You can buy a Saiga and convert it rather easily, and have an excellent rifle (I've done this) for about $500. Then run through the some items from the upgrade list below for the WASR, because many items apply to the Saiga rifles, as well. The downside to a Saiga is that many aftermarket parts won't fit a Saiga, though support is getting better.
Or you can buy a WASR and do some of these things:
* Test mag well to ensure polymer mags fit; steel mags usually fit OK with polys being snug or even too big. Dremmel mag well and/or fit poly mags.
* Check front sight base and gas block and correct with vise and rubber hammer, as required. Remove and repin if needed.
* Replace trigger group with G2 or RSA adjustable kit. Fit as required for smooth operation but with hammer block and safety working properly.
* Replace fire control group shepherds crook with retaining plate.
* Replace welded piston with a properly pinned unit.
* Replace Warsaw Pact length stock with Kvar NATO lenth. Pair with Magpul AFG or stubby vertical grip if you use a 'wrap-around' hold.
* Replace Com Bloc pistol grip with ergonomic grip that fits you best. Tapco SAW, US Palm, Mako, etc.
* Pull the safety lever away from the receiver far enough to ensure easy actuation, smooth inside as required.
* Dehorning and smoothing rough edges everywhere on mating surfaces, being careful on trigger components.
* Bench test with all commonly available ammo, from a shooting rest and using a good optic. Test with brake, forearm, and cleaning rod removed. Allow time to cool between shots.
* Repeat bench tests with the selected ammo trying different forearm styles and fits (loose or tight). Note how accuracy is affected and select a forearm that works for you and doesn't affect accuracy.
* Repeat bench tests using tight and loose gas tubes. Find out how your baseline mechanical accuracy changes with loose or tight tubes.
* Repeat bench tests with different muzzle brakes. Note how accuracy is affected and select a brake that works best for you and doesn't negatively affect accuracy and POI.
* Repeat bench tests with and without the cleaning rod attached and decide whether or not to install it on the rifle.
* Ensure the receiver cover is not pushing against the front trunion when installed. Grind enough material off the front edge for a better fit if it is pushing against the trunion.
* Benching the weapon again every time something is added, such as a light, new rail system, heavier scope, etc.
And you'll also have an excellent weapon - assuming you got a shooter - for around $450 and there will be enough aftermarket doo-dads to make it into whatever you can dream up.
I've done both. My Saiga-based AKs run flawlessly and are very accurate for battle rifles. My WASR 10/63s have been run very, very hard and never skipped a beat as long as the mags are good and are very accurate for AKMs.
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