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 Which model of Saiga 7.62X39 will be the best to convert to a standard AK
marcopolo650  [Member]
4/19/2012 11:28:18 PM
Guys,
after all the research not to mention all the help, assistance and knowledge that you guys have been so kind to share with me the past two to three topics I started at this great site, I decided to go ahead and by a Saiga then converted to look like a Russian AK-47 with its nice red brown wood (butt-stock, pistol grip and hand-guard).SO, I have seen 2 Saiga models that are 7.62X39, IZ132 & IZ332. The IZ 332 is the one with the upgraded AK-47 Hand-guard and Gas tube but no dimples like the ones on the 132. Which model will you recommend or suggest me to pick up? the IZ 132 is $379 and IZ 332 is $459. Thanks again guys
rightwing87  [Member]
4/20/2012 12:04:01 AM
If you're priority is to be as visually accurate as possible, get the IZ132 with the dimpled receiver. The muzzle and barrel work can all be done later, but trying to dimple your receiver wouldn't be worth the effort, if you could even do it at all.

The IZ332 is good for people who want a relatively easy full self conversion, but don't really care about the finer details like receiver dimples, granade and bayonet lugs, etc.
marcopolo650  [Member]
4/20/2012 12:17:51 AM
thanks bro but can the 132 fit any AK-47 double stack magazine? and how much you think it would cost me to upgrade this Saiga to look like an Ak with all Red Brown wood (butt stock, pistol grip and hand guard). thanks again.
rightwing87  [Member]
4/20/2012 1:05:05 AM
Originally Posted By marcopolo650:
thanks bro but can the 132 fit any AK-47 double stack magazine? and how much you think it would cost me to upgrade this Saiga to look like an Ak with all Red Brown wood (butt stock, pistol grip and hand guard). thanks again.

Both rifles will require installing a bullet guide to work with AK mags. I can't really give you an estimate on wood furniture prices, since they vary so much.

If you cannot perform the AK conversion yourself, it's going to likely cost you $500+ for a full conversion and refinish from any reputable builder. At that point, you might come out cheaper buying the Arsenal CA compliant AK's IMO.
marcopolo650  [Member]
4/20/2012 1:50:33 AM
I see, cool man I appreciate the info and the suggestion
nictra  [Team Member]
4/20/2012 8:40:50 AM
as stated above, get the dimpled Saiga. You wanting the AKM or103 style? I personally prefer the 103 style b/c that muzzle brake does a great job IMO, plus just looks good.

The good thing about the Saiga is you can do it as cheap as you want or as expensive as you want. The last one I did cost right under $600, it was a full conversion done by me, and I paid to have the extra holes from the conversion welded up. I even did the finish myself with durabake. You can do a conversion for cheaper than that if you re-use the old trigger guard and buy furniture cheap.

Here's pics of a 5.45 and a 7.62 I converted:





it's a fun and rewarding project that in the end you can take a lot of pride in. Hit me up if you need any help, I'll do the best I can via IM or phone to help you out. Look at the videos on youtube etc and get a plan together.

Look forward to seeing your conversion soon!
BigAKFan  [Member]
4/20/2012 2:35:20 PM
I agree with everyone else, get the dimpled AK.
evlblkwpnz  [Team Member]
4/20/2012 10:56:54 PM
Are some still coming with stepped chambers?