IMO, the Saiga is a great weapon, but admittedly I'm partial to AKs.
Being a blown up version of the AK47, it will feature the same sort of pros that the rifle will
if you use full power ammunition. Shooting the target loads that you get at wally world will turn it into a bolt action. They just don't have the pressure to run the weapon. Let's face it, there's a lot of metal to move in a bolt carrier that big. I have seen drop in replacement pistons that supposedly allow functioning with the cheap target loads, however not yet being an owner, I have no experience and can't vouch for thier reliability.
Ammunition capacity is on par with the Kel-tec if your packing 12 rounders. They can be had fairly easily, Saiga12.com carries them in stock. They aren't cheap, however... Even better, there is at least one company that makes a 25 round snail mag for it <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />. The 5 rounders are easy to find, cheap, and more manageable in confined spaces, but I feel the MUCH faster reload makes up for the unwieldiness of the weapon. However, the NFA required 18" barrel will make for quite a long weapon, which could be unwieldy in close confines without a folding stock. I would definitely go for an SBR if I were to buy one right now.
As for conversions, there are several ways you could go about that as well. You could go for the drop in replacement stocks that fit un-modded shotguns for an inexpensive fix, just screws right in. Or, you could go the gunsmith route and have it converted back to a true mil configuration, which would cost a bit more. Either way, the functionality wouldn't be hindered in any way, and there is a whole slew of aftermarket rails and other doo-dads that are available now. There are even some pretty hefty aftermarket mods that can be had from custom shops like Rifle Dynamics if you really want to chop it up and turn it into a slick TEOTWAWKI life insurance policy.
There are pros and cons to any system though. Full disclosure: I'm very biased, lol. I fully intend to have a Kel-tec ready to rock and roll under the bed, and I also plan on having a kitted out Saiga in the closet as my SHTF weapon as well. You can never have too much firepower <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" />
still working on how I'd explain to the cops why I used a shotgun with a 25 round drum mag to defend my home against an intruder though...
