Available AK74s discussion [Archive]

LittleLebowski

08-07-2024, 12:24 PM

Suvorov

08-07-2024, 01:55 PM

Don't worry about ammo, I am good on surp 5.45 :cool:. I'm currently honing in on a PSA 74, namely this one (https://palmettostatearmory.com/psak-74k-classic-polymer-side-folding-rifle-with-toolcraft-trunnion-bolt-and-carrier-black.html) with these Magpul mags (https://palmettostatearmory.com/magpul-pmag-30-ak74-moe-5-45x39mm-magazine-mag673.html). Why PSA? Because I think they'll stand behind their product. Any thoughts or enabling?

I’d say go for it!

I envy you guys who bought the “poison bullets” when they were cheap and available. PSA is really the only domestic AK I would go for these days (unless it was an insane deal). There are still some reports of bad guns but in general PSA has good CS and they won’t be going anywhere soon. For a sub $1000 gun, they are the best option in the 545 world.

The only caveat I would add is that for a few $$$ more you can get into a WBP (https://armsofamerica.com/wbp-545sr-jack-rifle-5-45x39/) rifle in 5.45. Polish AKs are nice and WBPs have a pretty good reputation (I’d say definitely better than PSA) and in the AK world there is definitely a bias towards the imported rifles. God forbid the Whore of Babylon become POTUS but she has stated her intent to go after imported AWs and executive excesses will show no bounds. It just won’t have the folding stock.

The WBPs are AKM pattern rifles but for a few $$$ more AOA will swap out the 45 degree has block for a 90 degree and a AK100 front sight with 24mm threads to give you that AK74 look we all know and love. ❤️

As for mags, I’ve been very happy with my PSA AK101 mags in 556. Supposedly the are direct copies of the ones from Izmash. I would trust their 74 mags as well and even if they are dogs AK74 mags are pretty abundant. As for the MagPul mags - we all know what to expect from them…….

HeavyDuty

08-07-2024, 03:01 PM

Wolverines!

Guerrero

08-07-2024, 03:50 PM

Does Arsenal/K-Var still do them?

ETA: Nope, they don't have any 5.45 guns.

HCM

08-07-2024, 03:54 PM

I’d say go for it!

I envy you guys who bought the “poison bullets” when they were cheap and available. PSA is really the only domestic AK I would go for these days (unless it was an insane deal). There are still some reports of bad guns but in general PSA has good CS and they won’t be going anywhere soon. For a sub $1000 gun, they are the best option in the 545 world.

The only caveat I would add is that for a few $$$ more you can get into a WBP (https://armsofamerica.com/wbp-545sr-jack-rifle-5-45x39/) rifle in 5.45. Polish AKs are nice and WBPs have a pretty good reputation (I’d say definitely better than PSA) and in the AK world there is definitely a bias towards the imported rifles. God forbid the Whore of Babylon become POTUS but she has stated her intent to go after imported AWs and executive excesses will show no bounds. It just won’t have the folding stock.

The WBPs are AKM pattern rifles but for a few $$$ more AOA will swap out the 45 degree has block for a 90 degree and a AK100 front sight with 24mm threads to give you that AK74 look we all know and love. ❤️

As for mags, I’ve been very happy with my PSA AK101 mags in 556. Supposedly the are direct copies of the ones from Izmash. I would trust their 74 mags as well and even if they are dogs AK74 mags are pretty abundant. As for the MagPul mags - we all know what to expect from them…….

This ^^^

PSA seems to have their 7.62 AKs sorted out but their 5.45 and 5.56 guns are still having issues with bolts, trunions s d firing pins.

For a 5.45 or 5.56 WBP is the way to go right now.

Guerrero

08-07-2024, 04:05 PM

Of course, if you've got "stupid money," there's always Rifle Dynamics...

HCM

08-07-2024, 04:08 PM

LittleLebowski

08-07-2024, 05:17 PM

Are you set on a classic style AK 74?

IWI has done some of the new style Galils in 5.45.

I like basic AKs with a folding stock, I’ve shot Galils and didn’t like anything much better about them.

Suvorov

08-07-2024, 06:03 PM

I like basic AKs with a folding stock, I’ve shot Galils and didn’t anything much better about them.

