Potentially getting a Saiga 12 (converted)

[Sirex 34]

So, there is a possibility of me getting a Saiga 12 in a gun trade. He says it runs fine and has run about 1500 shells thru it. Anything I should look for, or be wary of? I am not familiar with the S12, mainly rifles. Thanks in advance.

[JonWienke 131]

If it will run Wal-Mart bulk pack shells reliably, you're probably good to go. Just carefully inspect the gun for any indications of WECSOG.

 

But if it won't, you'll probably need to do some work on it.

[mscottrogers 56]

If you are familiar with ak47 then this is very similar. The gas system is different. The end where it's adjusted comes out for service. Take it shooting and see how it functions. Field strip it and look for cracks in the normal areas(trunions, carrier, receiver around rivits, etc). I've got one that's a single shot because it has no gas holes. It's a simple enough fix.

[Sirex 34]

Is 1500 rounds a lot for an S12? I currently only own pump shotguns, so 1500 seems high in my limited scope of shotguns

[JonWienke 131]

Not really. When you can dump a 20-round magazine in 10-15 seconds, it doesn't take all that long to hit 1500 rounds.

[JohnnyE 82]

I would suggest checking for alterations to the bolt and carrier, and the gas ports. Some amateurs can mess these things up in the name of "improving" function, and will be difficult or impossible to undo. 

[G O B 3,516]

At that round count, look for 'throat erosion'. If the chrome is nice in the barrel it is good for MANY more rounds!