I'm a Russian Vepr fan. I own 3 and this is my latest and it's extremely accurate at 100yds. Built like a tank. They aren't cheap but I think you get what you pay for
For the OP: If this is your first AK, get a cheap Eastern European (likely the cheapest). There is no need to buy an expensive milled rifle yet. Once you learn more about them and decide what you want (or you might just hate them altogether), then look at upgrading or getting another rifle.
For now, focus on a cheap rifle (with good sights and rivets) and have fun. They all go bang.
You get what you pay for... if you buy a cheap AK, that's what you'll get... a dirt cheap, thrown together with whatever is laying around, AK... if you pay for a Waffen, arsenal, saiga, Maadi, or norinco, you'll also get what you pay for.. a quality AK.
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I have pretty extensive experience with all the above except the Waffen, along with several you didn't mention including LOTS of real deal AKs, and they all run the same. 200 yard reliable accuracy, some more if you are good. Maadi.....quality? HA, not nearly as well made as most standard WASRs.
OP, I second the advice to get the most affordable one you can find and if you don't like it you can always get you money back. Hell, the way things are going hold onto it for 6-12 months and you could make a profit.