AK non-matching kits

[champion]

I've been Googling all over trying to find out why people don't want a non-matching parts kit. I understand that the parts never originally fit together, but what are some pitfalls with the non-matching kits? I have a matching kit but the non-matching are so cheap that it's very tempting. Thanks in advance.

[Vepr62]

match

Some people think that you don't have to head space your bolt if it is matching kit, which is true if you line up everything perfectly. Even non-matching kits, but with original barrels, will head-space OK in 50%, in my experience. For those kits with new us made barrels you will need Head Space guages for sure. I verify proper head spacing with guages for ALL my builds.

VASILIY

[champion]

Cool thanks. My matching kit came with a new U.S. made barrel so I began to ask myself why I even bothered with the "matching" kit. I figured if I'm going to have to deal with all of the headspacing, drilling, and pinning then maybe I should have just cheaped out and bought the "non-matching" kit. It would make a nice second ak.

[CSACANNONEER]

A matching kit will have a better resale value. If you just want it to function properly, you should be able to make a non matching kit into a perfectly functioning rifle. I've done 2 non matching builds without any problems.

[champion]

Well,
That's all I want. There goes my wallet. Thanks for the info.

[Brendan Sullivan]

Little things like the top cover and gas tube fit will vary from one rifle to the next. If you build on a virgin barrel you're already atop the highest hurdle. I don't envy anyone who has to fix headspace and cut or enlarge a barrel retaining pin hole.