Need Saiga 12 Help

Sharpie said:

I am looking to possibly purchase a Saiga 12 shotgun; Although I have a few questions regarding. I am really new regarding Saiga/AK type firearms.

1. Who actually produces the Saiga?

Izmash, the original Russian AK factory, where Mihail Timofeevič Kalašnikov still maintains an office.

2. Is Saiga itself the brand name or a variant type of shotgun?

Saiga is the Brand Name.
Widely recognized as the best box mag, semi-auto shotgun, which would be the variant/type of shotgun.

3. What should I be looking for in variations between models?

Right now, in the 12g, you're likely only going to find 19" guns with standard black polymer furniture.
You can however, find them in various conversion configurations from various retailers.
Which will primarily be furniture and/or color, stock, pistol grip, forearm, sights, trigger group and etc.

4. Is there a noobie friendly website or guide I could be directed to for more information.

Feel free to ask here, several others and myself are knowledgeable.
And please, come and visit at Saiga12.com.

5. What are the legalities involved with converting a Saiga to a pistol grip format?
922r covers conversion from sporting to tactical.
Its all about taking off Imported/Foreign made parts and installing US made parts... Maximum 10 Imported/Foreign parts.
Gunwiki: 922(r) Worksheet for Saiga Shotguns
Your City/County or State may have other laws pertaining to firearms, please know them before converting.
E.g. California;s, New York's Assault Weapons laws and etc.

Thank you!
You're welcome, happy to help others.

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Sharpie said:

I am looking to possibly purchase a Saiga 12 shotgun; Although I have a few questions regarding. I am really new regarding Saiga/AK type firearms.

1. Who actually produces the Saiga?

Izmash

2. Is Saiga itself the brand name or a variant type of shotgun?

Hmmm. Model name.

3. What should I be looking for in variations between models?

Barrel length.

4. Is there a noobie friendly website or guide I could be directed to for more information.

Www.saiga-12.com

5. What are the legalities involved with converting a Saiga to a pistol grip format?

Check your local laws, each state is different. It is NEVER a good idea to get that kind of advice from random strangers on the Internet. Having said that there are certain rules (922R) concerning number of US made parts that have to be on the weapon if it possess certain features.

The following link spells it out pretty clearly i think.

http://home.comcast.net/~navy87guy/home/922r.html

BUT DO YOUR OWN RESEARCH!!!

Thank you!

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Sharpie said:

Thank you very much ChileRelleno! Those answers were spot on and very helpful.

Regarding barrel length... What other lengths are available not including SBR...

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