AK47 Talk

Kmanator's AK stocks (and other stuff)

2012-02-22T20:56:00.000-05:00

This past weekend I discovered Kmanator's stocks at his eBay store, but he has been selling his unique creations on a few AK message boards for awhile now.

These steel stocks may not be the most practical since they can run slightly heavier than a wood version, but they definitely are cool! The Zombie Battle Axe stock is mean and nasty, and available with several designs like this skull and crossbones and a biohazard symbol. However, the "edge" is really just a bevel for safety (a good choice in my book). He also has a few cutout stocks that are less apocalyptic, but still make a statement.

For that extra ComBloc statement, these are currently being redesigned to add a star .

He has a lot of great stuff at his eBay store as well, like metal signs and banana hangers shaped like AKs. Overall, pure fun items; sometimes we get wrapped around the serious aspects and forget that shooting is fun too. Kmanator's stocks also won't break the bank at just over $40 each.

TSD New Folding Stock

2012-02-22T05:58:00.003-05:00

While US Palm is still working on their folding stock, Gabe Suarez just released a picture of his company's new folding stock in this thread that they will be using. My first thought when I clicked on the thread is that it would be the new US Palm stock, and it may or may not be since Suarez is a little vague (it is not US Palm, see update). It allows M4 style stocks to fold to the left or right depending on the adapter used. No word on price yet. ACE does have a similar setup with a "pignose" adapter for their folding mechanism.

UPDATE: Definitely TSDs, the folding mechanism based off the Galil is what is offered, no buffer tube or stock. Available here for $125

Military Arms Channel AK74 DMR project

2012-02-17T06:53:00.003-05:00

Sturmgewehre has a very cool project going on. He is making a AK74 DMR with a barrel "Straight Jacket" from Teludyne Tech. This barrel cover should increase the barrel rigidity and better heat dissipation. I first heard about the product awhile ago on a podcast, and I happy to see one finally tested. It should be a project to watch with 1 MOA or less results expected!

M10-762 and 545 in stock at Atlantic Firearms

2012-02-12T19:35:00.002-05:00

M10-762 here

M10-545 here

They also have a video of each after the jump.

Also: M10-545 with Wire Folder

Right now if everything works out, I am planning get an M10 of some sorts for review here, the hits on this website due to it makes it hard for me to argue to not review one.

What big review to do next Bleg

2012-02-06T19:41:00.001-05:00

I'm hoping you guys can light up the comments a little, please! I'm on the fence with a couple different options on what big review to do next, each one has a lot of interest to me but has its own cons. Help me get off the fence, what would you most like to see:

1. A Review of a M10 rifle, most likely the newly released 5.45x39 version, I'd go for one with a Hogue handguard if available. The original post the one with the most hits here so I would like to give those finding this place first hand information. However, since I don't get to shoot my centerfire AKs that much, I'll be splitting limited range time with yet another AK means they all end up sitting a little more besides for the new one.

2. A review of the Midwest Industries AK-SS handguard with a Primary Arms Micro red dot. I was all about this rail when it was announced but now I'm not as hot about it now since without the rails it looks like the receiver will have some exposed corners where it meets the handguard. Minor detail I know, but it just bothers me for some reason.

3. Comparison of the RS Regulate and Midwest Industries 30mm Side mounts. Problem with this is that I have a lot of side mounts already and not all my AKs have side rails.

4. Something else (in the same budget range)?

I would have also listed the US Palm quad stack or a training class. But the US Palm quad stacks won't be available to later in the year since they are still prototypes and the local training class I want to take is in September and I can't afford to travel to one before then.

I by no means guarantee that I will follow your advice, follow the majority vote, etc., or even do any of these in the long run if "Real Life"(TM) happens, but I would still like to hear what you want. Thanks!

M10-545 now available

2012-02-06T18:34:00.005-05:00

A 5.45x39 M10 is now available at Centerfire Systems.

AK Grips Guide

2012-02-05T08:25:00.002-05:00

The grips for the AK used to be a pretty bland world. Now though, there are a lot of options out there for users that want the either that classic look or more modern ergonomics. Often grips need to be 922r complaint as well for more U.S. made parts count. Since the AK grip market has exploded recently there are grips for any type AK owner out there from old school transitional to new school tacticool. Let's start out talking about traditional grips.

Traditional
Century- Many are familiar with this grip because it is what comes with their AK if it was imported by Century Arms. It is normally marked with a "C" towards the top of the grip. It is one of the lowest quality plastic with poor texturing and thinnest widths grips out there. I think part of the reason AK grips get a bad reputation for being thin are these grips. They are noticablly thinner in my hand than any of the other classic grips, if I recall correctly this difference was only a few hundredths of an inch. Unfortunately, I've gotten rid of all my Century grips so I can't give you an exact measurement. Overall, I recommend this be one of the first things you change out even if you like the classic look, there are better options out there. Since it is OEM, you won't find a retail price out there on it, but I would not pay more than $5 for one.

K-Var- As much as I sometimes dislike K-Var for some of their policies and prices, this grip is the winner in the Traditional Grip market if you need 922r parts. It is avalilable in Plum, Black, Flat Dark Earth (FDE) and Olive Drab Green (OD). The bottom of the grip has a metal reinforcement bushing where your grip screw head rests. This alone in my book makes it a great option. The plastic is high quality with a very grippy texturing. It has a wider thickness than the Century grip at .94". Honestly, it is better than most of the surplus grips I have pulled off of AKs. You will also pay a premium of around $15 retail for this grip, but I believe it is worth it in this case.

Tapco- Middle of the road in price and quality option between the Century and K-Var grips. I only have limited experience with this as that I owned one just for a few days to put on a rifle I was selling in order to keep the modern grip I had on it. It does have nicer plastic and features than the Century, but not quite as good as the K-Var. They do have a new Bakelite orange color and is offered in Black, FDE and OD as well. It normally retails around $10. EDIT: Just got my hands on a Tapco grip again. Good texture and measures the standard grip widith of .92"

Iron Wood Designs- If you must go classic, wood, and 922r compliant with just the grip, then this is almost your only option. However, the buzz on the internet is that Iron Wood Designs grips are high quality and they offer several different grip type options like milled AK, AKM, Yugo, and AMD. I don't have hands on experience, but I can say they have a solid reputation and wouldn't hesitate to order from them if I needed U.S. made wood stocks. These retail around $35-55.

TimberSmith by Tapco- This is the newer 922r compliant wood AK furniture on the block. Again, I have no experience with it (as you can tell I'm not that big into wood), but it seems to be of high quality from most reports. However, it looks to be that these are only available as sets and you can't buy just grips. They are offered in some gorgeous colors, brown and black laminate, Red stain, and American hard wood. The full set of stock, handguards, and grip retail for around $130.

Surplus Grips- These run the gamut in pricing and quality. There are collectors grips, typically Russian, that can fetch high prices. Then there are some pretty low quality plastic and wood ones out there for cheap. If you aren't a collector, I still recommend the K-Var if you are going plastic. If you are going for wood and 922r parts count isn't an issue, then a surplus grip is going to be a cheaper option than the U.S. made ones, so that might be the niche for non-collectors with surplus grips. However, top quality wood still would probably be the Iron Wood Designs grips. Since we have been talking about thickness, for reference, most post-AKM surplus grips I've measured are around .92", pre-AKM grips are suppose to be thicker.

Note- Usually traditional grips do NOT include grip screws. If you have a traditional grip installed already, you will have a grip screw, but if you are changing out a modern to traditional grip, you may need to relocate your original screw or buy a new one.

Modern
In general the modern grips tend to fill the hand better, have better egronomic features, and offer storage compartments if it uses a non-standard grip screw.

MD Arms Molot- This is a modern U.S. made grip with a bit of Russian authenticity. It is modeled after the Molot grip with finger grooves added. The Molot comes on Saiga shotguns at the Izhmash factory. The true Molot grips are rare because Saigas are imported into the U.S. with the sporter stock. This is another grip that I have no personal experience with, however, MD Arms has a good reputation. It does use a standard grip screw, but due to that there is no storage compartment. It retails around $12

Arsenal RPK Grip This is a newer style grip made in Bulgaria. A more classic look, but modern feeling grip. Arsenal always has good quality and some swear by this grip. However, it isn't a 922r part. It uses a standard grip screw. I don't know why K-Var in the link describes it as for milled receivers only, most AK grips are interchangeable and other retailers that sell it do not have that stipulation on it. Retail $20

ATI Stikeforce and Scorpion - These grips are very similar in shape to the older version Command Arms grip. While it feels good in the hand and is a 922r part, I wasn't very impressed with the plastic's quality on the Strikeforce so I quickly passed it on. The Scorpion is an upgraded version with a shock absorbing backstrap and rubberized grip. The Strikeforce uses a standard grip screw. The Scorpion includes its own grip screws but doesn't have a storage compartment. In general, ATI doesn't have the best reputation on the internet but I do like their AK handguards if you use a heatshield with it. The Strikeforce version retails for around $15 and the Scorpion for $25

Command Arms/CAA/EMA Tactical Original AG47, New AG47, and UPG47- The original AG47 was very similar to the ATI Strikeforce, it is just more solid and with a storage compartment. In general these are always some of the thickest AK grips towards the bottom. However, it doesn't look to be imported any more and has confusingly been replaced with a new style grip with the same model number. Personally, I don't like the looks of the new one as much but in general my experience with CAA (TDI) stuff has been about on par with Tapco in quality. The UPG47 is a customizable grip with interchangable front and back straps. It looks to be a great option if you want to play around and find exactly what will fit you. While all three have storage compartments, they are all imported from Israel so they are not 922r parts. The AG47s retail for around $25, the UPG47 $35

Mako Group- This is another Israeli imported grip. It looks to have some good ergonomics, only one finger groove for the middle finger (for a lot of people the ring/pinky groove are the problem ones) There is some nice checking on the backstrap. Mako Imports decent stuff, but often a little pricey. This one is about $30.

As you may have noticed, the last two are Israeli importers. The lines there sometimes get a little blurry and at one point both were importing TDI brand stuff if I remember correctly. Mako has branched out to another Israel supplier, FAB Defense. Also to make things even more confusing, the next supplier specifically has TDI products listed on their site with no photos of the products while advertising made in the U.S.A. I'm attempting to get in contact with them to find out if I can shed so light on the situation.

MFT Engage EPG47 and EPGI47 I just found MFT (Mission First Tactical) Engage while researching this guide. They are U.S. made grips. The MFT grips claim to fame is that they mimic the AR15 grip angle right out of the box, so it may be a good option if you are more comfortable it (AR grips can be used used on AKs with modification or a grip adapter). The EPG47 is a basic model with finger grooves and stippling. The EPGI47 is the upgraded version that offers removable front and back straps. They both have an unique storage compartment. While it looks to be on the smaller side, it has foam block that can be cut to your tastes and reduce rattle. The retail prices are approximately $22 for the EPG47 and $30 for the EPGI47.

Tapco SAW- This is my old stand by. It is called a SAW grip since it is designed like the FN grip that is put on M249s. I have used these long enough that I have two different versions of this grip. My oldest has a Galil style safety cut out but current ones do not. Honestly, over the years, Tapco's grip screw has gotten worse. They originally had a flathead screw, now they have a shorter metric hex bolt that is really annoying to find the right socket extension to fit all the way up the grip. Overall quality is good, there are newer grips from other companies that have better. It has a very spacious storage compartment and the bottom wire retainer latched door stays closed even though sometimes you wonder if it actually will. I was able to carry an essential parts kit in mine with a FCG/bolt spring set, an extractor, a firing pin, a couple of axis pins, hammer, and optic batteries. Ergonomically, it fills the hand well while swelling more toward the bottom, has okay texture, and a comfortable angle. While I think there are now better grips out there, these gave me years of good service and I still have one on my Draco pistol. 922r compliant, it is available in Black, OD, and FDE, and the retail is around $18

Ergo Grips- Ergo used to offer a few AK grips but they are back to offering just their original, which is still a great option. This grip has a "pencil eraser" feel rubber coating. The finger grooves are a less aggressive which a lot of people like. For a long time the Ergo was main other option from the Tapco SAW since it is U.S. made. If you like a little spongy feel on your grip, this is the way to go. It has a large grip compartment as well. Retail prices should be around $25

Hogue- This is one of my current favorites. Hogue calling these "OverMolded" made me expect that they would have a good amount of spongy feel to them, similar to their "Handall" grip sleeves. Actually, they have only a slight amount of give in the thin rubber coating around the plastic core. It still feels great as the texture and natural grip of the rubber makes your hand stay put. The finger grooves, while on the larger size, fit my hands really well. The overall grip size is just right for me, not too big not too small. Like most other modern grips, it has a storage compartment. It is a good size, although not as large as the Tapco SAW and just a touch smaller than the US Palm. It can fit 3 CR123 batteries, or in my case 2 CR123s and a broken shell remover. Hogue offers a grip without a plug though so be aware of that if you want to use the storage area. The version that includes a plug also has a wire retainer and plastic divider designed to hold AA (2), CR123 (3), and CR2032 (4) batteries in a very organized way. However, I didn't have much luck with the divider, maybe partly due to the fact I was trying to fit the shell remover place of one of the CR123s. The plug can be used without the divider and is very secure. But since the door is held in with just the pressure of the excess rubber at the bottom of the grip, it may come out more easily over time. Removal of the plug is cleverly accomplished by placing a 7.62x39/.308 or .223 case in the indents on the door. Hogue also partners with Samson to fit a Field Survivor tool/cleaning kit in the grip cavity. While a very cool option, it is very expensive especially when compared to the cost of a normal AK buttstock tool kit and boresnake. The install as easy on these due to a good sized and easy to work with grip screw. These excellent grips are available in the standard Black, FDE, and OD, but also Hogue has a twist with their "Ghillie" version of these colors that have a little grain effect to them. MidwayUSA lists that a "Zombie Green" will be offered soon as well. These grips can also be bought in a combo pack with their handguard that will be eventually reviewed here too. The grips without a compartment plug are around $18, with the compartment system are about $24, and with the Samson Field Survivor, $110.

