Muzzle Brake Change

[rayman1]

First, a big hello from South Korea to everyone back in the world! Haven't written on the boards for a while.

Just wondering - I bought a Hesse RPK a long while back and it has the standard AK74-type muzzle brake that looks to be just spot-welded on. I think it would be nice to permanently affix a flat AK47-type muzzle nut to make it look more original. Naturally, being stationed here in Korea, this idea is more idle-thinking than anything as I won't see my personal firearms for some time.

Seeing some other member's RPK's in this fashion just got me thinking about it but I'm not totally sure of the legalities or the physical means of doing this. Any input from other RPK-ers would sure be appreciated.

[mbakercad]

I'm having a RPK built myself, originally I sent along an AK74 brake to be installed. Once I found out most RPK's were made with the muzzle nut I had one sent to be installed on mine.

Legally you should be fine as long as you comply with the proper number of US parts and have it permanently attached.

I believe you need 5 US parts if you do not have a muzzle attachment, 6 if you do. I would buy a US made muzzle nut just to be sure.

[rayman1]

I have actually have a US-made muzzle nut so I'm OK in that department. I was just wondering what the best way is to remove that brake, as I have no real experience with welds. I'm pretty sure the barrel is threaded and I'm wondering if one were to simply cut-through the weld would it come off.

Anyone with any experience/knowledge in this area? This lowly soldier would appreciate it!

[mbakercad]

I was able to use a small file to get through the tack weld on my Maadi. The process did take awhile but worked. Once through the weld it simpily twists off.

Not sure of the correct name, but a spring loaded peg is located on the bottom of the front site. Just press it in to release the muzzle attachment.

[rayman1]

Excellent! Thanks for the info. That's what I was looking for. When I get back stateside, I'll try that technique. I kinda' thought that all I would need to do is to get through the tack weld. Then the muzzle brake would just twist off as usual. I just wanted to be sure.

Not an AK/RPK question but a bipod-bearing gun nonetheless. Does anyone have an MG34 or interested in this weapon? Trying to locate some of the silent masses who have one but have nowhere to go to talk about it.

[mbakercad]

http://www.mg34.com/

Not too much information, just sales at that site. If you have not already, I recommend making a new post in the general discussion or automatic weapons forums.

[MIG21]

rayman1,
E-mail me if you get a chance, since you are in Korea I have a question that you might be able to answer for me.
Thanks,
MIG21

[rayman1]

Thanks for all the advice, guys. My computer was down for a while but I'm back to speed again.

Seems like North Korea is getting worked-up again. If they keep acting up, I may be able to get some real "close-up" photos of some North Korean RPK's in the future.

MIG21 - I sent an e-mail to you. What's up?