No-Go Gauge Test on an AK while hot

Published on January 7, 2019
Duration: 10:10

This guide details a technique for testing the headspace of an AK-pattern rifle after rapid firing, as demonstrated by an expert instructor from Military Arms Channel. The process involves performing initial cold headspace checks with go and no-go gauges, followed by rapid firing to heat the weapon. The crucial step is re-testing with a no-go gauge while the firearm is hot to determine if heat expansion affects chamber dimensions enough to compromise safety. The expert emphasizes that proper firearm maintenance and immediate attention to any failed headspace test are critical for safe operation.

Quick Summary

Expert testing demonstrates that rapid firing, even to temperatures around 330-340°F, typically does not cause an AK rifle's headspace to expand enough to fail a no-go gauge test. This is because metal components expand uniformly, preserving the critical headspace dimension. However, a failed cold no-go test indicates immediate danger.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Hot Gun Headspace Test
  2. 00:41Theoretical Headspace Changes Explained
  3. 01:58Cold Headspace Test (WASR 10/63 AK)
  4. 03:26Preparation for Hot Headspace Test
  5. 03:47Rapid Firing Sequence to Heat Rifle
  6. 07:13Hot Headspace Test Results
  7. 07:58Metal Expansion Explanation
  8. 08:40Headspace Safety Advice
  9. 09:29Outro and Support Channels

Frequently Asked Questions

Does rapid firing affect the headspace of an AK rifle?

According to expert testing, while rapid firing significantly heats an AK rifle (up to 330-340°F), the headspace generally remains within safe limits. This means a no-go gauge will typically still not close the bolt, indicating heat alone doesn't usually cause a failure.

How do you test headspace on an AK rifle?

Headspace is tested using go and no-go gauges. First, a cold test is performed. Then, after rapid firing to heat the rifle, a no-go gauge is inserted into the hot chamber to see if the bolt closes, indicating if heat has compromised safe headspace.

What happens if a firearm fails a no-go gauge test?

If a firearm fails a no-go gauge test (meaning the bolt closes on the gauge), it indicates excessive headspace, making the firearm unsafe to fire. It requires immediate attention from a qualified gunsmith for repair or decommissioning.

Why doesn't heat typically expand an AK's headspace enough to fail a no-go test?

Metal expands uniformly when heated. Both the chamber and the bolt components expand proportionally. This balanced expansion generally preserves the critical headspace dimension, preventing a failure solely due to operational heat.

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