AK Assembly- Receiver Build Troubleshooting

We get a bunch of AK style firearms in for repair here at OOW. Most of them have a common issue revolving around the initial receiver build. Specifically, there’s usually excessive spacing for the topcover that results in problems when the firearm is fully assembled.

Chris, our lead armorer, has a simple solution to this problem that we’ve outlined below. But before we get to that, I need to discuss a fact that you may or may not already know.

Our AK receivers are manufactured intentionally long. About 0.100” too long to be more precise.

Why?

It lets you custom fit many different parts sets by trimming the receiver to fit.

Here’s where some people get into problems.

You see, Chris tells me that most people merely build up the receiver as is, without trimming it to fit their set. The result is that they end up with that excess around the topcover that bedevils their efforts at final assembly.

Here’s how to avoid that mistake from the get-go:

First, Install the trigger guard – trust Chris, he says to do this first, so unless you want him fixin’ your gun, just follow along.

Next, fit up the trunion to the receiver and insert a magazine to ensure all the parts are in the correct location.

Then, drill and rivet the trunion.

Finally, fit the rear stock mount. You need to confirm it’s correctly located by affixing the topcover and then moving the rear stock mount in or out of the receiver for a correct fit.

So there you have it. Simple steps to keep your AK build project going smooth. Remember, be patient, always check fit and function of your parts before assembling them, and have fun.

You’ll reap the rewards and satisfaction of building your own AK style firearm as long as you’re armed with a little bit of caution and patience. Enjoy.

Leave a comment below and let us know if this is helpful or not!

- Bob

Tagged as: AK 47, AK 47 Receiver, firearms, gun, gun parts, guns, magazines, Ohio Ordnance Works, rebuild, refurbish, repair