US Palm AKBG- Last, but definitely not least, is the US Palm AKBG (AK Battle Grip). If you read here regularly, you noticed I am somewhat of a US Palm Fanboy. Products like this grip make me unashamed to say that. This is the most solid, high quality grip I've tried on the AK. It has a look that still works well with a traditional aesthetic. The texture is good, although a little less non-slip than the Hogue's rubber coating. The storage compartment is only second to the Tapco SAW in size. I had to remove the hammer from my essential parts kit and the firing pin needs to be positioned just right to fit. The door is rubber, advertised as water proof, and has a nice pull tab. While one of the most slim modern grips out there, its curved lines allow it to fill the hand just right. I would bet this grip works with the widest range of hand sizes. Another noticeable difference is that it allows your hand sit closer to the receiver than any other grip, giving better control to the rifle. My only gripe about the US Palm is the grip screw length. The screw itself is high quality and the washer is the best one I've seen on any grip, but if it was just another 1/4" longer it would be much easier for it to thread into the grip nut with the compression you need to for the washer. Once you get it on and use it, you quickly forget about pesky screw. Colors offered are Black, FDE, Brown, and the new Red Bakelite. The typical retail price for the $30

Hopefully this has laid out most of the now many options you have to change out the grip on your AK. A few years ago selection was pretty limited, especially if you needed a 922r part. Today, the biggest problem might be trying to find the one you like best with all the options. However, variety is still a good thing. Now, I use several grip styles. I keep traditional grips on my .22 and 5.45 guns so that I have an extra tactile feedback that the smaller grip equals smaller calibers. My 7.62x39 guns get the modern, larger grips. That might just be me over-thinking it, but I like that system. Plus I get to enjoy some of this selection we have now. Most days the US Palm is my favorite grip, although I'll pick up the Hogue gripped Draco Carbine and notice how nice it is too. Sometimes I get nostalgic and remember the quality and looks the K-Var Plum grip adds to my AK74. If you find that grip that works and you want to stick with it understand completely. For years, that was the Tapco SAW for me. But at least you don't have to be stuck just because there are only a few out there.

RS Regulate Micro Mount Preorder, Teaser Shots of New Light Mount

2012-02-03T18:57:00.002-05:00

RS Regulate's new Micro Red Dot side mount is up as a preorder at Brownells, If you like side mounts, you will finally have a way to mount at Micro red dot as low possible.

Also there are some cool teaser shots of their new light mount at Facebook. Since watching Adaptive Kalash, I've been looking at getting a light mount that gets the light off the handguard to try out more of the new school handguard grip. I've been looking at the Thorntail, but I'm going to have to wait for this one.

Military Arms' Bumpski video

2012-01-29T12:27:00.002-05:00

I would agree after handling both stocks (granted fired neither), the Bumpski is higher quality and you can use whatever grips you would like on it. If I get a bump fire stock, it will be the Bumpski.

Gunwebsites' M10-762 Video

2012-01-29T11:35:00.007-05:00

The M10-762 interest has resulted in a lot of hits here. This video is with the importer, Colorado Guns (although IO Inc is importing their own version). They do point out it is not a WASR, however I think that is a little bit of splitting a hair on one point. It looks to use the same base receiver that WASR does, however Colorado Guns does CNC out the mag well to double stack which should be an improvement over Century's methods. Also being a smaller shop they should have good attention to detail. Happy to see they will offer the Hogue forend on it, I like the one that I have on my Draco Carbine. I need to get some more trigger time on it though to see how the heat shield does before I post a full review. The news that a wire folder will be available plus some extra folders to buy for aftermarket is good to hear as well.

TSD Combat Systems AKs and the World of AK Value

2012-01-28T10:32:00.000-05:00

Gabe Suarez has started a new gunsmithing company called TSD Combat Systems. They got their start putting mini red dots onto Glocks and other pistols. Of course, since it is a Suarez ran company, AKs weren't far behind. The first ones are just now starting to get to their owners. Overall, I think it has some very interesting additions that shows a large shift for Suarez's doctrine. They look more "tactical" and similar to a Krebs' rifle, while in the past Suarez has been a more traditional AK setup with some modern accouterments.

Here are the accessories that mark a change:
1. M4 style stock with a riser. Suarez originally was not a big fan of these unless you had a specific need like really long arms or a couple with a large size difference used the same rifle. The previous though process was that a Warsaw Pact length stock was more of a one size fits all solution and the large majority of AKs out there have that length. Also the traditional AK stock were seen as more robust. Now, the M4 styles are added for better overall accuracy, a reoccurring theme with the TSD AKs. The Magpul MOE with a riser allows for better cheekweld and length of pull for more accurate shooting. In the past, Suarez focused on good enough "minute of man" accuracy with the reasoning being most people don't really need that much accuracy or range.

2. Tabbed Safety. These where not encouraged since they changed the manual of arms from a standard AK to something more individualized. Some of the models have these pictured on them, but not listed in the parts changes. I think this is more Suarez accomdating the changes in tastes than a major shift, but in the past he and Sonny Puzikas were not big supporters of them. Like a lot of other people, Matt over at Jerking the Trigger, really likes them I used to use one up until a picture of one of my AKs with one was used in Puzikas excellent DVD, Beyond the Firearm 2. Puzikas was mentioning how you needed to be careful not to hit the tab while trying to run the bolt from underneath the receiver, while somewhat showing my rifle as an example of what not to do. So now I personally look at them as training wheels and was nearing that conclusion before that rifle cameo. I'm totally comfortable sweeping off the safety right handed with my index and middle fingers. While it does slightly break firing grip, works with all AKs, even the tabbed ones. There isn't really any useful speed difference between the safety types, just personal comfort.

3. Texas Weapon Systems Dogleg Rail.

These without a doubt are bringing a new capability to AKs. Krebs, the Polish on the Beryl, and others have created similar rails but they have all been wanting in either the price or overall stability until the TWS rail system. The main way this differs is that you can now use a centerline and low mounted optic that before only side mounts did only moderately well. While I like side rail mounts, they do have a lot of issues like weight and position in relation to bore/cheek weld. This new accessory allows for the shooter to get accuracy the AK is capable of getting with good ammo and sighting systems are combined.

4. Optics all but required.
Optics bring a lot to any modern rifle platform. Red Dots will be fast at CQB ranges but yet still add some performance at long ranges. The new AK ACOG or a nice 1-4x scope brings a much more long range capable AK. These magnified optics will allow easier 500m+ hits. However in the past Suarez doctrine, the irons were sufficient for CQB due to the "caveman EoTech" method, were best at medium distance, and could still be used to effect well past the normal range civilians would probably ever need (I am a big believer in slightly widening your rear sights to about .080", I think Fuller does slightly wider). Back then, a red dot would be a good investment upgrade down the road especially for those with older eyes.

5. Rear Peep backup sight.
The TWS rail allows a peep sight to be positioned where it should be. I've tried a Mojo rear peep for an AK. But since it replaced the normal rear sight leaf, it never felt right for me, as I sure the Krebs would have felt wrong as well (even if you want to try these, stay away from the Williams). It doesn't bring the added accuracy of a true rear aperture and doesn't bring all the speed a ghost ring does if it is wider. This is a change in Suarez's doctrine since for a long time he advocated the traditional rear being good enough for intended use, and there is the system commonality between the vast majority of AKs along with practically all pistols. Due to the increase accuracy requirements, a peep seems the way to go for TSD's AKs besides for the CQB version. However, I am still mostly a post and notch guy. Ever since my Red Ryder BB gun, it has been the primary sighting method (and honestly just a few years later I was shooting AKs). I can use peep systems just fine if I need to, but right now I only own 1 firearm with an aperture rear. For guys like me, Texas Weapon Systems is developing a notch rear backup sight which makes it more attractive. If you prefer a peep, this is a good option while allowing an easy optics upgrade later and also makes the Tech Sight AK sight almost obsolete.

6. Railed Aluminum Handguards
The railed handguard does bring the extra capability in quickly and easily mounting picatinny accessories. This is a good thing as long as you don't go crazy trying to fill every piece of "rail estate" with the next greatest accessory. Almost all of my AKs have a small piece of rail to mount a light. Besides for the personal aesthetic issue of changing the traditional look, railed handguards only downsides are the extra length of used rails that must be covered so they don't act like cheese graters when it contacts skin. Most of the newer handguard systems only weigh slightly more than a normal handguard, or in the case of the Midwest Industries X models offer an extended handguard for a just a few extra ounces of weight. Suarez still is a believer in the bare minimum bolted onto your rifle, it is that handguards like this offer the most options. Honestly, I do think these are a nice upgrade as long as you keep it simple still. I have added my own small single rail sections to traditional handguards and also have used the Hogue, CAA, and ATI handguards that have some rail options. I am waiting for Primary Arms to get the new Midwest Industries AK-SS along with a micro red dot. For me, this handguard should be the best of both worlds. With the small, re-positionable rail sections, I won't have to use rail covers since I can put rails only were I want them and have even less weight. Other than the lack of traditional look, I think this will be the sweet spot for my personal requirements.

Overall, the TSD AKs seem like a customized Mustang (follow me through this car analogy, I think a lot of people will relate, but honestly I'm not a big car guy). For a long time Mustangs have been the more affordable, entry level American sports car. You can spend a lot of money to get Corvette or Viper performance in your Mustang especially by getting the Roush or Shelby upgrade shops to do it for you. At that point of the upgrades you could have potentially spent the same or more on one of the other cars but it is your personal devotion to the Mustang that keeps you improving it. For a lot of people, a traditionally restored or just slightly modified Mustang is enough for them. Not to mention in "normal" driving often the high end performance upgrades have minimal valve besides for a little extra fun from stop light to stop light.

The TSD AKs (and Krebs) are that custom performance shop upgrades that bring a new level of performance to the platform. However, often by the time you have spent the money you could have gotten an nice AR or even a next generation carbine like the SCAR, ACR, or XCR that bring a new level of blending of the to platforms together with gas piston system and AR ergonomics. Personally, I think that level of money it might be hard not to buy one of those three newer rifle platforms, just like if I had the money for either I might go for a Lamborghini instead of the tricked out '70s muscle car.

You can also do the DIY upgrades to your personal tastes to improve where you think the specific aspects of your AK, much like the home garage car mods. While not always as nice as a custom rifle, it will make noticeable changes in speed and/or accuracy. Then for the next level there are the Rifle Dynamics of the world that will do an amazing traditional or custom AKs.

There will still be a lot of purist out there that want their AKs traditional, and I get that too. From the moment I saw it in person, I fell in love with Plum furniture, even though I originally though I would hate it looking at it in photos and by name (a fruit color on my rifle?). I will also always a sweet spot for a '79 Ford Mustang even though it was one of the worst stock performance years of the model. It was my first car, and the performance was still enough for me to get to where I needed to go while having a certain aesthetic.

When it comes down to, the vast majority of our civilian rifles are only used for range shooting. In the rare case they might be used for self defense, it would be at a close enough range with a small number of assailants where most of these upgrades wouldn't matter. However if you are going into a war zone, things change and more of the TSD upgrades could become a necessity. Just like you might need an armored Humvee to get to work in Afghanistan, all you really need to get to work everyday in America is a basic vehicle that reliably runs and hauls a few passengers or cargo. Just like leaving the road for the track at different levels of racing, if you are using your AK in competition, you need to tailor it to the level you are competing in. Indy Car Drivers need Indy Cars, open division 3 gunners need race guns (but ARs dominate this division anyway).

For most of us though, as unabashedly capitalist Suarez says, "the America I know was not formed on needs, but rather on wants." Figure out where your personal value level is. For me, even a basic good quality AK is enough and has its own draw, however I do have a few extra add-ons more for personal fulfillment that would make the more useful in a dire emergency. That said, I do think there is a certain level of pay-to-play if you have any expectations of an AK being a self defense tool. Screw builds on poorly heat treated receivers, crooked gas blocks, wobble free pistons (yes it is suppose to move some), and ProMag magazines loaded with Eygptian surplus ammo should not apply to that job. The TSD line shows Suarez's shift from value of good enough AKs to top end performance that will rival many accurcized ARs and even the next gen carbines. The question is if you will shift too.

TWS has new railed handguards

2012-01-26T22:45:00.007-05:00

Texas Wapons Systems, makers of the excellent AK dust cover rail mount, has a new handguard system in the works and it seems that it will be part of Gabe Suarez's TSD line. Looks good but pricey, I'm personally going for the new Midwest Industries handguard with an micro red dot top. Also, I'm working on a lengthy opinion piece on the TSD AKs and how they mark a shift for Suarez.

Travis Haley Adaptive Kalash Review

2012-01-21T19:17:00.017-05:00

I just watched Travis Haley's Adaptive Kalash with Panteao Productions online streaming subscription service.

As to be expected, the production values are high. Better than what I've seen in Suarez's or Puzikas's videos. But of course these are instructional videos, so content in my opinion still regins supreme.

Let me tell you for just over 2 hours, Haley does some excellent instruction on the AK platform and actually surprised me a lot. I'll admit I was pretty biased coming into this thinking it was going to be all high speed with a focus on accessories. I think that maybe watching Haley's video on the Battlecomp and FSC47 and seeing some of the gun acrobatics Haley and Costa can do running an AR made me expect something different. Honestly, everything I saw was thought out and had a good basis of theory and body mechanics. It was also not about running the rifle as fast as you can, as cool as you can. I must admit this misconception might root in that when it comes to rifles, I have mostly watched AK-centric DVDs and haven't gotten a chance to watch a Magpul DVD.

Haley first goes into some basic background on the AK, Then his overall AK philosophy that seems to be open to running an AK in a traditional or more modern sense. He prefers to be "Adaptive" in his methods, to basically use what works and not be too tied to doctrine. I like this perspective. He mentions despite having the AK been used against him and seen the damage it produces on the human level even to friend, he still respects the platform for being what it is.

Like most gun videos, then four rules are covered, which while necessary and fundamental, is still done in a professional and informative matter.

The next portion I really like. He explains the levels of AK that are on the market. Overall, it is good information for someone looking to buy a first or second AK. However, while he talks about AKs remanufactured on U.S. receivers, he doesn't mention the WASR phenomena of a rifle being imported as a fully built single stack non-922r firearm that is then converted. While he is holding WASR10/63 (the HD is nice enough to read the markings), Haley discusses mag well issues that are usually due to Century's conversion issues instead of it being caused by U.S. receiver makers, which usually do better jobs with mag wells. Definitely a minor gripe, especially since he goes on to explain higher quality imported rifles, but since WASRs tend to be the main entry level AK I feel like it needs the clarification at least here. But other than that, this section is great, it explains some of the finer points like stamped vs. milled receivers and 45 vs. 90 degree gas blocks. Rifle Dynamics makes his custom rifle that he uses for the video, which many people consider to be the best AK shop around.

He mentions as he explains levels of modifications that he likes traditional AKs. It is surprising to me because you think of Haley and Costa and how much new accessories they have brought the the AR platform through Magpul. He goes on to describe more modern enhancements and why he likes them as well. As he discusses ammo choices and corrosive salts removal, he dunks a 74 directly in a pond. While it is a perfectly viable method, there is just something fun about seeing him do it.

