Oct
As someone with a safe full of 5.56 ARs, it’s tempting to look for something outside the box that takes 5.56 ammo, shoots reliably and softly, and looks great at a price that’s right. What if I told you that exists in the Zastava M90? What if I told you that my favorite rifle to shoot in 2025 just might not be an AR?
The Zastava M90, the gun we’ve fallen in love with over the past year is manufactured by Zastava Arms in Kragujevac, Serbia, is an AK-pattern rifle chambered in 5.56x45mm NATO. As a partner of Zastava Arms USA, AR15Discounts.com proudly maintains a well-stocked inventory of Zastava M90 rifles, offering shooters an alternative to AR-platform firearms. If you’ve ever been on the fence about picking up an AK but didn’t want to invest in a new caliber, then this is the gun for you.
Why Choose a Zastava AK
When I first began researching AKs, one name that came up repeatedly on forums was Zastava — and for good reason. When it comes to price vs. performance, I don’t think anyone is doing it better right now.
Zastava Arms, with over 160 years of manufacturing experience, produces rifles known for durability and reliability. The Zastava M90 builds on the design of the Zastava M70, featuring a 1.5mm stamped receiver, a bulged front trunnion, and a cold-hammer-forged, chrome-lined barrel built to resist corrosion. Imported by Zastava Arms USA, the M90 meets U.S. regulations while preserving Serbian quality. Double-locking lugs on the bolt ensure consistent cycling, a feature developed through Zastava’s long military history.
The Zastava M90 operates reliably in adverse conditions, including mud, snow, and extreme temperatures. It accepts standard AK magazines and supports a range of Yugoslavian-pattern accessories, allowing customization for various applications. For shooters familiar with ARs but seeking an AK, the M90 offers 5.56 compatibility with AK durability, making it a practical choice for diversifying a collection.
Advantages of a 5.56 AK
The Zastava M90’s 5.56x45mm chambering provides several benefits over traditional 7.62x39mm AKs. The 5.56 round achieves higher velocity, averaging around 2,900–3,000 feet per second depending on load, and a flatter trajectory, extending the effective range to roughly 400 yards compared to 300 yards for 7.62x39mm. This makes it well-suited for hunting small to medium game, tactical training, and recreational shooting.
Ammunition cost and availability increasingly favor 5.56. Prices for 7.62x39mm have risen significantly due to import restrictions and higher demand, while 5.56 remains widely available in bulk at competitive pricing. This makes the M90 a sensible option for high-volume shooting, training, or frequent range use.
Recoil is also a factor. The 5.56 round produces noticeably less recoil than 7.62x39mm, reducing shooter fatigue during extended sessions. The Zastava M90’s weight, around 8.5 pounds, further minimizes felt recoil, delivering a controlled and comfortable shooting experience. This combination of lower recoil and rugged construction suits shooters who value ease of use and consistent performance.
Addressing 5.56 AK Reliability Concerns
Some 5.56 AKs in the past have faced criticism for reliability issues, including overgassing or extraction failures. These were often tied to early or poorly executed conversions. The Zastava M90 avoids these problems through careful factory engineering. Its adjustable gas system and reinforced extractor ensure reliable cycling, while the chrome-lined barrel withstands high round counts without excessive wear. Testing by Zastava Arms USA confirms consistent performance across a wide range of ammunition.
The M90 benefits from Zastava’s decades of AK design experience, refined through military service rifles. It cycles various 5.56 ammunition types, from bulk training loads to premium match offerings, without issue. For shooters who require a dependable rifle that performs under diverse conditions with minimal maintenance, the M90 stands out as a trustworthy choice.
A Cost-Effective Alternative to ARs
The Zastava M90 offers a unique alternative to AR-15s for shooters seeking a different platform. While ARs are known for precision and vast aftermarket support, their direct-impingement systems require more frequent cleaning to stay reliable in harsh conditions. The M90’s long-stroke piston system provides dependable operation with less maintenance, making it better suited for environments where dirt, dust, or extreme weather might hinder a traditional AR.
Customization is straightforward with the M90. A variety of Yugoslavian-pattern accessories, including optics mounts, rails, and slings, allow the rifle to be configured for modern tactical use or kept in a more traditional setup. Companies such as Magpul and Midwest Industries offer compatible components, ensuring flexibility without forcing shooters into expensive proprietary parts. For many buyers, the M90 delivers comparable adaptability at a lower cost than a fully upgraded AR.
The 5.56 chambering also aligns with AR-compatible ammunition, simplifying logistics for shooters who already stock 5.56. This means the M90 integrates seamlessly into existing ammunition supplies, combining the efficiency of the AR caliber with the reliability of the AK system.
Why Purchase the Zastava M90 from AR15Discounts.com
AR15Discounts.com works directly with Zastava Arms USA to provide a variety of Zastava M90 configurations, including traditional wood furniture and modern polymer builds. Competitive pricing, free shipping on orders over $175, and a 30-day satisfaction guarantee ensure a smooth purchasing experience. The AR15Discounts.com staff can also help with selecting accessories such as optics mounts, rails, or slings to tailor the rifle to your needs.
The Zastava M90 combines AK durability with 5.56 practicality, offering shooters a cost-effective and versatile alternative to the AR platform. Explore the Zastava M90 collection at AR15Discounts.com to find a reliable rifle that blends modern performance with a battle-tested design.
