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smilingbob

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Posts posted by smilingbob

  2. New Saiga 12 Owner Introduction

    in Saiga-12

    Posted

    Thanks for your feedback, Pro2A!

     

    The best advice I can give you is to just start searching the forums as there's a good chance all of your questions have been answered before. The first step would be to familiarize yourself with your shotgun inside and out. Read your instruction manual, read up on all of the information you can find and study pictures and videos. Theoretically, you could be able to run any ammunition you want provided you've adjusted your gas plug for the correct type of ammunition.

     

    High and Low Brass refer to how far the brass extends along the side of the shell:

     

    hlbrass1.jpg

     

     

    Generally speaking, bigger loads (e.g. Buckshot and Shells) will extend further along the side of the shell (like the black one in the middle of the picture above) while lighter loads (e.g. birdshot and target loads) won't extend as far (like the one on the end). If you're using your factory gas plug, you'll want to be sure that it's set properly for the type of ammunition you're using.

     

    Keep in mind that I'm also VERY new to the Saiga 12 platform, this is my first S12, and I haven't made any permanent alterations to it. That said, I hope anything I've shared helps point you in the right direction, but please don't rely solely on me as everything I've learned has been from others who have graciously shared their time and knowledge on this forum.

     

    I hope that helps!

  3. New Saiga 12 Owner Introduction

    in Saiga-12

    Posted

    I had a chance to do a little shooting last night, so here's a video showing it in action:

     

     

    Keep in mind that I'm a lefty, so I'm still getting used to shooting right handed :). My goal for this video was just to get something out there as I'm not aware of any other shooting demonstrations featuring this stock. The ones Center Balanced Systems put out previously were for the S12 Standard stock. The only other video with the Spike Base stock that I'm aware of is the

    CBRPS put out.

     

    greedy.gif

     

    I think it handles pretty well for the weight, and the recoil isn't bad, though in fairness, I'm using target loads so next time I'll try it with 3" rounds!

     

    Enjoy the video, more to come!

  5. New Saiga 12 Owner Introduction

    in Saiga-12

    Posted · Edited by smilingbob

    Hi GunFun,

     

    Yes, it comes with two trigger bars, one for an unconverted and one for the converted. Here are some additional Specs:

     

    Overall Length (including the JT Engineering muzzle brake):
    33 7/16" (30" without the muzzle brake, 41" originally)

    Length of Pull:
    16" (14.5" originally?)

    Weight:
    10-11 lbs unloaded, depending on magazine (7.5-8 lbs originally?)

     

    It's a little on the hefty side, but by no means unmanageable as the balance makes it very easy to control. This is particularly important for me given that I'm left-handed, but would have to shoot with my right hand if I want to shoulder it. As it stands, I can fire the weapon with only my right hand alone (I shot a video of this last night, and will post it this evening).

     

    The Draco kit looks pretty good, though

    with the factory 30-round mags. Here are the details concerning that from the CBRPS website:

     

    Note: Some Draco pistols that utilize receivers that were originally set up for underfolder rear stocks will have fit issues, and may only be able to easily accomodate 20 round mags. 30 rounders may work but not perfectly.

     

    I hope that helps!

  6. New Saiga 12 Owner Introduction

    in Saiga-12

    Posted · Edited by smilingbob

    I honestly couldn't say about loudness of it with or without the brake, I always wear ear protection so I don't notice grimace.gif ...

    The muzzle brake really does a great job of controlling muzzle rise on follow up shots, and the recoil (which isn't too bad) just goes straight back. I'm going to try to get out to the ranch today and do some more shooting, and I'll post videos!

     

     

    I'm using an MD Arms V-Plug, and the top half of the barrel shroud has a notch cut out of of it, so there should be plenty of room for a TAC47 Auto plug too. Here' a picture of it:

     

    photo.jpg

  9. New Saiga 12 Owner Introduction

    in Saiga-12

    Posted

    Quick update, from CBRPS:

     

    08/03/2012

     

    "Saiga 12 Production Update - The batch for customers who ordered anodized units in April is supposed to get back from the anodizer in about a week or so. We'll start invoicing when we can put them together."

     

    Hopefully, I get my invoiced in the next couple of weeks or so. Wish me luck!

