Looking for thoughts and input on a semi auto rifle that fires the 7.62 x 39 mm round. Would like it to cycle steel-cased ammo (Tula, Red Ops, Wolf, etc.). I kind of prefer the AR platform (PSA makes a nice one), but can't seem to locate one. The Ruger Mini 30 is intriguing (pricey too.), but many complain that it will not cycle steel-cased ammo. I know very little about the SKS and AK-47. Appreciate any input you may have. Intended uses - target plinking, varmints, hogs.

I would say if you're using an eastern block round you should go with the platform built around it. There is a lot to like about the AK platform.

Primary Weapons System is one of the best you can buy off the shelf, it uses a piston system that helps keep the rifle cleaner than a DI system. Especially if you're running it suppressed.

I have a hybrid AR/AK thing - KS-47 from PSA and its been a lot of fun. A couple of FTF early on but not many problems after that. Highly rated amongst AR type 7.62 platforms. Direct impingement system shooting primarily steel cased, need to clean it more often than others. (AK Mags). The CMMG mutant is comparable (basically the same thing from my understanding), but a little more expensive.

Lastly I am now building a custom 7.62x39 AR15 with a side charging handle, a faxon 10.5 gunner barrel and attempting to obtain a short stroke piston system (the kind I'm looking for is sold out - supposedly due in stock shortly). Really looking forward to finishing it up, just need the piston system.

Probably several others who can speak better to your AK options and on the Ruger Mini, though I've always been intrigued by the mini.

I got a Mini-30 earlier this year. I upgraded the firing pin right out of the box. Got it here:
https://www.firingpins.com/ruger-mini-14-firing-pin-2470

I have had absolutely zero failures to fire, even with some bottom of the barrel steel crap from God knows where.

Add one of these and you have the sexiest gun known to mankind.

https://www.samson-mfg.com/a-tm-folding-stock-for-the-ruger-mini-14.html

Thanks for the great info. The PSA KS-47 looks like a great rifle. Unfortunately, not in stock.

Just get an AK for x39.

Good to know about the firing pin replacement for the Mini 30 helping it to cycle the steel cased "stuff".

ARs, minis, hybrid guns all have various magazine, feeding and extraction issues with cheap steel x39.

If your goal is to shoot lots of steel case 7.62, save the hassle and just get an AK

The aftermarket for AKs has improved tremendously in the last decade too.

Optics mounting, stock and furniture options, muzzle devices etcmiles ahead of what we used to have.

If you want to shoot some AKs, reach out OP. I can hook you up with some try before you buy trigger time.

Pws gang

I've got a Rock River LAR-47 that eats any ammo you throw in it, would recommend it.

Rock River LAR-47

I haven't checked into the detail (skim read), but it appears that your Russian ammo supply will soon have a hurdle to break: https://texags.com/forums/34/topics/3218903

Allow me to introduce you to the better version of an AK

CZ58

Happy CZ Bren owner here. You'll hear of some folks who had a bad experience w x39 Brens. I think HV had a problematic one? Maybe he just didn't talk to it nicely.

Mine eats anything and is a blast to shoot. Brens have a huge following. Check those out too.

PSA 7.62x39 AR owner checking in. Bought used from another Outdoors poster.

Functional modifications include adj gas block, suppressor. Main use pigs. Gets cleaned on extremely irregular occasion.

Absolutely ZERO feeding (Stoner mags) or extraction issues with various steel cases.

Buy with confidence. If you can find one.

I'd even suggest trying to find ammo before the gun

PTR-32

I have a Norinco Mak 90 Sporter.

That gun is nails. It is accurate enough that I would have zero hesitation shooting a deer with it out to 100-125 yards. The recoil with that stock is minimal.

I don't shoot it much but I like it a lot more than my AR. If I had to grab one I would take that specific AK every time.

They are pricey though.

TOM-M said:

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PSA 7.62x39 AR owner checking in. Bought used from another Outdoors poster.

Functional modifications include adj gas block, suppressor. Main use pigs. Gets cleaned on extremely irregular occasion.

Absolutely ZERO feeding (Stoner mags) or extraction issues with various steel cases.

Buy with confidence. If you can find one.

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Just got my hands on a mk111 upper after a year on their wait list.