I am thinking about finally buying my first AK. Now I don't know which one. There are a ton. I was thinking an Arsenal AK SGL21 because I heard they are good. I am wondering if there is anything else that is good fit and finish. Needs to function great too. What else is out there. Thanks for any help.

You don't state what you're looking to do - simply buy and shoot? extensive modify?

You also don't say what you're looking to spend, so it would seem possibilitiies are limitless!! Stamped vs milled also will be impacted here.

For a milled AK, and without spending $1200+ on an SAS-M7 or $1800+ on a Polytech Legend, I'd look to find an SA-93. Generally considered some of the finest milled receiver Arsenals, because they are Russian Type-III AK clones made in Bulgaria. Mine is built like a tank and for ~$800 you will have a dang fine AK.

If you want to spend less than that and get a stamped AK, it's hard to beat an SAR1. I own/have owned AMD65, WASR10, WASR10-63, Maadi, etc... (all $600 of less) And that little SAR1 is the one I keep and trade off the others. With G2 trigger, it goes bang every time. Couple weeks ago when buddy and I were shooting our AKs, he kept wanting my SAR1 because it was such a pleasure to shoot.

The buyers guide recommended above is a great resource. Once you decide, the EE on here usually will give you an idea of what they are selling for or you can check out one of the auction sights.

Good luck with you search.

Stay away from anything IO marked.

why?