Getting that AK74M/AK100 folding stock is the bitch with any of the imports on the market right now. Occasionally Arsenal will import one of their 74M pattern guns but they are very rare and command top dollar. If the 74M folding stock is a hard point for your then the only affordable and available option I know of are the US made guns of which I would put PSA on top. If folding stock functionality is all you are after then the WBP will happily accept any AKM pattern folder out there.

LittleLebowski

08-07-2024, 07:14 PM

Suvorov

08-07-2024, 07:30 PM

The 74 I was looking at is pinned and welded to get to a legal barrel length, thoughts on this one (https://palmettostatearmory.com/psak-74-rifle-with-soviet-arms-13-5-rail-gastube-alg-trigger-zhukov-stock-toolcraft-trunnion-bolt-and-carrier-black.html)? I’m definitely suppressing this rifle.

Same thoughts on PSA vs WPB. I like the MagPul Zhukov stock a lot. You could build a WPB rifle to this same exact spec.

Unfortunately I’m pretty clueless when it comes to suppressing anything let alone AKs. AK operators union does a fair amount of suppressing his AKs. Might start there.

LittleLebowski

08-07-2024, 07:45 PM

Same thoughts on PSA vs WPB. I like the MagPul Zhukov stock a lot. You could build a WPB rifle to this same exact spec.

Unfortunately I’m pretty clueless when it comes to suppressing anything let alone AKs. AK operators union does a fair amount of suppressing his AKs. Might start there.

Would I need a 90 degree gas block on this guy?

https://palmettostatearmory.com/psa-ak-74-90-degree-gas-block.html

https://palmettostatearmory.com/psak-74-rifle-with-soviet-arms-13-5-rail-gastube-alg-trigger-zhukov-stock-toolcraft-trunnion-bolt-and-carrier-black.html

Caballoflaco

08-07-2024, 08:51 PM

Not sure about their full sized rifles, but I saw a post sometime last week where the receiver on a PSA Krink was several millimeters longer than the receiver of a standard AK.

Suvorov

08-07-2024, 11:03 PM

Would I need a 90 degree gas block on this guy?

https://palmettostatearmory.com/psa-ak-74-90-degree-gas-block.html

https://palmettostatearmory.com/psak-74-rifle-with-soviet-arms-13-5-rail-gastube-alg-trigger-zhukov-stock-toolcraft-trunnion-bolt-and-carrier-black.html

All the PSA 545 guns come with the 90 degree blocks AFAIK. The one you link to has the 90 as well as having the 24mm front sight block. On the AK74 and subsequent AK100 series guns, the muzzle device threads onto a threaded front sight base instead of a threaded barrel like the original AK and AKM guns do. While the 90 degree gas block is supposedly better for wear than the original 45 the only real reason I brought it up was if you were wanting to have an AK74 clone. I seriously doubt it makes a functional difference for semi auto shooter. But if you are wanting that look, and wanted to get a Polish gun, AOA will swap out the 45 that comes on the WBP with a 90. The 24mm front sight block *might* be better for suppressing than the AK/AKM 14mm, but I’m not sure.

LittleLebowski

08-08-2024, 11:08 AM

The Dude is most certainly a lazy man and he bought the PSA because he's tired of working on stuff, and he hopes they'll make it right if needed ;)

Backyard range report soon.

Suvorov

08-08-2024, 11:21 AM

The Dude is most certainly a lazy man and he bought the PSA because he's tired of working on stuff, and he hopes they'll make it right if needed ;)

Backyard range report soon.

Great to hear and really looking forward to your report as I know you will put some rounds through it.

I kick myself daily for not buying Russian and Bulgarian AK100 series guns back when they were available and affordable. An AK103 folder has long been on my “list” but I have been hesitant to give the US guns a go. Your experience might just be what I need to finally pull the trigger.

Also please share your journey of suppressing the AK.

LittleLebowski

08-08-2024, 11:39 AM

I figure that my Ecco Machine 5x5 (https://www.eccomachine.net/product/five-by-five/) will do nicely with an adapter, as it’s a 6mm bore on the can actually. I don’t know much about suppressing AKs though.

Hizzie

08-08-2024, 12:04 PM

IME Atlantic Firearms went above and beyond to help with warranty issues on guns built for them in the past. I don’t know about now.

As far as folding stocks the CNC Warrior/Bonesteel Arms folders are still the best. Just buy a standard fixed stock AK and swap it out with a bolt in folder. Their mechanism is robust yet svelte.

