Next Rifle; Need Opinions on Caliber

[BlueEagle]

So, I am thinking about my next rifle. I know that I want it to be something in an AK format, (love my AK's.) But I'm not sure about caliber.

I would like to diversify a bit; I already have two in 7.62x39, but I would like to get something different, and I am balancing between two calibers; 5.45x39 and 5.56x45.

I am liking the 5.56 because of the larger availability of ammunition here in the states; with all sorts of .223's in the hands of civilians, LEO's, and military units, it's an easy round to come by. Plus I don't already have one, so thats a plus.

The 5.45 just appeals to me because its the "natural" caliber of the AK-74. Ultimately I'd like both...but which should I get first do you think?

Also, what model/brand would you recommend? I have a WASR and a Draco, (the chopped WASR from Century,) and I like those, but I know they are on the low-end of the scale.

EDIT: I voted "Other" so as not to throw off the poll.

I've been looking around, and it looks like most of the 5.45x39 rifles are Polish Tantals....I have owned two Polish weapons, (a P64 and a TT33,) and they've been awesome...anybody had experience with the Tantal to know if it has the same qualities?

 

[msr]

Get a better quality AKM in 7.62x39 and stockpile that ammo. But if you're not going to do that, I would suggest 5.45x39. You can still find suplus 1080 rd tins for cheap and it's one of two rounds the AK was designed for. But if it were me I'd stick with 7.62.

 

[gunman41mag]

I think it would be a lot easier to find 5.45x39 mags, than 223 mags for the AK type rifle

 

[BlueEagle]

Thanks for the opinions...minus my vote, the poll is so far all tied up at 3v3v3....this is making the decision harder!

 

[Mosinguy]

I wouldn't get most Century AK pattern rifles only because most don't have the chrome lined barrels they were designed to have.

 

[Hookeye]

This is the one I want...........of course I can't afford it
I won't own any AK type except this one.

 

[Mr.JAG]

Go 5.45.

- Natural Caliber
- Mag availability, price, and quality.
- 2160 rnds for $260 bucks (trump card right there)

When going 5.45, you have to keep in mind that all the cheap surplus ammo is corrosive. For this reason, it is worth your money to spend on a quality rifle with chrome lining.

Look for an Arsenal. If you aren't ready to spend that kind of dough, then look at the Saiga conversion. Bradis had 5.45 saigas on sale for something like $370ish last week. How much you spend on the conversion is completely up to you. Just do it with quality parts (read - NOT crapco plastics), so we don't make fun of you.

 

[gunowner930]

If you're wanting to stick the the AK platform then the 5.45x39 seems to be the natural choice. 5.45x39 is similar to 5.56x45 in performance, it is cheaper that 5.56x45, and a more natural match. I don't see the advantages of 5.56x45 in this situation unless you want something cool and different (of course, there is nothing wrong with that).

 

[kb66]

If your sticking with an AK definitely go 5.45. Mags are much easier to find and ammo is cheaper than 5.56, but a chrome lined barrel is a must.

 

[JohnP82]

I voted 5.45 since it is an AK pattern rifle. I love the AK too, but if I want 5.56 I go AR for that.

The 5.45 is a great round and fun to shoot.

 

[cassaireland05]

If you are wanting more practal i would go with the 5.45x39. The ammo is cheaper and easier to find. I personally love the .308 and 30-06 calibers! But thats me.

 

[JWAS]

I just bought a 5.45 ak74 too, I got it from arms of america.com.... freaking sweet gun!!!!!!! Bulgy parts kit/EAST GERMAN NEW BARREL!!!!!!!!/and really well put together..... if not that one, get a waffen werks.

 

[tgallmey]

I just bought a 5.45 ak74 too, I got it from arms of america.com.... freaking sweet gun!!!!!!! Bulgy parts kit/EAST GERMAN NEW BARREL!!!!!!!!/and really well put together..... if not that one, get a waffen werks.

+1 on Waffen Werks

For just about $150 more from the price on the CAI guns you cant go wrong. 5.45 is the way to go in a AK pattern rifle. I know I love mine. I actually like it more than the Arsenal guns Ive tried.

 

[Mr Evilwrench]

5.45x39 is an actual AK round (AK74), and 5.56x45 would be a bag on the side of an AK, just like trying to feed the highly tapered AK rounds with the deep magwell of an AR. Sure, you can sorta do it, but why? You'd need an AK that was purpose built for the longer rounds. If you really want an AK that fires 5.56x45, get a Galil if you can find one.

 

[BlueEagle]

Sounds like I'll be going with the 5.45x39. Thanks!

 

[U.S. Patriot]

Saiga in .223.

 

[msirelan]

If I have already posted I'm sorry my post kee p disappearing. Go with the 5.45 because that is what an AK is made for and it is cheaper to buy