in 308, specifically. ( e.g. no hi-caps for either)

Roughly 300 vs. roughly 600

It's kinda like comparing a Chevy Lumina to a Cadillac sedan. Both will get you there and back, but the Caddy will do it in more comfort and style. Only you can decide if that extra level of attention to detail matters to you.

Quoted: in 308, specifically. ( e.g. no hi-caps for either) Roughly 300 vs. roughly 600

Not in my opinion.  It would be chump change to convert the Saiga over, and no where near $300.  

Quoted: Quoted: in 308, specifically. ( e.g. no hi-caps for either) Roughly 300 vs. roughly 600 Not in my opinion.  It would be chump change to convert the Saiga over, and no where near $300.

What are the differences?? Specifically, what would it take to make the Saiga a Vepr level weapon?

I have a Saiga 7.62X39 that I got in a trade(even up) for a Savage 22-250. I got it from a friend who had helped me do some work on my house so that is why I took the loss. I have fired it very little but it seems to be OK. I am not an AK man but I think I would buy the VEPR before converting any Saiga of any caliber.

If you have a Dremel and a couple of screwdrivers, you can have a PG Saiga with a scope for the price (or less) of a Vepr.

That has to make you

Saiga .308               $300
G2 FCG (EE)              $30
Saw grip (EE)              $18
Tapco stock (EE)       $45
Pistol grip nut + screw $8
(1) bolt + nut for
 trigger guard               $1
--------------------------
Total                         $402

Russian PSOP Scope: $100-$200

Of course, you can go up from there by substituting an RSA FCG, using different stocks, or adding an RSA FCG Retainer Plate.  


As to what has to be done, check here.
And it is actually easier than that because all of the necessary holes exist, the orig fcg uses the orig fcg pins, and teh bullet guide is unecessary.