Yugo vs. Bulgarian AK

[22HM77]

I'm trying to decide what AK to get (or actually, what semi-auto rifle to get for under $600). How's the Bulgarian 85C compare to the Yugo M70B2? Can you tell me anything more about the reliability and accuracy of each?

SSR 85C: http://www.aimsurplus.com/acatalog/Bulg ... Rifle.html

YugoM70: http://www.aimsurplus.com/acatalog/Yugo ... Rifle.html

Also, am I right in thinking that both rifles probably have enough U.S. parts to accept foreign magazines?

 

[Bazooka Joe71]

Neither one of your links work.

 

[stubbicatt]

The Yugo is a heavy rifle. But I prefer it over the Bulgarian due to its domestically manufactured barrel, which, near as I can tell, makes it more accurate. If you get the wooden stocked one, the stock is sort of weird for a cheekweld. I can't really explain it, but my face never really found a comfortable place to reside where it didn't seem my shoulder was being pushed back too far or something. It might have just been my rifle, or my weird body build, which.

The Bulgarian is built to AKM specs, which means that there will be a wider range of add on accessories should you wish to do so. If you can get one with a scope rail on it, that really opens up the possibilities for that rifle.

I don't think you can go wrong with either choice, but if you are the type who likes rails and red dot sights on the gas tube, and stuff like that, you would probably be more happy with the Bulgarian.

That's my take on it anyways.

 

[pmbiker]

Well, it's like this.

The Yugo is a very solidly built rifle but not to true AKM specs as the above poster mentioned. Not all of the aftermarket stuff fits on it. Yes, it has a US made barrel and yes they are marginally more accurate than others but they do have a big downside. No chrome lining. If that matters to you it could be a deal breaker, would be for me.

The Bulgarian you listed is not a true Bulgarian and is not built to AKM spec either. Originally they were built in the US by Armory USA on their own reciever. I'm sure it was a financial decision but they outsourced the manufacture to Bulgaria. The reciever is 1.6mm vs. 1.0, the muzzle break is tack welded to the barrel which wasn't legally necessary since the AWB sunset and I think the bayo lug is not there. I don't know their source for the remainder of the parts but I know the barrel is chrome lined. All that may not be a deal breaker but there have been numerous reports of feedway stoppages and reliability issues with this rifle.YMMV.

If it were my money here's what I'd do. In true WECSOG fashion I'd buy a Russian Saiga and convert it. If not so mech. inclined I'd go to Atlantic Firearms website and pick one from Vector or Lancaster and be done with it. Both companies offer a factory warranty and Atlantic will stand behind what they sell.

If you like the Saiga idea check out http://www.saiga12.com and go from there. If not you already know where to find the rest. Good luck and let us know what you choose.