Tactical AK build.

[Reaver]

WHEN I get my AK74 this is what I am going to put on it. Figured you guys would like to hear about my ideas.


1. Ambi-Selector http://www.akfiles.com/forums/showthread.php?t=90898
2. http://www.midwestindustriesinc.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=category.display&category_id=241
3. http://www.aimsurplus.com/product.aspx?item=XEMAAKMR&name=EMA+Tactical+AK+Mag+Release&groupid=301&search=AKMR
4. http://www.botachtactical.com/caaagakpigr.html
5.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PvcznfgvW3U

If they make it for AK's & if they don't then http://www.makosecurity.com/Merchant2/merchant.mvc?Screen=PROD&Product_Code=SBT-K47&Category_Code=_stks

So... thoughts suggestions... questions?

[Veritas]

Looks good, to me.  I'm a bit jealous of that ambi-safety, as mine has a scope rail on that side.

For the stock, you should check out

http://www.falconarms.com/index.php?route=product/product&path=35&product_id=55

I have one of these and it's solid.  Folds to the right for us southpaws.  Doesn't get in the way of the bolt when folded.   Feels good in the shoulder, and is solid enough to crack a coconut.  Totally worth the money.

[Dave_M]

WHEN I get my AK74 this is what I am going to put on it. Figured you guys would like to hear about my ideas.


1. Ambi-Selector http://www.akfiles.com/forums/showthread.php?t=90898

What you're seeing is basically an external version of the Bulgarian left side selector lever

Instead of a hole on the side, you had to mill a slot in the bottom (and either change your grip or take some off). K-Var hasn't had these in stock for some time though.

I don't like it because it's 'backward'; as in the unnatural thumb movement disengages the safety instead of the natural. Something like a RSA or Blackjack SWIFT would be a better idea (or do the cheaper route and simply weld a tab on the safety selector). If it was the reverse (fired a .308 Galil last weekend which did it the more ergonomic way) then I'd say 'cool cool'. As is stands, no thanks.

2. http://www.midwestindustriesinc.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=category.display&category_id=241

I suppose the first question that needs to be asked is: 'Why do I want a quad rail?'

The model you linked won't allow you to cowitness your irons with your optics when using the standard top rail. However, MI has seen the error of their ways and teamed up with US Palm to make optic-specific top ends which will. That said, you're kinda stuck with that particular optic once you do it (unless you want to spend more $$).

If all you need to attach is an optic and a light, it's hard to beat the combo of Ultimak top rail + AP micro + offset light mount. Do you have some need that requires a full quad rail? If so, then going with the MI with an optic-specific top makes sense.

MI recently released a new mount, shades of LaRue Irondot
http://www.midwestindustriesinc.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=category.display&category_id=421

Their Gen1 definitely had some immediate problems but the new one shows some real potential (I'm not going to be the guinea pig on this one).

3. http://www.aimsurplus.com/product.aspx?item=XEMAAKMR&name=EMA+Tactical+AK+Mag+Release&groupid=301&search=AKMR

You don't need that. While it can make it easier to release the mag with the strong hand, since the mags are rock n' lock it doesn't turn it into a real drop-free system. Also, when applying different TTP's (like mag sweeping) it hinders the action.

4. http://www.botachtactical.com/caaagakpigr.html

Perhaps a personal preference but I like plain ol' AK grips (I also have little girl hands!)

5. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PvcznfgvW3U If they make it for AK's & if they don't then http://www.makosecurity.com/Merchant2/merchant.mvc?Screen=PROD&Product_Code=SBT-K47&Category_Code=_stks

You don't want to use any plastic AR stock adapter. You have a couple different options, however. The two most prominent are the ACE and Vltor.

If you decide to go with an ACE block, you have several options.

