M10X pistol versus other AK pistols? Help?

[epijunkie67]

I've been kicking around getting an AK pistol for a while and after looking around on line I've realized I should have done this BEFORE Covid. I'm looking for something with an 11-12" barrel that takes AK mags in 7.62x39. I want to put a folding brace on it and if it can take an optic that would be perfect. I'd also like to clock in under $1,000. An easy thing to do, 2 years ago.

During my research I've found the M+M M10X pistol. It's got a 12.5" barrel, has a rail, and takes AK mags. I can't find any information about taking a folding brace. I also kind find much information about it in general. It's not exactly an AK. Is it reliable? Durable? Anyone have any experience with it?

I've also seen the PA Hellpup. It's got an 11.5" barrel, is an AK, and has an optic rail on top. But I've heard terrible things about it. Is it really that bad?

So outside of those two what other options would people suggest? I'm not spending 2 grand on an AK pistol, and even if I would there isn't a lot available right now.

Suggestions?

 

[Rio Laxas]

This is a good article on them: http://www.smallarmsreview.com/display.article.cfm?idarticles=3918

And a newer review: https://www.gunsamerica.com/digest/m10x-world-rifle/

I don't have any experience with the M10X, but the gas system and bolt are very similar to a SIG 550. As a fan of the SIG 550, I was intrigued by them when they first came out, but I do recall reading reports of reliability issues back then. I'm not sure if they have all that worked out or not.

 

[HPJeep]

Here's a good review of the rifle version. I'm wanting one of these too:

 

[barnetmill]

The easy button for me was getting an AR pistol in x39. The shortcoming is the AR brace since it is part of the buffer tube and can not normally be folded to get real short like the AK pistols can.