Tech Tip: Convert Your Ordinary AK Into an Alpha AK

Published on July 19, 2023
Duration: 66:54

This guide details the installation of Midwest Industries Alpha accessories onto an AK-74 pattern rifle. It covers the removal of original furniture, modification of the rear trunnion for a 1913 adapter, fitting the Alpha handguard, and installing either a railed top cover or an optic mount. The process involves significant gunsmithing steps, including cutting metal and precise fitting, requiring advanced skills and tools.

Quick Summary

To install a 1913 adapter for the Midwest Industries Alpha stock on an AK-74, you must permanently modify the rear trunnion by cutting off its tang flush with the receiver and filing it smooth. This allows the 1913 adapter to mount securely, enabling the use of compatible stocks.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Midwest Industries Alpha AK System
  2. 00:35Firearm Clearing and Tool Preparation
  3. 01:40Using the Midwest Industries AK Vice Block
  4. 02:18Field Stripping the AK-74
  5. 03:36Removing the Original Wood Handguard
  6. 04:37Removing the Stock and Grip
  7. 10:10Installing the 1913 Adapter: Cutting the Rear Trunnion
  8. 11:41Using a Dremel for Trunnion Modification
  9. 15:07Filing the Trunnion Smooth
  10. 21:39Cleaning Metal Shavings and Finalizing Trunnion Fit
  11. 22:45Installing the 1913 Adapter and Grip Block
  12. 29:20Overview of Midwest Industries Alpha Handguards
  13. 31:02Disassembling the Alpha Handguard
  14. 32:27Fitting the Alpha Handguard to the Receiver
  15. 39:13Installing the Alpha Handguard
  16. 40:24Installing the Handguard Ring
  17. 42:39Securing the Handguard with Tension Screws
  18. 46:46Reinstalling the Gas Tube
  19. 47:21Installing the Alpha Handguard Top Cover
  20. 48:50Choosing Between Optic Mount and Railed Top Cover
  21. 49:05Installing the Optic Mount
  22. 55:05Installing the Railed Top Cover
  23. 61:19Swapping Recoil Spring Guide Rod for Railed Top Cover
  24. 63:05Finalizing Railed Top Cover Installation
  25. 64:05Installing the Alpha Stock
  26. 65:48M4 Version of the Alpha Stock
  27. 66:20Conclusion and Support

Frequently Asked Questions

What is required to install a 1913 adapter on an AK-74 for the Midwest Industries Alpha stock?

Installing a 1913 adapter on an AK-74 requires cutting off the original rear trunnion tang flush with the receiver using a Dremel or hacksaw, then filing it smooth. This modification is permanent and allows for the attachment of 1913-style stocks.

How do you ensure a solid fit for the Midwest Industries Alpha handguard on an AK?

The Alpha handguard's rear tenon may need to be filed down to fit snugly into the AK receiver. This 'cut and check' process involves filing material from the tenon and frequently testing the fit until the handguard is secure and can be removed by hand.

What is the purpose of the railed top cover's new recoil spring guide rod?

The new recoil spring guide rod is essential for the railed top cover to lock securely. It works in conjunction with the cover's mechanism to create a rigid, return-to-zero optic mounting platform.

Can I install the Midwest Industries Alpha handguard without modifying the AK's receiver?

The Alpha handguard itself typically installs without receiver modification, but installing the accompanying 1913 adapter for the Alpha stock requires cutting the rear trunnion tang. The handguard fitting process involves filing the tenon, not altering the receiver itself.

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