RAS47 or DDI AK for my first AK?

[mutt]

AKOU has tested several AKs to see if they will make it through 5k rounds. IO and RAS47 did not do so well. While his tests are samples of one, the results seem to mirror similar reports of serious quality issues.

IO Test - https://www.youtube.com/playlist?lis...YBTgXp3Dn9oItI
RAS47 Test - https://www.youtube.com/playlist?lis...9yNsL0ev4TpNjX

Even DDI's latest all US made entry failed miserably. The only all US made AK to make it through the test was PSA's Gen2 AK.

I avoid all 100% US made AKs like the plague. I only buy combloc made AKs. After stamping them out for the last 60+ years following their TDP, I'd say old combloc factories know how to make a proper AK. Granted they can have fit and finish issues, but those rarely affect function. If you are a fit and finish freak, then AKs may not be for you =). A foreign parts kit rifle is fine if you find one that was put together properly and the price is right. If the price is the same as a comparable combloc factory made rifle, combloc is always preferred.

WASRs are great AKs and are the cheapest of the combloc rifles. Arsenals are also nice but a bit over priced considering the shit paint job they come with. Saigas are great too if you don't mind doing a little conversion work on the backend. VEPRs seem to have the best over all build quality in my opinion. Get a VEPR with a traditional straight cut receiver. They're harder to find but at least they'll take standard aftermarket stocks. I'd also hold off a bit on buying an AK. Now that Trump won, I think you are going to see the price of rifles like the WASR return to more sane levels in a few months.