Part 4: AK-47 Stock Refinish - Stripping & Bleaching the Stock

Published on October 16, 2011
Duration: 10:36

This guide details the process of refinishing an AK-47 wooden stock, covering both stripping and bleaching. The author, nsz85, demonstrates how to use acetone and steel wool to remove old finishes, followed by a bleach and water solution to lighten the wood. The video also touches upon the intentional gap found between AK-47 buttstocks and receivers, citing research from firearms forums.

Quick Summary

To refinish an AK-47 wooden stock, first strip the old finish by soaking the parts in acetone for 24 hours, then scrubbing with steel wool. For lightening, use a solution of 75% water and 25% Clorox bleach overnight. The gap between the buttstock and receiver is a normal design feature to prevent cracking.

Chapters

  1. 00:13Project Intro & Acetone Setup
  2. 00:30Buttstock Before Stripping
  3. 00:58Handguards Before Stripping
  4. 01:26Hardware Removal for Stripping
  5. 01:58Acetone Bath & Waiting
  6. 02:44Acetone Stripping with Steel Wool
  7. 03:57Second Acetone Soak
  8. 04:20Buttstock Fitting & Stripping Complete
  9. 04:37AK Buttstock Gap Discussion
  10. 06:37Bleaching Setup & Solution Prep
  11. 07:21Buttstock Before & In Bleach
  12. 07:49Handguards Before & In Bleach
  13. 08:35Bleached Parts & Drying
  14. 09:35Post-Bleaching Appearance
  15. 10:15Next Steps: Drying & Finishing

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you strip the finish from an AK-47 wooden stock?

To strip an AK-47 wooden stock, submerge the parts in an acetone bath for 24 hours. Afterward, use #1 steel wool wet with acetone to scrub off remaining finish. A second 24-hour soak may be necessary for complete removal.

What is the correct bleach solution ratio for lightening a wooden firearm stock?

For lightening a wooden firearm stock, prepare a solution of 75% water and 25% regular Clorox bleach. Submerge the stripped wood parts overnight, then rinse and dry thoroughly.

Why is there a gap between an AK-47 buttstock and the receiver?

The gap between an AK-47 buttstock and the receiver is an intentional design feature. It helps prevent the stock from cracking under the stress of recoil, acting as a shock absorber.

What tools are needed for AK-47 stock refinishing (stripping and bleaching)?

Essential tools include an ammo can for acetone, #1 steel wool, a cooler for the bleach solution, regular Clorox bleach, water, and old towels for drying. Safety gear like gloves and eye protection is also crucial.

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