AR or AK?

[mazda3gun]

Which do you prefer?

I'm wanting to build my own AR or AK, with help from an armorer/smith that I work with. I know the difference in calibers and all that, they're not really a concern. Just want a tactical-type rifle to add to the collection.

I've found a DPMS for $550, but would rather make it my own. Can get an AK for similar pricing.

I've shot both before and they are nothing like a bolt Savage, that's for sure! LOL!

What do you folks think is the best direction? Just wanted to get a rough idea of your personal preferences/experiences of which way to go. Leaning toward AK, honestly. Heard better reliability with them.

[Stockrex]

Just buy the dpms

[AZ_GUN_NUT]

I'd shy away from the DPMS and get a different brand, but that's just my opinion. DPMS uses cast receivers whereas most other mfg's use forged.

Check your local WalMart, they seem to be carrying a lot of AR15's these days, at least the ones in my area are.

[mazda3gun]

I'm asking more for which platform to build. AR or AK.

Not buying a prebuilt rifle. But, yeah, the DPMS is where I'd start. Then get a better receiver and chrome barrel.

As for buying a factory AR, I want the Ruger SR556 or SR762. But I don't have $1600 just hangin out in my wallet!:p

[AZ_GUN_NUT]

If you're planning to build one then just buy a stripped receiver and start there. Spikes Tactical or many other companies sell stripped lowers for $100 or less. Heck just get on AR15.com and check the classifieds there. You can find all the parts you need there to do your build. Why buy a DPMS receiver just to turn around and sell it and lose money?

[AZ_GUN_NUT]

Here's an example, I bought this used but brand new Colt 6920 complete upper for $625 shipped, bought the stripped lower receiver for $150 shipped plus transfer fee, and horse traded for the parts to complete the lower. Total investment around $800 for a high end AR15.

http://i227.photobucket.com/albums/dd146/jbovenzi/6920a_zps9aeb8bcd.jpg (http://s227.photobucket.com/user/jbovenzi/media/6920a_zps9aeb8bcd.jpg.html)

http://i227.photobucket.com/albums/dd146/jbovenzi/IMG_0753_zps96d4a68f.jpg (http://s227.photobucket.com/user/jbovenzi/media/IMG_0753_zps96d4a68f.jpg.html)

http://i227.photobucket.com/albums/dd146/jbovenzi/DSC_1566_zps017802a3.jpg (http://s227.photobucket.com/user/jbovenzi/media/DSC_1566_zps017802a3.jpg.html)

[AZ_GUN_NUT]

Building an AK is going to cost you more than just buying one already built. The parts kit alone will run you a few hundred dollars, then the receiver another $100 or so, then the cost of a someone that KNOWS how to build an AK properly, you'll end up spending way more than just buying a used one outright.

As to which one to get... that's totally up to you. Which do YOU prefer? They're both good platforms. The AR is definitely more user friendly, I think this pic says it all!

http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-De1cFoqdYbU/UGwpz9toYgI/AAAAAAAAAlM/FnkNyW6U1Gw/s1600/m4barbie.jpg

[mazda3gun]

HAHAHA! I like the picture. Yes, the AR is user friendly and there are upgrades. But I've heard many live-and-die AR guys say that an AK will beat longevity over an AR. AK's can still function/fire while wet/dirty/no oil, from my understanding, better than an AR can/will.

[mazda3gun]

Just too many options either way...

Hopefully I get more good feedback like yours AZ!

[AZ_GUN_NUT]

...

[fireman]

DPMS hasn't used investment cast receivers in many years. They've been using forged receivers on rifles (and stripped) for almost 15 years now.

[AZ_GUN_NUT]

DPMS hasn't used investment cast receivers in many years. They've been using forged receivers on rifles (and stripped) for almost 15 years now.

Not quite 15 years, maybe 9 or 10. Personally I would still shy away from DPMS receivers and parts... they may have improved the quality but they have a bad reputation from long ago that still lingers.

[fireman]

If you now state maybe 9 or 10 then why did you state above that they are still using them?

I left the company in 2001 and forged receivers were the norm long before i left.

You dont like their stuff? Fine. But let's base the argument on facts.

[mazda3gun]

No argument fellas! Start your own thread!

I just want some input and opinion on which platform is preferred.
:focus:

[Stockrex]

What is your intended purpose?

[fireman]

If you're wanting to build, go with the AR. Each has it's pros and cons but the AR is the better platform all-around, in my opinion...especially if you're accustomed to Savage-type accuracy. Being a fan of both platforms: While I give the AK it's due, the modern AR is just in a different class. Put an AK down as your next purchase.

Get good parts from a major name, reputable source (not some backwoods house brand) and you'll be fine.

[mazda3gun]

stockrex, my intended purpose is to, essentially, have a modern tactical 'beater' rifle. A do all kind of setup. I want to hunt, target, and decimate the zombie hordes when the time comes! I want something that can get dirty, rained on, knocked around, and still function properly and be reliable.
My Savages are for staying pretty and pristine:cool:

fireman, I know what you mean by backwoods. There are WAY TOO MANY manufacturers of AR parts now. Seems like I hear a new name every day!

[mazda3gun]

I basically want a rifle that won't make me cringe if/when I bump into a tree in the woods for fear of damaging a scope or beautiful wood stock.

Oh yeah, it's gonna be iron sights too. No red dot crap, or video game lookin junk. I play enough Call Of Duty, I don't need my guns reminding me of the game haha!

[redlabel]

I just got a stripped lower from brownells for 69.99 plus transfer fee

[Jamie]

Go with the AREA platform. If you can't get .5 MOA out of it then you used the wrong parts or it was put together wrong. Rock River guarantees .75 MOA which means almost all will shoot .5 or less.