Ak-74

Ak-sharpshooter · 06-24-2009, 06:55 PM

Thinking about buying an Ak-74 5.45x39mm, can anyone give me some advice as what to look for and price to pay for one?

XSAPPER · 06-24-2009, 09:54 PM

SAR-2, ROMAC II are good choices. WASR-2's are hit or miss. As far as ones built from kits it depends who built it as far as quality goes.

maxhush · 06-25-2009, 01:03 PM

I like the Interarms Tantals for around $700. You may still find some on GB for around that price from time to time (being very, very, sure that it is a Interarms/High Standard assembled Tantal with the original chrome-lined barrel). Atlantic had the TGI assembled Bulgarian AK-74s for $739 recently (no idea if they still have any). Steer well clear of any Century/CAI assembled Tantals, with serial numbers below 2500 (according to reports). I consider the jury to still be out on the post-2500 (supposedly with "corrected" for diameter and twist, US made non-chromed barrels) serial number Century Tantals (and it *is* Century, so ordering one online is more problematic as you cannot check for the infamous canted front sight/gas block or the other quality touches for which Century AK builds have become known and refeared). There are lots of reports worth reading on the Bulgy AK-74s and Tantals sprinkled about in the AK-74 forum.

AKTom · 06-25-2009, 01:53 PM

My favorite 5.45 AK I have is my Intrac MK II, I would recommend this rifle if one can be found, it has been outstanding, and very accurate. My Century Tantal is a good one, no keyholes, no cycle issues. My WASR-2 is also a decent build, accurate with no cant. The Romy MK II is my fave of the group though..Good Luck!......Tom

Ak-sharpshooter · 07-14-2009, 10:00 PM

Thanks for the help guys!!!

recon-1 · 08-01-2009, 10:38 AM

http://www.atlanticfirearms.com/storeproduct760.aspx

Va_AK · 08-01-2009, 11:12 AM

My Romak II does me well, I just replaced the thumbhole stock and got a pistol grip and it's good to go!

nalioth · 08-01-2009, 11:42 AM

You guys are all barking up the wrong tree.

Best damned "AK74" you can get:
Saiga 5.45x39 IZ-240 16" Barrel - Centerfire Systems

maxhush · 08-01-2009, 03:27 PM

Well, those appear not to be available for a month or more yet. I also wonder if they're single or double stack mag wells and they certainly look like they do not have barrels threaded at the muzzle. So, there will be a cost to make them look something like an AK-74, capable of using doublestack 30 round AK-74 milsurp mags, that is 922r compliant. What is the total cost of that considering everything? (And you still may not be able to put a decent AK-74 muzzle brake on it). By the time you add it all up, and if your time is worth anything, I doubt you'll save that much over just shopping hard for a deal on an IA/HS Tantal, or a Bulgarian AK-74, or in building up from one of the newly available AK-74 parts kits running from $299/330 (US made, claimed to be chrome-lined bbls) to $420 (original Bulgarian bbls). You need to do the math. If you like it the way it is (or live in a "neutered" state), then it's probably a decent 5.45x39 rifle, and quite possibly worth the money, but as configured, it's not really that close to an AK-74.

nalioth · 08-01-2009, 03:50 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by maxhush

Well, those appear not to be available for a month or more yet. I also wonder if they're single or double stack mag wells and they certainly look like they do not have barrels threaded at the muzzle. So, there will be a cost to make them look something like an AK-74, capable of using doublestack 30 round AK-74 milsurp mags, that is 922r compliant. What is the total cost of that considering everything? (And you still may not be able to put a decent AK-74 muzzle brake on it). By the time you add it all up, and if your time is worth anything, I doubt you'll save that much over just shopping hard for a deal on an IA/HS Tantal, or a Bulgarian AK-74, or in building up from one of the newly available AK-74 parts kits running from $299/330 (US made, claimed to be chrome-lined bbls) to $420 (original Bulgarian bbls). You need to do the math. If you like it the way it is (or live in a "neutered" state), then it's probably a decent 5.45x39 rifle, and quite possibly worth the money, but as configured, it's not really that close to an AK-74.

It's been being done over at the Saiga forum for years. . .

I will tell you now that a converted Saiga is going to be a "cream of the crop" rifle.

None of your negative points are "negative".

• 24mm military front sight blocks are available. They just switch out.
• ALL Saigas accept double stack mags. To use milsurp mags, at a minimum, a bullet guide is necessary (this was done for import reasons)
• These rifles are all brand new parts. Many of their parts are the same as are used on the current AK-74M. They don't have "US made barrels", but instead they have hammer forged military grade barrels. The Saiga's aren't 2nds or "factory kit guns" as the WASRs and SSR-85s are. They're not used parts kits being put together by minimum wage angry beavers.