The thing I have the most problem with is his side by side magazine reloads. Basically, you put the fresh magazine on the side of the gun as you pull/knock out the old one. I first tried this years ago when I read the Magpul (the accessory by the company of the same name) pamphlet on how to use them and mentioned side by side reloading. For me on the tactical reload, the finger tip hold on the old mag seems easy to fumble especially as you pull it down the length of the just loaded new magazine. Also getting that grip on the old magazine can be even more in the fingertips if you have a side rail, not to mention a mount on that rail. Yes, I agree it is the most movement efficient way to load an AK, but I am going to have to give it more practice before I truly believe it's not going to result in a lot of fumbled magazines.

However, I like that he doesn't espouse just one method to charge the AK, and he talks about all three of the main ways and says "Never be absolute on how you... ...charge an AK." The "Iraqi method" of holding the bolt back on reload is covered as well and he discusses the pros and the major con of it, and shows a way that can make it more viable. The new school way of upper body rifle positioning is covered well.

The zeroing portion is very good. Marksmanship fundamentals with a modern twist is shown. Not only does Haley talk about AK sight adjustment, but he also discusses zeroing distance and the effected holdovers for both 7.62x39 and 5.45x39.

Malfunctions are covered with relatively simple techniques. Haley includes discussion on the extreme bad luck malfunction where a case gets stuck behind the bolt in the fire control group.

He shows drills to balance speed and accuracy. I think these will help any shooter become better. It also brings a little more light on the method to the madness of his Battlecomp/FSC47 video. Basic movement into positions is also shown.

The transitions chapter discusses why he is not a believer in the over-the-head, through-the-sling transition method. However, he does mention that if you truly do it on an empty/malfunctioned rifle it is not all bad if you must stick to the authentic Russian way. Then Haley talks about sling selection and positioning. He also gets extra ComBloc points if it really is what I think is a CZ-82 as a sidearm.

He closes out the video with a little instruction on long range shooting, showing how effective AK in both 7.62x39 and 5.45x39 can be at 500m.

So while I started a little jaded, I am putting my money where my mouth is, I will be buying this on DVD as well (now in stock at Panteao and Brownells). However, on a side note the subscription feature at Panteao is nice. For just under $18, I now have a month to stream not only all of Haley's new videos, but other big names like Louis Awerbuck, Paul Howe, and Massad Ayoob.

If I was still only recommending just one AK DVD, I would probably say Beyond the Firearm 2 for the massive amount of material it covers from a man with an amazing depth of AK experience. Also, the videos from Suarez and Puzikas will give you more information on movement and positions. But Travis Haley's Adaptive Kalash is a great effort belongs in your library as well due to the fresh look it brings, excellent information, and high production values. I am very impressed by it. In general, all of these DVDs will give you a wide spectrum of ways to run your AK while also helping you decide who to train with and get ready for classes. My real world recommendation would be for you start with the one that most interests you but quickly branch out and get as many as you can.

US Palm Folding Stock No Show at SHOT

2012-01-21T08:34:00.002-05:00

US Palm had mentioned on their Facebook page they also had a folding stock coming and that it might be at SHOT. It was not and rumor has it that it is due to still going through patent process.

5.45x39 NOT IN PISTOLS!!!

2012-01-20T15:09:00.006-05:00

Saw some posts over at Youtube complaining that the new Arsenal pistol is in .223 and not 5.45x39. Just wanted to remind everybody that we in the U.S. don't want 5.45 pistols for as long as the 7N6 surplus can be imported. The steel core 7.62x39 was banned from importation due to the ATF ruling it as a handgun armor piercing ammo when the OA-93 7.62x39 pistols were made. It just happened to be the about the same time in 1994 when the Chinese imports were shut off, and that was who was importing most of the steel core anyway.

.223/5.56 has an exemption in the law for it to never be considered handgun ammo, that's why you can still buy M855 based ammo.

If 5.45x39 pistols made it into production the ATF would have to make the ruling again and while they could go either way, I think there is a stronger chance that they would make a similar ruling as they did with 7.62x39 steel core. Note that all it took was a medium sized firearm company, Olympic Arms, make around 6 prototype pistols, not even production, in 7.62x39 to move to the ban in 1994.

Eventually the 7N6 will dry up and I believe that the improved versions of 5.45 like 7N22 are already banned from import due to wider ban on more "armor piercing" ammo that is produced after 1996 IIRC. So while we can still get the 7N6 please refrain from the 5.45 pistols?

Military Arms Channel US Palm Breakdown AK video

2012-01-20T06:45:00.003-05:00

Looks like for SHOT Show this place has became Military Arms Channel's second HQ. Glad to see Sturmgewehre give us some great AK coverage at SHOW just like he does the rest of the year. Maybe I'll get out there next year and I won't have to piggyback off of his videos!

Military Arms' Arsenal SLR-106UR 5.56 Pistol video

2012-01-20T06:40:00.006-05:00

I noticed this on K-Var's website last weekend. Basically building off the Draco trend out there, they have produced a 5.56mm Krinkov/Suchka based pistol. Glad they brought it in as 5.56 and not 5.45 which could result in a 5.45x39 surplus ammo ban like steel core 7.62x39 was when the first AK pistols were made. It would be an easy SBR conversion with a Ace folder, like Dracos. Getting a traditional metal triangle folder or AK-100 polymer folder will be tough due to the receiver.

Military Arms Channel's Midwest Industries New Rail video

2012-01-19T17:12:00.005-05:00

Must get to SHOT next year...

It will take the optic specific upper handguards. It will also allow for multiple attachment points for sling swivel studs. Have to buy one now...

Military Arm Channel's US Palm Quad Stack video

2012-01-18T19:28:00.002-05:00

The 45 quad is definitely the length of a double 30 and the 30 quad is the length of a double 20:

Again, I'm still trying to decide the 50% increase in ammo worth the issues and costs.

AK with Zombie Chainsaw masterkey

2012-01-18T17:55:00.002-05:00

Jay G. over at MArooned has this ridiculously awesome AK with chainsaw from SHOT.

US Palm Quad Stacks at SHOT

2012-01-18T07:18:00.006-05:00

Gunwebsites has a close up of the US Palm Quad stacks:

EDIT to add:
Interesting that US Palm as two capacities coming out, a 30 and 45, the one pictured in my first post on them seems to be the 30 and will be around $80 and the 45 one wasn't pictured but from the video looks to be about the same length as a 30 rounder at about $100 (I wish he would have put the AK30 right up next to the prototypes so I could tell for sure). Also the US Palm rep mentioned "metal feed lips" which would be completely new for US Palm.

Honestly, the smaller one at 45 was more exciting. At about only 10 more compared to a similar size 20 round double stack metal mag, or only 15 more for one at a double stack 30, it is definitely an improvement but will the bulk be worth it if it is only 50% more ammo when there are plenty of 40 rounder double stacks out there for cheap and you will have to potentially change your pouch setups?

The short one I think will definitely have a niche for a those that run foregrips closer to the mag well (like AMD-65s) because they will give more rock in room.

US Palm Breakdown AK video from SHOT

2012-01-18T07:17:00.004-05:00

WOW!!! Gunwebsites again at the US Palm booth. I noticed in one of the Quad Stack pictures floating around that the rear sight block was out of wack on one of the guns they were showing it in. I thought in passing that maybe it was a parts gun they used for T&E, now I realize that it was a teaser pic for their new breakdown AK! Very cool, to my knowledge nobody else has done a break down AK (now I'm sure there could be some out there, but this is new to me!)

Travis Haley's Adaptive Kalash

2012-01-17T13:13:00.006-05:00

Magpul co-founder and former CEO, Travis Haley's new AK instructional DVD, Adaptive Kalash, seems to be off pre-order and closer to being available (although it is still out of sotck at Brownells). For those of you that like his and Costa's Magpul stuff, it will probably be a must see. It is on my list of things to checkout and will probably have some great stuff, but I must admit if I was going recommend only one AK instructional DVD to buy, it would be Sonny Puzikas' Beyond the Firearm 2. For the price you get almost 3 hours of great basic to advanced AK work. After that, the Suarez series of AK DVDs are great too. But it will be fun to see Haley's take on the AK for sure since he comes from a totally different background.

Midwest Industries Modular Handguard

2012-01-16T09:45:00.009-05:00

Midwest Industries has a new handguard coming out. It is apparently named AK-SS, maybe for Smooth Side? This one is aluminum like there current ones, but has detachable rails, almost like a Aluminmum AK version of Magpul's MOE AR handguards. They are also offering it in the "X" version which extends out the handguard past the handguard retainer. This allows for a much further forward grip which is popular with a lot of new school shooters, like Chris Costa and many 3 gun competitors. Also, the option to mount things that far forward is a plus for those that run foregrips on their AKs since it will get the grip out of the way of rocking in the magazine.

Here's the Highlights:
"-No gunsmith install, Installs in minutes with wrenches provided in the kit.
-Modular side rails attach where the operator needs them for mission specific requirements.
-Three rail sections included two short ( 1.5 inches long) and one ( three inches long).
-Each hand guard features five anti rotation sling swivel sockets two on each side and one on the bottom.
-Extremely light weight . AK-SS model is 9.1 oz the AK-SS-X is 11.3 oz three rail sections add 1.6 oz of weight.
-Narrow design 1.730 about the same width as standard wood units.
-Available with optic specific top covers
-Constructed from 6061 aluminum hard coat anodized for a lifetime of service.
-Come in three colors BLACK ,FDE,OD GREEN
-100 percent MADE IN THE USA
-Lifetime warranty
patent pending
The highest quality most versatile AK hand guard on the market.
suggested retail MI-AK-SS $149.95 MI-AK-SS-X $179.95"

Overall, I've liked the concept MI's previous railed handguards, but like a lot of AK guys, I look at all that rail space and see extra weight and rough edges that I need to smooth over with rail covers since I generally only use one small rail to mount a light. The weight of their handguards are just slightly heavier than a normal AK handguard. This one might finally move me to buy one of these, especially if they can couple it with the optic specific top handguard.

RS Regulate to release new Micro Aimpoint side mount

2012-01-16T09:30:00.002-05:00

RS Regulate is about to release their new Micro Aimpoint side rail mount to coincide with SHOT. In general, if you like to run a side mount, I think their mounts are the way to go if you are mounting a red dot (and maybe soon a ACOG or some other scope). They are high quality, light weight mounts that are adjustable for bore centerline and will co-witness on most rifles.

More Bumpski Bumpfire stock info

2012-01-15T17:31:00.004-05:00

I saw the Bumpski guys today at the gun show and must say I'm really impressed with their work, especially when compared to the Slidefire AK stock.

I don't know if everybody will think the upgrades will be worth the extra $150 for the Bumpski, but I'm now a believer. I think I'm over my worries of hammer follow causing an OOB, now for me it is mostly a cost issue (ammo and stock). Comparing the two, the Bumpski is much more robust than the Slidefire and allows for use of what ever AK grip you prefer. Like the Slidefire, it allows you to lock out the bumpfire movement, but with three different positions similar to how an M4 stock works. On minor downside, is that both stocks are going to stop you from using your off shoulder if needs be, for now.

New US Palm Quad Stack

2012-01-15T17:25:00.003-05:00

Several places, including Matt over at Jerking the Trigger, are reporting the new US Palm Quad stack mags are coming. Facebook pic here. Basically 45 rounders that are shorter than 30 rounders and look to be about as wide as the receiver, but at a MSRP of $99. Should be interesting, more info coming during SHOT Show.

Another Bump fire stock, the Bumpski

2012-01-05T11:09:00.003-05:00

Saw it over at Says Uncle. This one is aluminum, but very little other detail besides it lists for $449.

Slide Fire Solutions AK stock

2012-01-02T17:47:00.007-05:00

Looks interesting, I'm not a fan of bump fire because it is hard control safely, generally wastes ammo (but it's your money), and my biggest concern is that I have a suspicion that it makes you more prone to having an Out of Battery Detonation causing an ensuing KaBOOM. But Slide Fire Solutions has finally came out with their SSAK-47 stock and Military Arms Channel has a review here:

Overall I think it is interesting and has some merit, more than I initially though it would due to my person dislikes of bump fire. I like how the knob can be turned for both semi and bump fire. It definitely makes bump firing safer, my concerns are still feeding it (I'm poor these days LOL), if you can use the semi function with the other hand because I do a lot of ambidextrous firing drills, and I still am afraid that it can increase the chance of an OOB. It will be going for around $290 so it isn't the cheapest toy for the AK either.

Why I'm an AK guy instead of an AR

2011-12-30T20:44:00.004-05:00

Because when I drop my Twinkie in the rifle from my tacticool Mall Ninja gear I don't have this problem:

An AK eats Twinkies no problem:

Jerking the Trigger US Palm AK30 Magazines review

2011-12-11T07:53:00.002-05:00

Matt over at Jerking the Trigger has a great review of AK30 magazines.

The Firearm Blog shows the AK-12 and the an Interesting Draco addon

2011-12-03T08:09:00.004-05:00

Steve at The Firearm Blog had a couple interesting AK posts this week. First was the AK-12, an updated version of the 5th Generation AK-200. It will be the AK-12 since it will go into production next year. I'm not too excited because it may end up and be Vaporware, espeically since earlier in the year Russia annouced that they had too many AKs already. Also, it will take awhile for some of the features to trickle down into U.S. imported guns, if at all. However, it is interesting to see how Russia wants to update the platform and it would be nice to see them go into large scale production on the 60 round quad stack mags and some of them make it over here so they don't command nearly $1000 on Gunbroker.

The other interesting post was on Center Balanced Systems' Draco Pistol modification. At first glance it turns the Draco into an SBR Bullpup, but it is actually still classified as a handgun by the ATF in a letter due to the fact that is only designed to be used with one hand. I am considering getting one for my Draco that is still a pistol.

Possible current 8M3 bullet sources

2011-11-27T09:31:00.007-05:00

As I talked about in my previous guide, I think 8M3 7.63x39 is the best bulk self defense ammo out there. However, importing of it has been spotty of late. Wolf Ammunition has gone through a major shake up and they aren't using the exact same sources they used to. Due to this, current Wolf Military Classic Hollow Point doesn't seem to consistently use the Ulyanovsk plant Sapsan 8M3 bullet, if at all.

The normal way to a confirm Sapsan 8M3 bullet is by taking a loupe and looking inside the hollow point or a small pin in the cavity to look/feel for the cuts inside the jacket that encourage opening. They should be deeper and more than other 122/124 grain HP bullets cuts which are shallower or even non-existent. Also if you pull the bullets the shape should be different and the 8M3 bullet being shorter and flat based. Of course you can cut the bullets in half to compare construction as well.

