The Future of the AK -- KC&C Ep. 66 w/ Jim Fuller

Published on February 18, 2020
Duration: 67:51

Jim Fuller, a seasoned firearms instructor and builder, details the intricacies of building an AK-pattern rifle, emphasizing the need for specialized tools and a deep understanding of the platform's mechanics. He highlights the importance of proper riveting, barrel installation, and headspace checks, contrasting the AK build process with that of an AR-15. Fuller also touches on the durability and longevity of AK firearms and the evolving market for US-made AK components.

Quick Summary

Building an AK rifle requires specialized tools and a deep understanding of its mechanics, differing significantly from assembling an AR-15. Proper riveting is crucial for structural integrity, ensuring rivets are round, flat, and set correctly for maximum shear strength. AK barrels can be replaced multiple times on the same trunnion through a process of pressing out pins and repinning.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction & Guest Welcome
  2. 03:17Who is Jim Fuller?
  3. 04:50Early AK Experiences
  4. 08:57AK Popularity Growth
  5. 10:04The Year of the AK?
  6. 11:08AK vs. AR Pricing
  7. 13:03PSA AK Testing
  8. 14:34PSA AK Fit & Finish
  9. 16:00PSA's Common Use Strategy
  10. 18:005.45 vs. 5.56 AKs
  11. 20:005.56 AK Maintenance
  12. 22:21Norinco AK Comparison
  13. 26:02Building an AK: Difficulty & Tools
  14. 27:36AK Barrel Retention vs. AR
  15. 28:50Galil ACE Opinion
  16. 30:01Rivet Importance & Shear Strength
  17. 33:51VZ. 58 vs. AK
  18. 34:40AK Upgrades: Triggers
  19. 36:22AK Optics Recommendations
  20. 37:49Heavy AK Variants (PSL, PKM)
  21. 39:08Comm Bloc AK Differences
  22. 42:02PSA AK vs. Romanian AK
  23. 43:12Best Starter AK & Best AK
  24. 46:20Jim's Go-To Home Defense AK
  25. 48:12Period-Correct vs. Custom AK Builds
  26. 49:19AK Barrel Replacement Explained
  27. 51:01AK-Style Guitar?
  28. 52:12Future of the AK: AK-12 Influence
  29. 54:08Next Leap for AK Platform
  30. 56:06Highest Tier Comm Bloc AKs
  31. 57:06Jim Fuller's Future & Classes
  32. 62:32Ghost's 'Fallout' Song Request
  33. 63:31Closing Remarks & Thanks

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key differences between building an AK and an AR-15?

Building an AK requires specialized tools and a deeper understanding of its mechanics, akin to blacksmithing, involving presses and hammers. An AR-15 build is generally simpler, often achievable with basic hand tools and a torque wrench for components like the barrel nut.

Why is proper riveting important for AK builds?

Properly set rivets are crucial for the structural integrity and shear strength of an AK receiver. They should be round, flat, perpendicular to the receiver, and form a symmetrical 'pancake' on the inside, ensuring the firearm's longevity and reliability under stress.

Can AK barrels be replaced multiple times on the same trunnion?

Yes, AK barrels can be replaced multiple times on the same trunnion. The process involves pressing out the old barrel pin, removing the barrel, pressing in a new one, establishing headspace, drilling a new pin hole, and repinning. This can be done several times by incrementally increasing the pin size.

What makes the 5.45x39mm AK more reliable than the 5.56x45mm AK?

The 5.45x39mm AK's reliability stems from its tapered steel case, which extracts easily. In contrast, the 5.56x45mm's straight-walled brass case can expand and wedge in the chamber, making extraction more difficult and potentially leading to malfunctions if the firearm isn't kept clean.

What is the future outlook for US-made AKs?

The future of US-made AKs looks promising, with companies like PSA developing quality components and firearms. A robust US manufacturing base is seen as crucial for the AK platform's continued availability and support, especially if foreign parts imports face disruptions.

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