There are internal and external blocks for both stamped and milled guns. I personally only run the internal blocks but you have to cut the tang(s) off for both the stamped and the milled. Once that's in place, you can just get an AR stock adapter and run that. Alternatively, you could put an ACE folding mechanism on the receiver block and have a folder too.
http://riflestocks.com/store/

The Vltor is a good option if you don't want a folder and also have a stamped AK. Noteworthy that it won't work with Yugos, however. 


http://www.vltor.com/accessory.htm

[Reaver]

WHEN I get my AK74 this is what I am going to put on it. Figured you guys would like to hear about my ideas.

good job on gunning down my build bro.
1. Ambi-Selector http://www.akfiles.com/forums/showthread.php?t=90898

What you're seeing is basically an external version of the Bulgarian left side selector lever

Instead of a hole on the side, you had to mill a slot in the bottom (and either change your grip or take some off). K-Var hasn't had these in stock for some time though.

I don't like it because it's 'backward'; as in the unnatural thumb movement disengages the safety instead of the natural. Something like a RSA or Blackjack SWIFT would be a better idea (or do the cheaper route and simply weld a tab on the safety selector). If it was the reverse (fired a .308 Galil last weekend which did it the more ergonomic way) then I'd say 'cool cool'. As is stands, no thanks.
I would rather it be their & backwards then not be there at all.
I have already decided on the optic I'm getting & its the one that is specifically build for this rail.

2. http://www.midwestindustriesinc.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=category.display&category_id=241

I suppose the first question that needs to be asked is: 'Why do I want a quad rail?'

The model you linked won't allow you to cowitness your irons with your optics when using the standard top rail. However, MI has seen the error of their ways and teamed up with US Palm to make optic-specific top ends which will. That said, you're kinda stuck with that particular optic once you do it (unless you want to spend more $$).

If all you need to attach is an optic and a light, it's hard to beat the combo of Ultimak top rail + AP micro + offset light mount. Do you have some need that requires a full quad rail? If so, then going with the MI with an optic-specific top makes sense.

MI recently released a new mount, shades of LaRue Irondot
http://www.midwestindustriesinc.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=category.display&category_id=421

Their Gen1 definitely had some immediate problems but the new one shows some real potential (I'm not going to be the guinea pig on this one).

Actually from what I have researched most of the SGL's will kick the magazine out for you, & not only does it allow you to use your fingers to release it, it also extends the magazine release so I can still to the " tactical reloads " as I have already trained with my standard AK

3. http://www.aimsurplus.com/product.aspx?item=XEMAAKMR&name=EMA+Tactical+AK+Mag+Release&groupid=301&search=AKMR

You don't need that. While it can make it easier to release the mag with the strong hand, since the mags are rock n' lock it doesn't turn it into a real drop-free system. Also, when applying different TTP's (like mag sweeping) it hinders the action.


It is in personal preference, I have the same one on my CAR 15 & I love it. I do not have little girl hands and prefer a big grip. ( also tis why I went with the M9 as a secondary, but that's another topic  )

4. http://www.botachtactical.com/caaagakpigr.html

Perhaps a personal preference but I like plain ol' AK grips (I also have little girl hands!)



I have a Mako setup on my Maadi, and after what I have done to it. I trust it enough to try out another one of their products. The stock was a maybe though. Because if I get the SGL31-94 I'm really not interested because they have the top of the line stock folder right now. If I get the 61 or 62 then that may happen in the futer. Imagine the reduced recoil on a weapon that almost has no recoil as is. Worth it to me.  & they make some of them in solid alluminum if I am not mistaken.

5. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PvcznfgvW3U If they make it for AK's & if they don't then http://www.makosecurity.com/Merchant2/merchant.mvc?Screen=PROD&Product_Code=SBT-K47&Category_Code=_stks

You don't want to use any plastic AR stock adapter. You have a couple different options, however. The two most prominent are the ACE and Vltor.

If you decide to go with an ACE block, you have several options.

There are internal and external blocks for both stamped and milled guns. I personally only run the internal blocks but you have to cut the tang(s) off for both the stamped and the milled. Once that's in place, you can just get an AR stock adapter and run that. Alternatively, you could put an ACE folding mechanism on the receiver block and have a folder too.
http://riflestocks.com/store/

The Vltor is a good option if you don't want a folder and also have a stamped AK. Noteworthy that it won't work with Yugos, however. 


http://www.vltor.com/accessory.htm

[Dave_M]

good job on gunning down my build bro.

