schulze has pretty much stated the facts as we commonly accept them.

the kalashnikov in 7.62 x 39 is an adequate deer rifle inside of 200 yards. it's also hell on coyotes. the soft point ammo is usually given the performance edge over the hollow point stuff...at least as far as the imported ammuntion brands go.

wasr's can be had starting at $289 in my area. the rf109 is a slightly jazzed up version by ohio rapid fire. they add a muzzle brake and refinish the basic wasr. i'n not certain, but that model might also have a shortened barrel.

check out ohio rapid fire's website for a full selection of their models.

the arsenal incorporated sam7 milled ak47 is probably the best beginner's kalashnikov. it is one of the best available, for quality assembly and finish level, and is usually trouble free. these sell in the $575 range.

vector ak's are a good bargain, also, in my book. the are made up of parts sets and american receivers/parts.

There area few (very few) AKs with out chrome bores, like a Norinco I had.

Vector's sold by Atlantic are a good deal now, esp if you want a Polish underfolder for $500. The RF109 is also good when you consider refinish work and muzzle device included, on top of the $290 wholesale for the Romy base gun. Century fcg in Romy base guns vary, but all are cheapo, so do not be shocked if you find the desire to swap it out. AMD kits also shoot well.

You can spend more...but accuracy will not improve a heap. Just avoid builds from unknown people.

The caliber is fine for deer, thousands in WV use it.