AK-50: August 2020 Update

Published on August 4, 2020
Duration: 12:58

This video provides an in-depth look at the August 2020 progress of the AK-50 project, a custom rifle chambered in .50 BMG. Lead designer Brandon Herrera details the evolution of the rear trunnion, comparing it to AKM and PKM designs, and introduces a novel floating trunnion and buffer system. The update covers the transition to a stamped sheet metal receiver and outlines the next steps, including machining the bolt carrier and riveting the trunnions. Herrera emphasizes the self-funded nature of the project and the avoidance of pre-orders.

Quick Summary

The AK-50 project, led by Brandon Herrera, is developing a custom rifle in .50 BMG. The August 2020 update highlights a unique floating rear trunnion with a buffer system designed to absorb recoil energy, extending firearm life. This advanced trunnion is significantly more robust than those on AKM or PKM rifles, reflecting the power of the .50 BMG cartridge.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction and Project History
  2. 02:20AK Rear Trunnion Fundamentals
  3. 03:26Trunnion Comparison: AKM vs. PKM
  4. 04:35AK-50 Prototype Rear Trunnion
  5. 06:01Floating Trunnion and Buffer System
  6. 10:09Project Status and Next Steps

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the AK-50 project?

The AK-50 is a custom rifle project spearheaded by Brandon Herrera, aiming to chamber the powerful .50 BMG cartridge in a Kalashnikov-inspired platform. The August 2020 update focuses on advancements in its unique rear trunnion and receiver design.

What is a floating rear trunnion and why is it used in the AK-50?

The AK-50 features a novel floating rear trunnion with an integrated buffer system. This design is intended to absorb excess recoil energy, particularly from potent .50 BMG rounds or suppressed fire, thereby enhancing the firearm's durability and service life by reducing stress on components.

How does the AK-50's trunnion compare to other AK-pattern rifles?

The AK-50's rear trunnion is significantly larger and more robust than those found on standard AKM rifles. It's also compared to the PKM machine gun trunnion, with the AK-50's design being even more substantial to manage the extreme forces of the .50 BMG cartridge.

What are the next steps for the AK-50 project?

As of the August 2020 update, the next major milestones for the AK-50 include machining the final bolt and carrier assembly and riveting the newly designed trunnions into the planned stamped sheet metal receiver.

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