This thread over at Glock Talk has some great pictures of pulled bullets with their flatter base, pictures of packaging, the original "Uly" headstamp that was replaced with a WOLF headstamp, and other general history of Wolf Military Classic over the years up to 2010. The problem is that the Wolf ammo company has had big changes over the past year and I heard a couple reports that the cuts are no longer there in the hollow point cavity. (I meant to buy a new box yesterday at the Gun Show but I got distracted with an Olight M20-X Flashlight and AK cleaning mat...)

I wish I could find the thread this was originally in, but these pictures here and here at GunCo.net shows the cuts pretty well.

Right now the absolute best source would be anything confirmed Ulyanovsk production that says 8M3 effect or Sapsan hunting Ammo. This will have the traditional Uly headstamp. The Sapsan boxes are making their way in right now but it has been awhile I've heard about the blue and white box being available.

Note: 8M3 is NOT the Uly 122 grain FMJ bullets in the the black and white boxes, although it will share the Uly headstamp. I've realy like that FMJ load for range ammo, but I haven't pulled one to see if it even has the 8M2 bullet which is similar to the Yugo M67 flat based FMJ. Which as I said in the guide, the best terminal ballistics option if you have to go for FMJ because it will tumble better. But if it has a boattail M43-style it will just go straight through like this video shows on water jugs (I know water jugs aren't a good ballistic medium but it illustrates the basic point and there is still a good chance that 8M2/M67 vcould do that as well).

I've seen a few people reporting that Tulammo 124 grain hollow point load somewhat ironically and confusingly has the 8M3 bullet. This is strange since Tula normally sourced the Wolf Black Box 122 grain Hollow Points. Tulammo as a brand has branched out and has either stopped sourcing ammo to Wolf or at the bare minimum has tried to get some of the importing action themselves instead of depending on Wolf. Lucky Gunner has a great profile of Tulammo and it confirms while it is called TulAmmo, the brand itself uses both Tula and Ulyanovsk plants. It does actually say on the 124 grain Hollow Point boxes that the ammo is made at the Ulyanovsk plant, so this would also seem to be a safe bet for 8M3.

To give you a idea of what these bullets can do, here is the damage these bullets have done on pigs: click here WARNING for the faint of heart they are pretty graphic!

ENDO AK Selector Shirt

2011-11-21T13:21:00.001-05:00

Everyday No Days Off has a AK selector switch shirt like there AR one for sale now

I'm not dead...

2011-11-20T08:36:00.005-05:00

Hey everybody, sorry for the non-existent posting, it always seems as I get deeper into the school year, the less time I spend on internet stuff. I am working on a review of AK grips in general (Hogue, US Palm, K-Var, Tapco, even Century) and a Hogue handguard review as seen here:

Next post here will probably be an update on 8M3 importation since the Wolf brands have been completely restructured.

Hawkepaks Civil Defense Survial Kit bag review

2011-09-10T09:34:00.007-04:00

I've noticed I've talked about this bag a couple of times here and I think it's time for a review. In general, I'm going to start reviewing some gear I have on hand. With a new daughter and another one that is 3, I'm a little cash strapped with medical bills and child care so there won't be too much brand spanking new gear reviewed (unless I add advertising/tip jar to the blog that would go directly to buy gear for review). However, I do have Hogue forend and grip on the way which I'll review. When I can swing another $100 after that, I'm going to try to do the Manticore Nightbrakes. I also want to do the updated version of the Midwest Industries Iron Dot style rail with a Primary Arms Microdot, but that is going to be awhile, at least a couple of months. So with that housekeeping out of the way, on to the review.

The Hawkepak's Civil Defense Survival Kit (CDSK) bag definitely has a long name elluding to a lot of functionality. It is an improved, more modular version of Hawkepak's MA-54 bag. The concept behind these bags according to their supporters, like Gabe Suarez, is that you can carry all of your rifle fighting gear in an inconspicuous manner. It is often called a Fighting Bug Out Bag or a Sneakybag (which is also the brand name of bags that was sold by Suarez, made by Dan Agakian).

Often people that don't subscribe to this method point out that a rifle is a pretty obvious object to be carrying so you might as well use a chest rig, vest, or belt system instead. However, there are ways to conceal a rifle as well, especially a folding stock AK (I'll cover some of these in another blog post). I more subscribe to the Fighting Bug Out Bag theory since I would plan to use it in more of a way to escape a bad catastrophe without using the rifle if possible. It is a part of an overall bug out system of bags and clothing that if enough people are interested I can post on. If things get really bad, I do have my US Palm V1 Chest Rig, but for me as a civilian with a family to protect I feel the fighting bug out bag makes more sense in the rare very situation I would have to use either outside of the range.

Hawkepak's first bag in this market was their MA-54 Rifle BugOut Bag. It has been a popular option for a lot of people. LaRue at one point even sold an embroidered version. I owned a variant of the MA-54 for a while called the Recon bag. Its only difference from the MA-54 was that it had a larger flap. Overall, the Recon bag along with my customer service experience from Hawkepaks convinced me that they put out a great product and stand behind it. When the CDSK bag came out it offered some improvements over the Recon bag so I sold it and upgraded.

The CDSK bag is made of high quality nylon, my guess would be 800 or 1000 denier. The stitching and construction are up to par of the materials. There may be some products that have a little better finishing out there, but Hawkepaks are still well constructed, especially for being made here in the United States. I chose the gray color bag since it isn't a normal "tactical" color.

The layout of the CDSK makes it quite functional and easy to use. The bag has a large main compartment, two water bottles on the sides of the bag, and a smaller front compartment. Between the front and main compartment there is a large, velcro closed slip pocket. There are also two slip pockets between the main compartment and the water bottle pockets. On the back of the bag there is a carry handle and sleeve pocket that will store and conceal the waist strap. On this sleeve there is another slip pocket, not to mention the other two small zippered pockets on the waist strap! With all this storage space and organization options, it actually can tempt you to overload the bag with knickknacks you don't need.

Speaking of organization, the bag also includes veclro backed rifle magazine elastic holder, a thumbbreak hoslter, 2 double pistol magazine pouches, and a divider. These can be used on the bag's three velcro walls. One is in the outside front pouch, the other two are on the longer sides of the main comparment. The outside velcro field on in the main compartment is also MOLLE webbing. All of these combine to make the inside of the bag very modular and customizable. On top of that, Hawkepak's includes the velcro backed accessories unlike most competitors.

One of the common complaints on with the MA-54 is that many people, including me, don't like is the weight of the rifle mags being on the outside of the main compartment pouch. In Hawkepak's CDSK pictures, they show the magazines in the outside pouch, but you can actually reconfigure the bag to put the rifle magazine pouch on either longer side of the main compartment as well. While this may make the magazines slightly harder to access, the bag carries better since the weight of the magazines are closer to your body. It allows you to choose what you like with this design. Overall, this highlights one of the improvements of the fixed external pouches on the MA-54. They are now more concealed, movable pouches.

To give you an example, this is how I load my CDSK currently for emergency use (it also makes a great range bag when I pull some of this stuff out). The main compartment has 3-5 Bulgarian Circle Ten waffle 30 round 7.62x39 rifle magazines in the rifle magazine holder on the side closest to my body. The number varies depending on how heavy I want to load the bag and they all have Magpuls on them to help get them out of the bag. I also have a couple of lightsticks and MOLLE clip light in the webbing. The divider has been attached to the MOLLE/Veclro side to function as a small pouch where I keep a smoke bomb. The side slip pockets hold a CRKT Crawford Falcon in one and CR123 batteries in the other (these pockets also hold rifle magazines nicely, they can just be difficult to get out). The outside compartment has one double magazine pouch and holster. This is were I put my M22 pistol and magazines, since I plan on having my EDC pistol and magazine on my belt. There is also 2 boxes of .22 LR in the bottom of the pouch for the M22. The velcro topped slip pocket between the main and outside compartment contains my weapon maintenance gear. My Mechanix gloves are in the back slip pocket on the waist strap holder. I keep a set of WileyX SG-1s in a hard case clipped to the metal shoulder strap attachment loop. It will also fit nicely in the front water bottle pocket, but I normally keep that empty as a dump pouch. It functions well as a small object dump pouch, but don't expect it to hold more than 1-2 rifle magazines. However, the main compartment normally works well as a rifle dump pouch as well. I keep my trauma kit in the rear water bottle pocket, which consists of a Calvary Arms ITK, EMT shears, and a C-A-T tourniquet. The waist strap pockets normally hold small objects like ear plugs and a compass.

One of my minor gripes about the bag is the shoulder strap pad. It always seems to shift around and then bunch up a little to easily. In some ways, the movement of the strap through the pad is a good thing because it allows the bag and strap to move with the pad staying in place on the shoulder. When it doesn't bunch up, this is a nice feature because it makes the bag more stable and comfortable. But I'm untwisting and unbunching the strap pad a lot as well. It probably doesn't help that I keep an Energizer Hard Case light on one of the strap pad's MOLLE sized ladder webbing.

Customer service at Hawkepaks is excellent. With my original Recon bag, Ed Hawke answered some questions about it quickly via email before my purchase. Unfortunately, then I did have some velcro pull loose on the inside of the Recon bag. Mr. Hawke apologized and offered free repairs and I sent the bag back to him. He then sent it back with shipping on his dime and included some nice freebies, including a nice ditty bag, to make up for the my minimal shipping cost to him. My CDSK has held up very well, but I did have another minor mixup with it when I got it. The retailer that I purchased it from had a shipment of bags that only included one double pistol pouch. I emailed Hawkepaks about the issue. Again, Mr. Hawke emailed back quickly with an explanation that a new employee prepared that shipment didn't know that there should have been two and he then offered to send me out the missing one. Again, when it got here it included a couple of freebies, a small knife and carabiner.

I highly recommend Hawkepaks and their Civil Defense Survival bag. I don't think you can go wrong with their American made gear!

I know this review is light on pictures. I'm going with at first some not so great shots that I have online already, but I'll try to add some more this weekend. I also have some pictures of the Recon bag if anyone is interested.

New Manticore Nightbrakes Release Dates

2011-09-09T17:01:00.003-04:00

From Sven at Manticore:
"We anticipate the 14x1L mm (model MA-1214) and 1/2x28 tpi (model MA-1228) threaded Nigthbrakes will be available in six to eight weeks. The 24mm and the two newer threadings will look slightly different in the rear threaded "collar", but the front end will function and have the same performance on all three. All three models can safely shoot up to a .30 caliber projectile safely. Both the MA-1214 and MA-1228 have a standard STANAG 22mm diameter."

MRSP is $47.95.

US Palm Limited Run Foliage Green Grips

2011-09-04T10:35:00.004-04:00

US Palm's Facebook page is reporting that they have a limited run of 50 foliage green AK Battle Grips going out. Good to see they are finally going the green route, but of course I've already went OD Green base on most of my tacticool pant jobs. I still may try to pick one up if I can find it.

Also there website is down today while they relaunch it...

Midwest Industries Mini Dot Mount seems to have its bugs worked out.

2011-08-26T23:37:00.003-04:00

Surprisingly for MI's normal level of quality, they had a few tilting problems with their new Iron Dot style rear sight mount. They claim to have now fixed it. You can get an upgraded version if you already have one and if you are now interested in buying an improved one they are in stock.

Hat tip to Shooter521 at INGO.

They also have an interesting new flash hider that has TGI BART style spikes and they claim it reduces recoil.

Another Attero Arms Statement

2011-08-26T23:29:00.004-04:00

I post this because this blog is one of the places that has most of the Attero Arms saga posted. Form your own opinions. However, I still will not be buying from them.

"Hello,
A brief statement regarding the ‘Twisterx44/Nate’ controversy:
This will be posted on all the ‘Twisterx44’ threads that we can locate.
Nate from Attero has been reprimanded for his blatant disregard for our honesty policy at Attero, as well as a lack of respect for the online firearms community. All of you deserve nothing but the truth. Subsequently, and effective immediately, he will no longer be speaking on behalf of the company on any internet forums. Additionally, he will be overseas shortly and will not have much involvement with the company during his yearlong absence.
We at Attero will be working hard to regain the trust and respect of the firearms community, particularly the online firearms community. We understand that a member of our team made an extremely poor decision, and we can assure you that it will not happen again, period. We do not expect an immediate withdrawal of the animosity that was generated from this incident. Just know that we will be dedicated to creating innovative and affordable products while delivering top-notch customer service. Additionally, we will be nothing but 100% honest.
On another note, it appears there is a general belief that the Attero AK SBR is overpriced. Our sales team and production team will be looking into the budgeting process to tighten up the MSRP to somewhere closer to what has been estimated to be a ‘fair price’. We value our customers’/potential customers’ feedback, and will adjust accordingly. Just keep in mind we have labor and some machining to figure in.
Thank you for your time. Rather than just apologizing repeatedly, let us show you why we deserve your business, even if it takes 15, 20, or 100 positive reviews from other satisfied customers.

-Attero Arms"

Jerking the Trigger's review of 762tactical's ChiCom chest rig

2011-08-23T20:45:00.005-04:00

I missed it because I've been busy the last couple of weeks but Matt over at Jerking the Trigger has a review of the 762tactical modern ChiCom style chest rig. They have always had the reputation to do good work and be pretty affordable. I've almost bought one on several occasions. For me since I now have my Attack Rack V1, it is all I the chest rig I "need" (and I use need loosely, the first thing I would grab if SHTF is my Hawkepak's CDSK bag). But if you are shopping for a chest rig, I would check 762tactical out as well.

Military Arms Channel Innovation Arm's Wood stock review (Attack Rack V2 spotted in the wild!)

2011-08-22T06:39:00.007-04:00

Looks like nice work with ComBloc refinished replacement stocks, refinishing services for your own, and IronWood Designs sets for 922r:

Note he is wearing a US Palm Attack Rack V2.

Also the Attack Rack V2 appears in this video too:

Colorado Guns M10 links

2011-08-17T19:46:00.006-04:00

I noticed a lot of you are digging the M10-762. Here's some links that srice425 sent to me. My attempts to reach Colorado Guns on both info for the M10-762 and the M10-22 along with extra parts for WASR22s have not been replied to. The Tapco Razr flash hider is removable with standard AK 14x1mm LH underneath.

http://www.ar15.com/forums/t_4_64/137863_Noob_question__School_me_on_this_rifle_M10_762_AK_47.html&page=1&anc=bottom#bottom

http://www.akfiles.com/forums/showthread.php?t=89909

http://www.sksboards.com/smf/index.php?topic=91366.0

Basically it is a WASR10 style receiver with a Draco gas block.

Also, IO Inc is importing these rifles and calling them "Hellhounds"

Colorado Guns M10 .22LR

2011-08-07T13:20:00.002-04:00

Speaking of .22 LR AKs and Colorado Guns' M10, they have one in .22 LR. Centerfire systems has them in stock. Seems to be a WASR22 with a Draco Gas Block (but the gas block in this case isn't functional since .22 AKs tend to be direct blowback). If it is a new production WASR22 platform it could mean more spare parts for other WASR22 owners. Previously, the imported WASR22 were military surplus trainers and supposedly they had all dried up.

