Prices for parts kits...

[Rastus]

I've been looking at some AK parts kits the last few months.  The AK-47 are an interest but I'm more interested in an AK74 parts kit that I can modify to 5.56.

But the prices are astronomical...so now I'm just going to lay back and research who builds the best AK-74 in 5.56.  I'm thinking Palmetto State Armory but I have some research to complete before I finalize on anything.

[billt]

The prices are sky high. Many have doubled in just the last few years.

[Rastus]

Exactly. 

I understand that there are collectors out there that want each and every variation of AK out there for their collections and that provides some impetus for prices support along with import bans.   However, for these prices to be so sky high right now is making no sense to me at all.  The prices to build an AK versus buying a completed AK can easily be 2X.  Is it the 80% build with no paperwork that is driving the price?

20 years or so ago an AK was ~$350-450 while AR's were ~$650-950.  Now AK's are cost more than AR's. 

[alfsauve]

I think ARs seesawed back and forth several times.  Sometimes it was cheaper to DIY and sometimes to buy completed.  Supply and demand.  When they were less expensive, I put a couple of AR lowers in the safe for future use. 

[Rastus]

Oh yeah, the prices did oscillate for AR's.  But this AK thing is unbelievable to me.  Add into the costs the receiver, barrel and other compliance parts as needed and you can buy one from Palmetto State Armory for less.  Unbelievable....at least unbelievable to me.

https://www.carolinashooterssupply.com/ak47-ak74-akm-parts-kits-s/2232.htm

https://atlanticfirearms.com/ak-47-74-parts-kits?sorting%5Bprice%5D=desc

https://www.apexgunparts.com/rifles/ak-47/ak47-parts-kits.html 

https://armsofamerica.com/all-products/parts-kits/?_bc_fsnf=1&in_stock=1

[Sponsor]

[Big Frank]

Blem PSAK-47 GF3 Forged Classic Polymer Rifle, ODG, in stock - $619.99. Some old parts kit - 2-3x more.

https://palmettostatearmory.com/blem-psak-47-gf3-forged-classic-polymer-rifle-odg.html

I don't get it.