Hey guys, I am in a little bit of a corner and need help. I bought an AK-47 style rifle a couple of weeks ago and love it. I am now given the chance to purchase another AK-47 style rifle for a significantly lower price. i want to go ahead and buy it, but I want to convert it into a dragunov. so this is where my question rises: the rifle I want to buy is a 7.62 X 39 and the dragunov kit on the internet is a 7.62 X 54, If I bought the kit, would it be a drop right in replacement to make it a fully functional rifle or would there be fabrication required? does the caliber matter? Thanks guys

x39 and x54r use different barrels, bolts and internal parts. You would need a smith to install the barrel, so that headspace would be correct. I would have to say this is not a drop in deal. http://www.dragunov.net/romanian_psl.htm
If you purchased a Saiga it may not be compatible w/ your "Kit". Romak 3's w/ scope tend to go for $700.00 to 1000.00. Tuco had one built over at Gunboards that he loves. I would be wary! Jim

The 7.62X54 also uses a different longer receiver than a 7.62X39 so basically nothing will interchange. The "Dragunov" parts kits being sold are really PSL's while they look similar to a Dragunov its a whole different animal. It’s just about as cheap to buy a PSL than it is to build one out of a kit. Accuracy with one usually runs 2”-4” at 100 yards. If you want an AK the best time to buy is now as the prices have been rising lately due to the fear that the next elections may spell the end of black weapons.

here are some resources
http://www.akfiles.com/forums/
http://www.gunco.net/home.php

Thanks guy. I'm not going to buy the AK, I'm going to save up my money and buy a real dragunov or something close

Quote "Thanks guy. I'm not going to buy the AK, I'm going to save up my money and buy a real dragunov or something close"

Thats the best thing to do, too many changes.

At the ak forum one guy was selling PKM kits with tripod. I think I got the name of rifle right. This is a 7.62x54 belt fed - medium MG. They are demilled and semi-auto recievers should be available.

Parts and price may not be as resonable or availible as AK's.

Stupid thought came to me Big 5 had M44 for $80 dollars on sale. Imported by Century Arms INC. I bought two and they even came with accessory packs and bayonette. You have to look what is in the box but you can get a good rifle for cheap. One store will beat up ones and next store will have almost unissued. I know it's not semi auto but going to outlaw this one soon. Also it is ready to shoot.