Does this MAK-90 have a milled receiver?

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It really depends upon the condition of the MAK-90. They haven't been imported for years, so you're going to be buying a used gun. I've handled some that were in like-new condition that really impressed me with their fit and finish. I've handled others that had seen some obvious use.

This is just my opinion, but I wouldn't buy that gun for a couple reasons: the furniture is ugly (the sporter stock is almost ubiquitous on the MAK-90, but what's up with the funky lower handguard?) and I don't like the long barrel. If you're going to modify that gun to look more like a standard milspec AK, then you're better off getting a new-in-box Saiga for ~$150 less. If you're going to keep and shoot it in the sporter configuration, then you're probably still better off getting a new-in-box Saiga for $150 less.

As far as the Romanian guns go: I have a new WASR-10/63 which has about 200 rounds through it so far. It has a rough finish (especially the wood) but is solid and well assembled (yes, you read that correctly). It shoots and runs just fine. A lot of people whine about the WASR, others love them - so it seems to be hit or miss. The WASRs imported over the past year or two do seem to be much better than the earlier batches.
 
I believe that's an NMH-91-- a longer barreled version of the MAK-90, and they have that funky lower handguard.

Worth $450? Not to me, but if it's in really good condition it's not a terrible price. That long barrel might be interesting, but for a little more you can get a Russian Vepr, which has a true heavy (RPK style) barrel and RPK bolt lugs-- more heavy duty all around. Otherwise I'd prefer a standard config AK. That being said, I've heard from customers who have NMH-91s and like them.

Wear spots will be at the bolt lock lugs, front block "kick off" cam, cocking tang on the back of the bolt carrier, camming surfaces between the carrier and the bolt, the top of the hammer where the carrier rides over it. I've seen MAK-90s that were completely shot out (I'd be afraid to fire them-- that bad) and as stated, others that were like-new.

Some used AKs I've seen had been "messed with" by previous owners trying to do trigger work and other custom work. Some of that work is OK, but most of it is horrible. Cheap guns are more attractive for the novice as "project" guns, so buyer beware. I guess it's the good work that remains unnoticed.
 
if its still in good shape it will be better quality than a romanian ak.
the stock could be changed out with some other parts to keep it 922 compliant if you dont like the current stock.
 
Sorry, but I'd rather have a yugo underfoldler for $500, or the Tantal sidefolder for $450, or even a full stocked Bulgarian for $600. If I got a really good deal on that gun, I might get it, but it doesn't really have that much appeal to me as is.
 
The Maks are good guns, and better quality than the Romaks I've seen. I've got a couple MAK90 and NHM91 (the RPK version). That one looks to be a stamped NHM91, but missing the bipod. For a decent RPK clone with a chrone lined barrel, $450 isn't bad, but I'd try to negotiate the price down a bit.
 
The MAK-90 is light years better than the WASR. The MAKs have a nice blued finish. You'll need to spend about $125 on a G2 trigger and U.S. stock to be pistol grip compliant though. The Yugos are also good, but are selling for around $600 now.
 
I just don't see the point of a long barrel AK. It won't drastically improve the ballistic limitations of the 7.62x39 cartridge, and if you desire accuracy beyond what the comparatively handy standard config model can provide, you're probably better off looking at another platform altogether - unless you just really happen to like the AK pattern. :)
 
An NHM-91 is basically a Chinese RPK. The barrel is quite heavy, and if you buy it, look for the bipod that goes around the barrel in front of the band. They are considered more desirable than just a regular MAK-90, but as we have seen from comments here, not everyone agrees. You can convert it into an RPK configuration, but you must follow the componant count rules for it to be legal. Chinese AK's in any configuration don't have the usual AK side scope mount, the Romanians usually do unless they have a folding stock. I happen to think Chinese AK's are one of the best in quality, near the best, without the increased price.
 
i own a mac90 and as far as accuracy it aint so bad!!
i get average 6" groups at 100yrds with the open sites with cheap ammo!!
i would think the longer barrel would improve the groups.
as far as the price it only worth what your willing to pay and how bad you want it!!!
 
I'm not an expert and to me, that AK isn't worth the amount listed but I think the Norinco AK's are quality AK's as far as AK's are considered.
Like most AK's, they work. That Norinco looks to have a stamped receiver but it should be heavier/thicker metal than some other AK's.
 
if its still in good shape and thats a big if, considering its probably 14-18 years old. would say the price is about right and they arent going to get any cheaper, its probably one of the few ak rifles that should actually increase in value.
 
Hoplophile,

The tell-tale sign of a milled receiver is the rectangular cut on the receiver, directly above the magazine. On stamped AK's, this is a much smaller dimple (as in the picture of the MAK-90 you posted).
 
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