A CHF barrel properly spec'd for the M43 cartridge makes a difference. It's not just the chrome lining. Source of the receiver does also make a difference. Yes, they are both builds, not military carbines, but the CP gun is closer the military version in terms of build - and you pay for it. That is so why you pay more for a Colt/DD/BCM than a DPMS, or an Arsenal vice CAI build. It's not wrong to buy a CAI. But it ain't a VZ58 in the same way. (I'll admit these analogies are loose).
Yes, but CSA/Czechpoint when selling receivers stated that there were something like a half dozen plus different surplus barrels (with slightly different diameters) that the receiver would need to be precisely machined for prior to press fitting (source:
http://www.czfirearms.us/index.php?topic=36292.0). I imagine that the CSA builds experience the same issue... Knowing that each receiver is to a large degree "custom fit" to surplus barrels of differing diamters opens up many more consistency issues than the Century guns that run the same barrel/receiver specs on all.
My argument, and I think others here too, is that when you compare a VZ2008 and CSA VZ58, it's a matter of diminishing returns for what you get for your $. Yes, in some instances, the VZ58 has advantages over the VZ2008. But when considering things like metal trigger, the ability to change muzzle devices, the ability to attach a bayonet, the inability to run an ambi safety, etc, those advantages may disappear for each individual purchasing. For me, the price/quality issue is ultimately like buying a Mercedes sedan or a GM/Ford sedan. If I have the choice of paying double + when I could being paying half or less for a vehicle that accomplishes all the same major functions -- I'm taking the one that costs one-half or less over a the 2x+ cost model where I really don't get anything I NEED -- is a fancier label with higher resale, prettier trim/finish are nice, but then you also need to consider the a higher cost of long term ownership (e.g., each muzzle device change costing $50+) when needing rebarreled odds are you'll need to replace the receiver too so your gun is done, etc...
My take on this site is that the pro-CSA guns bias is so strong that folks aren't necessarily encourage
to actually consider their options and their needs. Instead, they're told the only option is CSA. Folks look to this site like Consumer Reports for VZ58, and there needs to be a more balanced appreciation of both platforms IMHO -- especially, considering that a new VZ58 from Czechpoint is now ~$1300 if wanting them to attach a muzzle device other than the stock thread protector (something most of us on here would recommend w/ this rifle). At sale prices, that's 3 VZ2008s. Or 2 VZ 2008s and at least 15 mags for each weapon as well as a bunch of custom parts/mods or a couple thousand rounds of ammo.
I personally don't have an unlimited "fun" budget. What I don't spend on firearms goes into an older truck I'm overhauling, other firearms or ammo or range time, fishing or other hobbies, vacations, etc. Debating each rifle on how one or the other is superior is one thing. Considering the bang for the buck/value is the another. And they're both often confused.
