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Pre-Ban Valuation Guide Norinco MAK-90

Published: December 19, 2025 | Updated: December 20, 2025

How Much is My Norinco MAK-90 Worth?

The Norinco MAK-90 is one of the most recognizable Chinese AK variants imported into the U.S. around the time of the 1989 import ban. While many were modified to meet post-ban requirements, properly documented pre-ban examples remain highly desirable among collectors and shooters alike.

Pre-ban pricing is driven by documented production era and how closely the rifle remains period-correct. Small details like markings, original parts, and finish can materially change value.

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About the Norinco MAK-90

The MAK-90 (Modified AK 1990) was Norinco’s response to evolving U.S. import restrictions. While many MAK-90 rifles were imported in post-ban configuration with thumbhole stocks, earlier examples that entered the country prior to the March 14, 1989 ban — or that can be documented as pre-ban imports — carry significantly higher value. Collector pricing is driven by confirmed import timing, receiver type, original configuration, and the presence of correct Chinese components.

Norinco MAK-90 Pre-Ban Values & Variants

Pre-ban Norinco MAK-90 rifles are valued for their documented era and how closely they remain period-correct. Most examples range from $600 to $1,500, depending on originality, condition, and demand in restricted states.

Pre-ban note: For the Norinco MAK-90, pre-ban status depends on verified import prior to March 14, 1989 and retention of original configuration.

How to confirm your Norinco MAK-90 is pre-ban

  • Receiver type and markings
  • Importer name and location
  • Original furniture and components
  • Signs of refinishing or permanent modification
  • Any documentation supporting pre-ban import

Tip: photos of receiver markings, overall configuration, and any documentation help us move faster and price more accurately.

Common Variants & Value Ranges

Pre-ban Norinco MAK-90 values vary based on originality and configuration. The ranges below reflect how collectors typically group these rifles in today’s market.

  • Standard Configuration

    Standard factory configuration with correct pre-ban features

    Estimated Value: $600 – $1,200

  • Collector-Grade (Documented Pre-Ban)

    if converted back correctly with original box and accessories

    Estimated Value: $1,000 – $1,500

Collector notes: Not all MAK-90 rifles qualify as pre-ban. Documentation, receiver markings, and original configuration are critical. Early imports that retain correct Chinese parts and finish are increasingly scarce and command strong collector interest.

Factors That Influence Norinco MAK-90 Values

Import Status & Documentation:

Verified pre-ban import status is the single biggest driver of MAK-90 value.

Receiver Type:

Chinese milled receivers often command higher interest than stamped examples.

Configuration & Parts:

Original Chinese furniture and components are preferred over later replacements.

Condition & Finish:

Original finish and matching components generally outperform refinished rifles.

Modifications:

Permanent changes typically reduce collector demand and pricing.

State-Driven Demand:

In restricted states, documented pre-ban MAK-90 rifles may command a premium.

Compare your options

How selling a pre-ban firearms through WeBuyGuns compares to your other options

store Local gun shop

Usually fast, but most shops have limited cash on hand and may not specialize in older, rare or high-value pieces.

Offers often favor a quick resale, not the long-term collector value.

Auctions Auctions and consignment

Potential upside, but you wait for the sale, pay commissions and still carry uncertainty around final prices and timelines.

private sale Private sales or classifieds

Can take months, involve strangers and require you to manage listings, messages and transfers one gun at a time. For estates, that can add stress to an already heavy situation.

Selling to WeBuyGuns.com Selling to WeBuyGuns

You get a single, expert valuation and offer for the entire collection, prepaid shipping labels and clear expectations up front. No fees, no pressure and no need to piece out guns one by one.

Our track record

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Sell your pre-ban firearms with confidence — no hassle and no hidden fees. Our streamlined process has facilitated thousands of firearms transactions nationwide, paying out over $4.1 million to users on our platform.

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Secure, compliant and trackable from start to finish

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Firearms ship directly to our licensed FFL — never a private residence. We cover the shipping cost and provide clear packing instructions to ensure everything arrives safely.
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We generate your prepaid shipping labels and guide you through each step, including packing, labeling and drop-off, so the entire process stays simple and stress-free.
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We maintain all required federal records and guide you through the legal steps, so once your firearms arrive, responsibility transfers fully to our licensed facility.

We’re happy to talk through the process step by step so you understand exactly what will happen and when.

Call us at (317) 804-8713 if you have any questions.

Chris Wing - Owner WeBuyGuns

With pre-ban firearms, value is defined by documented production era, configuration, and originality. Small details materially affect pricing, and accurate valuation requires familiarity with how collectors buy these rifles today.

Our team evaluates every pre-ban firearm individually. We do not rely on automated pricing or assumptions. Each offer is grounded in real details and current market demand, reflecting how these firearms are actually valued when money changes hands.

Chris Wing
Owner, WeBuyGuns

Ready to get an offer on your pre-ban Norinco MAK-90?

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Frequently asked questions

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Is this legal?
Yes. We are a federally licensed firearms dealer located in the state of Indiana. You, the seller, are covered under our license just as you would be if you walked into our store with the item. There are no laws preventing you from selling your firearm to us.
Is every Norinco MAK-90 considered pre-ban?
No. Many MAK-90 rifles were imported after the 1989 ban in modified configuration. Only documented pre-ban imports carry the associated premium.
What determines MAK-90 value?
Import timing, configuration, and originality. Receiver type, markings, and correct Chinese parts materially affect pricing.
Do thumbhole stocks reduce value?
Typically, yes. Original pre-ban configuration is preferred by collectors, though reversible changes may preserve some value.
Are importer markings important?
Yes. Importer name and location help verify authenticity and pre-ban eligibility.
How do I sell a Norinco MAK-90?
Submit clear photos of markings, receiver type, and overall condition. We’ll review and provide a competitive offer with prepaid shipping if accepted.
How long are offers good for?
Offers are valid for 14 days.
Can I sell multiple firearms?
Absolutely! Once firearm information has been submitted, you will have the ability to submit additional firearms for review and offers. These firearms will be viewable from your user panel, which you access from your initial offer email. If you have a large number of firearms or an estate, view our guide on gun collections.
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