if weight is a problem for you, then by all means go for the czech. pretty much a matter of preference. the ak is a tractor, built for reliable use over long lengths of time in the worst of conditions. they have proven themselves from the arctic to the hottest jungles. the semi fire control group is the oldest, most perfected system in the world (john moses browning designed). simple, safe, rugged, reliable. lots of gee whiz has come and gone, the ak combines all the "old reliables" in a single package. it's the choice for arming cavemen for a reason