Even a "basic conversion" of a Saiga is a better rifle than what some shops put out. You can do a "basic conversion" for about $100 worth of parts and a couple of hours of your time.

You sound like you've never heard of a Saiga before. I'd suggest you look into it. They're the best bang for the buck.

Va_AK · 08-01-2009, 04:03 PM

I got my Romak II for $500, $10 pistol grip, and I think $20 buttstock and refinished it. It already accepts double stack mags.

500+10+20=530

Then add on a muzzle device of your choice and you have a decent AK 74.

maxhush · 08-02-2009, 08:46 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by nalioth

It's been being done over at the Saiga forum for years. . .

I will tell you now that a converted Saiga is going to be a "cream of the crop" rifle.

You sound like you've never heard of a Saiga before. I'd suggest you look into it. They're the best bang for the buck.

We all have our own (firearms in this case) preferences and priorities. That's what made this country great, for how ever much longer it lasts....

steel core · 08-03-2009, 07:14 AM

My pick is the SAR-2 if you can find one. Just make sure you drop a G-2 trigger in. Other than that, it's a real solid AK.

Ak-sharpshooter · 08-19-2009, 02:30 PM

Anybody know if the Saiga 5.45x39Iz--240 with 16" barrel that Nalioth was talking about can accept double stack clips?

nalioth · 08-19-2009, 06:06 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Ak-sharpshooter

Anybody know if the Saiga 5.45x39Iz--240 with 16" barrel that Nalioth was talking about can accept double stack clips?

No, but like all Saigas, it'll accept double stack mags. With a little work and some US parts, it'll legally accept milsurp AK74 mags.

Jaimenv · 08-19-2009, 07:41 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by nalioth

You guys are all barking up the wrong tree.

Best damned "AK74" you can get:
Saiga 5.45x39 IZ-240 16" Barrel - Centerfire Systems

++1 on the Saiga 5.45x39.

Solid new rifle you can shoot out the box and later convert to 74 specs.

Not for the person that will not be able to covert on it's own. Yet they are a deal that you may not see again on a new rifle on this caliber that will not keyhole.

Under $400.00 with free shipping, got to love it.

Enscribe · 08-19-2009, 10:29 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by nalioth

No, but like all Saigas, it'll accept double stack mags. With a little work and some US parts, it'll legally accept milsurp AK74 mags.

Thanks! I have just added this to my database. Just the thing for the people who go on and on about "clips".

Ak-sharpshooter · 08-21-2009, 03:33 PM

Ha! Ha! Thanks for bustin my balls I deserved that , Damned ol Ak junkie like me outta know better than that huh!

Jpanzer · 08-22-2009, 03:46 PM

Just got a new AK 74 from Lancaster Arms, complete with a chrome lined US made barrel. Very pleased with the craftsmanship on it, but have not been to the range yet...

Ak-sharpshooter · 08-22-2009, 06:26 PM

Sounds nice let me know how it shoots. Got any pics?

Jpanzer · 08-23-2009, 03:37 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Ak-sharpshooter

Sounds nice let me know how it shoots. Got any pics?

Hope to get some pics up soon...

Jpanzer · 08-26-2009, 08:35 PM

As promised, some pics of my new Lancaster AK 74.

New US made 4140 chrome moly - chrome lined barrel, Elk River receiver,on a Bulgarian AK 74 parts kit. Plum furniture, zigzag muzzle brake, Bulgarian circle 10 mag included. Lifetime warranty for the original owner.

Bulgarian mags fit perfectly, East German bakelite mags have a bit of wobble, but nothing major. Very happy with the fit and finish or the rifle, but have had it less than a week so I've not made it to the range yet.

Got some Bulgarian wood I've refinished ready to install, and will post more pics when I add that and a few other goodies...

Ak-sharpshooter · 08-27-2009, 06:23 PM

That's a sweet rifle, how much did it cost you?

Jpanzer · 08-27-2009, 06:50 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Ak-sharpshooter

That's a sweet rifle, how much did it cost you?

Lancaster is selling them with plum or black synthetic furniture for $659, with wood for $699.

Hell of a deal I thought for a AK74 WITH a correct twist , new chrome - lined barrel.

Not much more than the POS Tantal's Century is flooding the market with...

Ihopdemon · 08-27-2009, 08:15 PM

I can't believe no one has mentioned RedJacket Firearms. I think they make some of the best AK's on the market. However, you are paying THE top $$$ for them.

