It makes no difference

[Matrosov]

The Kalashnikov rifles being imported were actually Saiga sporting rifles that then had to be converted to look like AKs. Ironically, the appeal was that they were "authentic" Kalashnikovs because they were manufactured by Izhmash. That's the same reason people - most likely collectors - went on a buying frenzy.

AK-style rifles from other countries and from domestic manufacturers are still available, however, so it makes no difference in the long run.