AK "side plates"

[arga]

I was searching through some old links and I ran across this:

http://stenparts.com/sideplates.html

third down, second column

Here are some better pictures of how the rails work and how thick the plates are:

http://stenparts.com/projects.html

The top rails look like they're separate pieces welded on. Considering how thick the side plates are I'm surprised they're not just milled into the plates.

The trunnions are welded in which makes since. I don't think regular rivets would work. I assume the trigger guard is welded in too.

No center support?

Anyone ever try an AK build with a receiver like this? It looks like a lot of extra work. Any benefit other than coolness? Could you do this with a MIG and a lot of grinding or would this be TIG only?

[dynamomark80]

it looks like a problem to me.
A 1.5mm flat would probably be far easier to just throw in a jig and bend then having to deal with welding this up. Welding would be a pain in the butt because you would have to pay attention to heat and flexing all while getting a solid weld. I dont see any of the indentations for the mag well either or any curves on the top edge.

to be honest I cant think of any reason to use this sideplate kit at all when there are many good 1mm/1.5mm flats and 80% receivers around for about $5-$10 more in cost. This kit is just a cut out of the three sides of a receiver for $30. Give me a break, Im sure you could find the dimensions for a receiver somewhere online and make the same thing yourself for about $5-$10 in raw materials.

[Cheep]

These are made by Jack Squat, $17.00 last time I looked, and if you can weld (tig) they are no problem at all.

[tujungatoes]

Yes you could build these with a MIG welder. A better question would be "why?". Thats a LOT of work. There are soooo many builders across California. Bending a flat would almost certainly be a better option.

If you do decide to go this route, be very carefull welding your trunnion in. It can be done, but is generally not recommended.

[arga]

I have a build coming up but I I'm doing it the traditional way. I just thought it was interesting. I read this board at least a couple times a week and I've never seen this before.

It does provide options. If you already had welding equipment you could do a one-off build without any other equipment. Well, I guess you'd still need reamers. I could see my dad doing one this way but I still haven't been able to convince him what I do is legal.

[Cheep]

Who welds in the trunnions???

[tujungatoes]

It's been done by quite a few builders over the years with varying degrees of success.