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

Published on October 16, 2011
Duration: 10:36

This guide details the process of stripping and bleaching an AK-47 wooden stock, as demonstrated by experienced instructor nsz85. It covers preparing an acetone bath for finish removal, using steel wool for scrubbing, and a bleach and water solution for lightening the wood. The video also touches on fitting the buttstock and understanding intentional gaps in firearm design.

Quick Summary

To strip an AK-47 wooden stock, submerge parts in an acetone bath for 24 hours, then scrub with acetone-dampened #1 steel wool. For bleaching, use a 75% water to 25% Clorox bleach solution, soaking parts overnight. A small gap between the buttstock and receiver is normal and prevents cracking from recoil.

Chapters

  1. 00:07AK-47 Stock Refinishing Project Part Four
  2. 00:13Project Intro & Acetone Setup
  3. 00:30Buttstock Before Stripping
  4. 00:58Handguards Before Stripping
  5. 01:26Hardware Removal for Stripping
  6. 01:58Acetone Bath & Waiting
  7. 02:44Acetone Stripping with Steel Wool
  8. 03:57Second Acetone Soak
  9. 04:20Buttstock Fitting & Stripping Complete
  10. 04:37AK Buttstock Gap Discussion
  11. 06:37Bleaching Setup & Solution Prep
  12. 07:21Buttstock Before & In Bleach
  13. 07:49Handguards Before & In Bleach
  14. 08:35Bleached Parts & Drying
  15. 09:35Post-Bleaching Appearance
  16. 10:15Next Steps: Drying & Finishing
  17. 10:30End of part four.

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 within an ammo can for 24 hours. Afterward, use #1 steel wool dampened with acetone to scrub off any remaining finish. A second soak may be necessary for stubborn finishes.

What is the correct bleach solution ratio for lightening wood?

For lightening wood, a bleaching solution can be prepared using a ratio of 75% water to 25% regular Clorox bleach. This solution is effective for significantly lightening the wood's color.

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

A small gap, typically around 1mm, between the AK-47 buttstock and receiver is often intentional. Research from forums like AR15.com suggests this gap helps prevent the stock from cracking due to recoil forces.

What tools are needed for stripping and bleaching a wooden gun stock?

Essential tools include an ammo can for the acetone bath, acetone solvent, #1 steel wool, a cooler for the bleach solution, gloves, and towels. A gun vise like the Tipton model can be helpful for fitting parts.

Related News

All News →

More Gunsmithing & DIY Videos You Might Like

More from nsz85

View all →