Build Your Own AK-47: Conclusion

The AK-47 is a rugged, reliable, battle proven rifle that deserves more respect than it gets sometimes. Blaine, Mike, Gary and Rod provided a fantastic, once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for me to see and record how these rifles are assembled. Shooting hobbyists who are willing to invest the time and organize the right tools will find building their own AKs a rewarding venture. 

From left: Gary Hughes, director of sales and marketing for Dead Air Armament; B. Gil Horman, author; Mike Pappas, director of product development for Dead Air Armament

References
When it comes to buying, building or modifying firearms, it's always the consumer's responsibility to understand the relevant federal and state regulations governing gun ownership in their region before making any purchases. I found the following set of books to be particularly informative:

Build Your Own AK (Vol. I): Headspace & Virgin Barrel Population
by Guy Montag & Nicoroshi

Build Your Own AK (Vol. II): Building the Parts Kit Kindle Edition
by Nicoroshi & Guy Montag

The authors walk home builders through a variety of important topics including 922r regulations, de-milling components, head spacing, parts lists, tools and safety. 

Specifications
AK Parts & Kit: Atlantic Firearms
Manufacturing Services: MOD Outfitters
Finishing Services: Park City Gun Club
Model: Custom AK-47 Pattern Rifle
Action: Gas Operated Semi-Auto
Caliber: 7.62x39 mm
Parts Kit: De-Milled Polish AK47 (1967)
Barrel: Atlantic Arms Manufacturing Nitride Treated 4150 AK47 Barrel, Threaded
Receiver: Atlantic Arms Manufacturing AAM-47 Black Oxide Receiver
Trigger: Tapco AK G2 Single-Hook
Trigger Pin Retainer Plate: Power Custom
Sights: Meprolight AK-47 Night Sights
Optics: Receiver-Mounted Sight Rail Plate
Hand Guard: Magpul MOE AKM
Shoulder Stock: Magpul ZHUKOV-S
Grip: Stark AK Rifle Grip, Black
Finish: Cerakote H-146 Graphite Black
Barrel Length: 16.25"
Overall Length (stock extended): 33.5" to 36.25"
Overall Length (stock folded): 26.5"
Weight: 7 lbs. 2 oz. (without magazine)
Capacity: 30 Rounds
Twist: 1:10” RH
Rifle Grooves: 6
MSRP: $1,560

Continue Reading "Build Your Own AK":
Build Your Own AK-47: Introduction
Build Your Own AK-47: Part 1--Selecting Components
Build Your Own AK-47: Part 2--Populating the Barrel
Build Your Own AK-47: Part 3--Populating a Factory-Built Receiver
Build Your Own AK-47: Part 4--Bending and Welding a Receiver Flat
Build Your Own AK-47: Part 5--Refinishing and Reassembly
Build Your Own AK-47: Part 6--At the Range
Build Your Own AK-47: Conclusion