06-24-2009, 06:55 PM	#1
Ak-sharpshooter Veteran Member Contributor AKaholic #: 11436 Join Date: Mar 2008 Location: morganton GA. Posts: 1,266	Ak-74 Thinking about buying an Ak-74 5.45x39mm, can anyone give me some advice as what to look for and price to pay for one? __________________ Shoot, Get Shot or Get the f#%k out of the way!!! I have a dream that, in the future, my children will not be judged by the color of their skin, but by the amount of AKs their father has on the wall. -Jakesgunreviews

06-24-2009, 09:54 PM	#2
XSAPPER Veteran Member AKaholic #: 6034 Join Date: Jun 2006 Location: Longview, TX /KY Posts: 1,817	SAR-2, ROMAC II are good choices. WASR-2's are hit or miss. As far as ones built from kits it depends who built it as far as quality goes. __________________ "If it's fun it must be illegal" "GOD, GUTS, AND GUNS MADE AMERICA FREE" AND I'M KEEPING ALL THREE!

06-25-2009, 01:03 PM	#3
maxhush Veteran Member AKaholic #: 39250 Join Date: Apr 2009 Location: NW MS Posts: 1,423	I like the Interarms Tantals for around $700. You may still find some on GB for around that price from time to time (being very, very, sure that it is a Interarms/High Standard assembled Tantal with the original chrome-lined barrel). Atlantic had the TGI assembled Bulgarian AK-74s for $739 recently (no idea if they still have any). Steer well clear of any Century/CAI assembled Tantals, with serial numbers below 2500 (according to reports). I consider the jury to still be out on the post-2500 (supposedly with "corrected" for diameter and twist, US made non-chromed barrels) serial number Century Tantals (and it is Century, so ordering one online is more problematic as you cannot check for the infamous canted front sight/gas block or the other quality touches for which Century AK builds have become known and refeared). There are lots of reports worth reading on the Bulgy AK-74s and Tantals sprinkled about in the AK-74 forum. Last edited by maxhush; 06-25-2009 at 08:54 PM.

06-25-2009, 01:53 PM	#4
AKTom Member AKaholic #: 44932 Join Date: Jun 2009 Location: Ohio Posts: 105	My favorite 5.45 AK I have is my Intrac MK II, I would recommend this rifle if one can be found, it has been outstanding, and very accurate. My Century Tantal is a good one, no keyholes, no cycle issues. My WASR-2 is also a decent build, accurate with no cant. The Romy MK II is my fave of the group though..Good Luck!......Tom __________________ AK owner since 1989

07-14-2009, 10:00 PM	#5
Ak-sharpshooter Veteran Member Contributor AKaholic #: 11436 Join Date: Mar 2008 Location: morganton GA. Posts: 1,266	5.45 Thanks for the help guys!!! __________________ Shoot, Get Shot or Get the f#%k out of the way!!! I have a dream that, in the future, my children will not be judged by the color of their skin, but by the amount of AKs their father has on the wall. -Jakesgunreviews

08-01-2009, 10:38 AM	#6
recon-1 Senior Member AKaholic #: 655 Join Date: Nov 2003 Location: PA Posts: 870	http://www.atlanticfirearms.com/storeproduct760.aspx __________________ Member #504 Buy It Cheap! Stack It Deep!

08-01-2009, 11:12 AM	#7
Va_AK Member AKaholic #: 22051 Join Date: Dec 2008 Location: Va, USA Posts: 434	My Romak II does me well, I just replaced the thumbhole stock and got a pistol grip and it's good to go! __________________ Erik "Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness" "But what they don't understand is armed with knowledge, we're Americans. The left has always underestimated the patriot. They have always underestimated, they don't even understand why we love our country."

08-01-2009, 11:42 AM	#8
nalioth Devil's Advocate AKaholic #: 5678 Join Date: Apr 2006 Location: Houston, Texas Posts: 13,228	You guys are all barking up the wrong tree. Best damned "AK74" you can get: Saiga 5.45x39 IZ-240 16" Barrel - Centerfire Systems __________________ I make custom signature images - click for more info "Tactical" is a mindset, not an equipment list. Home \| Forum \| Blog \| PicPaste \| ♠ ImgDump \| ☎ Nalioth

08-01-2009, 03:27 PM	#9
maxhush Veteran Member AKaholic #: 39250 Join Date: Apr 2009 Location: NW MS Posts: 1,423	Well, those appear not to be available for a month or more yet. I also wonder if they're single or double stack mag wells and they certainly look like they do not have barrels threaded at the muzzle. So, there will be a cost to make them look something like an AK-74, capable of using doublestack 30 round AK-74 milsurp mags, that is 922r compliant. What is the total cost of that considering everything? (And you still may not be able to put a decent AK-74 muzzle brake on it). By the time you add it all up, and if your time is worth anything, I doubt you'll save that much over just shopping hard for a deal on an IA/HS Tantal, or a Bulgarian AK-74, or in building up from one of the newly available AK-74 parts kits running from $299/330 (US made, claimed to be chrome-lined bbls) to $420 (original Bulgarian bbls). You need to do the math. If you like it the way it is (or live in a "neutered" state), then it's probably a decent 5.45x39 rifle, and quite possibly worth the money, but as configured, it's not really that close to an AK-74. Last edited by maxhush; 08-01-2009 at 03:35 PM.