There wasn't any, 'gunning down' anything. You asked:

So... thoughts suggestions... questions?

I gave both concise thoughts and also offered suggestions and alternatives. It's your gun, do what you want.  [url=http://yoursmiles.org/p-m

[Dave_M]

I would give a hard look at a Battle Comp. They have them in 24mm and 14x1LH.

[Reaver]

I'll stick to the AK74 brake. Thanks for the input

[Dave_M]

I only mention it because you said

Imagine the reduced recoil on a weapon that almost has no recoil as is.

BattleComps work about as well as the 74' style device at recoil reduction without the giant lateral concussion and flash. Here's a short vid by Travis Haley

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LUbxO3jkJxc

Not 100% salient as he's comparing it to a slant brake, however.

[Reaver]

I'll give it a look through. I really dig the 74 brake. I don't mind the blast concussion or flash.  [img]http://www.smileydesign.n

[lpdavisakgto]

Check out the new Mako Group/ Fab defense stock i replaced my stock on my Bulgarian AK 74 with it its very sturdy and comfortable     http://www.makosecurity.com/Merchant2/merchant.mvc?Screen=PROD&Product_Code=UAS-AKP&Category_Code=_AK47Stocks

[Dave_M]

Generally speaking I try not to put plastic in general and Israeli plastic in particular on a rifle for hard use.

[redraptor26]

they also make it in metal but its like 400 bucks

[505th.NM.Militia]

Check out the new Mako Group/ Fab defense stock i replaced my stock on my Bulgarian AK 74 with it its very sturdy and comfortable     http://www.makosecurity.com/Merchant2/merchant.mvc?Screen=PROD&Product_Code=UAS-AKP&Category_Code=_AK47Stocks

Welcome aboard, thanks for posting.  That's a crazy stock what's the major +/-?

[militaryman84]

I'll give it a look through. I really dig the 74 brake. I don't mind the blast concussion or flash.  [img]http://www.smileydesign.n

Not to be bitch but you might mind the muzzle flash when it skylights your ass. Just saying.

[Reaver]

Well, I have weighed all my options equally and thought very carefully about how ( I ) was going to do things.
What I came up with was this.

I chose very fast, decently accurate, intimidation.
I only have three capable people in my group. So I want very loud, stuff.  Very bright intimidating stuff.
I do not believe in staying and fighting it out. Its not ganna happen.
So my last impression before I flee the area is going to be " holy shit, what the hell was that "

[Outonowhere]

Well, I have weighed all my options equally and thought very carefully about how ( I ) was going to do things.
What I came up with was this.

I chose very fast, decently accurate, intimidation.
I only have three capable people in my group. So I want very loud, stuff.  Very bright intimidating stuff.
I do not believe in staying and fighting it out. Its not ganna happen.
So my last impression before I flee the area is going to be " holy shit, what the hell was that "

I completely agree with you.  There are others in my group with more accurate platforms.  My role is simply to destroy everything the muzzle of my rifle sweeps.  Kinda like an xray, I let you see through the enemies cover!   [url=http://yoursmiles.org/p-m

[Dave_M]

All of that works until someone else is lateral to your position and ends your day badly because of the loud, bright, and obvious shot signature. Me personally, I'd rather they be like, "where the F*^% did that shot come from?!?!?" and have no idea who tagged XYZ nor what direction it came from than be intimidated through loud noises and overtly, overly-obvious illumination.

I can also tell you first hand that the bright flash you see with a 74' brake does more to hinder your night vision than it will of your opposition. So yes, while your first shot may be, 'decently accurate' I can guarantee your followups won't be (especially once everyone starts moving).

Do yourself a favor and go out at night (if you have the facilities to do so) to test this theory. My bet is that follow-up shots will be hard to do, even with stationary cardboard targets. Ask me how I know...

