Norinco Polytech MAK-90 7.62×39 16.25” Rifle Milled Chinese AKM AK47
SOLD FOR: $1,525
WOA#: WY231113SM020
Make: Norinco / Polytech 386
Model: MAK-90 Sporter
Serial Number: 35534
Year of Manufacture: 1990-1994 Preban
Caliber: 7.62×39
Action Type: Semi-Automatic, Gas Operated Long Stroke Piston
Markings: The left side of the receiver is marked with an ovaled “386”, “35534”, “MAK-90 / CAL. 7.62X39”, “C.J.A. SFLD MI / MADE IN CHINA”. There is what appears to be a scrubbed out import mark. The dust cover, bolt carrier, bolt head, and metal on the upper handguard are all serialized with matching numbers to the receiver. There is a Norinco Stamp on the bottom of the receiver and “MADE IN / CHINA”.
Barrel Length: 16.25”.
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a hooded post and the rear sight is a “U” tangent notch marked from “1 – 8” and “D”.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The buttstock is a fixed wood stock with metal buttplate with trap door cleaning kit compartment (not included) and sling ring. The stock has been modified to fit the slant cut receiver. The two piece handguard is wood. The pistol grip is smooth wood and matches the lower handguard. The LOP measures about 12.5” from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The stock rates in about Very Good overall condition as not original to the rifle and modified. There are no chips or cracks. There are a few scratches, scuffs, and compression marks. This is a milled receiver.
Magazine Quantity & Condition: One Flat Back Chinese 30rd 7.62×39 magazine in Very Good condition.
Type of Finish: Blued, the milled receiver is starting to turn plum.
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 9/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 90% of its metal finish. The balance of the finish shows some light scratches and scuffs on the receiver and dust cover but nothing out of the ordinary for a Norinco import. There is minor thinning on the leading edges. The screwheads show some tooling and the pins are unmarred. The edges of the dust cover have a few shallow dents, which might have been the result of a repair. The markings are clear. Overall, this rifle rates in about Very Good condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this rifle. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This rifle comes with a total of one magazine.
Our Assessment: The Norinco MAK90 stands as a fascinating chapter in the long history of AK-47 variants. Manufactured by China North Industries Corporation (Norinco), this semi-automatic rifle was specifically designed for export to the United States. The MAK90, or “Modified AK 1990,” emerged as a response to the 1989 U.S. import ban on “assault-style” firearms, which included previous Norinco models like the Type 56. As a workaround, the MAK90 comes with features that allow it to bypass import restrictions, such as a thumbhole stock and the absence of a bayonet lug or threaded muzzle, making it a unique artifact of international gun legislation.
The Norinco MAK90 serves as an intriguing blend of geopolitics and firearm design. While it is shaped by the regulatory landscape, it in no way compromises on the performance and reliability that one would expect from an AK-47 variant. Whether you’re interested in the firearm’s backstory, its functionality, or both, the MAK90 offers a compelling package. It stands as a testament to the adaptability and enduring appeal of the AK platform, capturing a unique moment in time while providing a versatile and reliable shooting experience.
This MAK 90 has a milled receiver which is a bit more uncommon for the MAK 90 imports. This rifle tells a story in itself as the receiver has an import mark that was scrubbed and replaced with a new import, a tale of backtracking shipments of canceled orders, modifying for compliance, and then reselling. Please see our photos and good luck on your bid! -L.S.
