Would someone please tell me about the finnish valmet assault rifle .223 and if they are worth the purchase.

the valmet is a kalashnikov clone. selling for $1200-2500 depending on condition and model. .223 magazines are a little pricey and somewhat difficult to track down..but by no means impossible to find. the 7.62x39 versions command higher prices and use standard ak magazines.

the valmets are high quality firearms and exhibit above average accuracy among kalashnikov derivatives.

long considered collectible, a valmet is a fine addition to any collection. spare parts are difficult to aquire. although some ak parts from other countries can be fitted, the valmet utilizes many parts unique to the finnish version of the kalashnikov.

Valmet is one of the best AK clones ever made.
It is definitely worth the purchase.
Keep in mind that these are chambered for .223 not 5.56.

Dare I ask how much is the price?

MN

Damn
Bob you were couple of seconds faster. [:)]

BTW I do happen to own firing group parts for Valmet...

MN

mn,
The asking price is $950. The gun is camo, which looks like it was manufactured that way, and seems to be in pretty good shape.
Now about the ammo. Will I be able to use my South African or Lake City .223 in this gun?

hakim

Price is pretty good, since this rifle isn´t made for years. It was never made in camo colored, IMHO.

Friend of mine called me couple of months ago and told me about strange failures to eject with 5.56 surplus (South African, Radway Green, IMI and RUAG) which has never happened with his other Sakos or Valmets.
I told him that his Valmet has maybe .223 Rem chamber and I called to retired gunsmith who worked for Valmet when these rifles were made.
He confirmed my thoughts.

He was very helpful and promised to ream the chamber to NATO specs. He had made earlier tools to re reaming without having to take the barrel off the receiver.

MN

So, my recommending is to use only .223 ammo in that rifle if you decide not to chamber it 5.56.

and remember, valmets are not chrome lined bores or chambers. (and thus, one reason they are more accurate)

MN,
Thanks for the info. Not sure if I would purchase if I can't just throw in it what I am using in my others.

The model means everything!

In priority order(My opinion):

1. M62- 7.62*39
2. M78- 7.62*39 (Not sure if any Semis exist)
3. M76- 7.62*39
4. M71- 7.62*39
5. M76 .223 Milled
6. M78 .308
7. M76 .223 Tubestock folder
8. M76 .223 Fixed Tubestock
9. M76 .223 Wood
10. M76 .308
11. M71 .223

There is an M82, but I've never seen one.  The M71 is the least valuable, and is most likely the one you are looking at, unless somebody really needs some cash.  The easiest way to ID it is to see if its rear sight is in the same location as an East Block AK.  The M78 has the sight in the same location, but it is a far bigger weapon, and is not likely to be confused with any other AK.