How long does it take to build an AK?

[Robidouxs]

Assumptions for parts kit
-Already demilled
-Previously headspaced with original barrel
-Has a fixed stock
-All number match

Questions
1) How long would it take to build an AK if it is built on a 100% receiver (NDS)?

2) How long would it take to build an AK if it is built from a bent flat?

[munkeeboi]

Depends..How many problems do you run into? LOL?

There are so many variables that can make it faster or go slower. Do your trunnion holes match the pre-drilled holes? Do you have all the correct tools? Are you drinking beer? Are you alone or with friends? is blast time included and if so, how anal are you? Is the compressor cooperating? How's the power to the spot welder? see? I can go on forever

I can see an NDS build taking a couple hours if you were at home and had all the right jigs and tools. A Flat build an 1-2 hours longer depending on your skill level. Heat treating time is included in that.

If this it to gauge what you can get done at a build party, I'd say prepare for at least a full day. There will be lines at the machines/presses and possible other complications because of the new location. If you get done early...then you have time to kick back, help others, or take off, but I wouldn't expect to have a complete rifle in 3-4 hours. Not saying that it can't happen, but conditions need to be right.

[_Z_]

I will let you know after this weekend

I swear, it shouldn't take THAT long but we will see.

[CSACANNONEER]

I've seen a first time builder demil, bend a flat and go all the way to test firing done in a day before. I've seen experienced builders have problems which cost them days before too.

Depends..How many problems do you run into? LOL?

There are so many variables that can make it faster or go slower. Do your trunnion holes match the pre-drilled holes? Do you have all the correct tools? Are you drinking beer? Are you alone or with friends? is blast time included and if so, how anal are you? Is the compressor cooperating? How's the power to the spot welder? see? I can go on forever

I can see an NDS build taking a couple hours if you were at home and had all the right jigs and tools. A Flat build an 1-2 hours longer depending on your skill level. Heat treating time is included in that.

If this it to gauge what you can get done at a build party, I'd say prepare for at least a full day. There will be lines at the machines/presses and possible other complications because of the new location. If you get done early...then you have time to kick back, help others, or take off, but I wouldn't expect to have a complete rifle in 3-4 hours. Not saying that it can't happen, but conditions need to be right.

Yea, yea, yea. The welder got replaced on Sunday but, I still need a new compressor.

[Shady]

My last build took 3 hrs
I've done a few before tho: )

[SJgunguy24]

Refinish included? I take my time when building an AK for a customer. Usally a day to be completed and ready for test firing.

[69Mach1]

An hour on an NDS.

[munkeeboi]

An hour on an NDS.

This is not a bragging post...LOL.

We want realistic expectations...but 1 hour eh? I might have a mission for you, or 2 to 3...hahah

[_Z_]

This is not a bragging post...LOL.

We want realistic expectations...but 1 hour eh? I might have a mission for you, or 2 to 3...hahah

Just give Mach a 4 pack of monsters and he should be GTG

[mrlonewolf]

As long as it takes.

Take your time and build it right perfect, it's a hobby.

[nicoroshi]

Come on guys. It's not a race.
Pressed flat build = one day (including park)
NDS receiver build = one day
Milled re-weld = 2 days (including finish, and re-finish of furniture).

Note: the time saved by using an NDS receiver isn't that much IMHO.
Pressing a flat is easy with an AK-builder jig, center support rivet is also pretty quick with a press, and jigs. Heat treat also pretty quick.
Maybe 1/2 to 1 hour savings on time.

[tujungatoes]

With an NDS receiver, and a new builder. I'd give it a solid day. Same builder with a flat, maybe a day and a half +/-. Just depends on how the stars are aligned, and the skill level of the builder. Some guys are more tool familiar/inclined than others, and it greatly affects the time it takes to complete the build.

Last time I did a romy on an NDS-3 I think it took me about 4 hours to go from demil to completed rifle. That was before I'd ever been to a build party, or used "real" jigs. I set all my rivets with my modded bolt cutters and an air hammer, and installed my barrel with a piece of all thread.(ahh...the bad old days)

I've always wanted to have some sort of "race" at a build party. just to see who can do it the fastest. Kinda like those lumberjack games. points awarded/deducted for time taken, and overall looks. hmm...that actually has possibilities

[_Z_]

If you do that Toes, I would do a random box of mismatch AK parts with either a us barrel or mismatched barrel.

Has to headspace correctly. At least pass the headspacing of go and field no go.

Actually give some of you a challenge.

[tujungatoes]

I was actually thinking more like two matching #'s romy kits. You'd want it to be as fair as possible, and a one day(possibly 1 hour if ur badazz) event. Too many variables with random bargain bin parts.

[WTSGDYBBR]

I would say a day. You could slap one together in 3-4 hours from A-Z with out blasting and parkerizing . I would agree with Mr Lonewolf take pride in your build. Take as much time as needed to make it perfect. I don't look as my build as " It's A AK"