He didn't talk me out of a PTR.. but he wasn't talking me into a Saiga either. He had the opinion that the PTR was prone to more trouble and since the Saiga was less expensive and relatively trouble free that the Saiga would be his choice for a .308. I have to say I'm very happy with this decision. Other than being a heavy bastard (wood hunting stock, SGM muzzle break, and POSP scope), it's an awsome rifle.