Tips your first AK 47/74 (AKM)- What good, and what's crap.

Published on February 2, 2018
Duration: 40:14

This video serves as a comprehensive buyer's guide for AK-pattern rifles, differentiating between reliable imports and problematic models. The instructor, Chris from Regular Guy Training, emphasizes the 'big three' countries of origin (Russian, Bulgarian, Chinese) for quality AKs, while also discussing Hungarian, Egyptian, and Romanian firearms with caveats. He details specific recommended models like Arsenal's SLR series, Poly Techs, Norinco 84S, Polish Archers, and Romanian Cugir RH-10s, while warning against Century Arms products, particularly the C39 and RAS47, and Zastava's 'cardboard receivers'. The guide also touches on demilitarized kits and custom builders.

Quick Summary

For AK-pattern rifles, prioritize Russian, Bulgarian, and Chinese origins for quality. Highly recommended models include Arsenal's SLR series and SAM-7, rare Chinese Poly Techs and Norinco 84S, Polish Archers, and Romanian Cugir RH-10s. Avoid Century Arms C39/RAS47 and Zastava AKs due to significant quality control and material issues.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction & Video Purpose
  2. 00:51AK Buyer's Guide Framing
  3. 02:22The Big Three: Russian, Bulgarian, Chinese AKs
  4. 03:10Other Good Origins: Hungarian, Egyptian, Romanian
  5. 04:31Fantastic Complete Guns: Arsenal Rifles
  6. 06:27Arsenal Models: SLR Series, SAM-7
  7. 08:36Rare & Excellent Chinese AKs: Poly Techs, MAK 90
  8. 10:44Polish Archer Rifles (5.56)
  9. 12:17Lee Armory AKs (with caveat)
  10. 13:27Rare Chinese Norinco 84S
  11. 14:10Romanian Cugir RH-10 (Cougar)
  12. 16:33Sporter AKs Needing Conversion
  13. 17:34Russian Saiga Conversions
  14. 18:26Yugoslavian PAP M70 (Sporter)
  15. 19:26Norinco MAK 90 Details
  16. 21:13Demilitarized AK Kits
  17. 22:22Reputable AK Builders
  18. 24:46Okay AKs (with caveats): WASR-10/63
  19. 25:36WASR-2 (Romanian 74 Pattern)
  20. 26:03DDI AKs (with caveats)
  21. 27:08Problematic AK Builders & Models
  22. 27:14Palmetto State Armory (PSA) AKs
  23. 27:42Inter Ordnance (IO) AKs
  24. 27:59Century Arms C39/RAS47
  25. 28:30Zastava AKs (Cardboard Receivers)
  26. 30:47Century Polish Tantals (Barrel Issue)
  27. 31:46Tapco G2 Triggers & Issues
  28. 34:01Aftermarket Trigger Recommendations
  29. 34:48Missed Manufacturers & Experience
  30. 35:28Future Videos & Resources
  31. 36:11Community Discussion & Questions
  32. 36:41Training Classes & Patreon Support
  33. 39:03Facebook Group & Interaction
  34. 39:32Conclusion & Final Thoughts

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best countries of origin for AK-47 and AK-74 rifles?

According to expert firearms instructor Chris from Regular Guy Training, the top three countries for reliable AK-pattern rifles are Russia, Bulgaria, and China. These origins generally indicate higher quality manufacturing and dependable performance, making them the safest bets for buyers.

Which AK-47/74 models are highly recommended by experts?

Experts recommend Arsenal rifles like the SLR series (e.g., SLR-107 FR) and SAM-7 models for their superior quality. Other highly regarded options include rare Chinese Poly Techs, Norinco 84S, Polish Archer rifles, and Romanian Cugir RH-10s, known for reliability and accuracy.

What AK-47/74 manufacturers and models should be avoided?

Century Arms products like the C39 and RAS47 are strongly advised against due to soft metal and poor heat treatment. Zastava AKs are also flagged for potential 'cardboard receivers' and inconsistent quality. Inter Ordnance (IO) and Palmetto State Armory (PSA) AKs have also shown quality control issues.

Are Romanian AKs good for self-defense or hard use?

Yes, Romanian AKs, particularly models like the Cugir RH-10, are highly regarded for their extreme reliability and durability, often called 'beater guns.' While they might have a rougher finish, their core function is exceptionally dependable, making them suitable for hard use and self-defense.

What are the common issues with imported AKs that require conversion?

Many imported AKs, especially those originally configured as sporters, may come with thumbhole stocks and be limited to single-stack magazines. To function as a proper self-defense rifle, they often require conversion to accept standard double-stack magazines. Additionally, some Polish Tantals imported by Century Arms had incorrect 5.56 barrels installed, necessitating a barrel replacement.

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