The other thing your buddy needs to know is ALL of these imported guns fall under US regulations requiring a minimum number of US-made parts (and other shit that is too confusing and complicated to get into). Doing a quick search on gunbroker.com turned up this AK based on a US made receiver and built with Russian-made parts.
http://www.gunbroker.com/Auction/Vie...?Item=89575016
Nice gun, I really like the cherry finished stocks (which I;ve seen more on Russian guns) when they're in good shape. The shop at my range had one about like this for many dollars more (something like $1200) and it sat there for a LONG time. I think most AK enthusiasts know they can get a Polish or Yugoslavian made under-folder with forged receiver (vs. the cheaper stamped receiver on that WASR) for under $600, so why pay more for same quality, but different country of origin?