LS240

I own both a 16" and 20". The 20" is definitely heavier overall and more front heavy of course, but is still manageable if you don't hang tons of crap on it(made that mistake, it's now in a simpler carbine configuration). With the 20" you get about 200fps more muzzle velocity(chronoed myself, ~3150fps vs 2950) and there seems to be less variation in velocity from one shot to the next. My 20" groups about 1/4" or so better than my 16" but they're both under 2" at 100yds with surplus ammo. There's less recoil and muzzle flip with the longer barrel, and theoretically at least the heavier barrel s

Kvar is a good inexpensive stock. I have one on my 16" 5.45 and it's solid and comfortable and looks great. I must say though my favorite setup so far is a Magpul CTR on a Vltor adapter tube on my 20" 5.45. That's not a cheap setup but boy oh boy is it worth every penny. Nice as the Kvar is, the Magpul has a way better cheek weld and more comfortable and steady shoulder grip. Another good option is that Phoenix adjustable recoil reducing stock. My Dad has one of those and it's pretty nice. Good cheek weld and feels solid, even if it's not the prettiest option out there. I think they're around

A pic comparing the barrels side by side:

Sorry for the multiple posts but my pics exceed the 2mb per post limit very quickly.

I received all my parts yesterday and did my conversion last night. I just now got back from the range after test firing. Unfortunately it was windy and the wind was very erratic so I didn't even bother setting up targets. I just "zeroed" my scope based on a few objects laying around the range. I can say it sure as hell felt accurate but I can't wait till a clear day to really see what it can do. I do have something interesting for you guys though; chrono results! It just so happened there was a gentleman there chroning some new handloads for his rifle and he was kind enough to shoot my rifles

My 20" arrived a couple days ago. For some reason the parts from CSS are taking forever but they're scheduled to be here Monday. The wait is killing me.

I think shooting from a bag at the range is just fine, but if you ever have plans of using your Saiga in the field I'd get a bipod. I use mine for prairie dog hunting and having a bipod is a must for me. Carrying around a bag would be a pain.

Well personally I've already got a 16" that is staying light and simple. This build is going to be more a designated marksman type build on a platform that I already happen to be stocking ammo and mags for, which is the main reason I'm buying one. As for balance, I'm not too concerned as it'll be used from a bipod mostly as opposed to off hand with the 16". Besides, my favorite rifle to shoot is my Mosin Nagant M91/30 and I doubt this rifle will come out anywhere near as front heavy as that thing. As for accuracy, well I guess I'll see in a few days.

I'm kinda nervous about my trunnion. I forgot to ask the lady at Classic if they were round or flat and by the time I was making my order at CSS it was after Classic's office hours. I just went ahead and ordered the round trunnion bullet guide based on Maadi's post. I hope it's the right one lol.

I ordered one of these yesterday from Classic and today got all the conversion parts and whatnot from CSS. I'll post pics and a report once I get it in and convert it. I can't wait! This'll make a great companion to my 16".

I just got my first Mosin Nagant a few days ago, a plain old M91/30(but a beautiful one at that) and I'm already lusting for more. I feel the need for an M44 now but can't seem to find any in stock at the normal dealers. Anyone know where to find some? I'd prefer laminate but hardwood is ok too. Thanks for reading!