I will not be buying from Attero Arms.

2011-08-06T07:28:00.007-04:00

I noticed this morning that a lot of the traffic lately has been from this thread at TheHighRoad.org where the Attero Arms interview and Twisterx44 statement is linked.

Let me give you some behind the scenes information. I was skeptical at first about the Twisterx44 reviews of course since they were plastered all over the gunboards. I contacted Attero through their contact page and Twisterx44 through private messaging on my local gunboards, INGO. I was also able to find through Google some background on Twisterx44. At one point on the night of the July 27th and morning of the 28th, Twisterx44 through PMs had me convinced that he was a young, uninitiated, local buyer of an Attero Arms SBR. He told me that he had made a mistake, was hurting Attero, and wanted me to edit my blog post. I also received an email from Attero Arms on the 28th stating:

"We have taken care of the issue on the majority of major forums. At this point, your blog post is sort of the only remaining controversy regarding the topic, so unfortunately I am going to have to ask you to at least remove the portion of your post regarding Twisterx44 or our involvement with it.

Thanks for your cooperation and your interest in the matter."

I was initially very angry about this email. However, I gave it some time and gave them benefit of the doubt. I also wanted to be as factual as possible and not inflammatory to a new company if they were actually on the up and up, so I did edit out a few lines that stated that some people would need more evidence to believe it. I now regret that edit as it makes me seem to unwittingly support a possible guerrilla marketing campaign. The whole time if I had just went back to that THR.org thread, I believe I would have seen the compelling evidence that I was looking for and has now been removed.

I now feel that there is enough coincidences and circumstantial evidence that I personally have made the decision not to buy from Attero Arms.

Please, make up your own minds if you are interested in their products. You may believe that Attero and Twisterx44 are one in the same or that they are as they have stated here separate entities. Even if you believe it was a guerrilla marketing, you may also have it in your heart to forgive what seems to be a new business ran by young people. If decide to buy from them let me know what you think, especially their mount. But I will be buying a Midwest Industries T1 mount instead and a Primary Arms micro red dot to go with it as soon as I can afford it.

I feel that I need to make a full disclosure to clear my name if possible. I understand that the similar I time restarted this blog may make it seem that if you believe Attero Arms was guerrilla marketing that I may have been part of their campaign. I mostly definitely was NOT a part of a campaign. I did at one point offer my blog as a place to get their statements out since it seemed Attero Arms specifically didn't have public statement out. I also offered for them to link any of my blog posts if they wanted. Other than the email exchanges for information on the situation and product offering, I have had no other contact with Attero. I was just trying to get out more information overall of what looked to be an interesting product. I feel that I may have been used to help their guerrilla marketing campaign in that process.

Unlike pages and forum registrations that have been disappearing after this incident, all of my forums registrations have been and will continue to be maintained as will my Photobucket account. I am MattCFII on most boards. If you've seen some of my pics that I've hosted through Photobucket you'll see that my account there is under Snake122 which may seem unusual. It was my flight sim username and the first google hit at glogster on that is not mine. However, just about anything else flight sim related that you'd find with that username is mine.

My real name is Matt. I live in Indianapolis, IN. I am married with daughters and in my 30s. I am not naive enough to think that someone could find out more about me but right now that is all the info I want to release. I have learned a lot with this incident and feel like I will be a better blogger because of it. I apologize for any offense I have caused my readers due to this controversy. Please feel free to air out an concerns you have in the comments.

UPDATE:

That thread has expanded and I think most people will now agree that Twisterx44 is Nate from Attero Arms. I have seen other evidence that completely convinces me of this as well. Again, it is a young soldier with a startup company that made a very bad decision. You may my be able to forgive him and try their products. Personally due to the ride he took me on, I cannot.

.22 LR AKs

2011-08-03T18:30:00.005-04:00

Just saw today on a CDNN email news letter that the ATI/GSG AK47 .22 LR is going for $250 on sale. My biggest complaint about the GSG AK47 has been the cost so this is nice to see. If I had the cash and didn't already have a .22 LR AK, I could see myself spending that on one. Originally they were almost $500. Magazines are still a bit high were I can find them though. The posts that I've seen on boards have one have report good function.

The common options for .22 LR AKs is the GSG AK47, the Romanian WASR22/AKT98, and Armscor AK22. I've owned an Armscor AK22 and currently have an AKT98.

If you decide to go for an Armscor AK22, it is a decent option if you are on a budget. These guns are cosmetically modified Squires Bingham M20 rifles that Armscor has been making for awhile now in the Philippines. It is really a very basic tube receiver semi-auto blowback rifle at its heart. I have seen a lot of reports of good function on these, however mine wasn't the best. Like almost all .22s it was ammo sensitive. Mine was just too unreliable for me.

Magazines can be hard to find but I got some directly from the Armscor USA distributor. You can get some 10, 15, and 25 round magazines. The 10 and 15 rounders are the best magazines and are actually M20 magazines with a cosmetic body. If you are looking for an AK style plinker for cheap, it can be a good option. However, it has a few training issues if you are trying for full 1:1 training features of a centerfire AK. First its magazines aren't rock in and out like a normal AK, also the mag latch is on the magazine body. Unless you own a milled AK, the stock angle if a little off and length of pull are off from a standard AK. I had to modify an airsoft AKM/74 style stock to get the feel of my stamped AKs. The safety is definitely takes less effort to use than a regular AK, but it does do a good job replicating it other than that and comes with a bolt hold open notch.

The Romanian WASR22/AKT98 is has some very good and very bad points. The good thing about it is that it is built on a centerfire AK receiver which means many interchangeable parts, like furniture and safeties But it takes a lot of tweaking to get running reliably. Also it has a tendency to blow out the extractor system parts when it has a out of battery detention. Luckily, a .22 LR Ka-Boom doesn't really hurt a shooter with proper eye protection nor does it hurt the gun, save the extractor system. Finding replacements for the extractor, extractor spring, etc. can be extremely difficult and there are many otherwise perfectly good WASR22 platform guns that just need an extractor. Unfortunately, there is no one that is making new production replacement extractors.

There has been talk of a third party bolt, first by Black Dog Machine and now by an AK machinist that goes by TurboThis. The bolt would use commonly available 10/22 extractor and save many of these rifles from the brink.

The blown extractor problem can be prevented by using round nose ammo that fully feeds into the chamber and by overall tweaks like the extractor tension, plugging the non-functional gas tube, and changing to a standard AK dust cover.

Overall though if you want a true .22 LR AK, this is the way to go. I am pretty happy with my AKT98. It is actually the AK I shoot the most since my local range doesn't allow centerfire rifle cartridges. Since they are so close to regular AKs and are no longer imported into the United States, they tend to be somewhat expensive. Expect to spend $350-$500 for a functional rifle. Magazines can be pretty affordable. The Black Dog Machine 30 rounders are $25-$30, 10 rounder metal shell mags for $10-$25, and short 10 round polymer for $12-$18.

I feel that these three are really the best options for .22 AKs. I 'm not a fan of the Krinker Plinker 10/22 conversion due to cost plus the non-standard AK safety and rear sight. The Saiga .22 LR may finally be imported someday and blow the rest of these out of the water, but it hasn't happened yet.

Military Arms Channel Ammo Coating Test Preview

2011-08-03T17:53:00.005-04:00

Sturmgewehre over at Military Arms Channel is working on a polymer vs. lacquer vs. zinc coating test. Here's some preview pics:

US Palm Cage Pictures

2011-08-01T20:48:00.010-04:00

Armed and Christian's comment on the MD mags made me want to share these

You can see the metal rear lug and the metal cage in the mold holes.

Metal on front lug

More pics of the cage inside the mag.

The line is the approximate location of where the cage stops (no metal feed lip support)

For reference, this K-Var pdf details their metal parts on the Bulgarian Circle 10 waffle mags.

Note the extra metal in the front strap, floorplate area, and lips in the Circle Ten. US Palm's response would be that it just adds weight and their mags are strong enough without it due to their design.

US Palm's lug cage goes all the way around where the Circle Tens don't. It wouldn't surprise me if US Palms were stronger in the lugs than Circle Tens. Of course, the US Palms might be weaker in the lips. I think if there are no defects, the US Palm "floorplate" is stronger, but if you are the type that likes to pull your floorplate, the Circle Tens are the way to go. But for the most part, besides for me being a US Palm fanboy, I think they are equally good in both theory and my experience. "They are both equal and it is purely a personal preference."

I have both and they are both my "first line" magazines depending on which gear setup I use. The Attack Rack has the US Palms, the Hawkepaks Civil Defense Survival Kit Bag has the Circle Tens. Unless it is a 40 rounder or 20 rounder, ComBloc metal are generally kept around as bench warmers.

Now if the MD Arms Quad Stacks are as good as Mike says, the others might become second string. If you guys want a magazine depth chart I can make you one (I must be excited the NFL is coming back with all these roster references).

Mike from MD Arms post on their Quad Stack Magazines

2011-07-30T16:44:00.002-04:00

Saw this at one of the major AK forums. It has been a little bit of an open secert that MD Arms (makers of great Saiga stuff) have been working on quad stack mags. Here's portions of Mike's post on it: "I have ZERO doubt that our quads will by far be the best AK mags in the world... Full heat treated steel inserts through out (thats in the rear and front mag catch, feedlips, at the bottom for the floor plate and a removable metal floor plate) and the plastic we use is far superior to the plastic used in ANY surplus or aftermarket AK mags to date. In fact the material we use is so strong I am completely confidant that we could not use metal and still not have the breakages that others do that skipped the metal inserts. That isn't our style though. Ous (sic) will have the steel inserts even if it is overkill with our material. We don't cut quality corners to save pennys on the dollar... Going to be a lot of foot in mouth when we release the quads from those who doubt them. It might be best to wait for first hand experience to avoid being one of those guys... For the guys that claim they don't need 50rd we will have a nice tight 30rd for you that is a touch shorter than a 20rd double stack. It will be far less constricting to carry on your person than a double stack 30 and lighter and stronger as well..."

If they are as good as he says we are in for a treat!

And it becomes a whole new Iron Dot Market

2011-07-27T20:37:00.007-04:00

Midwest Industries has a new Iron Dot style mount.

Interestingly it will work with Aimpoint Micro style, along with the Primary Arms and Vortex Sparc clones (Sparc won't co-witness due to the emitter location).

Update: Primary Arms should have them instock early next week.

(Hat Tip kmrtnsn)

Attero Arms and Twisterx44 Responses

2011-07-27T17:35:00.011-04:00

-AKMatt (Me)" What is your lead time on the Draco and Saiga? Obviously the Draco buyers will have to wait for the tax stamp transfer as well.

-Attero Arms (AA): The Attero AK SBR can actually be created and ready to go in about 2 weeks. Yes, the buyer must wait for their tax stamp transfer, but the weapon can be completed far in advance. The Attero S-12 can be shipped out approximately 1.5 - 2 weeks from ordering as well.

-(Me): Are your mounts currently shipping?

-(AA): We are currently shipping the Attero AK Micro Optics Mount.

-(Me): Any plans to add protective "ears" or "roll cage" like the Burris upgraded mount or the LaRue AK Iron Dot?

-(AA): We have considered the protective ears, but it will raise the cost of the mount and detract from the no-snag profile. Right now we are trying to keep it simple.

-(Me): I'm sure your mount is going to be compared to the LaRue Iron Dot which was liked but most usually felt like it was limited by the original Fast Fire and the Fast Fire II should fix some of those problems. Do you have any thoughts on what sets your product apart from LaRue's discontinued one? It looks like it shouldn't effect take down that much, correct (the dust cover can be popped off with out removing the mount)?

-(AA): What sets our product apart from LaRue's? First, LaRue didn't have very good replacement BUIS (Back Up Iron Sights) on their mounts. Second, it forced you to use a particular optic. Ours works with the three most common micro optics which can be found on our website in the description for the mount. Our mounts are also shorter in length, so take down and cleaning is even easier.

-(Me): Does each mount support all three optics or do you have to get a new one each time?

-(AA): Each mount supports all three optics. (Burris Fast Fire II, Leupold Deltadot, Trijicon RMR)

-(Me): Do you have a lot in stock from this first run or it is a on individual demand basis?

-(AA): We have enough mounts in stock to fuel what has been the consistent demand, but order volume is increasing, so we will be increasing our production.

-(Me): Comments on the apparent Guerrilla Marketing campaign by Twisterx44 on the gunboards? What is Twisterx44's relationship to the Attero Arms?

-(AA): We have been notified of the apparent marketing attempt by that user, however we have absolutely no affiliation with 'Twisterx44'. We may take steps to contact the board administrators to notify them that this was not an Attero Arms endorsed action. The problem is locating all of the boards that were posted on - there seem to be a lot. Twisterx44 has no relation to Attero Arms other than they were one of the first customers to purchase our SBR.

Interview via email with Nate of the Attero Arms Sales Team,

According to their website, Attero Arms holds a Type 7 FFL as well as a Class 2 SOT, issued by the BATF.

Twisterx44 was accused of guerrilla marketing by several board Admins with his review of Attero Arms SBR awith their mount.

EDIT: Statement from Twisterx44: "I wanted to clear the air with everybody here because I think I have been misunderstood slightly. I know I have been on other forums.

I posted a review of an SBR I finally got on this forum. I also posted my review on many other gun forums. My main reason for doing this was to show off my new toy, but one of the products my SBR came equipped with was a replacement for the Larue AK IronDot mount that I know everybody has been looking for since Larue discontinued them. I figured just about anybody with an AK would want to see it. Unfortunately, I got mislabeled as a 'guerilla marketer' which I had never heard of before, but on this forum and a few others I was accused of having an affiliation with the company that made my SBR.

I want to clear the air with that. I have no connection to them, I was just sharing my new gun. "

Attero Arms SBR review incident

2011-07-27T16:02:00.003-04:00

If your a member of just about any gun forums/board you've might have seen the Twisterx44 review of the Attero Arms Draco SBR which seemed to be a guerrilla marketing campaign. I'm in communication with Attero Arms and Twisterx44 and will have comments shortly.

No matter what you think of the posts, I really think the mount is interesting, obviously like the discontinued LaRue Iron Dot.

Manticore Arms 14x1mm LH Night Brake

2011-07-27T07:35:00.003-04:00

Sven from Manticore posted over at Jerking the Trigger that they will be making a standard AK thread 14x1mm LH Night Brake. Looks like the Draco pistol may have found a new friend!

Hat Tip to Matt over at Jerking the Trigger!