08-01-2009, 04:03 PM	#11
Va_AK Member AKaholic #: 22051 Join Date: Dec 2008 Location: Va, USA Posts: 434	I got my Romak II for $500, $10 pistol grip, and I think $20 buttstock and refinished it. It already accepts double stack mags. 500+10+20=530 Then add on a muzzle device of your choice and you have a decent AK 74. __________________ Erik "Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness" "But what they don't understand is armed with knowledge, we're Americans. The left has always underestimated the patriot. They have always underestimated, they don't even understand why we love our country."

08-03-2009, 07:14 AM	#13
steel core Member AKaholic #: 1103 Join Date: Dec 2003 Location: Valley Of Tears Posts: 328	My pick is the SAR-2 if you can find one. Just make sure you drop a G-2 trigger in. Other than that, it's a real solid AK.

08-19-2009, 02:30 PM	#14
Ak-sharpshooter Veteran Member Contributor AKaholic #: 11436 Join Date: Mar 2008 Location: morganton GA. Posts: 1,266	Saiga Ak-74 Anybody know if the Saiga 5.45x39Iz--240 with 16" barrel that Nalioth was talking about can accept double stack clips? __________________ Shoot, Get Shot or Get the f#%k out of the way!!! I have a dream that, in the future, my children will not be judged by the color of their skin, but by the amount of AKs their father has on the wall. -Jakesgunreviews

08-21-2009, 03:33 PM	#18
Ak-sharpshooter Veteran Member Contributor AKaholic #: 11436 Join Date: Mar 2008 Location: morganton GA. Posts: 1,266	Clips Ha! Ha! Thanks for bustin my balls I deserved that , Damned ol Ak junkie like me outta know better than that huh! __________________ Shoot, Get Shot or Get the f#%k out of the way!!! I have a dream that, in the future, my children will not be judged by the color of their skin, but by the amount of AKs their father has on the wall. -Jakesgunreviews

08-22-2009, 03:46 PM	#19
Jpanzer Member AKaholic #: 44460 Join Date: Jun 2009 Location: Georgia, C.S.A. Posts: 252	Just got a new AK 74 from Lancaster Arms, complete with a chrome lined US made barrel. Very pleased with the craftsmanship on it, but have not been to the range yet...

08-22-2009, 06:26 PM	#20
Ak-sharpshooter Veteran Member Contributor AKaholic #: 11436 Join Date: Mar 2008 Location: morganton GA. Posts: 1,266	Ak-74 Sounds nice let me know how it shoots. Got any pics? __________________ Shoot, Get Shot or Get the f#%k out of the way!!! I have a dream that, in the future, my children will not be judged by the color of their skin, but by the amount of AKs their father has on the wall. -Jakesgunreviews

08-26-2009, 08:35 PM	#22
Jpanzer Member AKaholic #: 44460 Join Date: Jun 2009 Location: Georgia, C.S.A. Posts: 252	As promised, some pics of my new Lancaster AK 74. New US made 4140 chrome moly - chrome lined barrel, Elk River receiver,on a Bulgarian AK 74 parts kit. Plum furniture, zigzag muzzle brake, Bulgarian circle 10 mag included. Lifetime warranty for the original owner. Bulgarian mags fit perfectly, East German bakelite mags have a bit of wobble, but nothing major. Very happy with the fit and finish or the rifle, but have had it less than a week so I've not made it to the range yet. Got some Bulgarian wood I've refinished ready to install, and will post more pics when I add that and a few other goodies...

08-27-2009, 06:23 PM	#23
Ak-sharpshooter Veteran Member Contributor AKaholic #: 11436 Join Date: Mar 2008 Location: morganton GA. Posts: 1,266	Ak-74 That's a sweet rifle, how much did it cost you? __________________ Shoot, Get Shot or Get the f#%k out of the way!!! I have a dream that, in the future, my children will not be judged by the color of their skin, but by the amount of AKs their father has on the wall. -Jakesgunreviews

08-27-2009, 08:15 PM	#25
Ihopdemon Member AKaholic #: 52128 Join Date: Aug 2009 Location: America, OH Posts: 31	I can't believe no one has mentioned RedJacket Firearms. I think they make some of the best AK's on the market. However, you are paying THE top $$$ for them.

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