So I'm getting into the AK game and have been doing a decent amount of research and have narrowed it down to 2 rifles ( I think!!)

1. Polish milled 1960- $900

2. SLR 101-13 (bulgarian milled)- $995.     

3. ?

Budget is $1000
This will be primarily a range and SHTF weapon.
Definitely want to stay with 7.62x39
I know I can get a nice SGL, WASR, etc, for cheaper, but I'm a buy once, cry once person.
I also know $1000 is a lot for a AK, but prices dont seem to be going down anytime soon.

I'll be getting an AK within the next 1-2 weeks

Are the above rifles a good choice?
I'm new to the AK game, so any advice is greatly appreciated.

Thanks in advance!

The polish is really nice. Has a real nice action.  Can't go wrong there.

No contest.

SLR - the barrel alone puts this one way ahead.  Factory built #'s matching gun.  Way, way, waaaaayyyyyyy higher collector value.  Good price for what it is in today's market.

Polish milled - while nice, not very polish as the receiver, non-chrome lined barrel are US made.  Mixmaster parts kit AK.  I remember when these were being advertised for around $500.  Incredibly  overpriced for what it is IMHO.

The SLR-101 is the better choice here.

The Arsenal milled AK's are exceptional.

A milled one is a great choice too.

The Polish milled ones are nice too but they are hit and miss depending on where they're assembled.

They're more Franken-AK than I care for.

Buy the SLR and never look back.

I guarantee you'll be happy.  If not sell it to me and I'll be happy. 

ARSENAL!!!!!! sorry didn't mean to scream..... The Polish 1960 is an awesome rifle but the choice must go to the Arsenal....

The Arsenals hammerforged chrome barrel, fit and finish is "MOST" times superior.....not including the name "Arsenal" Plus at that price,

gotta go for the milled  Arsenal..........................................then get the Polish 1960 next

+1 for the Arsenal

Appreciate the replies, I ordered the SLR 101 today, pick up in a few days.

Next step is figuring out how to sneak a case of 7.62, accessories and mags into the house too....

I  just needed the extra push to go over the AK cliff 

Thanks again.

The monster has been created 
Careful,  AK's have a tendency to multiply 

It's looking like we need to have another AK day. 

I'm definately going to the HDF shoot on 2 SEP, perfect chance to break in the new toy.

Hope to see you there!!

One more question for the AK gurus. Stamped SGL21 or Milled SLR101S, are the weight savings on the stamped enough to notice or should i just go with the SLR since I like the idea of slightly improved accuracy and more solid feel of the milled receiver.

One more question for the AK gurus. Stamped SGL21 or Milled SLR101S, are the weight savings on the stamped enough to notice or should i just go with the SLR since I like the idea of slightly improved accuracy and more solid feel of the milled receiver.

sounds like you already know    I wouldn't worry about the weight of milled vs stamped unless you're planning on doing 12mi mountain rucks.  The SLR will do everything the SLG can do, and *should* deliver a little more accuracy.  Main differences would be price, and that milled will generally have higher collector value.  If you're on a tight budget, are VERY weight conscious, and could care less about collector/resale value, the SGL will serve you well.

sounds like you already know    I wouldn't worry about the weight of milled vs stamped unless you're planning on doing 12mi mountain rucks.  The SLR will do everything the SLG can do, and *should* deliver a little more accuracy.  Main differences would be price, and that milled will generally have higher collector value.  If you're on a tight budget, are VERY weight conscious, and could care less about collector/resale value, the SGL will serve you well.

Ditto...

The milled does everything the stamped one does, just better.

It has greater collector value and just looks damn sexy.

The weight is negligible.  I honestly can't even tell the difference.