Understanding the AK-47 and the AK Kit’s Core Elements
A Brief History of the AK-47
The AK-47, or Avtomat Kalashnikova model of 1947, was developed in the Soviet Union during the Cold War. Its rugged simplicity, ease of maintenance, and ability to function reliably in harsh conditions quickly made it a weapon of choice for militaries and insurgents worldwide.
Key Components of an AK-47
The heart of an *AK build* is the *AK kit* itself. These kits usually include most of the essential parts needed to assemble the rifle, often salvaged from decommissioned or surplus firearms. The quality and condition of the *AK kit* can vary, so careful selection is essential.
The Receiver
This is the backbone of the rifle, the part that holds all the other components together. It is a crucial part in the AK-47’s design.
The Barrel
This is where the magic happens – it guides the bullet as it is propelled downrange.
The Bolt and Bolt Carrier
This mechanism is responsible for feeding rounds from the magazine, chambering them, and extracting spent casings. This also handles the AK-47’s unique locking mechanism.
The Trunnions
These sturdy components – front and rear – secure the barrel, receiver, and other parts.
Furniture
This includes the stock, handguard, and pistol grip, providing comfort and control.
The Trigger Group
This assembly controls the firing mechanism, allowing for both semi-automatic and, in some cases, full-auto fire (depending on the original design and legality).
The Gas Tube and Piston
This system harnesses the expanding gases from the fired cartridge to cycle the action, making it a gas-operated firearm.
Small Parts
This includes various springs, pins, and other smaller components that contribute to the functionality of the rifle.
Types of AK Kits: Navigating the Options
Romanian AK kits
These kits are often considered to be budget-friendly and readily available, making them a popular choice for beginners.
Polish AK kits
Polish kits are also relatively easy to find and are known for their good overall quality.
Russian AK kits
These kits are considered to be the gold standard for AK quality but can be harder to find and more expensive.
What to Look for in a Kit
Not all *AK kits* are created equal. Several variations are available, each with its nuances. The origin of the kit (e.g., Romanian, Polish, Russian) often influences the parts’ specific design and manufacturing quality. Knowing the type of kit allows you to have a better understanding of the firearm you’re building.
Condition: Inspect the parts for wear and tear.
Matching numbers: Kits with matching serial numbers are usually more desirable.
Legality: Ensure the kit complies with the 922(r) regulations. The federal regulation 922(r) requires that a certain number of US-made parts be installed on a foreign-made rifle to make it legal for civilian use.
Headspace: The AK’s Critical Measurements Headspace is the distance between the bolt face and a point on the chamber that determines proper function. It’s crucial to check the headspace of the rifle, making it safe and operational.
Gathering Your Materials and Essential Tools for Building Your AK
The Essentials
With a good understanding of the AK-47, the next step involves acquiring the necessary parts and tools. Building an AK demands some specialized equipment. Here’s what you’ll need:
An *AK kit* that includes all the parts except the receiver.
A receiver flat (or a pre-bent receiver): A flat steel piece (or pre-bent receiver) that needs to be formed and modified to become the receiver.
Rivets: These fasteners hold many parts of the receiver and other components together.
Barrel: The barrel is included in the kit.
The Toolkit
A receiver bending jig: This tool helps in the formation of the receiver, crucial when using a receiver flat.
Riveting tools: To properly set the rivets and secure the trunnions and other components. This could be a manual rivet tool or a dedicated riveting press.
Barrel press: To press the barrel into the front trunnion and the gas block onto the barrel.
Barrel pin tools: To install the barrel pin.
Headspace gauges: Essential for checking and setting the correct headspace, ensuring safe operation.
Drill and drill bits: For drilling holes in the receiver and other components.
Files and grinders: For cleaning up edges, making adjustments, and preparing parts for assembly.
A shop press: This is essential for pressing the barrel and other components into place.
Safety glasses and work gloves: Safety first is the top priority.
Cleaning materials and oil: To keep the parts clean and lubricated during assembly.
A sturdy vise: To hold parts securely during assembly.
Optional Tools
A torque wrench: Useful for securing parts with screws or bolts.
A trigger pin installation tool: To push the trigger pins, making the installation easier.
Degreaser and rust inhibitor: Useful for getting the parts ready to be used.
The Building Process: A Step-by-Step Guide to Assembling the AK
Preparing the Receiver
This is often the most involved step in *building an AK*. This depends on the type of receiver chosen (flat or pre-bent).
If using a receiver flat, use a bending jig. Follow the jig instructions, carefully bending the flat into the correct shape. Ensure proper alignment and dimensions during this process.
Drill out the required holes in the receiver.
Heat treating (if needed): Some receivers benefit from heat treatment to increase the overall strength.
Installing the Barrel
Pressing the barrel into the front trunnion is a critical step.
Press the barrel into the front trunnion using a barrel press.
Headspace the bolt. This is done by placing headspace gauges between the bolt and the barrel.
Drill the barrel pin hole and install the barrel pin.
Installing the Trunnions
Align the front trunnion with the receiver.
Install the rear trunnion.
Use the riveting tools to secure the trunnions to the receiver.
Installing other Components
This involves the rest of the assembly.
Install the trigger group, bolt, and bolt carrier.
Install the gas tube and piston.
Install the furniture (stock, handguard, pistol grip).
Install the muzzle device (if applicable).
Install the magazine catch, selector lever, and other small parts.
Safety Checks and Testing
Function test (dry-fire): Check for smooth action and proper cycling.
Check headspace again.
Carefully inspect all parts for proper alignment and function.
Finishing and Customization: Making It Your Own
Once the rifle is assembled and functioning correctly, you can start customizing it. This is the part where your personality shines.
Finishing Options
Painting: There are various painting options.
Bluing: A traditional method for creating a protective finish.
Wood Finishes: Stain and apply a protective finish to the wood furniture.
Customization options
Furniture upgrades
Sights and optics
Trigger upgrades
Adding accessories
Troubleshooting: Solving Common Challenges
Building an AK kit can sometimes involve encountering challenges. Here are some common issues and potential solutions:
Headspace issues: If the headspace is incorrect, the rifle may fail to fire, misfeed, or have other malfunctions. Checking and adjusting the headspace are essential.
Failure to fire/eject: This can be caused by various factors, such as a dirty bolt, incorrect headspace, or a faulty trigger.
Feeding issues: A misaligned magazine, damaged magazine catch, or other problems can lead to feeding issues.
Seek guidance. Ask others to solve problems.
Conclusion: Building Your Own AK-47
Building an *AK kit* can be a rewarding project. With patience, attention to detail, and a commitment to safety, you can create a functional and reliable firearm that is a testament to your skills.
You should continue your education.
Be safe.
Enjoy the project.
Resources for Further Learning
Find some information on places where you can look for information.
Find information where you can find tools.
Ask questions on forums.
By carefully following these steps and remembering the importance of safety and compliance, you can successfully *build an AK kit* and experience the satisfaction of creating your own firearm. Enjoy the process!
