A Tale of Two AKs: The Origins and Their Legacy
The AK-47 Family
The AK-47, a name synonymous with rugged reliability and global influence, has permeated battlefields and civilian markets alike. Its simple design and robust construction have made it a mainstay in both military and civilian circles for decades. Within the vast family of AK-47 variants, two rifles often spark debate: the WBP Jack and the Zastava M70. This article delves into a detailed comparison, examining these two popular AK-47 variants, to determine their strengths, weaknesses, and overall value. We’ll explore their build quality, features, performance, and how they stack up against each other.
WBP Jack
The WBP Jack hails from Poland. WBP (Warsaw Beryl Production) is a Polish manufacturer gaining recognition for producing AK-pattern rifles. The “Jack” is a popular offering, designed to meet the demands of the civilian market. Its lineage traces back to the robust manufacturing traditions of Eastern Europe, with a focus on providing a solid, dependable AK at a competitive price point. These rifles are known for their good build quality and adherence to the original AK design principles. The WBP Jack has become a favorite choice for those seeking an AK that offers both value and a proven track record.
Zastava M70
The Zastava M70, on the other hand, originates from the former Yugoslavia, now Serbia. Produced by Zastava Arms, this rifle carries a significant historical weight, having been the standard service rifle of the Yugoslav People’s Army. Its production mirrored the Soviet AKM design but incorporated distinctive features often associated with Serbian manufacturing. The M70’s history is interwoven with the turbulent events of the region, and it remains a symbol of Serbian firearms manufacturing. The M70’s popularity extends beyond military and law enforcement use, attracting collectors and shooting enthusiasts who appreciate its historical context and unique design elements.
Examining the Foundation: Build Quality and Construction
Receiver
A crucial aspect of any firearm is its build quality, and this is where the WBP Jack and Zastava M70 reveal their distinct characteristics. The foundation of any AK-47 rests on its receiver, and it’s a key area to evaluate.
The WBP Jack often features a stamped receiver. Stamped receivers are known for being lightweight and cost-effective to produce. WBP utilizes quality steel and employs proper heat treatment to ensure the receiver’s durability. While the thickness can vary, WBP generally aims for robust construction. The fit and finish of the WBP Jack receivers are usually quite good. Welds are typically clean, and surface treatments are well-applied.
The Zastava M70, in many variations, incorporates a thicker, heavier receiver. This is a characteristic that sets it apart from some other AK variants. The receiver’s increased thickness contributes to the M70’s reputation for durability and longevity. Zastava uses quality steel, and their manufacturing processes often involve meticulous attention to detail. The result is a receiver that’s built to withstand significant use and abuse.
Barrel
The barrels are also vital for accuracy and longevity. Both the WBP Jack and Zastava M70 benefit from a high-quality barrel. The WBP Jack often uses a cold hammer-forged barrel. Cold hammer forging is a manufacturing process that increases barrel strength and enhances accuracy potential. The barrels are generally chrome-lined, improving corrosion resistance and extending barrel life. The overall quality is generally good.
The Zastava M70 generally also uses a cold hammer-forged barrel. The quality of the Zastava barrel is considered to be very good with the chrome lining ensuring durability, making it a tough and reliable component, designed to deliver consistent performance over time.
Furniture
Furniture adds to the ergonomics and aesthetics of any rifle. The WBP Jack often features standard AKM-pattern furniture. This means you’ll often find a wood or polymer stock, handguard, and pistol grip. The wood furniture can vary, often from laminate. Polymer furniture provides a more modern appearance and offers greater resistance to the elements. The quality of the furniture is generally decent, providing a functional and practical setup. The WBP Jack readily accepts many aftermarket options, giving users plenty of choices for customization.
The Zastava M70 often includes its distinct furniture design. These rifles typically sport a specific buttstock, handguard, and pistol grip. The wood furniture is a common feature on the M70, adding to the classic AK aesthetic. The Zastava furniture provides a solid feel and good ergonomics. Though the furniture may have less access to aftermarket accessories, it still looks and functions well.
Overall Build Quality
In assessing the overall build quality, both the WBP Jack and the Zastava M70 demonstrate commendable construction. The WBP Jack offers a solid, well-built package, with an emphasis on value and reliability. The Zastava M70, with its heavier receiver and focus on robust construction, conveys a sense of durability and longevity.
Decoding the Specifications: Features and Design
Caliber and Magazine Compatibility
Beyond their construction, the WBP Jack and Zastava M70 showcase distinct features.
Both rifles are typically chambered in the 7.62x39mm cartridge. This popular round is readily available and offers a balance of power and manageability. The WBP Jack and Zastava M70 both accept standard AKM-pattern magazines. The interchangeability is a huge plus, giving users access to a massive market of magazines, with various capacities and designs. This compatibility simplifies access and offers a wide selection of magazine choices to suit individual preferences.