Suvorov

08-08-2024, 12:10 PM

By backyard range report and by your profile am I safe to assume you are in Wyoming full time now?

LittleLebowski

08-08-2024, 01:33 PM

By backyard range report and by your profile am I safe to assume you are in Wyoming full time now?

Yes sir, and not leaving the 307 ever again. No urge to go anywhere, I feel sorry for residents of other states 😁

Suvorov

08-08-2024, 02:05 PM

Yes sir, and not leaving the 307 ever again. No urge to go anywhere, I feel sorry for residents of other states 😁

That’s awesome!

One of the main reasons I moved to Colorado was its proximity to Wyoming (raised there and graduated from UW). Will be taking my boys to the Snowies this week for camping, fishing, and mushroom hunting. I too will return again one day.

LittleLebowski

08-08-2024, 02:15 PM

rcbusmc24

08-08-2024, 03:31 PM

Hizzie

08-08-2024, 04:14 PM

You missed my impulse purchase by this much 🤣

There’s always next time.

HCM

08-08-2024, 04:20 PM

122003

Got a AK-12 build at the shop right now... just saying.

Complete Russian parts kit built on a Childers receiver. Assembled by Troy Sellers at In Range.

It is for sale but spendy... PM me for details...

While Sellers has a well deserved reputation for quality work, my understanding is the AK 12 design is fundamentally flawed.

Caballoflaco

08-08-2024, 05:03 PM

While Sellers has a well deserved reputation for quality work, my understanding is the AK 12 design is fundamentally flawed.

As related to LL you can’t put a suppressor on it since the muzzle device isn’t threaded.

Valgear is a Ukrainian that does reviews of rifles, grenades etc. on YouTube to help his unit raise funds. He had a slightly different take on the AK 12 than the general gunternet opinion, and while I don’t know if he’s used the AK-12 in combat ha has used lots of 74’s. TL/DW better than the “74 because at least you can mount optics and a light on it without aftermarket parts. 2 round burst was silly. Around 3 moa. Ergos are pretty good. the copy he borrowed for the review worked didn’t malfunction.

https://youtu.be/l0VDS1G6GEI?si=ysWv9EnAPkP5-G_z

LittleLebowski

08-08-2024, 06:04 PM

Great to hear and really looking forward to your report as I know you will put some rounds through it.

Basically, I’m going to shoot it out back within 20-30 mins of getting it and I will bang on it pretty hard 😁 If it runs suppressed, that’s the only way I will shoot it.

Kinda like my .300Blk AUG which is unbelievably awesome. I’d better update that thread…

awp_101

08-08-2024, 06:41 PM

Suvorov

08-08-2024, 07:59 PM

As related to LL you can’t put a suppressor on it since the muzzle device isn’t threaded.

Valgear is a Ukrainian that does reviews of rifles, grenades etc. on YouTube to help his unit raise funds. He had a slightly different take on the AK 12 than the general gunternet opinion, and while I don’t know if he’s used the AK-12 in combat ha has used lots of 74’s. TL/DW better than the “74 because at least you can mount optics and a light on it without aftermarket parts. 2 round burst was silly. Around 3 moa. Ergos are pretty good. the copy he borrowed for the review worked didn’t malfunction.

https://youtu.be/l0VDS1G6GEI?si=ysWv9EnAPkP5-G_z

I saw that video as well and was surprised at his opinion. Given his current situation, I’d say he is every bit as knowledgeable and believable as any of our domestic guntubers are. Also there was a mad rush to poo poo everything Russian when this bullshit war started so the truth took a backseat to the narrative. Recently Recoil Magazine did an expose on the AK12 and was fairly complementary as well.

I would love to get my hands on rcbusmc24’s but I fear I might not even be able to afford the PM……

Until then I’ll just be happy with my Beryl as my “modern AK.”

SwampDweller

08-08-2024, 10:30 PM

I keep pretty tight on the status of 5.45 rifle manufacturers. The 5.45 PSA’s still commonly have problems. If I were going to buy a 5.45 today, I’d probably go for a WBP or an Atlantic-built Polish Tantal. Both companies stand behind their product and will take care of any issues, with a much smaller chance of actually needing it.

I have not been impressed with what I’ve seen from PSA regarding small caliber high velocity AKs.

