VZ 58 or AK 47

[BP Hunter]

Hello folks! I am actively looking for a long rifle in 7.62 x39. I will be using it basically for plinking. I have a decent number of long rifles in different calibers but none in 7.62 x 39. I use to have an SKS but sold it because it didn't ring my bells.

My local gunstore is selling an WASR AK 47 in wooden stock "new" for $529. Next to it is a VZ58 "used" selling for $550, which I most probably will be able to haggle for a better price. According to the owner of the store, there is nothing wrong with the VZ58. The previous owner had it only for 1 month and wanted to sell it for money. The VZ looks "brand new" with a very nice finish on the metal.

I cannot decide on either, what do you folks think?

Thanks.

 

[The Watchman]

Don't have experience with a vz but whatever you do, do not pay that much for a wasr ak. If you look you should be able to find a decent wasr for 375-400 max.

 

[A_Matthew]

Personally, I'd jump on the VZ58. I haven't been able to find one for that price anywhere. Just make sure it's not a VZ2008, (a VZ58 clone by Century) in which case it would be over priced.

 

[gunnutery]

I'm with watchman, the WASR is too overpriced. I'm not sure if you have any Fleet & Farm stores by you, but round here they go for about $420.

No experience with the VZ's, but like was already said, check to see if it's a Century build.

 

[rocinante]

I have two vz2008 and a converted saiga. Both the century vzs are great guns and a hoot to shoot. The AK gets less and less play time. Bag on century all you want but for 360 each it is the best value EVER.

Really go with the vz over the wasr. Milled receiver yet a pound lighter than an AK, bolt hold open, handles better, flip safety, easy to strip and clean. Better design all the way around.

Another thought is check if the vz is the single stack sportster model. If it is a czechpoint single or double stack you will have to buy their magazines to stay 922 compliant. The century can use surplus mags no legal problem.

 

[Afy]

Vz 58 definetely. It is a more refined weapon.

 

[sansone]

I like the VZ much better, do some research here and decide.
Used is a little risky so this is a tough call

 

[Moose458]

VZ-58 hands down.

 

[navajo]

which

VZ 58. No contest.
Picked up one a few months ago. Haven't touched any of my other rifles since.

 

[bri]

Go for the VZ. If it's a VZ-58, that's a great price. If it's a VZ-2008, talk him down to around $400 and you'll be good.

 

[towboat_er]

VZ 58 fer sure

 

[Eb1]

i purchased a vz2008 and could not be happier. It is a solid rifle, and shoots great. Using Wolf MC HP 124 grain as ammo. I sighted in dead on at 25 yards, and at 100 yards can shoot small potatoes off of the 100 yard line polls at the range in the standing position. I don't know why the get such a bad rap.
Granted it isn't the best in finishes, but nothing a little love couldn't resolve, but for what it is which is a folding stock 7.62x39 rifle. It is a nice rifle. I had to sell my Colt AR 15 HBAR when my son was born, but found the vz2008 for $375 with 2 mags at the LGS. Bought it to have a 30 rounder around + ammo is still under $200 for 1000 rounds.
I have zero complaints about my century vz2008. Very easy to break down. Has a bolt hold open also. Maybe I got a good one, but it is the only one I can use as reference. I have put 500 rounds down range, and have had zero fail to feed or failure to fire from either magazine.