Which Semi-Auto rifle?

**JusticeM4** · 10-04-14, 06:40

I'm looking to buy a semiauto .30 caliber rifle, but I'm deciding between an AR10 or a VEPR 7.62 AK. Its kinda an apples-oranges comparison, but both seem to have its pro's and cons.

The rifles I'm looking for in particular are the Sig716 (piston 308) vs the VEPR AK 7.62x54R.

Any input or experience with either platform is appreciated. I've cross-posted this in another forum but it seems appropriate here since we have many experienced members.

I will add a poll to see which one you would recommend. I'm leaning towards the AR10 for parts availability and ammo, but the VEPR has a certain appeal being a Russian AK.

Thanks.

**JusticeM4** · 10-04-14, 06:44

I forgot to add, budget I'm looking to spend is about $1600. I've found both rifles locally for that price, so just need to see which would be better in the long run. I know this is an AR-based forum so most people may lean towards the AR10.

I've looked at Ruger's AR10 and also saw a Bushmaster AR10 (bleh) locally. I prefer something a little nicer than those if possible.

Thanks again.

**w3453l** · 10-04-14, 14:36

The first thing you should decide is the ammo. 7.62x54r vs .308 is a pretty big difference. With 7.62x54r you are pretty limited to surplus with a few commercial brands; none of which I would say is high quality (at least compared to some of the options in .308).

I'm guessing this is just a fun gun? If you are set on the Vepr, but prefer .308, there is still the option of a Vepr in .308.

7.62x54r also tends to be cheaper, but you can also find some steel cased .308 which is relatively cheap.

If it were me, I would get the .308.

**Auto426** · 10-05-14, 00:37

If you want a budget minded .308, look into the PTR A3R or A3S from Atlantic Firearms. You can't beat the prices of G3 parts and magazines, and the welded on top rail of the A3 models at Atlantics makes mounting optics much simpler than traditional G3 patter weapons.

**scottryan** · 10-05-14, 01:09

The vepr is banned from importation.

Parts and support for it are limited and will be non existent in future years

**foxtrotx1** · 10-05-14, 03:46

Unless you want an M1a for collecting reasons, stay away. To make it perform to the standards of an AR10 you will be dumping money into it like nobodies business. It's going to weigh more to boot.

For that money, buy a .308 M&P and use the left over cash to buy an optic.

**COZ ZINZKI** · 10-05-14, 06:23

SCAR 17 s is the primary candidate for the discriminating & knowleged rifleman.

A savings account is also a requirement.

**JusticeM4** · 10-05-14, 06:57

Originally Posted by COZ ZINZKI

SCAR 17 s is the primary candidate for the discriminating & knowleged rifleman.

A savings account is also a requirement.

The SCAR17 is actually my #1 choice, but its quite hard on the budget. I've handled one at the LGS and really want the FDE, but I can't justify an $3k rifle at this moment.

An AR10 is the best overall option for now, since they are more available in parts and ammo.

Originally Posted by w3453l

The first thing you should decide is the ammo. 7.62x54r vs .308 is a pretty big difference. With 7.62x54r you are pretty limited to surplus with a few commercial brands; none of which I would say is high quality (at least compared to some of the options in .308).

I'm guessing this is just a fun gun? If you are set on the Vepr, but prefer .308, there is still the option of a Vepr in .308.

7.62x54r also tends to be cheaper, but you can also find some steel cased .308 which is relatively cheap.

If it were me, I would get the .308.

I also found a Saiga308 for $1200 locally. I know these guns are part of the import ban, which is another reason for their appeal. It is likely that they're value will go up in the future as supply dries up. If I buy the Saiga308 now for 1200, it could be worth more than 1500 next year (esp during the election season)

Ammo is not a big issue at the moment, i just want a rifle that can shoot farther and harder thant 5.56 and x39.