Gunsmith Part Nineteen: A Deep Dive into AKM Gas System Tuning for Enhanced Performance
Introduction
The world of firearms modification and maintenance is a constantly evolving landscape. For enthusiasts and professionals alike, the ability to optimize a weapon’s performance is paramount. In our ongoing series, “Gunsmith,” we’ve explored various aspects of firearm maintenance and enhancement. From basic cleaning procedures to intricate trigger modifications, each installment builds upon the knowledge base, providing readers with the tools and understanding necessary to elevate their gunsmithing skills. This installment, “Gunsmith Part Nineteen,” delves into a specific and often overlooked area: the AKM gas system.
Previous entries in the Gunsmith series have touched upon topics such as barrel threading for suppressors, accurizing the AR-15 platform, and diagnosing common malfunctions in semi-automatic pistols. This entry assumes a basic understanding of firearm safety and disassembly procedures, as well as familiarity with the tools commonly found in a gunsmithing workspace. Think of this as the point where we take our knowledge of the AKM, a renowned platform for customisation and improvement, and fine tune it to push the limit of performance.
Why focus on the AKM gas system? The AKM, and its derivatives, are known for their reliability, but that doesn’t mean they can’t be improved. A properly tuned gas system can significantly impact a rifle’s recoil impulse, accuracy, and overall lifespan. Whether you are aiming for competition-grade precision, reducing wear on internal components, or simply seeking a smoother shooting experience, understanding and mastering AKM gas system adjustments is an invaluable skill. This article aims to equip you with the knowledge and techniques required to effectively tune your AKM gas system for optimal performance. By the end of this deep dive, you will be able to diagnose common gas system issues, understand the principles behind gas regulation, and implement practical modifications to improve your AKM’s performance.
Essential Knowledge and Tools
Before diving into the complexities of AKM gas system tuning, it’s crucial to ensure you have the necessary foundation. A basic understanding of firearm mechanics, specifically the operation of a gas-operated system, is essential. You should be comfortable disassembling and reassembling your AKM rifle and familiar with the function of each component within the gas system. This includes the gas block, gas piston, gas tube, and the recoil spring assembly.
In terms of tools, a well-equipped gunsmithing workspace is a must. Some of the important items are; a set of punches (both steel and non-marring), a gunsmithing hammer, appropriate sized wrenches and sockets for removing and installing components, a set of feeler gauges, a digital caliper for precise measurements, and a vise with soft jaws to secure the rifle during work. Depending on the specific modifications you plan to perform, you may also need specialized tools such as gas port drills or adjustable gas blocks. Also, it is important to have cleaning supplies, to clean the rifle after the work is done and to have a safe testing area.
And above all else, remember safety. Safe gun handling practices are paramount. Always ensure the firearm is unloaded before commencing any work. Wear appropriate eye protection and hearing protection. Work in a well-ventilated area, especially when using solvents or chemicals. Finally, adhere to all local laws and regulations regarding firearm ownership, modification, and use. Remember, firearms safety is non-negotiable.
The Art of Adjusting the System: A Practical Guide
The process of tuning the AKM gas system involves a series of carefully executed steps. Each step builds upon the previous one, so it’s essential to follow the instructions meticulously.
Visual Inspection and Cleaning
Begin by completely disassembling the gas system. Carefully examine the gas block, gas tube, and gas piston for any signs of wear, damage, or excessive carbon buildup. Use a quality solvent and brushes to thoroughly clean each component. Pay close attention to the gas port within the barrel, ensuring it’s free of obstructions. Carbon buildup in the gas port can significantly reduce gas flow, leading to malfunctions.
Gas Port Size Evaluation
The size of the gas port in the barrel plays a critical role in regulating the amount of gas that is diverted to cycle the action. If the gas port is too small, the rifle may short-stroke, failing to fully cycle and chamber a new round. If the gas port is too large, the rifle will be over-gassed, resulting in excessive recoil, accelerated wear on internal components, and potentially reduced accuracy. Determining the optimal gas port size requires a process of careful evaluation.
Adjustable Gas Blocks and Their Application
For those seeking maximum control over their AKM’s gas system, an adjustable gas block is an excellent option. These devices allow you to precisely regulate the amount of gas that is vented from the barrel, enabling you to fine-tune the rifle’s cycling to your specific needs. Installing an adjustable gas block is a relatively straightforward process, but it requires careful attention to detail. Start by removing the original gas block, ensuring you don’t damage the barrel or other components. Then, install the adjustable gas block, carefully aligning it with the gas port in the barrel. Secure the gas block with the provided screws or pins, ensuring it’s properly tightened.
