The days of Cheap AKs is long gone, Demand is way up. it also has to do with the parts being imported from overseas and the periodic sanctions, bans. Then, there is the difference between stamped vs a milled receiver, the quality of the barrel and trunnion components. All of these make a rifles...
i enjoy my G44. It's a great gun. Accurate too. shot 2'' 25 yard 5 shot group with it hand held. even with the heavy trigger.
it does not work with standard velocity 22LR ammo.
i have primarily used a 7mm-08 for the last 2years and i love it.
It is one of the beer deer rounds available and low recoil/performance is as good as you want.