[Drakker]

The essential series from E&L is made externally from parts that didn't pass QC for their top of the line AKs with low end internals. That's why they are cheaper, even if on paper they are the same thing. I would go with LCT any day, E&Ls aren't bad, but they are expensive for what they are, especially in Canada where they are often more expensive than better quality LCTs. With that said, if you can get an E&L for really cheap, it's great. Don't forget to oil it if you don't want it to rust.

If you compare the E&L Essential AKM and the LCT AKM, you will get much better internals with an LCT. I have been running my LCT AK104 stock for a few years now, only added a mosfet. You don't even need to change the hop-up rubber, the thing will lift 0.40g BBs without complaints. The next thing you will notice is the wooden parts quality. The LCT is made from real birch plywood and is absolutely amazing. Usually, the E&L wooden parts are great too, but on the essential series they are using cheap softer wood that has mediocre finish. If you want an AK with wooden parts, don't cheap out, buy the top of the line of whichever brand you choose.