I love 5.45 and will never sell my Russian SGL31 imported by Arsenal, nor will I be selling off my stock of ammo and mags for it, but nevertheless my FB Radom Polish Beryls in 5.56 have completely replaced my 5.45 usage on the range, outside of taking my Russian AK74 out just to run a mag through every year or so.

BWT

08-08-2024, 10:33 PM

Is the ammo corrosive?

Any concerns about that in a suppressor?

I love my PSA AK103 Klone. It is awesome.

Suvorov

08-08-2024, 10:48 PM

, outside of taking my Russian AK74 out just to run a mag through every year or so.

And flexing on the poors :p

SwampDweller

08-08-2024, 11:30 PM

And flexing on the poors :p

Well funny thing is these things were cheaper brand new in 2009-2014 than US copies are today. I believe the Beryls will one day be on the same level, they are every bit as high quality as my Russian SGLs and Vepr FMs if not better. I truly believe the FB Radom Beryl is not only the finest AK on the market today, but one of the best of all time. Part of me wants to get a third one, and I’ve already been stocking spare parts (including a complete spare bolt) and dozens of mags. This is a go-to rifle for me. While my SGL31 has over 20k rounds through it and once served the Beryl’s role, it now mostly sits in the safe. Still one of my favorites.

Suvorov

08-08-2024, 11:38 PM

Well funny thing is these things were cheaper brand new in 2009-2014 than US copies are today. I believe the Beryls will one day be on the same level, they are every bit as high quality as my Russian SGLs and Vepr FMs if not better. I truly believe the FB Radom Beryl is not only the finest AK on the market today, but one of the best of all time. Part of me wants to get a third one, and I’ve already been stocking spare parts (including a complete spare bolt) and dozens of mags. This is a go-to rifle for me. While my SGL31 has over 20k rounds through it and once served the Beryl’s role, it now mostly sits in the safe. Still one of my favorites.

Agree with the Beryls. I have a 556 gun that is a shooter and a 762 gun that is an "investment" since I don't have a safe full of SGLs. Been learning a lot about modern AKs with the Beryl and it is a great rifle.

LittleLebowski

08-08-2024, 11:46 PM

Is the ammo corrosive?

Any concerns about that in a suppressor?

I love my PSA AK103 Klone. It is awesome.

Yes.

No, modern suppressors are incredibly tough and built to be lifetime investments. I’ll rinse the can out with hot water and throw it in the oven at 150 for a few minutes occasionally, but it’s really not a big deal.

SwampDweller

08-09-2024, 09:31 AM

Yes.

No, modern suppressors are incredibly tough and built to be lifetime investments. I’ll rinse the can out with hot water and throw it in the oven at 150 for a few minutes occasionally, but it’s really not a big deal.

I can't even bring myself to shoot corrosive 7n6 through my SGL31 anymore despite having crates and crates of it, I've got over twenty spam cans through it and never any rust/corrosion, but I always obsessively cleaned it after shooting. I couldn't help but hose it out completely when I get home (and even jumping in my swimming pool to scrub it out before hosing it) and then spending several hours cleaning it afterwards. Overboard perhaps, but it worked. Not sure I could bring myself to shoot corrosive through a suppressor.

Suvorov

08-09-2024, 09:58 AM

I can't even bring myself to shoot corrosive 7n6 through my SGL31 anymore despite having crates and crates of it, I've got over twenty spam cans through it and never any rust/corrosion, but I always obsessively cleaned it after shooting. I couldn't help but hose it out completely when I get home (and even jumping in my swimming pool to scrub it out before hosing it) and then spending several hours cleaning it afterwards. Overboard perhaps, but it worked. Not sure I could bring myself to shoot corrosive through a suppressor.

Gospodin Kalashnikov is shaking his head sadly…… :(

On the upside, you could probably fund your retirement by selling those spam cans……

SwampDweller

08-09-2024, 10:14 AM

Gospodin Kalashnikov is shaking his head sadly…… :(

On the upside, you could probably fund your retirement by selling those spam cans……

Mr. Kalashnikov can't make me another SGL or Vepr!

As for the spam cans, my investments for retirement are unrelated to firearms. I'm happy to have a supply of ammo for my 74s and it will be staying with me. If I run across 7n6 cans for under .50cpr I may actually get more. Yes, the prices are ridiculously high compared to what it used to be, but at 50cpr or less its about on par with 5.56.

