I review the AK-50

Published on September 26, 2021
Duration: 24:23

This review details the AK-50 Gen 1 Prototype, a .50 BMG rifle built on an AK platform by Brandon Herrera and reviewed by Garand Thumb. The video covers the prototype's construction, including its stamped receiver, scaled-up AK components, and custom parts like the JMac Customs muzzle brake. Range testing reveals initial malfunctions, attributed to over-gassing and a weak magazine catch, highlighting the challenges of scaling the AK design to .50 BMG. The review emphasizes the 'garage build' nature and the need for further development.

Quick Summary

The AK-50 Gen 1 Prototype is a .50 BMG rifle built by Brandon Herrera, scaling the AK platform with a stamped receiver and long-stroke gas piston. Range tests revealed issues like magazine ejection and extraction failures, attributed to over-gassing and a weak magazine catch, highlighting the challenges of this ambitious build.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction and Skit
  2. 01:12AK-50 Project Overview
  3. 02:29Receiver and Operating System
  4. 04:09Muzzle Device and Barrel
  5. 05:59Gas Block and Prototype Fixes
  6. 07:39Recoil Buffer and Magazine
  7. 09:13Bolt Carrier Group
  8. 11:00Range Testing
  9. 13:17Post-Shot Analysis and Failures
  10. 15:35Conclusion and Dad Advice

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the AK-50 Gen 1 Prototype?

The AK-50 Gen 1 Prototype is a .50 BMG rifle built by Brandon Herrera, based on scaling the Kalashnikov (AK) platform. It features a stamped receiver and aims to adapt the AK's long-stroke gas piston system for the larger caliber.

What are the key components of the AK-50 Gen 1 Prototype?

Key components include a stamped receiver made from tubing, a scaled-up JMac Customs RRD-50 muzzle brake, a 22-inch barrel from an M2 Browning, and Barrett-compatible 10-round magazines. It retains the AK's long-stroke gas piston and rotating bolt.

What issues were encountered during AK-50 range testing?

During range testing, the AK-50 prototype experienced malfunctions such as magazine ejection due to recoil inertia and failures to extract. These were preliminarily diagnosed as being caused by an over-gassed system and a weak magazine catch.

Who are the main individuals involved with the AK-50 project?

Brandon Herrera is the primary engineer and creator of the AK-50 project. Mike, from the YouTube channel Garand Thumb, reviews and demonstrates the prototype, providing expert commentary.

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