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The .30-30 has as larger powder charge, I think, but the difference in recoil is due to gun design. The .30-30 transfers all the recoil to your shoulder. The AK-47 will absorb some of it through the gas system semi-auto functioning.
The recoil on an AR (5.56) is probably milder. But the 5.56 won't punch thru a brick wall nor a concrete block wall either.

You could go for the Saiga and deal with the hard to find high priced mags or convert it to use AK-47 double stack mags. Easily done.
Or get an AK and go for a 'Thumbhole stock" or a 'Dragunov' style stock:
http://www.parts4ak47.com/ak-47_accesso ... tocks.html" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;
The stock labled "Mak-90 Maddi" is the Dragunov style.
Other people:
http://www.parts4ak47.com/ak-47_accesso ... tocks.html" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;
have nicer looking wood Dragunov style stocks.

I still think the AK is cheaper, packs more of a punch and is not as ammo sensitive or dirt sensitive as an AR.
Regards, OE

Mr.72,
I found the video I was looking for: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dKhMOfaY ... re=related" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;
It shows the penetration capabilities of 7.62 x 39(AK-47) and 5.56/.223(M-16/AR-15). Based on these tests I would suggest the 7.62 x 39.
I would recommend an AK style rifle other than a Saiga. Saigas take a single stack magazine that is hard to find and expensive.

Here is the entry level AK-47: http://www.aimsurplus.com/acatalog/NEW_ ... Break.html" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

Here is one good place to buy double stack AK-47 magazines: http://www.copesdistributing.net/index. ... h=32_34_80" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;
Steel AK magazines made in 'commie' countries are your friend! ProMag plastic made in USA, NOT!!!!!

AKs work when they are dirty, they will shoot cheap steel cased ammo and you can get parts. A surplus SKS would be cheaper but they don't use detachable magazines.
If you are only going to have one, Il'd go for the AK!! And soon!!

Regards, OE