Interesting new Romanian variant M10-762

2011-07-26T18:33:00.012-04:00

Check this out, (and here) a factory done, Bolton gas block style rifle with what appears to be a Draco gas block. When I recently handled a Bolton gas block rifle, it convinced me that maybe a Draco with a permanently attached extended brake would be a handy rifle, and it is.

But this rifle maybe would have done what I wanted to, although it would be harder to convert to an SBR than a Draco. I would suspect it being a Century build but it isn't listed on their site. Interesting other features are the RPK rear sight, Hogue grip, and hammer forged chrome lined barrel. Personally I'd change the Tapco RAZR hider and UTG handguard, but to each his own. Looks to be a WASR style receiver without dimples.

Update: A commenter pointed out it is a Colorado Guns build, thanks!

They are the second link in this post and I must have missed on their site that they are the builders. The part that confuses me though is the WASR style receiver, my first guess would be that it is a WASR with a Draco Gasblock. Which isn't a bad thing in my book, if I could have found a Draco gas block for sale I would have done the same thing. But instead I sold off my WASR10/63 to fund the Draco carbine.

Some added details is that it has a G2 trigger group, a Tapco stock (which I like if you are just going for the basics), a Tapco trigger group retaining plate, and a ProMag magazine (not to thrilled about that but there are plenty of AK mags out there).

EDIT 1/30/12: This post is the single most popular one here at my Blog. Welcome to those of you that find this site by searching on it. I'm trying to keep up on the news of it, there are a few more related posts if you click the Romanian M10-762 label here or below. I'm considering shifting some priorities around and buying one for a review, but my wife is currently unemployed so that could be awhile. Also I'm not sure if there is already enough information out there on it. If you would like to see a detailed review done by me as well, please post it up on the comments.

US Palm Fanboy updates

2011-07-25T05:00:00.002-04:00

What's a blog reboot without an US Palm Fanboy update. Now I know how the AR guys feel about Magpul.

Magazine Rebuild kit-FWIW, I like their regular mags a lot. This could be a good option to add 922r parts to your steel mags or of course fix worn out ones. I'll be very interested to see their floorplate design since regular AK30 mags don't have a traditional floorplate.

rEvolution package- Consists of AK30 magazine(s), AKTR railed handguard, AKBG grip (which is awesome!) and AKES enhanced Safety (Krebs style execept no cold range bolt hold open notch and tab is riveted on). Looks interesting, I could skip the AKES though these days, but would have liked it a lot a few years ago. I really need to get on board with one of their handguards built under a partnership with Midwest industries. They offer several different top handguards to allow cowitness with most of the common red dot out there (Vortex Sparc and maybe one of the Mini red dots do not cowitness) . Kinda disappointed to see the rEvolution package doesn't come with a couple of their rail covers.

They will be releasing their V2 Attack Rack Chest rigs any day now. This generation will have some MOLLE on the sides and offered custom shaped soft armor (no word if the armor will be offered for the V1) AK style and "Multi-platform"

I have one of their V1 Attack Racks and while I'm not big on chest rigs for my purposes, I like it a lot when I need to be tacticool.

Military Arms YouTube Golden Tiger review

2011-07-24T21:09:00.006-04:00

Speaking of Lacquer coated, Military Arms has a review of the lacquered Golden Tiger ammo:

I like it for accuracy and so does he. But I'd say right now Golden Tiger on the low end of an import cycle since I'm not seeing it as much at the internet retailers. Atlantic Arms as linked by Sturmgewehre in his video has it in stock, maybe this is part of a new import wave of the stuff.

Also Golden Tiger's terminal ballistics are untested. It has a very large airspace in the nose which would make it want to tumble, but then it has a boat tail which tends to prevent tumbling. I love to see a gel shot of it. but still some of the best target/plinking ammo out there.

Military Arms is definitely a YouTube channel AK fans should be subscribed to, plus he's a Hoosier!

Hat Tip to Matt (the other one) over at Jerking the Trigger, while I subscribe to Military Arms, I saw this first on his Facebook feed.

Lacquer vs. Polymer coated Ammo

2011-07-22T19:03:00.007-04:00

Lately since we are in the middle of a hot and steamy summer in a lot of the country, I've been seeing a lot of posts about polymer ammo getting surface rust.

I get surface rust on any polymer coated steel cases that sit loaded in my mags. When loading magazines with polymer coatings I now wear gloves to stop my sweat from starting surface rust (I have clammy hands a lot). I might use a slightly oily rag as well but I generally like to avoid chemicals with my ammo because you don't know what might penetrate a primer or case neck and make the round a dud. Overall, Wolf Military Classic rusts the worst but it is also my largest amount of ammo that sits in my mags so it may be an unfair sample. My Hornady hasn't been that bad yet but I don't have as much of it and it is from the first lot.

The rust makes me miss when everything 7.62x39 was copper washed or lacquered. Those coatings have much better rust resistance. Lacquer is still available in many loads even though the Wolf and their suppliers (Tula and Ulyanosk) stick to polymer. Golden Tiger and Brown bear are two exceptions. However, lately I and others have noticed with concern that there is Brown Bear that is coming as polymer. I emailed them and they assured me they will continue to offer both:

"We will be stocking both types. This allows us to work around Russian government orders as they specify polymer, making lacquer available. Also some of our customers have a preference for one or the other.
Thanks,
Bart Eaton" (DKG Trading Sales)

DKG Trading, who owns the Bear lines, also offer their rust resistant Silver Bear (zinc coating) and Golden Bear (brass coating).

I find it interesting that the Russian government prefers polymer, although not a surprise since Wolf Military Classic is suppose to be Mil-Spec ammo.

Honestly, I was blaming the AR guys for demonizing lacquer as what made Wolf go to all polymer coating, turns out I might need to blame the Russian military instead (sorry AR shooters!).

But while the surface rust is bad looking and needs to be watched, has anybody actually experienced a malfunction due to too much rust on a case in an AK? On the flip-side, anybody have a gummed up chamber cause stuck cases or other malfs from lacquer?

New Safeties

2011-07-20T09:33:00.004-04:00

Say this today, an AR style AK safety, made by Sniper Handle. In general I tend to think of these style safeties that allow for thumb or index finger tabs as "training wheels" but if it is what you like check it out. For me though, I'm comfortable with the AK safety as is. Also the other things that would steer me clear of it is having to drill a larger hole for the safety post on the receiver, making it more difficult for FCG disassembly, it not working with side rails, underfolders, and thicker than 1mm receivers (although they are working on that last one). However if your AK fits into that niche and you like AR style safeties, this could be for you.

Awhile ago I blogged about the Black Horse Safety that I have dubbed the "teeter totter" style. Well Krebs came out with their own style of this a few months ago. The exception is that it doesn't have the index finger tab. It is marketed as a Saiga safety if you are keeping the standard stock on it. One other "advantage" depending on how you like to run your AK would be that it allows you to use it as a thumb safety left handed with a pistol grip and stock.

Night Brakes and others

2011-07-19T17:51:00.008-04:00

And on the reboot, just saw this over at CNC Warrior, the Night Brake. Looks like it could be a inexpensive alternative to the PWS FSC47 compensator with flash controlling features (still not as good as a true hider).

I've been looking at a lot of 14x1MM LH brakes lately to put on my Draco pistol. The rest of my AKs tend to have hiders, save the 74. The look of the 74 style brake is one of the few aesthetic things I dig enough on AKs to go for looks over function, but it is also partly due to the lack of cool looking 24mm hiders. But the Manticore Nightshroud II might win out eventually. Coincidentally they have a Night Brake for 24mm as well.

I tried the slant brake on the Draco and it does cut some muzzle flip but decided to go for something else. While it isn't much of an issue on a pistol Draco, I still believe that they a lot of times contribute to AK inaccuracy.

Due to me being poor this summer (just had our second daughter), I cheaped out and went for the Tapco slot brake, which seems to have some good reviews but I haven't got to shoot it yet. I also want to try the US bastardized "Krinkov" and 74 brakes which of course both deviate from the original Russian designs but are cheap and common in 14x1MM LH.

The CNC Warrior VZ58 looks interesting and effective. Then there is the TGI series of brakes seems to be the the Swiss Army Knives of muzzle brakes since they are listed as a "muzzle brake/flash hider. Wire Cutter. Door breaching device. Glass breaker." LOL The Bart is the most aggressive and amusing at the same time with the name, but I would probably go for the Castle style. The King Armory KA-1230T is also on my radar but there seems to be very little actual end user reports on it.

Reboot

2011-07-19T17:49:00.003-04:00

Hey guys if there is anybody out there in cyberspace, I'm working on rebooting this thing, lately I've had a couple people mention they missed it which is about 1 more than I thought was reading LOL. It still probably won't be a daily thing but I'll post as I find new stuff to add. Please feel free to forward me news tips, advice, complements, or complaints,. They all help.

5.45x39 V-Max is here!

2010-08-12T16:12:00.004-04:00

Quick picture of the V-Max rounds in the middle. On the left is Russian surplus 5.45x39, on the right is Wolf Military Classic 124 gr. HP. A few of my favorite things...

New AK Podcast

2010-08-08T09:14:00.003-04:00

I'm a big fan of podcasts. There's a new AK focused one available. It isn't up on iTunes or similar services yet, but that it the long term plan. For now you can download the first two episodes directly: http://www.aktoday.us/

Hornady 5.45x39 may be finally out

2010-08-07T13:12:00.001-04:00

I got an in stock notice early this morning from the retailer I have it on preorder with saying that the V-Max load is in. Having gotten a chance to call yet but it may be finally here!

New AK Rail- not exactly Choate

2010-08-06T09:03:00.003-04:00

The new AK rail that I reported on a few days back will soon be available through Tactical Response and Choate. The manufacturer is apparently located here in my home state of Indiana! They focus on military contracts and it sounds like the civilian market rails will be a limited run for now. Get 'em while their hot!

Kalinka introduces Version 3 of the Tim Heffron mount

2010-08-02T15:19:00.006-04:00

http://www.kalinkaoptics.com/pk-01v-aimpoint-to-ak-saiga-vepr-centered-side-mount-w-30-mm-heavy-duty-ring-tim-heffron-special-limited-edition-v-3-0.html

This is a 30mm ring mount is probably the best opition over the other two version that have been out there. When the discussion of a side mount that would co-witness was wanted, this was the one referenced in the first place. Apparently Tim finally got them to import it! It should co-witness with a lot of rifles and allows a little more mounting options with the rail. Looks like you could even use offset rings that are currently being used for flashlights.

And while your at OST

2010-07-28T21:12:00.001-04:00

Check out this new entry level fighting bug out bag:

http://www.onesourcetactical.com/terroristinterdictionbagtib.aspx

US Palm Defender plate carrier vest available

2010-07-28T20:59:00.001-04:00

http://www.onesourcetactical.com/uspalmtacticaldefenderarmor.aspx

Still wish they were available in Foliage Green and without armor since I already have some IIIA plate backers.

Choate railed handguards

2010-07-26T10:30:00.003-04:00

Thread with Choate prototype railed handguard:

http://warriortalk.com/showthread.php?t=71913

Looks very interesting! i like how the side rails are on gas tube, not the lower handguard.

7.62x39 Guide

2010-07-15T17:37:00.000-04:00

Sorry for the slow posting, I've been at a summer training for my job and AK news has been somewhat slow.

This is a combination of several forum posts that a few people found useful so I thought I would post it up here. I know it is pretty long for a blog post, but I feel the info is worth it.

Let's start off with my favorite load, the Ulyanosk plat produced load with a 124 grain hollowpoint 8M3 "Sapsan" Bullet, which is/was sold under the Wolf Military Classic brand. But this has came under some internet rumors lately.

It used to be without doubt that Wolf Military Classic was made at the Ulyanovsk plant and Wolf Black Box was made at Tula. Just like it implies, Wolf Military Classic is "mil-spec" and in the 124 gr. hollowpoint has the 8M3 bullet that is more effective in terminal ballistics (either fragments or expands under 100m from most reports, including Dr. Roberts). Then last year Wolf Military Classic started changing and for awhile at least with it looked like the 124 HP was really just Tula (Wolf Black Box) repackaged which could make some sense because at one point Uly's plant had a fire.

The latest rumor on WMC 124 gr. HP "Sapsan" 8MC is apparently still being brought in from "Uly," it is just that they stopped using red sealant around the necks but still is suppose to have some on the primer pocket. I don't know for sure though since I haven't bought mostly because I haven't seen any, although I haven't looked to hard because I have a lot of the old stuff stockpiled back. However, I did buy a box of WMC FMJs that had no sealant around the neck nor primers lately.

Note that Uly produced stuff after a certain year (I don't know what that started but at least 2008 on) has a Wolf headstamp, not a Uly headstamp, so you can't use that to tell.

You can confirm that it is the Sapsan 8M3 bullet by taking a loupe and looking inside the hollowpoint and look at its cuts inside the jacket to encourage opening. They should be deeper than Wolf Black Box 122 gr bullets cuts which are shallower or even non-existent. Also if you pull the bullets the shape should be different and the 8M3 bullet being shorter and flat based. Of course you can cut the bullets in half to compare construction as well.

Overall, it seems Eastern European modern FMJ or even "hollowpoint" (which in most Eastern stuff doesn't actually expand) is up to the M67/8M2/US made lead core FMJ designs that cause the bullet to tumble much sooner than M43 based ones that rarely tumble soon enough so most the cheap stuff works better than before. However, Chinese steel core is based on M43 and has only marginally better penetration performance making it not worth the price.

Buy the ChiCom steel core if you want, but really the steel core is mild since it was not designed to be specifically armor piercing. It was only classified that by the ATF when AK handguns were first made. Steel cores in rounds that can be shot out of handguns cause them to be classified as armor piercing. The Soviets' M43 round and later the Chinese copy used steel core to make production easier. Because of this the steel core only has marginally better penetration than current Eastern European FMJs. This is because Russians and others still use "bi-metal" jackets which is a thin plating of cooper over a tough mild steel jacket with a lead core. Due to these more modern rounds' different center of gravity they also have better terminal ballistics from tumbling than the steel core. In my opinion, it is not worth the extra price people are asking for this no longer imported ammo.

One other budget good terminal performer is Brown Bear 125 gr. soft point. This was the best in the latest Guns and Ammo Complete Book of the AK test (unfortunately the author/editor didn't test the WMC 8M3 load). Also it has the advantage in my book of being Lacquer coated which I like better than the polymer stuff Wolf uses since it gets surface rust more easily, but both coatings still feed fine in AKs.

