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Posted: 1/7/2008 3:20:44 PM EDT
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Which do you guys think is a better rifle? A professionally converted Saiga (riveted bullet guide) or a Vector AK? The Saiga conversion would just be the pistol grip, trigger group, and bullet guide. I have heard great things about the Vector AKMs. They will both cost around $500. |
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I should have been more specific. I have the basic Saiga now. It will cost $500 to convert to a standard AK. I was debating the conversion versus just buying a new Vector. But, I think I am going to do a full conversion on the Saiga. AK USA can turn it into an AK-103 with riveted bullet guide. It is expensive. But, it will be awesome. It will run about $1K. Is that crazy? |
IMHO, yes. |
I guess it just depends on what you want. I wanted to see if I could do it, so I did it myself, and got a pretty nice gun out of it, but it is not an authentic, AK-103. I'm still running the Saiga HG's on it, modified the Saiga trigger guard, etc and so forth. If you factor in the cost of your gun and the cost of the work to do the conversion, you'll end up with a very nice, Russian AK for under $900. That's not bad at all. That said, I am looking to increase my collection's size these days, so I am more inclined to buy another rifle than to spend the money on labor for an existing rifle. Just my $.02. |
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Unless money is no object, I'd do it myself, or find someone cheaper. I've seen conversion prices closer to $350 (if you supply the gun). And, if you're going to convert, you need to replace 4 parts with US parts to stay legal. (922r) The pistol grip doesn't count, since the gun didn't have one initially. In addition to your trigger group, you could install a stock, forearm, or gas piston. And yes, it's a stupid law.  I converted mine myself, and it's not that hard. Counting the cost of the rifle ($269) I've probably got less than $450 in mine.  If you doubt your skills, I bet you could find someone on this board to help. One Saturday afternoon, and you'll have an awesome gun!  But, if you've got the $1000 sitting around, and still have money for ammo, go for it! 
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I don't think so... they turn out nice if they are done right!  |
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