AK advice needed

[Axelgear]

So I'm building an AK from a flat and I need some advice - should I weld the lower rails before or after bending and why? Is there any other welding Ill need to do? (rivet build) Ive heard both sides, and it seems that after is the way to do it, but I want to hear both sides. Also, I'm complete utter garbage with welding - I botched the last one badly, and had to trash the whole thing. Id also like to know if an experienced builder could help me with just this part of the operation, I don't think that would be illegal but please correct me if I'm wrong! Im in San Diego. Thanks Calgunners, and as always, thank you for taking the time out of your day to read my post.