I agree with socandyman in regards to getting the hands on experience to learning. I went into building my first AK build with no knowledge, nor the tools, whatsoever. Reading the online postings here and elsewhere, I figured out what was needed. The first thing I purchased was a 12 ton press from Harbor Freight for about $100. Then I figured I needed some gear pullers, to help with the barrel removal process, for $12 (3 piece set). The only other thing that I purchased to help facilitate my builds was a $59 dremel kit. Now I am wanting to purchase a $155 flat bending jig so that I can bend my own receivers. Figure in a $199 spot welder for the rails. All in all, it's to what extent you want to get into building, that'll determine how much it will cost to get into building an AK. Over time, that ramp up cost will more than pay off with the amount of builds you do.