The Saiga rifles are some of the best known rifle designs in the world, but adapted for the civilian market. Since the beginning Saiga shotguns have taken precedence in the firearms communities, due to the creation of the fastest repeat action shotgun, known simply as the Saiga 12. A key factor in the Saiga firearms success was the time tested design of Kalashnikov’s rifle. Still Mikhail Kalashnikov works and over sees the production and engineering of every new product to leave the production line.
A key difference in the Saiga firearms, from other designs is the lack of the pistol grip, which is restricted by importing laws. Although there are a variety of gun smiths across the USA, who specialize in converting Saiga shotguns and Saiga rifles to accept pistol grips, by moving the trigger group forward, to accommodate for the pistol grip. Aside from these minor differences, any AK47 enthusiast can clearly see the piston operated rotating bolt operation, as a reminder of the almost sixty year old design, which still has yet to be improved on, since its release.
Aside from the tactical aspects of the Saiga shotguns, there is a large amount of hunters switching to Saiga 308 rifles, along with other popular hunting caliber RAA imported firearms. Every Saiga firearms goes through a stringent test for quality and longevity, at the Izmesh production plant in Russia, where all the Saiga guns are produced. Despite the original design being cost effective, innovations like chrome plating and lined parts helps to ensure the integrity of every firearms exported.
Izmesh is also known for producing Red Army weapons, vehicles, armor, and other military items, prior to the fall of the Soviet Union. Now capitalism took these remarkable firearms, from the hands of military personal and combatants, to the hands and hearts of the civilian market. Despite the start as a USA rival, the Saiga shotguns in particular are becoming some of the most popular firearms, which can be found in almost any gun shop around the country. In fact during the last few years the Saiga firearms have been back ordered, to the point specific models were solely produced to meet these demands, ensuring that they would always stay available.
Currently the Izmesh firearms are used in more militaries than any other firearms company world wide, and due to the faction of the price, compared to other popular military weapons there is no sign of slowing this trend. Despite the prominent role in militaries, Saiga still takes careful consideration before exporting their weapons, to ensure reliability and quality are never sacrificed.
In conclusion for hunters on a budget or anybody looking for a high quality, yet affordable repeat action firearm, the Saiga is nearly impossible to beat. The only major draw back is the lack of long distance accuracy, which is considered useful to approximately two hundred and fifty meters; although on average the typical hunter is only shooting within these ranges. During my experience with Saiga firearms, I would recommend them to anybody who is looking for an affordable, yet high quality firearm.
