“Depends on how much you like the AK. It also depends on what you plan on doing with it. Plinking? 3-gun? Long range? 50-200 yrds only? What price range are you thinking? What part of the US will you be living in? What is your ammo budget like?”
A lot of questions. My price range is up to 2,000. I live in California unfortunately for the 2nd amendment. I am not quite sure how to kanban ammo yet.
The default answer is: M-1 Garand
Since you’re in California, AR15’s with quick-detachable magazines are banned. However you can buy off-list AR15’s with “bullet-button” magazine releases. In the event of a zombie attack, you can always replace the magazine release with the quick-release button. ;>)
Otherwise, I would recommend the Ruger Mini-14 or Mini-30.
You’ll be limited to 10 round magazines in any case.