SICK AR build man, Daniel defense makes awesome stuff.I had that exact model Saiga a couple years back. I LOVED the rifle, but switched over to the AR platform, and sold the Saiga solely for budget reasons. I've been contemplating getting another one, and even found one in NJ recently. I think the price was $525? I'll see if I can find it for you.
Edit: Found the ad, he sold it already. I'll keep an eye out. Are you on NJGF?
In other news for me, I've just recently made a purchase as well. Daniel Defense M4 V5 lightweight upper, and some parts to go along with it. My AR will now consist of:
Spikes Tactical lower
Daniel Defense LPK
Magpul MIAD grip
Magpul CTR stock
ALG Defense ACT trigger
Daniel Defense M4 V5 lightweight upper
Magpul MBUS front/rear sights
Aimpoint Pro
Joined the NJGF about 20 mins ago...They do make great products. I wish I had a full DD rifle, but really the only thing I don't have is the lower itself. I'm okay with that. I just can't wait to get back home and get everything together, although it might be a while before I get to sight everything in
I've owned both the Saiga in 7.62x39, and a Mosin (91/30, not a carbine). I got rid of the Mosin because I simply did not enjoy shooting it. The x54 round can be pretty harsh on your shoulder, x39 is MUCH more tame. I understand you're not looking for just a fun rifle to shoot, so take what I'm saying with a grain of salt. The Mosin is obviously going to be cheaper, however you'll likely have to deal with corrosive ammo.
NJGF is a good site to be on, if for nothing else but the classified ads. There's new ones up everyday, and they're local.
As far as cost vs. practicality, they're both actually pretty good rifles. Obviously the Saiga is more expensive, but you get what you pay for. It all depends on what you want out of the rifle. Ideally, you could own both over the long run, and they'd both suit you for different purposes.Joined the NJGF about 20 mins ago...
That is the exact thing I'm fighting with, cost vs practicality vs availability. Either way you cut it, shooting is fun.
There are companies ( like Winchester and TulAmmo) that are making the 54R again, so the corrosive stuff isn't the only option anymore... the cheapest option, but not the only.
I'd like to try the Saiga if I could, but finding one in NJ and someone willing to let me shoot it is another story... and even less likely is if I can get my hands on an SCAR Heavy.. but that'll break the bank in the fun budget.
Had the chance to do the same when working at the proving grounds, ergo is perfect ( for me)As far as cost vs. practicality, they're both actually pretty good rifles. Obviously the Saiga is more expensive, but you get what you pay for. It all depends on what you want out of the rifle. Ideally, you could own both over the long run, and they'd both suit you for different purposes.
Glad you joined the forum, I saw that after reading your post. There's a member on there who did some pretty sweet work to a Mosin, you could check it out and see if you're willing to do that much work. It really depends on how much work you're willing to do.
http://njgunforums.com/forum/index.php/topic/13919-monster-mosinalmost-done-updated-6-15-10/?hl=+monster++mosin
I just looked at the thread. Unfortunately the pictures aren't up anymore, but you can certainly PM him and ask him about it if the thread is missing details. His name is Eric, and he's a real helpful guy. Although he probably doesn't remember, I spoke to him a couple years ago. He dropped some knowledge about the Navy when I was thinking about joining.
As for the SCAR...I'm pretty sure I've mentioned it before, but I had the chance to shoot one a couple years back. It's a BEAUTIFUL rifle, and I'd love to own one someday. Yes it's quite expensive, but if you're willing to drop the coin, it's definitely worth it.
Nothing to do with going to the range but just ordered the Apex Tactical Forward Set Sear and Trigger Kit along with Trijicon SA37 Sights (Green Front & Orange Rear)