Rh3, welcome to TFL! You're going to like it hear.
One piece of advice you'll hear over and over again here is to determine your use of the tool (firearm, in this case), and let that be your guide. You say you'll generally plink with the rifle, and I assume you're considering defensive uses when you refer to 'what the future holds'.
dZ gave you good advice. Also, check out
www.ak-47.net , including their discussion forum - their discussion is a little different style than TFL, but there is still plenty of good advice. The advantage of the AK is that they are very dependable, reasonable in price and accuracy, and would fit your intended use. Also, buy ammunition and mag's while you can.
Try to buy one of these in person, with advice from a more experienced hand. The quality varies on these 'budget' AK's, but I hear plenty of guys indicating they find decent examples.
Save some money for training as well ... many trainers offer a weekend class on using your rifle. Learn to shoot safely and effectively.
Good luck with your purchase, and take care. Regards from AZ