Test Firing The AK-50

Published on June 1, 2021
Duration: 13:49

This guide details the process of test firing and troubleshooting the AK-50 prototype, as demonstrated by lead designer Brandon Herrera. It covers initial setup, identifying and addressing cycling failures, component breakages due to extreme pressure, and the iterative process of adjusting the gas system and cam groove geometry to achieve reliable multi-round cycling. The insights gained from these failures are crucial for developing a production-ready version.

Quick Summary

The AK-50 prototype test firing involved troubleshooting cycling failures and component breakages due to extreme .50 BMG pressure. Lead designer Brandon Herrera details how adjustments to the long-stroke gas piston and cam groove geometry, including increasing gas pressure to overcome binding, were crucial for achieving reliable multi-round cycling.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Preparation and Setup
  2. 01:29First Test Fire and Initial Failure
  3. 02:30Troubleshooting and Component Failure
  4. 05:13Day 2: Overcoming Binding Issues
  5. 06:49Cycling Success and Multi-Round Strings
  6. 10:31Conclusion and Future Iterations

Frequently Asked Questions

What were the main challenges during the AK-50 prototype's test firing?

Initial challenges included the bolt not traveling far enough back to eject spent casings and critical components like steel rollers shattering due to extreme .50 BMG pressure. Binding in the cam groove geometry also required significant troubleshooting.

How did the team address the AK-50's cycling issues?

The team adjusted the long-stroke gas piston and experimented with gas pressure. They discovered that increasing gas pressure helped overcome binding in the cam groove, leading to more reliable bolt cycling.

What safety measures were employed during the AK-50 test firing?

Safety protocols included using a heavy-duty tripod mount and employing remote firing for the initial rounds from behind a protective barrier. Careful inspection after failures was also crucial.

What is the significance of the AK-50 prototype's development?

The failures encountered during prototyping provided essential data to refine the cam lug system and gas block. This iterative process is key to developing a more production-ready version of the .50 BMG rifle.

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