I originally had my mind set on purchasing a Saiga 7.62x39 but when i got to the gun shop the owner showed me a Vepr 7.62x39. The Vepr felt a little heavier, but not much more significant. It felt like it was built more solid. However, the Vepr cost nearly twice as much as the Saiga. Anybody have any experience with both? What would you pick?

Was this an older Vepr or the new one with fake wooden stock?

 

Veprs are built on RPK receivers which are 50% thicker, hence why they are heavier. If you want a nice vepr, find an older import by Robinson Arms, Vepr 2 or Vepr K, already converted.

Was the Saiga unconverted? If it was in stock form, that's ANOTHER thing that will contribute to its weight. When converted, the heavier stock, hand guard, and addition of a pistol grip, will add weight to the rifle. The benefit however is that it will be balanced MUCH better.