How to Check AK47 Headspace

Published on April 7, 2019
Duration: 13:25

This guide details how to check headspace on an AK47 using Go, No-Go, and Field gauges. It emphasizes proper cleaning, bolt stripping, and the correct procedure for gauge insertion to ensure firearm safety. The video highlights that a rifle closing on a Field gauge is unsafe and requires immediate attention from the manufacturer.

Quick Summary

To check AK47 headspace, use Go, No-Go, and Field gauges. Ensure the rifle is unloaded and clean. The bolt should close on a Go gauge, but NOT on a No-Go or Field gauge. If the bolt closes on a Field gauge, the rifle is unsafe and requires immediate manufacturer attention.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to AK Headspace Project
  2. 00:26The Problem with AK Headspace
  3. 00:40Collaborative Document Overview
  4. 00:56Addressing the End-User
  5. 01:50Consumer Expectation vs. Reality
  6. 02:01Guidelines for AK Building
  7. 02:15The 8-Page Document Structure
  8. 02:26Page 1: Table of Contents
  9. 02:30Pages 2-3: Background Information
  10. 02:48What is Headspace?
  11. 02:57The Three Essential Gauges
  12. 03:08Go, No-Go, and Field Gauges Explained
  13. 03:21Page 4: Go Gauge Testing
  14. 03:26Go Gauge: Manufacturer vs. End-User
  15. 03:43Using the Go Gauge for Bolt Closure
  16. 03:51Parameters for Testing
  17. 03:56Unloaded, Clean, Stripped Bolt
  18. 04:24Ideal AK Lock-up Condition
  19. 04:3380% Lug Contact and Measurement
  20. 05:07Go Gauge Tightness is Expected
  21. 05:27Gauge Variations: CIP vs. SAAMI
  22. 06:04No-Go Gauge Testing
  23. 06:06Go Should Close, No-Go Shouldn't
  24. 06:11Controversy and Philosophies
  25. 06:46Finding a Middle Ground
  26. 07:08No-Go Test Derived from East German Manual
  27. 07:18No-Go Gauge Validity Before Break-in
  28. 07:23Factors Contributing to Headspace Growth
  29. 07:40Factual Historical Precedent
  30. 07:55Field Gauge: The Definitive Safety Measure
  31. 08:02Longest Allowable Headspace
  32. 08:09Field Gauge Testing Conclusion
  33. 08:13If It Closes on Field Gauge: STOP
  34. 08:22Contact Manufacturer for Unsafe Rifles
  35. 08:33What Constitutes a 'Closed' Gauge?
  36. 08:45Avoid Hammering the Carrier
  37. 09:01Excerpt: Improper Procedure Risks
  38. 09:04Do Not Get a Running Start
  39. 09:12Deforming Gauges or Chambers
  40. 09:18Ambient Temperature Considerations
  41. 09:32Repeatable Measurement Method
  42. 09:40Uniform Carrier Motion with Scale
  43. 09:4520 Kilograms of Force
  44. 09:51If It Doesn't Close at 20kg: Good
  45. 10:04Insight into the AK Community
  46. 10:07Competitive Nature of AK Space
  47. 10:15Competition Drives Product Development
  48. 10:23Unity in the AK Community
  49. 10:42Real Enemies Enjoying Division
  50. 10:50Call to Manufacturers and Media
  51. 11:01Supplemental Endorsement Page
  52. 11:10Endorsement of Uniform Procedure
  53. 11:16Manufacturer Warranty Supplement
  54. 11:34Reducing Illegitimate RMAs
  55. 11:56Personal Experience with Headspace Checks
  56. 12:07Sent Guns Back on No-Go Failure
  57. 12:27AK Decline in the United States
  58. 12:39Lack of Unity Driving Decline
  59. 12:44Competition with Aluminum Guns
  60. 12:55Hope for AK Enthusiasts
  61. 13:02Subscribe and Notifications
  62. 13:12Leave a Comment

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the three essential gauges for checking AK47 headspace?

The three essential gauges for checking AK47 headspace are the Go gauge, the No-Go gauge, and the Field gauge. Each serves a distinct purpose in determining the safety and operational limits of the rifle's chamber and bolt.

How do you properly use a Go gauge to check AK47 headspace?

To use a Go gauge, ensure the AK47 is unloaded and clean. Insert the Go gauge into the chamber. The bolt should close on the Go gauge, indicating that the headspace is within the minimum acceptable limit for safe operation.

What is the critical safety indicator when checking AK47 headspace?

The most critical safety indicator is the Field gauge. If the bolt closes on a Field gauge, the AK47's headspace is excessive and the rifle is unsafe to shoot. In this case, contact the manufacturer immediately.

What factors can cause headspace to grow in an AK47?

Headspace can grow in an AK47 due to wear and tear, particularly from roughness and lack of alignment between the locking lugs of the bolt and the trunnion. These issues cause faster wear, increasing headspace over time.

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