LittleLebowski

08-09-2024, 10:19 AM

I can't even bring myself to shoot corrosive 7n6 through my SGL31 anymore despite having crates and crates of it, I've got over twenty spam cans through it and never any rust/corrosion, but I always obsessively cleaned it after shooting. I couldn't help but hose it out completely when I get home (and even jumping in my swimming pool to scrub it out before hosing it) and then spending several hours cleaning it afterwards. Overboard perhaps, but it worked. Not sure I could bring myself to shoot corrosive through a suppressor.

Clearly, we are not the same 🤣

I’ll clean my 5.45 AR sooner or later. Yes, 7n6.

122027

122029

LittleLebowski

08-09-2024, 10:34 AM

Mr. Kalashnikov can't make me another SGL or Vepr!

As for the spam cans, my investments for retirement are unrelated to firearms. I'm happy to have a supply of ammo for my 74s and it will be staying with me. If I run across 7n6 cans for under .50cpr I may actually get more. Yes, the prices are ridiculously high compared to what it used to be, but at 50cpr or less its about on par with 5.56.

Honestly, your suppressor is far more resistant to corrosive ammo than any firearm you own and your firearms will not self destruct after shooting corrosive ammo. Corrosive ammo is not that bad at all, all you need is a hot water rinse after shooting and less than that if you live in a dry climate. When I lived on the East Coast, I needed the hot water rinse after every outing. In Wyoming, I haven’t seen a need yet after a couple of months.

I’m on my third barrel on this 5.45 AR, shooting only 7n6. I do know what I’m talking about 😁

Guerrero

08-09-2024, 02:22 PM

Tangent:

Dammit, now I want a Beryl 5.56 AK.

LittleLebowski

08-09-2024, 02:26 PM

Tangent:

Dammit, now I want a Beryl 5.56 AK.

Yeah, all of this good AK talk is enabling.

SwampDweller

08-09-2024, 03:37 PM

Tangent:

Dammit, now I want a Beryl 5.56 AK.

You might want to get on that...

122041

Another blow to the already-hurting imported AK market in the US.

LittleLebowski

08-19-2024, 06:25 PM

Just got it and slapped on an Ecco 5x5, sans checking alignment like a real man 🤣

Ran great. Should I do a low Aimpoint mount?

122515

Suvorov

08-19-2024, 06:41 PM

Just got it and slapped on an Ecco 5x5, sans checking alignment like a real man 🤣

Ran great. Should I do a low Aimpoint mount?

122515

Awesome!

Yeah, I’d do a low Aimpoint mount and if the cheek weld is too high MagPul sells cheek risers for the Zhukov stock.

How is the recoil with the can? ALG sells an AK recoil spring that will definitely help if it feels too over gassed (knowing that AKs are by nature over gassed).

LittleLebowski

08-19-2024, 07:36 PM

Awesome!

Yeah, I’d do a low Aimpoint mount and if the cheek weld is too high MagPul sells cheek risers for the Zhukov stock.

How is the recoil with the can? ALG sells an AK recoil spring that will definitely help if it feels too over gassed (knowing that AKs are by nature over gassed).

Recoil? What recoil 😁

LittleLebowski

09-06-2024, 07:39 PM

Ok, hammered on it today. Need a solution for gas to the face. Ran great otherwise. Like many of my guns, it’s only been shot suppressed.

Suvorov

09-06-2024, 07:47 PM

Ok, hammered on it today. Need a solution for gas to the face. Ran great otherwise. Like many of my guns, it’s only been shot suppressed.

Check out this.

https://ak4774.com/product/ak47-gas-reducing-dust-cover-gasket/

Not sure how well it works but AKOU usually doesn’t mess with crap and you will end up paying more in shipping than the thing costs.

Caballoflaco

09-06-2024, 09:10 PM

Ok, hammered on it today. Need a solution for gas to the face. Ran great otherwise. Like many of my guns, it’s only been shot suppressed.

If you’re looking to shoot suppressed all the time an KNS adjustable gas piston might be worth the money.

https://knsprecisioninc.com/ak-adjustable-gas-piston/

Tokarev

09-06-2024, 09:44 PM

If you’re looking to shoot suppressed all the time an KNS adjustable gas piston might be worth the money.

https://knsprecisioninc.com/ak-adjustable-gas-piston/I'd second the KNS. It turned my suppressed AK from something that throws brass into the next county into something that drops brass about ten feet away. I can't believe this won't help extend the life of the rifle and its components. It did make a difference with gas in the face but it didn't remove it. Maybe a KNS and the AKOU gasket seal would be the ticket?

