I prefer the AR over the AK. I have a lot more experience with the AR platform and there is an abundance of options available. Once you get a complete lower it's very easy to switch calibers. So with the same lower you can shoot .223 up to 450.
7.62x39 isn't any cheaper than 223/5.56. Most people compare AK steel ammo to AR brass ammo. If you get steel for both the price is practicably the same. There isn't cheap military surplus for the AR, but a lot of the older 70's AK stuff is pretty much dried up already. When you look at brass casing ammo vs brass casing ammo 5.56/223 is actually cheaper. None of that matters if you don't plan on reloading but it's something that is typically glossed over. So for a reloader the AR is much cheaper to shoot.
I have no qualms with the AK. I have a couple myself and plan on getting a Saiga this summer (if you go AK get a Saiga and convert it). I just prefer the AR.
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cheap rifle ammo
7.62x39 isn't any cheaper than 223/5.56. Most people compare AK steel ammo to AR brass ammo. If you get steel for both the price is practicably the same. There isn't cheap military surplus for the AR, but a lot of the older 70's AK stuff is pretty much dried up already. When you look at brass casing ammo vs brass casing ammo 5.56/223 is actually cheaper. None of that matters if you don't plan on reloading but it's something that is typically glossed over. So for a reloader the AR is much cheaper to shoot.
I have no qualms with the AK. I have a couple myself and plan on getting a Saiga this summer (if you go AK get a Saiga and convert it). I just prefer the AR.
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cheap rifle ammo