Gas Regulation
With the adjustable gas block installed, you can now begin the process of fine-tuning the gas system. This involves incrementally adjusting the gas setting and testing the rifle’s function. Start with the gas block set to the minimum setting, allowing the least amount of gas to be vented. Load a magazine with a few rounds and fire the rifle. Observe whether the rifle cycles properly, fully ejecting the spent casing and chambering a new round. If the rifle short-strokes, increase the gas setting slightly and repeat the test. Continue increasing the gas setting in small increments until the rifle cycles reliably. Once the rifle cycles reliably, continue to increase the gas setting one or two clicks further. This will ensure the rifle continues to cycle reliably even when the gas system becomes slightly dirty.
Troubleshooting Gas Issues and Avoiding Mistakes
Even with careful planning and execution, problems can sometimes arise during AKM gas system tuning. Identifying and addressing these issues is a crucial part of the gunsmithing process.
Short Stroking
As discussed earlier, short stroking occurs when the gas port is too small, or the gas setting is too low, resulting in insufficient gas pressure to fully cycle the action. Solutions include increasing the gas setting on an adjustable gas block, or carefully enlarging the gas port using a drill. However, be extremely cautious when drilling the gas port, as it’s easy to overdo it, resulting in an over-gassed rifle.
Excessive Recoil
Excessive recoil is a sign that the rifle is over-gassed. Solutions include reducing the gas setting on an adjustable gas block, or installing a heavier recoil spring.
Proper Lubrication
A preventative measure to keep these issues from arising is to ensure proper lubrication. Lubrication helps to reduce friction between moving parts, ensuring smooth and reliable cycling. Apply a thin layer of high-quality gun oil to the gas piston, bolt carrier, and other critical components.
Advanced Techniques for Elite Gunsmiths
For those seeking to push the boundaries of AKM gas system tuning, there are several advanced techniques that can be explored.
Custom Gas Port Drilling
While adjustable gas blocks offer a degree of control, achieving truly optimal performance may require custom tailoring the gas port size to your specific ammunition and rifle configuration. This involves carefully measuring the existing gas port size, calculating the optimal size based on your specific needs, and then precisely drilling the gas port to the desired dimensions. This requires specialized tools and expertise, so it’s best left to experienced gunsmiths.
Lightening the Bolt Carrier
Reducing the weight of the bolt carrier can decrease the amount of gas required to cycle the action, resulting in a smoother recoil impulse and faster cycling speeds. However, lightening the bolt carrier can also reduce the rifle’s reliability, so it’s essential to strike a balance between performance and reliability.
Testing, Testing and Testing
Once you’ve completed your AKM gas system modifications, it’s essential to thoroughly test the rifle to ensure it functions correctly and reliably.
Start by visually inspecting all components, ensuring everything is properly assembled and secured. Then, load a magazine with a variety of ammunition, including different bullet weights and power factors. Fire several rounds, observing the rifle’s cycling and ejection pattern. Pay close attention to any signs of malfunctions, such as short stroking, failure to feed, or failure to eject.
If the rifle functions reliably with all types of ammunition, you can then proceed to accuracy testing. Shoot several groups at a known distance, such as 50 or 100 yards, and measure the group sizes. Compare the group sizes to your baseline accuracy before the modifications. If the modifications have improved the rifle’s accuracy, you’re on the right track. If the accuracy has worsened, you may need to re-evaluate your modifications and make adjustments.
Concluding Remarks
Mastering the art of AKM gas system tuning is a journey that requires patience, attention to detail, and a willingness to learn. By understanding the principles behind gas regulation, employing proper techniques, and troubleshooting common issues, you can significantly enhance your AKM’s performance, improving its recoil impulse, accuracy, and overall lifespan.
The benefits of a well-tuned gas system extend beyond mere performance gains. A properly tuned gas system can also reduce wear and tear on internal components, prolonging the life of your rifle. Additionally, a smoother recoil impulse can improve your shooting comfort and control, allowing you to stay on target more easily and fire follow-up shots more quickly.
In the upcoming “Gunsmith Part Twenty,” we’ll be exploring the intricacies of barrel crowning and its impact on accuracy. Stay tuned for more advanced techniques and expert insights into the world of firearm modification and maintenance. Until then, happy gunsmithing! Remember to always prioritize safety and adhere to all applicable laws and regulations.
