Why Are Bakelite AK47 Mags So Expensive?

So, why are Bakelite magazines so expensive? One reason has to do with Russian AK-47 imports having been banned, creating a fair amount of scarcity as Russian Bakelite magazines continue to go up in value as a result.

This scarcity of supply increases the value of an already rare magazine stateside.

The Reason Bakelite Mags Are So Expensive

The Bakelite is the most iconic AK magazine second only to the original steel-ribbed magazine. For that reason alone, Bakelite magazines have always been desirable magazines and always will be.

Every true AK lover owns at least one or, at the very least, has it on his wish list. But, just like everything else, it’s the supply and demand issue that creates the prices you see today.

Batches still show up from time to time but the minimum asking price for a Tula or Izhevsk-made magazine in “poor” to “good” condition is about $70-$80.

That price shoots up to $108 in excellent condition and $120 for NOS (new old stock). More “rare” versions for sale fetch even higher prices like the flat-bottom base plate Bakelites.

The ban on Russian AK imports has seen prices for Tula Arsenal Bakelites and steel-ribbed magazines skyrocket.

This created scarcity and then a higher demand which is always followed by a bump in the cost. Just like everything else, it’s a supply and demand issue that creates the prices you see today.

Batches still show up from time to time but the minimum asking price for a Tula Arsenal-made magazine in good condition is about $80.

That price shoots up to $108 in excellent condition and $120 for NOS (new old stock). More “rare” versions for sale fetch even higher prices like the flat-bottom base plate Bakelites.

Any Russian Bakelite magazine will always maintain and go up in value over time so they’re always worth the asking price.

Just check around various websites that sell Bakelite mags to ensure you’re not getting fleeced and you’ll be fine placing that order.

Final Thoughts

The allure and high cost of Bakelite AK-47 magazines can be attributed to a unique blend of historical, aesthetic, and practical factors.

These magazines, more than just ammunition storage, are a tangible link to the rich history of the AKM-variant rifle and its widespread use across various military conflicts.

Collectors and enthusiasts are drawn to the distinct look of Bakelite, with its reddish-orange hue and marbled patterns, which stands out against the more common polymer and metal magazines.

Bakelite’s manufacturing process, which is no longer widely used, adds to its rarity and desirability. These magazines are relics of a bygone era in military equipment production, making them sought-after items for collectors.

Their durability and reliability, tested in various combat conditions, also contribute to their appeal, especially among those who value the blend of historical significance and practical functionality.

However, it’s this combination of historical importance, unique aesthetics, and proven durability that drives up the cost. As they become rarer in the market, their value as collectibles increases.

For many, owning a Bakelite AKM magazine is not just about having a functional piece of equipment; it’s about owning a piece of history, a symbol of the enduring legacy of one of the world’s most iconic firearms.

In conclusion, while the high price of Bakelite AKM magazines might be a deterrent for some, for others, it represents a worthwhile investment in a piece of military history.

Whether used for actual shooting or as a collector’s item, these magazines carry with them stories and a legacy that is unmatched by more modern, mass-produced alternatives.