If you're handy enough to operate a drill, tap a hole, and grind 1/32" of metal with a dremel......
Get a Saiga in 7.62x39mm for about $230.
Conversion parts run about $130.
When you are done, you can have an Arsenal (I think better) grade AK for just a touch under $500.
Saiga is made by Izhmash where Mr. Kalashnikov himself works, and where all the AK-100 series are made. The barrels, bolts and receivers are all absolutely top-shelf AK stuff.
Conversion will get you a G2 trigger which is better than a 2-stage aftermarket AR trigger, and a SAW grip which is a huge improvement over the regular AK grip. You will also be able to use AK magazines which are cheap, robust and reliable.
If you spend $40 more than the $130 I said above, you can get an AR-style M4 collapsing stock for your AK instead of the standard plastic buttstock. There are folders, but they cost even more.
This option requires some effort, research (saiga12.com) and handiness. If you can do that, you're getting a LOT of quality for a very low cost.