All the Bear stuff is made at the Barnaul plant, as is the Monarch brand. The differences between the Bear lines them is how the the steel cases are plated. Brown is lacquered, Silver is Zinc, and Golden is brass plating. They will all be about the same quality of bullets, which is generally good and is lead cored with bi-metal jackets. The coatings would the difference and go with what what you prefer or just by what load is available in what line or at your retailer.

One other side brand is Golden Tiger 124gr FMJBT. It tends to be good stuff and is often the most accurate Russian brand. They are made at the Vympel plant.

As I mentioned before, the U.S. Winchester White Box/Federal/American Eagle/Fiocchi etc., 123gr FMJs (with reloadable brass) will have better terminal performance similar to Yugo M67 which tumbles sooner than M43 based stuff (like Chinese steel core). Dr. Fackler determined that M43 tends to make a .30 hole through and through in many cases and isn't a good terminal performer. Modern FMJ will tumble better, but still not of good option as expanding ammo though in my opinion.

Hornady V-Max and Winchester Soft Points are good bang for the buck U.S. made options. Of course they aren't going to be as cheap as the Eastern European stuff.

Hornady uses Russian steel cases but U.S. powder, primers and bullets. A box of 50 runs about $30-$40. Overall the Hornady loading is a little light though, under the 2350 FPS they list. It has some impressive terminal performance:

Hornady's testing

Brass Fetcher's testing of a commerically reloaded V-Max load
As you can see, it has a lot of early fragmentation still with decent penetration of the core of the bullet. I'm not sure if I would use it as a hunting round of something I planned to eat like deer and hog due to all the fragments, but it would make an excellent 4 for 2 legged varmint round.

The Winchester loading is just a good typical soft point bullet on brass cases if you are into reloading. Kinda boring compared to some other stuff we're talking about but reliable stuff. Good hunting or self defense at relatively decent price for U.S. ammo. They are normally $20 for a box of 20.

Note on another soft point loading, terminal ballistics expert Dr. Roberts has had bad experiences with Federal 7.62x39 soft points not reliably expanding and they are .308 not .310/.311 diameter so I stay away from them. However they did expand in this test at Brassfetcher.

Speaking of Dr. Roberts, he does report good performance from Laupa 125gr soft points. In general, Laupa makes great ammo, it is just that it tends to be more rare and expensive here in the the U.S. and I think their are better options once you start to get in that price range

Remington makes a soft point in 7.62x39 but I haven't heard many reports on it so I can't really tell you more there.

Corbon, if you can afford it, is probably the best overall ammo. Their all copper DPX load expands and penetrates reliably and is an amazing performer. The 108gr MPG load makes a good urban load since it basically uses a version of Barnes' Varmint Grenade. They also have a 150gr soft point and a 125gr hollowpoint, the 150gr having my attention for hunting. Corbon as loads the Glaser rounds which may or may not be your cup of tea, I think the MPG load is a better option if you are looking for lower barrier penetration but yet better target penetration. All the Corbon loads run $42-$52 per 20 and Glaser $25 per 6.

One other Wolf load we haven't talked about yet is the 154gr. soft point loading that a lot of people tend to like and similar to .30-30 hunting loads with the advantage of a pointed tip. Although, I'm not 100% sold on the 154gr.'s trajectory out of a 16" AK barrel for longer range and the bullets tend to shed jackets when expanding. Depending on your preferences, it could make a good short range hunting round.

There's my thoughts on 7.62x39. Sometime when I get a better feel for 5.45x39 the loadings out there and Hornady brings out their V-Max load I'll do a second version of this for the smaller round.

Arsenal annouces first Saiga 12 gauge

2010-06-17T08:14:00.003-04:00

Arsenal has only recently gotten into the Saiga market. On the shotgun side they only offered the .410 Saiga. They are now importing uncoverted Saiga 12 gauges, model number SGL12-01 and of course selling them through their distributor, K-Var. For awhile now Russian American Armory Company has been the only importers of 12 and 20 gauges after EAA stopped importing them.

US Palm AK Battle Grip at OST, 10 rounder AK30s shipping

2010-06-17T08:06:00.006-04:00

The AK-BG (Battle Grip) is now for available at One Source Tactical for $30. Listed colors are Black, FDE, and brown. I won't be getting one until later this summer since my funds are tight right now.

The 10 rounder Ak30s are now available at Scottsdale Gun Club (parent company of US Palm)

US Palm AK30 blocked to 10 rounds to be available soon

2010-06-09T00:07:00.005-04:00

US Palm has announced 10 round blocked AK30s will be available soon. This is no surprise since they have said they intended to offer this for awhile. But it is still good to see them supporting the shooters that have to deal with California and other locations unfortunate laws. Overall, 10 rounder AK mags have been harder to find, with many of those then being of poor quality Since it is a regular AK30 body blocked to 10 rounds, it still looks like the normal sized AK mag which could be a plus for some shooters. However, the bad news is that they will cost about $5 more since they require different molds.

On the plus side it looks like US Palm will be considering some other colors for mags soon. My vote is still for foliage green, I think it works in the widest variety of environments and works well in my neck of the woods.

US Palm AK Attack Rack Chest Rig ready to ship.

2010-06-03T23:25:00.005-04:00

US Palm has the first shipment of Attack Rack chest rigs ready. Again with this launch, Gabe Suarez's One Source Tactical gets the first batch according to this thread. I'm not in the chest rig market so I won't be getting one of the first ones, but it looks like this will be great for almost everyone into AKs, even for you guys that aren't fans of AK30 mags.

Timbersmith wood stock set at retailers

2010-06-03T16:48:00.005-04:00

The new laminate wood furniture from Timbersmith is starting to reach stores. Since they are US made, they count for 922r compliance. Timbersmith is a division of Tapco. I think black stock looks pretty nice! Note they are designed for Romanian rifles.

Ironwood Designs also has some great US made wood furniture and they even specialize is some oddball issues like slant cut MAK90 receivers.

AK200 Annouced

2010-05-27T06:57:00.004-04:00

Izhmash has officially shown the AK200. It looks familiar and relatively evolutionary in design. The Firearm Blog and a few others have posted pictures of the prototype previously and the new design looks to have a few different features than the prototype. The main improvements seem the be rails, furniture, and the rear sight. It also shows that the AK107/8 looks to be a dead branch in the family. Those rifles were designed with a dual gas piston with one moving forward to counteract recoil which was added as a way for the AK series to compete with the AN94's recoil reduction system.

One thing that is common in the prototype and show rifle is the quad stack 60 round mags that look like they may be finally going into full scale production!

Big hattip to The Firearm Blog and SayUncle for reporting this!

US Palm updates website

2010-05-25T22:17:00.003-04:00

US Palm now has an up to date website featuring almost all of their announced products, what looks to be a partnership with Sneaky bags, and a few new/have to be big US Palm fanboy to know about (like their shotgun that as far as I can tell has only been discussed on their tumblr page).

There is more a lot info on soon to be release products like the AK grip that does have a storage compartment (I was somewhat on the fence on buying one if it didn't).

V-Max 7.62x39 and 5,45x39 ballistics gel shots at Hornady TAP

2010-05-18T20:56:00.005-04:00

I hadn't realized that Hornady has listed the V-Max 7.62x39 and 5.45x39 loads on their TAP Law Enforcement side website. Cool to see them marketing these loads to LE. But stumbling upon this I also discovered that they have gel shots of 7.62x39 and 5.45x39 (too bad it still won't be here until July). If you like to see jello shots of your favorite rounds like me, these are great because ComBloc rounds testing are always rare.

EDIT:

It looks like they cut the corner on the 5.45x39 testing, it is identical to the 60 Grain .223 load. Granted they should be all but identical in since the 5.45x39 is just slightly thinner bullet at the same weight but it isn't really an 5.45 shot at this point.

US Palm AK Attack Rack Review

2010-05-13T16:09:00.003-04:00

Here from James G. at Death Valley Mag:

http://www.deathvalleymag.com/2010/05/12/tactical-gear-u-s-palm-ak-attack-rack-review/

Soldier Systems has picture of new US Palm grip

2010-05-09T08:23:00.004-04:00

http://soldiersystems.net/2010/05/08/ak-battle-grip/

Looks interesting. I'd like to know if it has a storage trap for batteries/tools. I like the texturing and how the logo works into it. The possibility of a custom logo on the left side is kinda cool .

Ambi Safety producer

2010-05-09T08:13:00.006-04:00

Through some creative googling I found the producers of the new ambi AK safety (and the whole Spec K Saiga), Black Horse Arsenal, a.k.a. Confederate Arms of Philomath, OR.

http://www.akfiles.com/forums/showthread.php?p=565739#post565739

K-Var carrying Ammo and non-AK firearms

2010-05-05T08:56:00.003-04:00

K-Var sent out a email this more about starting to carry Glocks, Sigs, HK, LWRC, and ammo. This is the first I've heard of them branching out of the AK market.

My complete opinion and speculation is that is probably a good and necessary move for K-Var. They are getting more and more competition from good AK accessory companies. Plus, they are constantly having to wait and see what AK models they can sell since they depend on Bulgaria and now Russia to import parts guns. I really think we are starting to see the end of the good old days of number of AK variants available as more parts kits start to dry up for builders (both home and factories).

RAAC: Ambi Safety delayed, still coming

2010-05-04T08:57:00.004-04:00

In February I talked about the "teeter-tooter" safety that was seen on Russian American Armory Company's Saiga-12 "Spec K" that was orginally reported to be a month or so away.

http://ak47talk.blogspot.com/2010/02/new-teeter-totter-ambi-safety-coming.html

Clyde over at RAAC says they are still working on hem but they should be coming eventually.

I'm looking to get one of these to replace my Blackjack Buffer's SWIFT lever.

5.45x39 Custom loads- Frangible, Soft Point, and Incendiary

2010-05-03T09:01:00.007-04:00

As I discussed about the V-Max delay (which Hornady has confirmed that it won't be produced until July), 5.45x39 is pretty limited because FMJ is common in surplus and a lot of the commercial hollowpoint doesn't actually expand, although there is a report that by looking a bullet construction by "Jack-O' that the Barnaul Hollowpoint and Wolf Military Classic 70 grain loads may fragment/expand (no gel tests yet).

Clark Custom Cartridge http://clarkcustomcartridge.com/ is offering frangible 55 grain and soft point 70 grain ammo, along with a incendiary load (those aren't my cup of tea though). They also have some interesting expanding options for 7.62x54r. I'm trading emails with Chris Clark now to get more info.

Pictures of another AK30 with cracked feedlips

2010-04-11T08:22:00.007-04:00

Here at arf.com via m4carbine.net (haven't went over there yet to find this thread)

http://www.ar15.com/forums/topic.html?b=4&f=55&t=126305&page=4

Interesting, like to hear the whole story but can't find the original post and it sounds like the guy who put it up at Arf.com didn't know either. I spent part of the week explaining why the AK30 current website copy wasn't false advertising and had a full circumference metal cage in the top of the mag for lugs.

I'm not giving up on the Ak30 yet, but right now I want more info.

EDIT: More info is in that thread now, apparently it was two members with two different mags at a Tactical Response class. Also there is another thread at WarriorTalk. It may just be a squabble to discredit US PALM which is what Gabe Suarez believes. If you care about the drama behind it there is a thread at warriortalk.com that goes lightly into the details. Not being news so to speak, I'm not putting that here. I'm going to continue to keep my AK30s loaded and ready to go.

K-Var has some SA M-7 Classics in stock

2010-04-08T06:46:00.004-04:00

If you like milled receivers and have some cash, K-Var has "a very few" SA M-7 Classics in stock. They look beautiful and are just under $2000. These apparently aren't being made anymore. In general, Arsenal has to build what they get parts kits for so they end up with a very spotty model availability.

Quad Stack AK74 magazine Reserve not met on GunBroker

2010-04-07T08:51:00.003-04:00

There was a quad stack 60 round AK74 mag that was on Gun Broker last week. It started at $600 and closed at $900 without meeting reserve! I'd agree they are an ultra rare collectors' item and maybe the only one in the United States, but I'm not going to spend $900+ on any one magazine (unless I hit the lottery). I'd also be afraid the the Russians will finally put these into regular production allow more to trickle in from individual collectors, if not even imported by distributors.

http://www.gunbroker.com/Auction/ViewItem.aspx?Item=162814104

Overall, the design seems pretty interesting when you look at the patten diagram:

http://img104.imageshack.us/img104/1228/82529pj4.jpg

Basically a quad stack until it hits the divider and limits the feed down to double. I wonder though how reliable that is. The fact that it isn't in production in Russia would lead me to believe it isn't.

Hornady 5.45x39 V-Max Delayed

2010-04-04T09:59:00.003-04:00

After going past the 4/1/10 arrival date, MidwayUSA updated the arrival date of this load to 7/23/10.
http://www.midwayusa.com/viewProduct/?productNumber=390432

http://www.hornady.com/store/5.45X39-60-gr-V-MAX-Steel-Case/

I've been waiting for the 60 gr. Hornady steel cased with a V-Max bullet to come out for awhile now. Honestly, the promise of that load was the tipping point for me to actually get a 5.45x39 rifle. I figured at with that load it would be a good "urban" load similar to their TAPs ammo and the AK74 would become my home defense carbine. I'm still somewhat hesitant to use the 7.62x39 V-Max load in my 1950s subdivision. I'm just as hesistant to use the MilSurp 5.45x39 since the bullet holds together so well.

Well it looks like I'll be waiting a little longer to transition to that AK74. I might try to do a 7.62x39 vs. 5.45x39 test in late Spring/Early Summer similar to the one over at 230 Grain:

http://230grain.com/showthread.php?t=65428

(I'll edit for links later, I'm on my iPhone with this aweful Blogwriter app, and it slows me down enough to where I won't be able to get them in before my wife is ready to leave for Easter Service!)

US Palm Website Relaunched

2010-04-03T08:26:00.008-04:00

After a good April Fools' joke of a Skorpion mag (with one color choice of what seems to be everybody's favorite of Okra), late last night/early this morning US PALM's website was relaunched.

http://warriortalk.com/showpost.php?p=924317&postcount=83

http://warriortalk.com/showpost.php?p=924953&postcount=94

The website is now up, but it is a little thin. At least we have a clear shot of the AK30, Attack Rack chest rig, Defender Plate (with some more info on it with MSRP), and their unannounced stock mag pouch/comb riser which doesn't appear to have an AK mag in it. I can't tell if it is AR or M14, I believe it is M14/M1A since I think I make out a Springfield Armory mark on the butt plate. Good to see that US PALM may be branching out of the AK market, but I hope they do an AK stock mag pouch as well.

http://www.us-palm.com/

I'm a little disappointed that the Defend doesn't seem to come without armor. I have some IIIA level plate backers that I was planning on dropping in, which it sounds like they are already including for $200ish (although PALM points out that plate backer size panels can't be advertised as IIIA since it doesn't met the NIJ coverage amount to be officially that level).

