Palmetto State Armory Spiker Type 56 Clone - Just how close is it to the original?

Published on December 14, 2022
Duration: 24:52

The Palmetto State Armory Spiker clone offers an accessible way to own the iconic look of the Chinese Type 56 AK variant. While it captures the aesthetic, minor differences exist in furniture, buttplate, and internal components like the auto-trip lever. The PSA model is a reliable and affordable shooter, providing a practical alternative to expensive original Polytech Spikers.

Quick Summary

The Palmetto State Armory Spiker clone offers the iconic look of the Chinese Type 56 AK at an accessible price (around $1,099). While it captures the aesthetic, minor differences exist in furniture and internal components compared to original Polytech Spikers, making it a practical shooter.

Chapters

  1. 00:00History of the Polytech Spiker
  2. 03:39PSA Spiker Clone Introduction
  3. 08:04External Comparison: Furniture & Trunnions
  4. 10:52Controls and Markings
  5. 15:01Internal Components & Disassembly
  6. 21:20Final Assessment & Shooting

Frequently Asked Questions

How does the PSA Spiker clone compare to the original Polytech AKS-762?

The PSA Spiker clone captures the iconic look of the original Polytech AKS-762 'Spiker' at a much lower price point (around $1,099 vs. $3,000-$4,500). While externally similar, minor differences exist in furniture, buttplate, and internal components like the auto-trip lever.

What are the key differences between the PSA Spiker and an original Chinese Type 56?

The PSA Spiker lacks the original's trapdoor buttplate and uses Torx screws for sling swivels. Internally, PSA uses standard rear trunnions and retains the auto-trip lever on the bolt carrier, which is absent on imported originals due to ATF regulations.

Is the Palmetto State Armory Spiker clone a good shooter?

Yes, the PSA Spiker clone is designed as a reliable shooter. It is slightly over-gassed, similar to original Chinese AKs, and performed well with both brass and steel-cased ammunition during testing.

Why are original Polytech Spiker rifles so expensive?

Original Polytech AKS-762 'Spiker' rifles became highly desirable collector's items after the 1989 import ban. Their rarity, iconic spike bayonet, and association with the Vietnam era drive prices between $3,000 and $4,500.

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