Saiga vs. VZ-58

[matai]

I don't have anything that shoots 7.62x39, so I'm trying to decide on a good AK variant. I know the VZ isn't really an AK but if you were to have only one rifle for 7.62, what would it be? The Saiga and VZ-58 are about the same price right now. I'm leaning towards the VZ, but am not sure because it doesn't take standard AK parts. What do you all think?

Thanks

 

[Arbor]

You didn't mention it here, but the Yugo SKS is a solid shooter and a great deal for the money.

 

[9mmepiphany]

the Saiga mags will be cheaper, but that's it's only advantage over the VZ-58

the VZ-58:
1. has a milled receiver..but is still lighter than the AK
2. will be more accurate
3. has a better trigger
4. comes equiped with a stripper clip guide

 

[Click Click Boom]

Buy a bunch of parts kits for the VZ 58 and you wont have to worry about parts for a long time.

 

[Ian]

I would get a VZ58, even if I didn't already have a bunch of AKs. They're just a cool, effective gun (and I also have 15 or 20 mags for them, which helps ).

 

[WardenWolf]

Also keep in mind that the VZ-58 costs $800 to $1000, whereas a Saiga 7.62 can be had for $450. I'd think that would count for something. The gun costs half as much, and the mags are cheaper. It all depends on how much money you have. You're going to really wind up taking it with the VZ. Yeah it might be a somewhat better gun, but is it worth $800?

 

[MatthewVanitas]

I'd say the VZ-58 seems more fun overall, especially the folding stock models. It's a very slim, light gun. I used to run across some Czech Army troops that had the folder versions, and they always looked so tiny in the gun racks at the chow hall next to the American's M16s.

Further, if there is any future import restriction (which would seem far more possible than an actual AWB), there are a lot fewer VZs floating around the US then Saigas. Further, there are a lot of guns at least generally similar to Saigas already in the US, but only a VZ is really like a VZ.

 

[ifit]

the way the panic prices are now for aks, i would rather pick up another vz58. but i also have an ak variant norinco in .223 the trigger is butter smooth compared to my vz. the mags on the vz(aluminum) not as durable as the stout steel aks. another advantage to the vz is last shot the bolt locks open. or just get them both