There is usually something AR related in the survival forum which is understandable. Does anyone else run an AK?

I have both, and after 25 years of AR ownership am starting to lean toward the Kalash.

I recently sold my Yugo AK-47. The AK is stone reliable with big parts. It is not as accurate as my AR-15s, but accurate enough for defense at modest ranges. I really prefer the 7.62x39 to the 5.56. Now I only have .223 and 5.56 NATO caliber defense rifles (Mini-14s and AR-15s). Since most of my rifles were that caliber, I sold the AK at a good price.

No AK here but I do have a SKS that I will be putting in a bull pup stock in the near future.

I don't have either but I really lean towards the AK. I have wanted a polish tantal with the wire folder for a while. I guess I'm drawn to how the AK design has loose tolerances to allow the weapon to function even when dirty.

I have heard a story from Vietnam of a special forces team finding a dead NVA solider who had fallen on top of his AK when he died and his body decomposed into and on top of the rifle. Apparently, they test fired the rifle and it functioned. That story was told by Larry Vickers (who is retired SF and now works for Daniel Defence I think) on a military channel program called weaponology.
The design just seems tough. It seems like much more of a battle rifle to me when compared to an AR, but there are accuracy issues as well. Also, I'm drawn to the generally cheaper prices on the AK platform.
Just my opinion at this point, not having either rifle....

If you like to tinker I think the AR is a better platform. There are redeemimg values to the AK but I sold mine years ago. I prefer the adult lego rifle.

Hmm...I really like them both. I started an AK guy all the way. Then I slowly migrated to the AR.

You end up having the same amount of cash in either and they cost about the same to shoot.

AK is more reliable but my AR runs flawlessly... I admit it gets cleaned regularly.

If I want to shoot 3 gun and varmints with the same gun it is an AR situation.

Ammo for the AR weighs less. Parts for the AR are more abundant. Options are abundant. AR shoots alot flatter.

AKs are around the world for a reason. Lol, it is just hard to say what is best. I currently only shoot the AR which is undergoing some changes.

Should I run a Leupold VX-6 1-6 with the illuminted reticle or a Vortex 2.5-10 and an offset RMR?

Back in the day (pre 1996 here) I had a Valmet M71s .... <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" />

I have a Saigia in .223 but Im for sure an AR guy a platform I have trusted my life to and would again.

I assuredly appreciate the AR love as I've owned and ran them for two and a half decades. The simple (crude) AK has been getting more love as of late. I prefer a 5.56 AK due to the stated ammo weight issue of the 7.62 models. My SLR-106FR is stone reliable and shoots the ubiquitous NATO round. Unfortunately, mags are expensive at roughly $25 each.

Tough call, but I don't foresee selling either in the near future.

Good and reasoned responses from everyone!

Dang psyop, where were you with my saiga 223 thread?! <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/wink.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/crazy.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/laugh.gif" alt="" />

I just saw a nicely built one...and wanted it! <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/thumbup.gif" alt="" />

RN,
I have a factory converted Saiga in 7.62x39 (Arsenal SGL-21). The quality is absolutely top shelf, but Saiga's have some non standard parts. The bolt and gas piston readily come to mind.

My 5.56x45 Arsenal SLR106 is a better choice (owning to the rock solid folding stock and caliber - I prefer the power and legendary relibality of the 30 cal but the weight and non-NATO issues make it my second choice). I also like the standardized internals. Outside of being a 223 bolt with a spring loaded firing pin - everything looks normal AK.

Research SGL or Saiga with Ak100 series bolt. Regular AKM parts won't work.