Quoted:
Guys, I'm new to the AK world. I'm an AR guy myself, but would like to diversify my collection of rifles a little bit. So I come to you with the question, of the semi-auto non-sbr AK rifles on the market, which are the most reliable and well built? I'm also looking for a way to mount optics. Any help is greatly appreciated!
Thanks
Welcome!
The question is really subjective, actually. Honestly, there's no "most reliable and well built" AK - just those which have been built well to function well. In other words, you could have a Russian AKM parts kit and NDS receiver (which are both regarded as top of the line) but have a poor build that gives you trouble constantly. On the flip side, you could have a cheap Romanian AKM parts kit built on a cheap receiver and it functions beautifully because a lot of time and effort went into making a good build.
It really boils down to what you can afford based on what floats your boat in terms of the rifle's aethetics. Figure out how much money you can put towards one of the rifles (you can find them from $350 to $2000). Then, find one within your price range that you think is cool and would like to have. Then go from there.