I know this is an old thread but just ordered and picked up from my LGS a new Baikal MP-18MN in .223. Although I won't have a chance to get it to the range until Saturday, I had no problem mounting a 4-16X 40mm scope on the rifle using the Sun Optics adapter rail designed for the rifle. My MP came in synthetic and seems pretty nice although the action is very stiff still. Hopefully it will prove to be an accurate shooter come this weekend. Once I get it shot, I will post an update with my impressions of its performace.