Palmetto State Armory, Forged AK GF3: 1,000 Rounds Later!

Published on January 17, 2019
Duration: 13:42

This comprehensive 1,000-round review of the Palmetto State Armory GF3 AK-47 by Rob Ski of AK Operators Union provides critical insights into its performance as a budget-friendly option. Despite some minor cosmetic and functional quality control issues like canted sights and a weak rear leaf spring, the rifle demonstrated impressive reliability, functioning flawlessly through extensive environmental testing including water submersion and mud. The forged components (trunnion, bolt, carrier) held up well, and the rifle passed a post-test headspace check, indicating it's a solid performer for its price point.

Quick Summary

The Palmetto State Armory GF3 AK-47, tested over 1,000 rounds, proved highly reliable despite minor QC issues like canted sights. Featuring forged components and an MSRP of $559, it passed a post-test headspace check and endured harsh environmental conditions without malfunction, making it a solid budget performer.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction and Core Features
  2. 00:37Pricing and Availability
  3. 01:09Furniture and Customization
  4. 02:09Sights and Muzzle Device Issues
  5. 03:03Handguard and Spring Tension
  6. 04:22External Build Quality
  7. 05:17Accuracy and Heat Performance
  8. 06:47Reliability and Environmental Testing
  9. 07:34Internal Wear Inspection: Bolt
  10. 08:53Internal Wear Inspection: Carrier and Hammer
  11. 09:50Trunnion and Chamber Check
  12. 10:44Magazine Compatibility
  13. 11:34Gas System and Barrel Finish
  14. 13:03Headspace Test and Conclusion

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key features of the Palmetto State Armory GF3 AK-47?

The Palmetto State Armory GF3 AK-47 features a forged trunnion, forged bolt, and forged bolt carrier, representing a newer generation of PSA rifles. It is chambered in 7.62x39mm and has an MSRP of $559, making it a budget-friendly option.

How reliable is the PSA GF3 AK-47 after 1,000 rounds?

The PSA GF3 AK-47 demonstrated exceptional reliability, completing a 1,000-round test without any malfunctions. This included rigorous environmental testing, such as submersion in water and exposure to mud, in cold weather conditions.

What potential quality control issues were noted on the PSA GF3 AK-47?

Minor quality control issues observed included canted front sights requiring significant adjustment to zero, a muzzle brake that needed excessive torque, and a weak rear leaf spring that lacked sufficient tension and required manual bending.

Did the PSA GF3 AK-47 pass a headspace check after the test?

Yes, the PSA GF3 AK-47 passed a headspace check using a No-Go gauge after completing the 1,000-round test. This indicates that the critical headspace dimension remained within safe tolerances throughout the endurance trial.

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