The Romanian Kalashnikov

Although it is not known for match grade accuracy, perhaps the most ubiquitous, most reliable, and the best known rifle in the world is the AK or Avomat Kalashnikov rifle. The AK is extremely popular among those who desire a large capacity rifle with handling characteristics that lend themselves to a defensive use.

The Kalashnikov rifle survived the assault weapons ban of 1994 as the SAR, and then the WASR. Legal variants of these rifles were able to accept large capacity magazines and drums. They remained legal in most states, although some of the more popular features such as folding stocks, bayonet lugs and flash suppressors were forbidden. Because these rifles were imported, the owners had to keep up with legal parts counts to insure they were not in violation of federal law.

The most common of these imports were the Romanians. Many suffered from canted sights and ugly wood, but they were relatively inexpensive compared to an AR-15.Most imported Kalashnikovs fired the 7.62X39 round, although some were chambered in 5.45X39. Today, Kalashnikov rifles cost around $375 to $450. Thirty round double stack magazines run around $15. The SAR1 pictured here was purchased in 2002, and at that time it had a wooden stock. At 12:05 AM, September 13, 2004, the federal prohibition against vaguely military looking ugly guns sunsetted, a rum and coke was consumed, and a Romanian folding stock was attached in celebration. Hopefully we will never see those dark days again.

If the incoming administration seeks to revitalize the 1994 AWB, the Kalashnikov variants now on the market will certainly be on the list. Further information on the Romanian Kalashnikov rifles can be found here.