Why the Saiga 12 was Banned
What is a Saiga 12?
Unsporterized Saiga-12
Banned from import in 2014, these Russian semi-automatic, gas operated shotguns are increasingly rare. Before the ban, Saiga-12s had to come to the United States in the “sporterized” configuration. Because of import restrictions regarding certain calibers, these combat shotguns had to be reconfigured into “sporting” shotguns. Sporterized Saiga-12s don’t have a pistol grip or folding stock. Additionally, the trigger and trigger guard were moved backward and put in place of the pistol grip. Once imported, it was legal for people to have a Saiga-12 unsporterized by a gunsmith.
Saiga-12 History
Manufactured by the Kalashnikov Concern—formally known Izhmash—the Saiga-12 is a shotgun patterned after the infamous AK-47 rifle. Developed in the 1990s, these shotguns are used for hunting and self-defense. It is also a popular combat shotgun for U.S. police forces and the Russian Spetnaz (special forces). Users benefit from its lightweight and minimum recoil.
Originally known as Izamash, the Kalashnikov concern was founded in 1807 in the city of Izhevsk—close to the river and raw materials. The plant supplied the Imperial Army with muskets and firearms during the Napoleonic Wars and during the first Crimean War in the 1850s. Beginning in the 1890s, Izamash began mass producing the Mosin-Nagant, and during World War I, it produced 1.4 million rifles for the Russian Army.
Again, in World War II, the Izamash plant was the main manufacturer of firearms for the Soviet Armed Forces. In just three years, the plan produced over 11 million rifles—more than all the German manufacturers combined.
Putin at the Kalashnikov Concern in 2016
By Russian government - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/52920/photos/45675, CC BY 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=61041172
After World War II, they hired Kalashnikov to design guns, and in 1947, he created the AK-47. Izamash began production of the most iconic Russian rifle of the modern era. They continued to develop firearms based on the Kalashnikov rifle including the AKM, the AK-74, the RPK light machine gun, and the SVD sniper rifle.
After the Soviet Union collapsed, Izhmash struggled to compete with firearm manufacturers worldwide. But with the creation of the Saiga—a shotgun patterned after the AK-47—their popularity in Western markets rose rapidly. In 2013, the company experienced a reorganization as the Kalashnikov Concern, and with its new name and identity, the company one again became Russia’s largest firearms manufacturer and exporter. Today, the Kalashnikov Concern produces 95% of all of the small arms in Russia.
Why was the Saiga-12 Banned?
In February 2014, unmarked Russian troops invaded Crimea, and, with the help of pro-Russian separatists they installed a new pro-Russian government. The United States, along with the United Nations and many Ukrainians, claimed that this new government was illegal and illegitimate.
In retaliation, the United States imposed economic sanctions on the Kalashnikov Concern and several other Russian companies. These import sanctions were intended to punish the Russians for their aggression and military intervention in both Ukraine and Crimea. But they also effectively banned new Saiga-12 and other Kalashnikov Concern products from import to U.S. consumers.
On the bright side, the import ban on AKs and Saigas enabled American manufacturers to gain a foothold in the AK marketplace previously occupied by the Kalashnikov Concern. For example, Kalashnikov USA (unrelated to the Kalashnikov Concern in Russia) produces several AK-style guns including a KS-12 which is a clone of the Saiga-12.
But will we ever see new Russian Saiga-12s in the U.S. again? Probably not. The American government intends on continuing these sanctions until Russia ends their occupation of Crimea. The Russians, however, have shown no signs of backing down. In fact, the Prime Minister of Russia claims that Crimea is now fully integrated with Russia—they use both Russian time and money and have constructed a fence between Ukraine and Crimea.
It’s rare to find a Saiga-12 for sale these days. No one wants to give them up, for fear they’ll never get their hands on one again. Interestingly, this shotgun is named after the saiga antelope—a critically endangered species found in Russia and other parts of central Asia. They’ve continued to face extinction throughout the 21st century due to excessive hunting and poaching. And much like the antelope, the Saiga-12 has become an endangered species.
Saiga 12 Gunsmithing
The gunsmiths at McCluskey Arms have fixed and upgraded several Saiga 12s, and we are considered one of the best Saiga 12 gunsmiths in the Pacific Northwest. Find a list of our Saiga 12 services below:
Cut, Thread, and Pin Barrel (18.5”)
Our Cut, Re-thread, and Pin Barrel service for the Saiga 12 reduces the barrel length to 18.5 inches. We expertly re-thread and securely pin it, ensuring optimal performance and compliance with legal requirements, providing a reliable and precise fit for your muzzle device.
Short Barrel Shotgun Conversion (12.5”)
Transform your Saiga 12 with our SBS Conversion Package, reducing the barrel to 12.5 inches for a more compact and maneuverable firearm. This service includes all necessary modifications to ensure reliable performance and compliance with all relevant regulations.
Bolt & Carrier Polish and Profile
Enhance the smoothness and reliability of your Saiga 12 with our Bolt & Carrier Polish and Profile service. We meticulously polish and profile the bolt and carrier, reducing friction and ensuring smoother operation and improved cycling.
Picatinny Optic Rail & Install
Our Picatinny Optic Rail installation service provides a robust and secure mounting platform for your optics on the Saiga 12. We ensure precise alignment and secure attachment, enhancing your firearm's accuracy and versatility with a durable Picatinny rail.
Left Hand Charging Handle
Optimize your Saiga 12 for left-handed use with our Custom Left Hand Charging Handle installation. This service includes the fabrication and fitting of a custom charging handle, providing improved accessibility and operation for left-handed shooters.
Bob Front Sight
Our Bob Front Sight service customizes the front sight of your Saiga 12 for a streamlined, snag-free profile. This modification enhances draw speed and reduces the risk of snagging, providing a smooth and efficient shooting experience.
Tune Gas System
Ensure reliable cycling and optimal performance of your Saiga 12 with our Tune Gas System service. We adjust and fine-tune your gas system for improved operation, reducing recoil and enhancing overall firearm functionality.
Handguard Install
Upgrade your Saiga 12's handling and aesthetics with our Handguard Install service. We expertly fit and secure your chosen handguard, ensuring a comfortable grip and improved control during operation.
