If you're left-handed, be damn careful where you place your right hand while shooting an AK-47. Actually, that's good advice any time you're shooting an unadapted semi rifle left handed.
There seems to be some unwritten rule, that for every trip to the range you will never return completely unscathed. There will always, at the minimum, be a pinch or minor cut.
You can often save a lot of money and get a superior firearm by buying an Eastern Bloc design.
Russians had some very good ideas. A ushanka hat is ideal for keeping your head and ears warm. Sized properly, a genuine ushanka is designed to allow you to tuck your ear tips into it without them feeling crushed like they do with most hats, and has a thick, soft lining. Domestic clones cannot compare. The side flaps also are excellent for when it's really cold.