That 74 was likely smuggled into the country, so on top of retail price there is the smugglers price. Generally the guys brining in guns illegally only do 5 or so at a time in case they get caught, but they charge extra for gas+time+risk. Basically there's a huge markup on smuggled stuff, which is to be expected.
Like I said, it would likely be cheaper to go with a different model AK and convert it. I'm not an expert on AK's so I don't really know the difference between them, IMO the only difference between a 47 and a 74 is that the 74 usually comes with modernized furniture (not wood).
As for helmets, I use the open style because I have a real Sordin Supreme Pro-X headset that I can link my radio into. Also provides hearing protection for when someone tosses a Thunder-B grenade into an enclosed room with you in it. I take the up-armor side-covers off the helmet when wearing the Sordin's since the Sordins provide enough impact protection for airsoft.







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