[Reaver]

All of that works until someone else is lateral to your position and ends your day badly because of the loud, bright, and obvious shot signature. Me personally, I'd rather they be like, "where the F*^% did that shot come from?!?!?" and have no idea who tagged XYZ nor what direction it came from than be intimidated through loud noises and overtly, overly-obvious illumination.

I can also tell you first hand that the bright flash you see with a 74' brake does more to hinder your night vision than it will of your opposition. So yes, while your first shot may be, 'decently accurate' I can guarantee your followups won't be (especially once everyone starts moving).

Do yourself a favor and go out at night (if you have the facilities to do so) to test this theory. My bet is that follow-up shots will be hard to do, even with stationary cardboard targets. Ask me how I know...

I don't know where you are, but I'm in the swamps. night vision with 0 moon is pretty hard to do 1.

and 2. Its so thick you can barely see any way.

It's my build, my philosophy & my life. What is the issue?

[Dave_M]

It's my build, my philosophy & my life. What is the issue?

I'm just saying that the best laid plans can be undone with a single shot.

I tend to base my TTP's (Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures) off of those who have actually been in the situation, not the 'theory' of it. Ergo, I have never heard of the situation nor TTP's which you describe actually working outside of statistically insignificant, outlier events. I suppose this could just be from counter-factual thinking and not fully realizing all dangers involved.

[Reaver]

Well, when your ( most likely)  biggest threat, is a couple of Inbred Rednecks looking to get some water from the creek.
I think it will do just fine.

Look man, if been there I've done all that. I know what its like to get shot at. I know how I felt, I know how I would have felt if something much scarier would have been shooting at me.
I know my companies TTP's and I know that I disagree with what most of the army has to say. Not because it does or does not work but because if shit goes wrong in the army you just call in a strike.

If you don't like what I'm doing, then don't do it. I'm sticking to what I feel will work best for my terrain & my tactics say Hit hard loud and fast then disappear. Not leaving a very threatening signature doesn't deter much of the chase party now does it?

[Dave_M]

I understand that any input I have is going to be discarded due to your feelings about me from the previous forum. What I'm really asking you to do is to actually shoot at night. No theorizing. No bullshit 'thought process' or any of that... but to actually go out and train at what you're preaching.

I have. Have you?

It's a bigass mistake to assume that everyone has the same training and the same reactions to fire that you did. If I really didn't care then I wouldn't be posting at all, aside from, 'Awesome plan!!' or other such encouraging comments which would be chuckled about later.

The more I read your posts the less I think you want real input, based on real, practical, concerns and not just attaboys.

[Dave_M]

Not leaving a very threatening signature doesn't deter much of the chase party now does it?

If they don't know where or what made the shot that killed their mates... You don't think that's threatening? uh.... OK. Sure. (this is a TTP used by USMC scout snipers, but they must not know what they're talking about...)

[Reaver]

Though I have not fired my current primary during the night. I have trained at night.

Your input will not always be disregarded, maybe in this case but not always.
I read and think about everyone's input, then decide if I want to agree or disagree with it.
I have my own " toolbox " as does everyone else. & from my personal experience with  myself, the army, some pmc training, and just life in general.  I am working on filling my " toolbox " with what I feel is the right things, for me.

Sometimes an attaboy even if you disagree is all that's needed.   

[Reaver]

Not leaving a very threatening signature doesn't deter much of the chase party now does it?

If they don't know where or what made the shot that killed their mates... You don't think that's threatening? uh.... OK. Sure. (this is a TTP used by USMC scout snipers, but they must not know what they're talking about...)

Why are you getting hostile man?

Look if you don't like what I do, then DON'T DO IT.

And to boot, I'm Not a fuckin Marine Corp scout sniper. I'm just another guy in the swamps trying to avoid contact.

[Dave_M]

Why are you getting hostile man?

Look if you don't like what I do, then DON'T DO IT.

I didn't think I was getting hostile, not really. I apologize if you take my lack of tact circa 2:30am to be that way. I was just introducing situations where your current intimidation plan might fall to entropy based on actual, not totally theoretical, situations.