Questions about building an AK

[cigna63]

I'm interested in finding out the difficulty level of building an AK from a parts kit and receiver. I've built several AR's and would like to know how building an AK is compared to an AR. Are there any special tools needed? If so what is the approx. cost of the tools. Any other info that would be helpful would be appreciated.
Thanks

[Big Bird]

The barrel is pressed into the trunion with a hydrolic press. So you'll need a 10 ton press and a jig to hold the trunion. You'll also need a drill press but a milling machine would be better...

[BigBigMike]

Originally posted by Big Bird
The barrel is pressed into the trunion with a hydrolic press. So you'll need a 10 ton press and a jig to hold the trunion. You'll also need a drill press but a milling machine would be better...

Arent there kits available with the barrel / trunion already assembled together, and I assume you are referring to the receiver when you mention the drill press. But there are receiver alternatives too, so your objections are (apparently) easily overcome.

[chevrofreak]

if you get one of the laser cut reciever flats, it shouldnt be too dificult if you think logically and take your time.

[Big Bird]

the trunion is riveted to the receiver. Unless you get something that has been headspaced to the bolt you will need some method of adjusting the chamber headspace...that requires a hydrolic press.

Receiver flats need to be annealed, the bolt rails are welded to the inside. Of course the whole shebang then needs to be heat treated to achieve proper hardness. Then the front and rear trunions and spacers need to be riveted in place.

This is a project that is several steps above building an AR. especially if you've never headspaced and indexed an AR upper and only built off of parts kits with the upper pre-assembled.