What is up with "khazakstan" weapons.

New here and still learning. I never was into guns before, however, I live in Portland, OR, and the crime is getting worse and worse. I decided it would be good for me to arm myself.<br><br>I've been to a few gunstores and they all have the cheap "khazakstan" weapons in 60% of the store (pistols and rifles). The store owners will also recommend them claiming they are good and reliable. I've never heard of khazakstan weapons before and I don't know if this is the right choice for me. If they are good and reliable, why don't more people talk about them and why are they so cheap? If its cheap, I don't want it.<br><br>All and any information is welcome.<br><br>Thanks.<br><br><br>Update: I wrote this 2 days ago. Thank you all for the responses. I felt the questions I had needed to be answered and people did that. I think I'm going to go for a S&W. I've heard a lot of good things about them and they don't seem to be too expensive. I should be picking one up in a few days and will update more when I do.<br><br>For those who took the time to respond and answer my questions, thank you.<br><br>To those who didn't, fuck off. You mean absolutely nothing to me and the world would be a better place without you. Haters are not welcomed.