Don’t Sleep On Imports

Don’t Miss Out: Firearms That Could Skyrocket in Value Due to Tariffs and Limited Supply.

We’ve all been there kicking ourselves for not grabbing that deal when it was right in front of us. Remember when a Molot Vepr retailed for just $800, only to climb past $3,000? Or those Saiga SGL21s going for $800, now fetching upwards of $4,000? It’s a painful reminder that in the firearms world, limited supply and changing regulations can turn today’s bargain into tomorrow’s collector’s item.

What products available now might follow this trend, driven by new tariffs, export bans, or regulatory shifts? Let’s take a look at a few firearms that could soon be harder to find or far pricier. First up, the Zastava M70 series, particularly models like the ZPAP M70. Serbia, home of Zastava Arms, halted firearm exports to the U.S. recently, with no clear timeline for resumption. Zastava’s AK-pattern rifles, known for their robust construction and cold hammer-forged barrels, have long been a favorite among enthusiasts. With U.S. inventories dwindling and no new shipments on the horizon, these rifles are already becoming scarce. Retailers like Gunprime have noted that once current stock is gone, restocks could be a long time coming. Combine this with potential new tariffs on imported goods, which could further increase costs if exports resume, and you’ve got a recipe for a significant price spike. If you’ve been eyeing a ZPAP M70, now might be your last chance to grab one before prices climb or they vanish from shelves entirely.

Another contender is the Arsenal SAM7K-44, a Bulgarian-made AK pistol that’s a prime candidate for Short Barrel Rifle (SBR) builds. Starting January 1, 2026, the $200 NFA tax stamp for SBRs, suppressors, and other regulated items will drop to $0, thanks to the “Big Beautiful Bill.” Industry experts predict that this change is expected to spark a surge in demand for NFA items, including AK pistols like the SAM7K-44, which are ideal for SBR conversions. With increased demand and limited supply, Bulgaria’s export numbers are already lower than Serbia’s were, these pistols could become nearly impossible to find post 2026. Prices are likely to soar as collectors and builders rush to secure them before the market dries up.

Why the urgency? Beyond export bans and tariff concerns, the firearms market is notoriously sensitive to regulatory changes. The elimination of the $200 NFA tax stamp is a massive win for enthusiasts, but it’s also likely to overwhelm the ATF’s Form 4 processing system, leading to longer wait times and potential shortages as manufacturers struggle to keep up. Add in the uncertainty of future tariffs, which could increase the cost of imported firearms by 20% or more, and the window to act is narrowing fast. 

So, what’s the play? If you’re considering a Zastava M70, an Arsenal SAM7K-44, or even that IWI Tavor, don’t wait. Current inventories are your best bet before prices climb, or these items become the next Vepr or SGL21, fondly remembered but painfully out of reach. Check with trusted retailers, secure your purchase, and file your Forms now to beat the rush. The lesson from history is clear: hesitation today could mean regret tomorrow. What other firearms do you think might join this list? Let us know in the comments!