Sights
The sights are an important factor to think about. The WBP Jack typically features standard AK sights: a front post and a rear tangent sight. The sight picture is functional and effective for combat-style shooting. The sight adjustments are simple, and the sights are typically aligned well at the factory.
The Zastava M70 includes similar sights. These standard AK sights are known for their reliability. The sight adjustments are also typical, and the sights offer good accuracy for general use.
Trigger
The triggers play a vital role. The WBP Jack generally includes a standard AK trigger group. The trigger pull weight is typically moderate. The trigger characteristics provide a decent feel and performance, allowing for rapid, accurate follow-up shots. The trigger usually doesn’t require much polishing to smooth it out.
The Zastava M70 has a standard trigger. The trigger feel is usually solid, though it may have a slightly heavier pull than some aftermarket triggers. The triggers on these rifles are typically quite reliable and are designed to handle the demands of rugged use.
Other Features
Many additional features set these two models apart. The WBP Jack often features a side-mounted scope rail. This allows shooters to easily attach optics like red dot sights or scopes, enhancing accuracy. The side rail is designed to provide a stable platform for mounting optics, expanding the rifle’s versatility.
The Zastava M70 often has a bulged trunnion. This reinforces the front of the receiver and enhances its durability. This feature is designed to withstand heavy use.
Performance: Accuracy, Reliability, and Handling
Accuracy
Evaluating performance involves examining accuracy, reliability, and overall handling.
Accuracy is evaluated on the target. The WBP Jack typically delivers good accuracy. The accuracy results can vary depending on the shooter, ammunition used, and conditions. Expect it to be able to hit targets consistently at typical engagement ranges.
The Zastava M70 is renowned for its inherent accuracy. It often delivers excellent groups, owing to its heavier build and quality barrel. The M70 has consistently shown itself to be accurate at medium ranges.
Reliability
Reliability, a hallmark of the AK-47 design, is a key consideration. The WBP Jack has a reputation for reliable operation. It usually functions without issue, even under adverse conditions. Its straightforward design minimizes the potential for malfunctions.
The Zastava M70 has earned a strong reputation for its reliability. It’s built to withstand harsh conditions, and its design makes it resistant to malfunctions. The Zastava M70 has a reputation for being a rugged and reliable choice.
Ergonomics and Handling
The ergonomics and handling of a rifle are vital to the overall shooting experience. The WBP Jack provides comfortable handling. The balance is good, and the controls are accessible. Its ergonomic design offers a good combination of comfort and control, allowing for easier use over extended periods.
The Zastava M70, with its heavier receiver, can feel slightly front-heavy. The controls are generally intuitive. The rifle’s robust construction contributes to its overall positive shooting characteristics.
Weighing the Scales: Pros and Cons
WBP Jack
Let’s summarize the advantages and disadvantages of each rifle.
The WBP Jack’s key advantages are its value for the price. It offers a well-built, reliable AK at a competitive price point, making it an attractive option. The ease of customization and the availability of aftermarket parts are significant.
The disadvantages are that the finish might not be as durable as that of some other AKs. The trigger might require some refinement, but the performance is generally good.
Zastava M70
The Zastava M70 has several strong points. Its build quality and overall durability are exceptional. The reputation for reliability is legendary. The rifle’s historical significance is appealing to collectors and enthusiasts.
The disadvantages include its higher cost and possibly a heavier overall weight than other options. The availability of aftermarket parts could be less extensive than for other AK-pattern rifles.
Pricing and Overall Value
When evaluating the WBP Jack and Zastava M70, pricing is an important factor. Market prices will change, but the WBP Jack often comes in at a more affordable price point. Its value stems from its combination of good build quality, proven reliability, and its wide accessibility.
The Zastava M70 typically carries a slightly higher price tag. Its value comes from its build quality and its historical context. For those seeking a high-quality, historically significant AK variant, the Zastava M70 represents a great investment.
Conclusion: Choosing the Right AK for You
Both the WBP Jack and the Zastava M70 are excellent AK-47 variants, each with its unique strengths. The WBP Jack presents a solid choice, with a focus on value, reliability, and widespread appeal. The Zastava M70 offers unmatched durability and historic appeal.
For a shooter looking for an affordable, reliable, and customizable AK-47, the WBP Jack is a great selection. It is an excellent choice for both new and experienced shooters. For collectors and those seeking a robust, historically significant AK-47, the Zastava M70 makes for a worthy investment.
The best choice will depend on individual preferences and priorities. Both rifles represent great value in the AK-47 market.
Disclaimer
*This article is for informational purposes only. Always follow local laws and regulations regarding firearms ownership and use. Handle firearms safely at all times.*
