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So... New rifle time and I'm looking for some opinions.

I've had a .223/5.56 slot added and have been torn for a while now between a side-charging AR15 or VZ58 MARS. I was tempted to go for the VZ but my brain is telling me to go for a platform built for the cartridge (as I'll primarily be shooting 200+). I almost put 7.62x39 on my variation but saw the benefits of the 5.56 as it opens up a different world compared to a 7.62 short (accuracy, reloading etc) plus I wanted something a bit 'milder' for mid-range shooting than my Remmy. I already have a Tigr/SVD so I'm happy with straight-pull and the novelty of the VZ's action isn't a swaying factor.

I'm eyeing up one of the 20" 1:7 Valkyrie side-chargers as the way forward and thought I'd ping out for some input.

Requirements:

- Accuracy preferably < MOA which I understand both platforms can do. I'm not a 'great' shot but I can but try.
- Able to run milsurp for general plinking/practice which both can do as well as heavier match ammo for serious days. I will be reloading but will also buy a batch of RG to burn through.
- Mounting of bipods and decent mounts/optics - I understand the VZ is slightly disadvantaged due to the lack of a flat-top receiver and the need to buy a £250 mounting bracket or very very high side bracket.

Does anyone own either or both types and have any input?

I'm putting in my order tomorrow and I'm on the fence and could go either way...

I've owned an SGC Speedmaster and currently own a VZ-58 MARS. They are literally chalk and cheese and from the requirements you've listed a straight-pull AR is without any doubt the route to go on.

The only reason to buy a VZ58 MARS is for the action, I literally can't think of any aspect other that rate of fire that it would be superior to an AR-15, other than using it as a hammer/club

James048 wrote:
the novelty of the VZ's action isn't a swaying factor.

I will be reloading but will also buy a batch of RG to burn through.

Surely the action of the MARS is the only reason why you would buy it over an AR15 ? Also it's worth testing a small batch of RG if you do go down that route as my mates MARS does not cycle it very well, something to do with the pressure curve (apparently RG develops low port pressures to match the dwell time of the British service rifle)
I'd be on the fence too, but not for long, AR15 all the way (do you know you can get a lever release in .223 if you save up a few more £££).

I already have a Tigr/SVD so I'm happy with straight-pull


Go with the AR15 if you want accuracy.

Valid points and interesting to hear it from someone with both. I'm leaning toward the AR, the VZ will probably have to wait for a 7.62x39 whim and variation request...

I took a quick look at SGC's lever release earlier and on the rifle builder it came to £3.5k. My wallet imploded at the thought of it.

bnz41 wrote:I already have a Tigr/SVD so I'm happy with straight-pull

Everyone loves a Tiggggr.

Got a SVD?.........get an AK!

If you are shooting Fig11's at somewhere like Sennybridge I'd say the Vz (would have gone for 7.62x39 myself, good to 400m no problem) but if you are after something more precise for paper-punching I'd say an AR type.As others have said the Vz has the novelty of the MARS action and a you can rattle off a fair few rounds with it, shot a few myself but to be honest I'd take my AKM over one (and save quite a few bob in the process) anytime.

And post some pics of the SVD!

James048 wrote:
Everyone loves a Tiggggr.

They certainly do!

Now I want a wood kit...

If you wanted the VZ 58, but don't care about the MARS action, you could get the straight pull version for half the price.

But Based on your requirements, i would agree with the general consensus and go for one of the AR-15 platforms.

James048 wrote:Now I want a wood kit...

Much nicer than polymer ...... Soviet Arctic Birch laminated stock with matching cheekrest and a genuine Dragunov recoil pad, Arctic Birch laminated handguards plus original Dragunov ribbed receiver cover and a 1986-dated sling with a shoulder pad from a PKM sling fitted.Scope in the pic is a 1p21 "Minuta", now sold on, it usually has an original late-60s Soviet PSO-1 mounted.Set up as a Soviet-Afghan era Dragunov