SKS vs. AK47 as first centerfire rifle

[mordechaianiliewicz]

If this is a rifle for when the excrement strikes the oscilator, I would recommend the AK. From what I've been told of firefights (from cops, and police who've been in shootings), one can easily go through alot of ammo quickly, and having the greater capacity is an advantage you want to have.

Also, the SKS while a great reserve rifle is just a little more complicated. You're talking about marginal, but all around the AK is better. Now, for hunting, the SKS is superior (more accurate, and you don't need 30 rounds for deer). But, the AK is superior for defense.

 

[rangerruck]

if you plan on buying an ar , skip the sks as edventually it will make you very unhappy, you can NEVER go wrong with an ak , and youll be glad you bought it.

 

[Koobuh]

Actually, I would like to suggest that you purchase a Mosin Nagant rifle of some flavor and an SKS for about $100-125 each. You will still have about $150 left over to buy ammo with, and you will get to sample the full-size centerfire bolt action experience as well as the intermediate semiautomatic.
These rifles are pretty much the starting point in milsurp collections because they are extremely cheap now and are rugged enough to last a lifetime of use.
An AK is fun too, but you'll get more bang for your buck by getting a mosin and SKS. Also, these rifles will begin to appreciate value as collectibles in the near future as supplies dry up. Who really thought we'd be running out of milsurp Japanese rifles, for example? These things aren't being made anymore, and have undisputed historical value, as well as being very fun to shoot. A commercial AK won't have as much of a value increase in years to come, barring further noisome legislation.

 

[Lonestar.45]

I have both. I picked up both a shooter grade and an unissued grade Yugo SKS first. I shot the shoooter grade and loved it, put the unissued up as a safe queen. I then went out and bought a WASR AK. I much prefer to shoot the SKS. It's just plain more accurate. True, the WASR has 30 round mags, but I have a feeling I'm never going to shoot it much because of the inaccuracy. I'm talking from a bench, 50 yds, and 4" or larger groups. My SKS at that distance will put them nearly touching. Now I'm thinking of selling off the WASR to put the $ towards an AR.

 

[briang2ad]

My Paratrooper Chinese "Civilian" SKS

Shoots quite well, and is VERY high quality. It is also shorter and lighter than the current YUGOS. It outshot a Winchester 30-30 at 75 yards one day. I paid $120. I'm sure the guy with the Win paid more. The Russians are very nice, but command premium prices now - $300-400. You might nail a Yugo M70 Underfolder AK for $450. Pretty good quality.

Whatever suits your taste - try them out.