclusion and Thank You

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main challenges facing the AK rifle market in the United States?

The primary challenges include the decline in imported AK models like Saiga and Vepr, rising prices for parts kits, and increasing manufacturing costs for US-based producers. These factors contribute to higher retail prices, potentially alienating new enthusiasts from the hobby.

What modern features are being introduced in new AK designs like the AK-12 and AK-15?

Newer Kalashnikov Concern models, such as the AK-12 and AK-15, incorporate modern features like free-floating handguards for improved accuracy, collapsible M4-style stocks for adjustability, and enhanced rear sights mounted directly on the top rail for better sighting solutions.

Will AK rifles remain available in the US market despite import challenges?

Yes, the speaker strongly believes that AK rifles are here to stay in the United States. Even with import restrictions, there is a strong likelihood of increased production from US-based companies to meet demand, ensuring the platform's continued presence.

What is the outlook for the 7.62x54R caliber in the current firearms market?

The 7.62x54R caliber is considered a declining choice for new rifle purchases. The scarcity and increasing cost of surplus ammunition, particularly match-grade sniper rounds, make it less practical compared to more readily available calibers like .308 Winchester.

More General Videos You Might Like

More from AK Operators Union, Local 47-74

View all →