US made AKs are no bueno. Think about it, would you buy a non-US made AR? Saigas are decent, try to find a converted one. I've heard good things about the older WASRs, tho I've never had one myself. VEPRs are a little different, they have a RPK type receiver that is 1.5mm thick. I have VEPR 12 shotgun and I enjoy it. Arsenal is a bit more on the pricey end; I have 2. Forewarning, the paint isn't the best (but what am paint is). But they're solid guns. My friend just bought an Arsenal SAM7. Its a milled receiver, so its a little heavier and thus will be a little tougher to find furniture for too; but it's very nice. Trigger is smooth as butter, thumb safety, solid build. It was his first AK and he loves it. For the most part, you get when you pay for in an AK. Just stay away from the US made. Head over to the forums on the www akfiles com website, there's a lot of information there.