BFT 556 AK - Would you give it to me?! Century Arms 556 AK

Published on July 27, 2024
Duration: 21:13

This review of the Century Arms BFT 556 AK highlights its performance in 5.56x45mm NATO. While initial quality and fitment were good, two malfunctions occurred with Wolf steel-cased ammunition, specifically a failure to extract. The rifle demonstrated good performance with mixed brass and steel-cased ammo, and exclusively steel-cased ammo after the initial issues. The review details technical specifications, including receiver thickness, trunnion, barrel, and threading, and discusses potential fitment challenges with aftermarket furniture and optic mounts due to non-standard dimensions. The rifle is suggested for competition shooting or as a durable "truck gun," with a note that further long-term testing is recommended.

Quick Summary

The Century Arms BFT 556 AK, chambered in 5.56x45mm NATO, features a 1.5mm receiver, forged trunnion, and a 16.25-inch barrel with 14-1 left-handed threads. While initial quality is good, two malfunctions occurred with steel-cased ammo. It performs well with mixed or exclusively steel-cased ammo after addressing initial issues. Compatibility with standard AKM furniture and some optic mounts may require modification.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction & Market Context
  2. 00:30Technical Specifications
  3. 01:21Malfunction Analysis (Steel Case Ammo)
  4. 02:00Mixed Ammo Testing
  5. 03:48Pure Steel Case Ammo Testing
  6. 05:25Second Malfunction & Magazine Compatibility
  7. 06:28Shooting Performance & Recoil
  8. 07:23Post-Shooting Autopsy: Bolt Carrier Group
  9. 08:42Post-Shooting Autopsy: Bolt
  10. 10:58Post-Shooting Autopsy: Receiver & Locking Lugs
  11. 13:00Post-Shooting Autopsy: Barrel & Rivets
  12. 14:19Side Rail & Mount Compatibility
  13. 15:17Furniture Fitment Issues
  14. 16:59Included Accessories
  15. 17:29Muzzle Threading & Brake
  16. 18:06Sling Loop Observation
  17. 18:47Standard Furniture & Grip
  18. 19:01Target Audience & Recommendations
  19. 20:08Long-Term Testing & Conclusion

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key technical specifications of the Century Arms BFT 556 AK?

The Century Arms BFT 556 AK is chambered in 5.56x45mm NATO, weighs around 7 lbs unloaded, features a 1.5mm receiver with a bulged forged trunnion, and has a 16.25-inch Chrome Moly 4150 steel barrel with 14-1 left-handed muzzle threads.

Did the Century Arms BFT 556 AK experience any malfunctions during testing?

Yes, two malfunctions occurred with Wolf 55-grain steel-cased ammunition: a failure to extract where the extractor slipped off the case rim. However, the rifle performed well with mixed brass and steel-cased ammo, and exclusively steel-cased ammo after the initial issues.

Are there any compatibility issues with the Century Arms BFT 556 AK?

Yes, standard AKM furniture may require trimming to fit the receiver opening due to its thicker profile. Additionally, the non-standard side rail dimensions might require modification for certain aftermarket optic mounts designed for AKMs.

Who is the target audience for the Century Arms BFT 556 AK?

The Century Arms BFT 556 AK is suggested for competition shooting or as a durable 'truck gun.' It's ideal for users who want an AK-style rifle in 5.56 and are prepared for potential modifications to accessories and furniture.

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