So I’m new to the AK platform and recently picked up a PSA GF3 just to get my feet wet. I’m still learning so forgive me if I don’t know all of the parts yet correctly.
Just picked it up yesterday and haven’t even had it to the range. The first thing I noticed is that the bolt carrier and piston raise up when cycling and the front lip of the bolt carrier catches on the rear sight base (I think that’s the right name, still learning) essentially holding the bolt open. This just seemed odd to me instead of it moving straight back and forward. But, being new to the platform, I figured I’d ask if this is just something that needs to wear in or if it truly is an issue.
This will happen with the dust cover off and where it’s catching will wear with use. Charging the gun with it off will cause it to hang as well because the carrier can tilt off the rails when all the way rearward. It does this because it can travel further with it off. The main hangup is the carrier on the fire control group when you ride the charging handle forward and can happen with it off or on. If it’s jamming during firing or when you’re racking the bolt back and letting go that’s when you know it’s an issue.
It’s common for aks to hang up in that spot if you hold the charging handle and slowly let the bolt move back into battery. My guess is if you charge the weapon normally (just pull back and let go) it won’t hang up. As you shoot the gun you will see some wear on that location.
Yep, if you just charge normally it should be fine (and as long as it isn’t happening when firing). Also, just charge it multiple times to get a jump start on a little bit of the wear, just don’t charge it without the dust cover because of what MrFister described.
If you look on YouTube….there are a great number of videos that address this issue. It’s quite easy to fix ……For most owners of a new AK….this is there first introduction to modifying their AK. For most issues a small amount of filing and some sand paper will fit your needs……but in this case a dremel tool is the best choice…….IF YOU ALREADY OWN ONE ! ( or if you can borrow one for FREE). Watch the videos….it’s an easy modification. IF…you have to buy a dremel tool……it’s NOT worth it. The cost of the dremel is more than the cost of a good trigger.
