Century International Arms Inc. WASR

Name: Century International Arms Inc. WASR
SKU: 6697
Price: 1165.00 USD
Availability: InStock

$1,165.00

Century International Arms Inc. WASR Overview:

The Century International Arms Inc. WASR is a semi-automatic rifle that has gained popularity among firearms enthusiasts due to its affordability and reliability. It is a variant of the Romanian AK-47, often referred to as the WASR-10 or WASR-22 depending on the model. The WASR is known for its durability, ease of use, and the distinctive design of its predecessor, the AK-47. Its lower price point compared to other rifles makes it a popular choice for both new and experienced shooters.

Category: AMMO Tags: #AK47, #AKRifle, #CenturyArms, #FirearmsCommunity, #GunEnthusiast, #GunOwners, #ShootingSports, #TacticalFirearms, #WASR

Description

Century International Arms Inc. WASR: In-Depth Analysis

Background and Origin:

The WASR series is manufactured by the Romanian state-owned factory, Cugir, and imported into the United States by Century International Arms. The WASR-10, the most common model, is a variant of the AK-47 design, one of the most iconic assault rifles in history. The AK-47, designed by Mikhail Kalashnikov, is renowned for its ruggedness and reliability in various conditions. The WASR-10, as a derivative, carries forward many of these traits but is adapted for the civilian market with semi-automatic operation.

Design and Features:

The WASR-10 typically features a 16.25-inch barrel and is chambered for the 7.62x39mm cartridge, a common caliber that provides a balance between power and recoil. It usually has a wooden or synthetic stock, with a relatively straightforward iron sight system. The rifle’s design is built around the AK-47’s gas-operated, rotating bolt mechanism, which is known for its durability and simplicity.

The WASR-10 generally uses standard AK-47 magazines, although early models had issues with magazine compatibility. Modern WASR rifles have improved in this area and are more consistent in their performance. The rifle often comes with a bayonet lug and a threaded muzzle, features that are part of the traditional AK design but are often omitted in more recent or civilian-focused models due to legal restrictions.

Performance and Use:

The WASR-10 is praised for its reliability, even in adverse conditions. Its construction is designed to handle rough handling and varied environmental conditions, making it a robust choice for both recreational shooting and self-defense. However, as a semi-automatic rifle, it is limited in rate of fire compared to its fully-automatic counterparts. This limitation aligns with civilian regulations in the United States, which restrict fully-automatic firearms for civilian use.

Accuracy-wise, the WASR-10 is generally effective at medium ranges, but it may not match the precision of more expensive or higher-end rifles. The 7.62x39mm round is known for its moderate recoil, which makes it manageable for most shooters, though it can be less precise than smaller calibers.

Market Position and Value:

One of the WASR’s main selling points is its affordability. Compared to other rifles with similar features, the WASR-10 is often less expensive, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. Its price point has fluctuated based on market conditions and availability, but it remains one of the more economical choices for a semi-automatic rifle.

The WASR-10 has also gained a following among collectors and enthusiasts due to its connection to the AK-47 lineage. Despite being a budget option, it offers a genuine piece of AK history, albeit with some modern modifications.

Criticisms and Concerns:

Despite its positives, the WASR-10 has faced criticisms. Early models were known for issues with build quality and magazine compatibility, although many of these issues have been addressed in recent production runs. Additionally, the rifle’s basic iron sights and lack of modern features might not appeal to all users, especially those seeking high-precision or tactical capabilities.

Conclusion:

The Century International Arms Inc. WASR-10 represents a cost-effective entry point into the world of AK-style rifles. It carries forward the reliability and ruggedness of the AK-47 design while making some adaptations for the civilian market. Its affordability and historical significance make it a compelling choice for many shooters, though it may not be ideal for those seeking the latest in precision or tactical features. Overall, the WASR-10 remains a significant player in the semi-automatic rifle market, offering a blend of heritage and practicality.

Properties of Century International Arms Inc. WASR

**1. Design and Construction:

Model Variants: Primarily the WASR-10 (7.62x39mm) and WASR-22 (for .22 LR).
Origin: Romanian design, manufactured by Cugir, imported by Century International Arms.
Material: Typically features a steel receiver and either wooden or synthetic stock.
Finish: Often has a blued or parkerized finish for corrosion resistance.
Barrel: Usually 16.25 inches in length, with a chrome-lined bore for durability.
Muzzle: Threaded for muzzle attachments; some models include a flash suppressor.
Sights: Standard iron sights, often adjustable for windage and elevation.
Weight: Approximately 7.5 to 8 pounds, depending on the specific model and stock type.
Length: Overall length around 35 inches.

**2. Caliber and Ammunition:

WASR-10: Chambered for 7.62x39mm cartridges, a common caliber known for its balance of power and manageable recoil.
WASR-22: Chambered for .22 LR cartridges, which are less powerful and have lower recoil, suitable for training and recreational shooting.

**3. Magazine Compatibility:

Magazine Capacity: Typically uses 30-round detachable magazines, compatible with standard AK-47 magazines.
Magazine Type: Stamped steel or polymer magazines, with early models sometimes having fit issues that have been resolved in later production.

**4. Operation:

Action: Semi-automatic, gas-operated with a rotating bolt mechanism.
Trigger Mechanism: Single-stage trigger with a standard pull weight, usually around 5 to 8 pounds.

**5. Ergonomics:

Stock: Available in wooden (usually beech or hardwood) or synthetic materials. The stock is often fixed, but some models might have collapsible options.
Pistol Grip: Ergonomically designed to provide a comfortable hold, often with a textured surface.
Forend: Standard handguard, which may be wooden or polymer, depending on the model.

**6. Legal and Regulatory Features:

Compliance: Designed to meet U.S. import regulations and laws for semi-automatic rifles, including features like a non-functional bayonet lug and no fully automatic capability.

Uses of Century International Arms Inc. WASR

**1. Recreational Shooting:

Target Practice: The WASR-10 is popular for target shooting due to its accuracy at medium ranges and manageable recoil.
Plinking: The WASR-22 is often used for casual shooting and plinking, offering an affordable option for practicing shooting skills.

**2. Self-Defense:

Home Defense: The WASR-10, with its robust design and reliable operation, can be used for home defense. Its semi-automatic action and 7.62x39mm ammunition provide sufficient stopping power for defensive purposes.

**3. Training and Education:

Firearms Training: The WASR-22 is particularly useful for training new shooters due to its lower recoil and cost-effective ammunition. It allows learners to become familiar with rifle handling and marksmanship without the higher costs associated with larger calibers.

**4. Historical and Collectible Interest:

Collector’s Item: Enthusiasts and collectors value the WASR for its historical connection to the AK-47 platform. The rifle’s design and construction offer a piece of firearms history, especially appreciated by those interested in military firearms.

**5. Tactical Training:

Simulation: While not equipped with advanced tactical features, the WASR-10 can be used in tactical training scenarios to simulate the handling and operation of the AK-47 platform. It provides a cost-effective alternative for training purposes.

**6. Hunting:

Small to Medium Game: Though not commonly used for hunting, the WASR-10’s 7.62x39mm ammunition can be effective for hunting small to medium game. However, due to its semi-automatic action and the nature of its design, it is less common in this role compared to bolt-action or lever-action rifles.

Summary:

The Century International Arms Inc. WASR is a versatile rifle with applications ranging from recreational shooting and self-defense to training and collectible interest. Its affordability, reliability, and historical significance make it a popular choice among various users, despite its basic features and potential limitations in precision compared to higher-end firearms.