The Attack Rack is available for preorder at One Source Tactical. Whatever you think of the AK30 and it's polymer, I think everyone will agree that the Attack Rack should be a great piece of kit since it has very AK specific mag pouches (including a wear strip on the lug side of the pouches to increase durability, nice touch). But they are continuing their no OD or foliage with at least the first batch. Only Black, coyote brown, desert tan, and Multicam are available. I know these guys are from Arizona and those colors make sense there along with the most military contracts wanting those colors currently. But out here in the Mid-west I prefer a green shade.

http://www.onesourcetactical.com/uspalmakar-akattackrack.aspx

I hope they make some of those AK pouches in MOLLE for those of us that use the system. Emdom is suppose to make some good ones, http://prostores2.carrierzone.com/servlet/emdomusa/Detail?no=51 but US PALM would seem to have some nice touches if they go for a MOLLE pouch and you like shingle style pouches.

I most admit, although you may have already noticed, I've crossed into Fanboy territory with the US PALM stuff. Now I know how all those Magpul AR fanboys feel. I'm pretty jealous of Tim's US PALM care package they sent him with the patches and sticker. I hope those are available soon

http://warriortalk.com/showthread.php?t=64835

For something different, I'm going to post up a "family picture" of my AKs and stuff later this weekend.

US Palm comments on plate carrier, has new video

2010-03-30T10:24:00.003-04:00

LOL, really guys I'm not trying to make this into a US Palm blog, but it seems right now they are putting out some of the coolest stuff for AKs.

In this thread they are talking about their new plate carrier that will included a IIIA plate backer with some great pics:

http://warriortalk.com/showthread.php?t=66996

Also Tim linked to their new tongue in check video of the AK30 mag taser test:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ck4xHEu-JdI

So far their Youtube channel has been pretty bare, hopefully they'll post some more stuff.

Curious about US Palm stock mag pouch

2010-03-20T10:56:00.002-04:00

Kinda dreaming about US Palm's new stuff coming out and I've been looking at their website that will relaunch April 2nd. Their stock mag pouch looks interesting. I can't tell if it is on an AK stock or not but I assuming like the rest of their stuff so far it is a AK accessory.

Looking at it, there is a built in comb riser, which could be a big plus to those that use Eastern optics on their AKs.

MD Arms Molot Grip

2010-03-17T11:45:00.004-04:00

The same guys who make the Saiga 12 20 round drums have came out with a Molot style U.S. made grip:

http://www.mdarms.com/scripts/prodView.asp?idproduct=1732

Report of Kalinka's co-witness Aimpoint mount breaking

2010-03-12T09:00:00.005-05:00

In January, Kalinka Optics http://www.kalinkaoptics.com/ released a special run of side rail mounts that would allow co-witness with a Aimpoint M3 style optic. I have one of these mounts and also a similar mount they offered that usually is for the PK23 which I and others modified to work better as a co-witness mount (see this thread: http://warriortalk.com/showthread.php?t=60011).

Apparently one of these broke already in it's thin point where the ring attaches. http://www.ar15.com/forums/topic.html?b=4&f=56&t=124897&page=5 That's too bad if it is a problem with all of these mounts since they are my favorite right now. I'll fall back to the BP-02 if these continue to break.

US Palm Stuff

2010-03-11T18:24:00.005-05:00

One Source tactical has some AK30s in Flat Dark Earth. http://www.onesourcetactical.com/uspalmak30-762x3930roundkalashnikovmagazine-1.aspx

http://warriortalk.com/showthread.php?p=909231#post909231

I'm holding out for some Foliage Green that Gabe Suarez has hinted at, although it isn't on the AK30 packaging as possible colors (which is Black, FDE, and Bakelite). Flat Dark Earth IMO isn't the best choice for my midwest location.

SGCUSA.com now has the black AK30s in stock and the look to have a foliage Ak30 on their AK30 banner http://sgcusa.com/ EDIT: According to Rob Anderson this was just a lighting/photoshop effect, both mags are actually black. It seems that if foliage is in the works it is very far on the back burner if at all. Bakelite is the next color up. I must admit their FDE is more dark earth than others sandy tan FDE so it might still be a good choice here. They also say that they might be producing some 5.45 mags torwards the end of the year but right now they are trying to service military contracts that are mostly 7.62x39.

Also US Palm's website is being redone and will relaunch April 2. If you look through the transparent announcement they seem to have a stock mag pouch, the Attack Rack AK chest rig, and what looks to be a plate carrier rig. http://www.us-palm.com/

Also Gabe Suarez has a preview picture of their grip:

http://warriortalk.com/showthread.php?t=66109

Even I with medium hands find the regular AK grips thin so this could be a great option. While I've come to really like the Tapco SAW grips in the past, I might need to give the US Palm and the Hogue's a try.

"Guns & Ammo Complete Book of the AK47" is hitting shelves

2010-03-11T18:18:00.005-05:00

Last years was good and ground breaking, this years has better info in it IMO. Eric Poole, the editor, even admits they were surprised how well last years did.

David Fortier, as always, has a number great of articles. I can never get enough of his stuff! Gabe Suarez has a couple of articles and Marco Vorobiev has a two as well. I can never get enough of Vorobiev's experiences in Afghanistan in the Spetsnaz.

New AK74

2010-03-11T18:05:00.006-05:00

Sorry for the slow posts lately! I got a new Bulgarian kit on NDS-2 AK74 in my arsenal. It was one of those blow out deals that Centerfire Systems was offering for $350 shipped! BTW, it is featured as the first article in the new Guns & Ammo Complete Book of the AK.

The Nodak NDS-2 seems to be good quality albeit no frills. The other 922r parts it has the Tapco G2 FCG, Century pistol grip, and Tapco stock.

I can't tell if Century's handguard that looks like a polymer version of Yugo handguards is U.S. or not. If it was I would change out the stock for a Polish wire folder today, but it looks like I'll have to wait on a U.S. handguard for that.

It did come with surplus Circle 21 and Circle Ten mags.

The gas piston is very clean but not U.S. marked. The brake seems to be original with zig zag cuts and side ports on it (IIRC most U.S. 74 brakes don't have those details). The crown is clean under the brake as well. It os a parts gun without matching serial numbers. Overall for a second string, first time 5.45x39 rifle it should be a great purchase pending a round at the range.

As long as it shoots ok I should be very happy with the purchase. It is much nicer than my WASR10/63, which I'm selling to offset the cost of this rifle. BTW, the WASR had version 2 of that horrid paint job in the banner of this site that looked only marginally better (it was my first Krylon job). My MAK90 now has a pretty good OD base with black furniture that looks much better. But since I'm looking to sell the WASR the paint job must go. One reason A lot of people recommend Krylon over Duracoat etc. since it can "easily" be removed. I would say that yes, a lot of the paint comes off easily but there are a lot of places I've had to go at with a toothbrush to remove and it's NOT easy or quick. I'll only be painting my "keeper" rifles from now on.

AK30 versus other tested to failure

2010-02-25T12:24:00.006-05:00

This thread has the videos along with some pictures of the AK30, Circle Ten Waffle, and Combloc steel mag caveman destruction test Gabe Suarez did. He feels that the Combloc steel probably wouldn't have fed after test round 2, making it the least rugged (but still very robust, I'd love to see the same test with AR mags)

Basically he still feels that the AK30 is the winner and the picture of a failed feed lip after a claim of drop on a carpeted floor is false and is either somebody lying. Not mentioned, but my thought is alway that it could be a lemon, like even the now AR standard of PMags had bad batches.

http://warriortalk.com/showthread.php?p=898850#post898850

Pictures of a broken lip AK30

2010-02-24T21:59:00.007-05:00

http://www.ar15.com/forums/topic.html?b=4&f=55&t=126305&sr=0

User claims it fell out of his bag on to carpeted floor. Rob Anderson of US Palm replies in the thread.

Gabe Suarez over at Warrior Talk says he did drop test on concrete to where Combloc metal lips were bent (the only bad AK mag I've ever had was a bent lip 40 rounder). Photographic evidence to follow at One Source Tactical.

My popcorn is out, I'll do a drop test of my own on my carpeted floor.

EDIT: Here's the video replies:

http://www.suarezinternational.com/MVI_2881.avi

http://www.suarezinternational.com/MVI_2882.avi

http://www.suarezinternational.com/MVI_2883.avi

Sunday Editorial- "Keep that Crap off my AK" versus Tacticool M4ized AK

2010-02-21T09:45:00.001-05:00

I'm going to post up a Sunday(ish) Editorial every week. Partly I want to do this to move away from just making gear posts right now and also see if there are any of you out there that want to comment on my opinions, which are like a certain part of the body...

Please feel free to post comments if you don't agree! I want a free exchange of ideas here. Just note if anyone is personally attacking anyone else, that is not acceptable, keep it to "just the facts" as Joe Friday says. Also this place isn't where I'm going to argue with anti-gun people. There are plenty of other firearms politics focused blogs out there like Saysuncle.com and snowflakesinhell.com being two great ones.

This week I want to talk about where I am in the AK Purist versus Tacticooled M4ed AKs. This has came out of a couple of message board posts I've had recently and Gabe Suarez's post lately about modernizing the platform so it is a hot topic over at Warrior Talk right now.

Basically, I'm in between purists keep the AK original and M4ize tacticool it. I am not at this point in my life an AK collector. I have been using the platform now for over half my life and during that time they have been kept as a fun gun but also with the serious purpose of a defensive rifle if needed. Because of that they are not collector's items where I try to get the proper markings, magazine, handguards, etc. Maybe when I get more cash to burn and even then I'm going to have a few go to rifles that are designated for defense. Being a defensive rifle, I have no problems doing reasonable upgrades from standard AKs that I think allow it to perform better if I ever have the unfortunate experience to use it in the "gravest extreme."

So I want good, modern equipment that was designed to keep the AK's strong points and minimizes the weaker points that will continue to improve it. The US Palm AK30s are a example of this in my book. While more expensive than good old Combloc steel, they still are a great value in that they should last longer, be lighter, be more rugged, and require less maintenance than other AK mags. But at the same time I'm not getting rid of my Combloc steel nor my Circle Tens. Quality is it's own quantity, and visa versa.

Unfortunately, quality costs money. But I think you can find a good middle ground here in money spent, especially when compared to the other extreme of hogwild M4 style AK ran rampant. Ironically, purists though tend to come in two groups for opposite reasons, some purists like to spend money making as correct as possible, and others like to save money because entry level AK stuff is cheap. Trust me, I understand saving money, it is part of the reason I'm an AK user. A serviceable AK and mags can be cheap and will get you by, but you can also choose not to be stuck at state of the art, circa 1950.

On the other hand, I don't necessarily want my AK looking like an M4 just for the look. There are two basic reasons for tacticooled AK, and one similar to collector purists. Some people like to spend money to make their rifles look tacticooler. It's still your money guys, if that blows your skirt up, do it. But because that equipment wasn't designed for the AK platform, I don't think it is always the best solution for it.

Just putting it on because it's on M4s doesn't make it work well on an AK. In the long run, you can actually be handicapping your AK. For instance, I dislike M4 stocks and railed handguards on AKs, partly because I've been there, done that. When Kreb's KTR-03 hit the market I was in awe! So in the early 2000s I tried to make my MAK90 as close to it as possible (BTW, if you dig the whole tacticool AKs, Krebs is the ultimate still!). I was thinking "hey, the venerable old girl AK can be just as modern as an AR-15." But I ended up with an extra heavy rifle that was more complex and wasn't as usable as the original configuration.

I think if you are going earmark it as a defensive rifle, there are better options than that for an AK. One example I see is a good folding stock is a better option than a 6 position stock unless you:

A. use body armor off and on (if it is always on, not so much since shorter Warsaw pact stocks work for a lot of people still)

B. you and another person tend to use the same rifle and you have a large difference in LOP needs (wife and husband, parent and child). I really think everybody can use the Warsaw Pact length stocks, but if you really need the longer length after you have tried the standard stock for a decent number of rounds, go for a NATO length fixed or folder.

But to put a collapsible stock on an AK for the to get the compactness of an M4 is ridiculous in my book. If you are trying to get a compact rifle, why not try one of the several great options out there with AK folders, starting with a rifle built with a AK-100 style folding solid stock, or my personal favorite the mostly drop in for stamped rifles East German/Polish/Romanian wire side folder. Don't try to make your AK more compact by adding an useless buffer tube to the rifle! You see some "covert carry" bag/case options out there for an AR and in order for them to get down to non-rifle length with the buffer tube, you need to pull the hinge pin out which the will require the rifle to be reassembled for use. A folded stock AK can fit in a $10 Walmart tennis racket bag and be debatably more covert with a rifle that is usable at short ranges as folded and longer ranges when the stock is unfolded in much shorter amount of time than reassembly of an AR.

I'm not an AK purist nor a Tacticoolist, I'm a realist.

Hehe and I just pissed off the two biggest parts of the AK community at once! Remember, it's still your Ak guys, do what you want with it! If you feel I'm wrong, comment away!

AK30 comparison pictures

2010-02-19T09:45:00.002-05:00

Here's some comparison shots between the U.S. Palm Ak30, Circle Ten Waffle, and standard ridge backed Combloc steel mags.

Overall, the AK30s are still my favorite and well worth the around $30 each I paid for them. The springs are strong, the magazine feels up to the AK standard of ruggedness, and they are lighter and better fit/QC than the Circle Tens. BUT I've found two minor gripes.

First Magpuls will come off too easily. Granted they might be a little stretched out from being on my Circle Tens, but overall they don't grip as well. Also the slanted floorplate either gives even less surface area for the Magpul to grip on or requires you to seat the Magpul further up the magazine making the loop smaller. Looks like I'm back to some duct tape, paracord sheath with zip tie inside for my AK30 pulls.

The second even more minor gripe is no witness hole for a full load. I'm so used to looking at that hole when I finish loading a mag, I've gotten lazy in counting how many rounds are in there.

U.S. Palm AK30s are here!!!

2010-02-18T19:31:00.001-05:00

My mags are here from One Source Tactical! My initial impression is WOW!!! The feel really solid, grippy in the grooves on the front and back of the mag, and feel lighter than Waffle Circle Tens (but I haven't actually weighed them).

The package list Flat Dark Earth and Bakelite as other color options that apparently will be coming soon! As long as these are as great functioning as Gabe Suarez has reported, they will be the only mags I ever buy again as long as they are available in the capacity and caliber I want.

Also U.S. Palm has an interesting new AK Chest rig coming soon too:

http://sgcusa.com/Field-Gear/c108/p4031/US-PALM-AKAR-AK-Attack-Rack/product_info.html