Building AK's with your hands: M13 Industries

Published on October 22, 2023
Duration: 28:50

This video provides an in-depth look at M13 Industries, a gunsmithing shop specializing in the AK platform. It details the comprehensive workflow from receiving parts kits to final assembly and shipping, emphasizing meticulous logging, part inspection, and the use of specialized tools. The content highlights the complexity of AK modifications, such as converting a Yugo M90 with an AAM gas block, and underscores the high demand for skilled gunsmiths in the current market.

Quick Summary

M13 Industries specializes in AK platform gunsmithing, handling approximately 90-95% of work via mail-in. To initiate a project, email info@m13industries.com with details and photos. They emphasize meticulous logging, use specialized tools for AK-specific tasks like riveting and pressing, and note a high demand for skilled gunsmiths.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to M13 Industries
  2. 01:40John Holton Interview & Shop Overview
  3. 03:54Demand for Gunsmiths & Career Path
  4. 05:31Gunsmithing Workload & Shipping Process
  5. 07:46How to Contact M13 Industries for Quotes
  6. 09:07Project Status Updates & Communication
  7. 10:14Common Gunsmithing Delays & Challenges
  8. 11:33M13 Industries Shop Tour & Workflow
  9. 14:38Internal Tracking & Work Order System
  10. 15:34M13 Industries History & Founder's Journey
  11. 16:55AK Competitive Shooting & Gunsmithing Support
  12. 18:07The AK Renaissance & Aftermarket Parts
  13. 19:25Quality of Custom American-Built AKs
  14. 20:19Specialized Tools for AK Gunsmithing
  15. 23:33Finished Project: Yugo M90 Custom Build
  16. 24:18Technical Details of M90 Modification
  17. 25:10Gas Block Placement & Functionality
  18. 26:28AK vs. Adjustable Gas Block Comparison
  19. 27:11Contact Information & Next Steps
  20. 28:00Closing Remarks & Clash Bash

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the process for getting a custom AK build or modification done by M13 Industries?

To start, email info@m13industries.com with pictures of your firearm or parts kit and a detailed list of desired modifications. M13 Industries will then provide a quote and a work order form to include with your shipment. They handle approximately 90-95% of their work via mail-in.

How long does it typically take to get an AK project completed by M13 Industries?

Project timelines can vary significantly due to the complexity of the work and unforeseen issues. While M13 Industries aims to maintain an estimated turnaround time, unexpected problems with parts or equipment can cause delays, pushing schedules back. It's advised not to call for status updates too frequently.

What specialized tools are required for AK gunsmithing that differ from AR-15 assembly?

AK gunsmithing requires specialized tools like hydraulic presses of various sizes, custom-cut tubing for pressing components, and specific barrel pin removal tools. Unlike AR assembly, which is often just assembly, AKs involve processes like crushing rivets and pressing parts onto barrels, necessitating these unique tools.

Why is there such a high demand for gunsmiths, and is it a viable career path?

There's a significant shortage of skilled gunsmiths compared to the demand for firearm services, from simple repairs to full builds. This makes gunsmithing a viable and potentially lucrative career for those with hands-on skills and a dedication to the craft, offering stable employment opportunities.

How does M13 Industries ensure traceability and compliance with ATF regulations?

M13 Industries meticulously logs every firearm and receiver received, assigning it an internal code and tracking it throughout its time at the shop. This process is crucial for ATF compliance, ensuring each firearm is accounted for from intake to return.

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