I want a rifle, soon

Hi everyone

I'm a gun owner, I have pistols and a shotgun. I've shot rifles and really like the feel of 7.62mm, so I'm leaning towards getting a cheap SKS I could work on. My main purpose would be general range shooting and possible self-defense if stuff gets a lot worse.

I know the actual smart option would be getting a standard AR-15 because they're so available, ammo is everywhere, and every gunsmith in America knows how to maintain them. But would it be worth it to save up for something like an AK if I'd prefer 7.62?