Consensus on the Arsenal SLR-107F (AK-47 clone)

[dodging230grainers]

Just wondering, what is the consensus on Arsenal Inc's 7.62x39 side folder model, the SLR-107F? Pics and user experiences would be great.

Here's one I'm looking at for only $820:

http://www.bigskyguns.com/7_62_39-Arsenal_SLR_107F_Sand_Furniture.html


Also, does the AK-74 brake actually work, as in, reduce felt recoil and make the gun slightly louder?
Thanks!

 

[DeadHorrorFan]

I've always had a problem paying AR prices for an AK, but I gotta be honest, I love Arsenal weapons. They're very well made, fit and finish couldn't be better, and they function flawlessly. You feel sure you're holding the nicest AK you're going to find when you've got one in your hands. Wouldn't mind having another 2 or 3 of them

 

[briansmithwins]

My SLR017FR is a very nice rifle. Mine had to go back to Arsenal to be fixed as I could not zero it as it would run out of windage. I had to pay for return shipping but did get it back fixed the first time. Newer rifle are supposed to ship with a test target, ask to see it.

Fit and finish are excellent, mine holds 4MOA groups consistently, and there is just none of the corner cutting that so many rifle makers use to cut costs.

It just works. BSW

 

[Gary G23]

"Mine had to go back to Arsenal to be fixed as I could not zero it"

This seems to be the norm rather than the exception. That's why I won't buy one.

 

[stubbicatt]

I've read in numerous spots here on the i-net that the bore is drilled off center in the barrel, which, when it heats up under the stresses of firing, will commence to bend, and you lose zero.

I think this is one AK I would pass up. And that's too bad, as I awaited its arrival for years. Sigh.

 

[pmbiker]

I will agree that Arsenal has made some of the best AK types around but the times they are a changin'. It seems they've gotten a little big for their britches. Demand goes up, quality slipps and crap gets out. Glad I got mine early.

The 106 series in 5.56 had numerous feed issues, 107 series bad barrels. The finish on new rifles is horrible, washes off with common gun cleaning solvents.

For the money they charge you should be able to expect near perfection. Like was stated above, AR money for an AK..... and it don't even work!

 

[briansmithwins]

I've read in numerous spots here on the i-net that the bore is drilled off center in the barrel, which, when it heats up under the stresses of firing, will commence to bend, and you lose zero.

The 106 series in 5.56 had numerous feed issues, 107 series bad barrels. The finish on new rifles is horrible, washes off with common gun cleaning solvents.

I can speak to some of those. My zero problem was resolved by Arsenal replacing the FSB, not the barrel. The rifle has (and does) a consistent POI if it cold or hot. Like I said, check for the test firing target before buying.

I also owned a SLR106FR. That rifle was purchased used and ran 100% with any type of ammo I tried. No problems at all except for the ever increasing price of 5.56 NATO.

The paint that Arsenal uses can be removed by brake cleaner or other aggressive solvents. It's not effected by CLP, LSA, USGI rifle bore cleaner, or Ballistol.

BSW

 

[pmbiker]

I'm glad your 107 was an easy fix and your 106 is 100%, but these issues are well documented on various forums and from my local gunshop mouthpiece.

Less aggressive solvents and cleaners are safe, true. Many times I've read about a very worried and ticked-off new Arsenal owner that used Gunscrubber, DOH!!!!

I know you should try a test patch in an inconspicuous area, but really how often is that done.

 

[nalioth]

Also, does the AK-74 brake actually work, as in, reduce felt recoil and make the gun slightly louder?

Of course it works, if you get a real one (such as Arsenal uses).

Don't waste a glance (or anything else) on these 14x1LH "AK74 style" brakes for AKM pattern rifles, they are 922r compliant junk.

. . . and yes, the actual AK74 brakes are very good loudeners.

 

[Rubber_Duck]

Also, does the AK-74 brake actually work, as in, reduce felt recoil and make the gun slightly louder?

The muzzle device on the rifle in the OP's link isn't a -74 brake. It looks like a generic flash hider.

And yes, the AK-74 brakes work VERY well at taming muzzle rise and recoil. But for $820 I better be getting 2 AKs.

 

[nalioth]

It looks like a generic flash hider.

Depending on Arsenals choice, that is a US or Bulgarian made RPK74 flash hider.