As for cool kid furniture, here's some nifty stuff. There's actually a SAG in Russia and a SAG in America. They have some similar but I don't think identical products. I assume any relationship that may have existed has been canceled with the war in Ukraine.

https://www.sureshot-usa.com/shop

Sent from my SM-S901U using Tapatalk

Suvorov

09-06-2024, 10:28 PM

I'd second the KNS. It turned my suppressed AK from something that throws brass into the next county into something that drops brass about ten feet away. I can't believe this won't help extend the life of the rifle and its components. It did make a difference with gas in the face but it didn't remove it. Maybe a KNS and the AKOU gasket seal would be the ticket?

As for cool kid furniture, here's some nifty stuff. There's actually a SAG in Russia and a SAG in America. They have some similar but I don't think identical products. I assume any relationship that may have existed has been canceled with the war in Ukraine.

https://www.sureshot-usa.com/shop

Sent from my SM-S901U using Tapatalk

I REALY LIKE their MK2.1 chassis. It’s too far a leap to get one to fit the Beryl but if I had a good AKM or AK100 that needed the Alpha treatment it would be my choice.

Tokarev

09-06-2024, 10:33 PM

I REALY LIKE their MK2.1 chassis. It’s too far a leap to get one to fit the Beryl but if I had a good AKM or AK100 that needed the Alpha treatment it would be my choice.I'm quite interested in the AK19 pattern stocks. The AK12 one is actually fairly inexpensive. My gut feeling is that it is probably not up to the durability of the Magpul CTR or similar stock. I may pick up an AK19 one once he has a cheek piece / riser available.

Sent from my SM-S901U using Tapatalk

Tokarev

09-07-2024, 01:24 AM

Check out this.

https://ak4774.com/product/ak47-gas-reducing-dust-cover-gasket/

Not sure how well it works but AKOU usually doesn’t mess with crap and you will end up paying more in shipping than the thing costs.I wonder if this wouldn't achieve a similar result but with the added benefit of providing a buffer between the bolt carrier and the rear trunnion.

https://www.brownells.com/gun-parts/rifle-parts/rifle-recoil-parts/ak-47-recoil-buffer/

Some people think the shock buff can make the gun less reliable because it shortens bolt travel. That might be true. But it probably does more good than harm especially when running suppressed.

Sent from my SM-S901U using Tapatalk

HCM

09-14-2024, 08:49 AM

https://mil.in.ua/en/news/ukraine-resumes-production-of-ammunition-for-small-arms/#google_vignette

Ukraine resumes production of ammunition for small arms

The Ukrainian defense industry has launched the production of 5.45×39 and 5.56×45mm ammunition for the Ukrainian army.

The Pro Zbroyu Telegram channel published the photos of the ammunition.

The blog authors published a photo from the range where they fired 5.45×39mm ammunition of Ukrainian production. According to the information on the packaging, it was manufactured in June of this year

HeavyDuty

09-14-2024, 11:15 AM

Of course, if you've got "stupid money," there's always Rifle Dynamics...

I got an email about a Rifle Dynamics class to build this, I have to admit it’s appealing (and OT since it’s 5.56x45) :

https://rifledynamics.com/BC-2024-NOV-RD605/

Suvorov

09-14-2024, 11:59 AM

https://mil.in.ua/en/news/ukraine-resumes-production-of-ammunition-for-small-arms/#google_vignette

Ukraine resumes production of ammunition for small arms

Well, *IF* this war winds down, and this factory doesn’t get blown to hell by a Kinzhal before then, and UKR starts transitioning to 556 platforms, then maybe just *maybe* they can earn a buck or two by feeding civilian market.

Living a pipe dream I know.

HCM

09-14-2024, 12:25 PM

Well, *IF* this war winds down, and this factory doesn’t get blown to hell by a Kinzhal before then, and UKR starts transitioning to 556 platforms, then maybe just *maybe* they can earn a buck or two by feeding civilian market.

Living a pipe dream I know.

More realistically, if Ukraine is producing 5.45 domestically the other places that still make 5.45 may have a little more bandwidth for commercial sales.