First AK74 build headspace issues

[Ryan in SD]

SJ, normally I do as you mentioned, front trunnion sits nice and level in the press for a reason. For some reason I got it in my head I wanted to pin then populate this time.

Wonder if I have time to knock this out this morning and test fire it...

Dude, you need me to make you a barrel pressing fixture? Theres no reason to be putting stress on your receiver when pressing the barrel.

Its the thing in the middle, 2 bolts sticking out.

[Alex$]

I can't quite figure out when and how the receiver got tweeked, but it was bent in on the right side above the magwell and the front two welds were popped. That much pressure I am guessing it was during the oversized barrel install, I had to use the press for the first time ever. Normally I just use a punch and hammer, but this time it was a tight fit.

I am using a front trunnion support similar to what you have pictured, I just upgraded from hardwood to steel and it works fine.

I am either going to stop building these damn things or I am going to keep making new tools, can't decide which yet. The press brake I have been using works well, but if I keep bending these I am going to make a bar stock jig similar to what is in your photo.

[Alex$]

Well, figured out how the receiver was bent...

Inadequate front trunnion support while pressing gas block on. It was cockeyed and the barrel was flexing fore and aft to my position. The receiver was hitting the bottom of the arbor plate and getting tweaked.

Looks like I will be assembling a trunnion support that actually works...

[4thSBCT]

where you assembling the barrel with the receiver installed? I find its easier to build the barrel completely and then build the reciever

[Alex$]

4th, easier to quote my own damn self in this case. If it ain't broke, don't fix it. Just like I am experimenting with finishes and stock shaping, this isn't one to monkey with...

SJ, normally I do as you mentioned, front trunnion sits nice and level in the press for a reason. For some reason I got it in my head I wanted to pin then populate this time...

[4thSBCT]

im still confused, like you riveted the front trunnion into the reciever and then started population of the barrel? I've done it both ways. Will your receiver be salvagable? remember to check twice and press once.

[TURBOELKY]

im still confused, like you riveted the front trunnion into the reciever and then started population of the barrel? I've done it both ways. Will your receiver be salvagable? remember to check twice and press once.

Yeah, that's what he said he did a few posts ago. The first barrel I populated, I did the same. I also tweaked the receiver pretty good. I was able to salvage it, but I ended up rebuilding it anyways.

[Roccobro]

Like others said, the gap is a non issue. When I headspace a gun I set a bit tight on a go guage but will close on a live or dummy round. if it won't close on a no go but will on live round your good.

Glad I'm not the only one. Luckily it comes easy with my preferred methods of install.

Justin