  10. New Saiga 12 Owner Introduction

    in Saiga-12

    Posted

    @renegade331

    LOL I don't know what that means ;)...

     

    @dayofruin

    Thank you for your warm welcome! I have my order in for the CBRPS bullpup stock for this one, I saw that Sian had posted pictures of his here, and it looks like it turned out pretty nice! I'll post some videos when it comes in, but I'm probably looking at a good 3-4 months out yet on production. I've been in communication with Bernie the owner, and he's been very responsive and helpful.

     

    Although this is my first Saiga 12, I'm absolutely certain this won't be my last, and I will likely buy another one at some point and do a proper conversion (read: restoration to it's original glory ;)...) on it!

     

    @BOB A. BOOEY

    LOL government bastards indeed ;)...ah well, look at it like this: if they imported them military-style, it would take the fun out of converting them ourselves hehe...

     

    @GunFun

    I can appreciate where you're coming from! I'm sure it can be frustrating when a person insists on learning something the hard way! All you can do is smile and know that at least you tried ;). For what it's worth, thank you and the other senior forum members for doing a thankless job, I appreciate you keeping me safe on the 922r compliance advice!

     

    On another note, I did get a chance the watch the video you posted in your signature! Impressive stuff, not just on the closed bolt loading technique, but the work on your converted Saigas! That first one with the wood furniture (at least I think it's wood?) and what looks like an AK-74 style muzzle break is BEAUTIFUL! The other one with the mag well looks really impressive (and very practical) also!

     

     

    @Nitukamots

    I had a similar experience with mine out of the box. I did pick up an MD Arms V-Plug, booster piston and 20-round drum mag. I got rained out on Saturday and had family obligations on Sunday, so didn't get a chance to try it, but from what I understand, I should be able to shoot Federal bulk from the hip if the plug is tuned to the right settings. Otherwise, it fed fine with the factory mag, plug and piston when shouldered.

     

    I look forward to seeing what you'll end up doing with yours! I've been very impressed with some of the builds others have put together and posted in the galleries, and it's already giving me ideas for my next one :D (after all, where is it written that I can only own one? :D hehe...)

  12. New Saiga 12 Owner Introduction

    in Saiga-12

    Posted

    @GunFun

     

    Thank you for posting the updated checklist, I'll see what I can do about rigging up a replacement floor-plate, but I don't really have the tools on-hand for that. Are there any US manufacturers that make a replacement floor plate? I know you can find those for the steel AK mags, but haven't seen any for a Saiga 12.

     

    Worst case scenario, I can always stick with US-made mags to ensure compliance, or maybe replace the operating rod with a US-made one?

     

    http://store.carolinashooterssupply.com/servlet/-strse-803/CGW-SAIGA-12-HEAVY/Detail

     

    Thanks again

  13. need suggestions on red dot sight

    in Saiga-12

    Posted

    I bought a PFI Rapid Reticle Quad-Reticle Red Dot from Woot.com a few months ago. At the time, they were retailing for ~$450, but I picked mine up for $129! I believe they gone down in price since then, but that's the red dot in my profile picture. I have it mounted on my WASR 10/63 using a Kalinka quick-detach low-profile side rail. I'm not the kind of person that would normally blow $400-500 on an optic, but at $129, I couldn't pass it up!

     

    It's very durable, doesn't require tools to adjust windage/elevation, has 4 reticles to choose from, and an 8-day battery life for continuous use on full power!

  15. New Saiga 12 Owner Introduction

    in Saiga-12

    Posted · Edited by smilingbob

    I picked up the Saiga 12 at my FFL's place Friday night, it was still light out so we decided to see how it performed out of the box! Considered it only had a little oil on it from the factory and the internals weren't worn it, it didn't quite cycle low brass 2 3/4" rounds, but did great with 3" turkey loads!

     

    I took it home, cleaned it up, oiled it and worked the action a couple hundred times while watching TV, tried it out yesterday with Federal bulk and 3" Winchester steel shot both shot great! The other good news is that CBRPS is currently taking orders on their Saiga 12 Spike Bullpup stocks, I went ahead and ordered mine and got my confirmation from Bernie this morning.

     

    From what I can tell, he'll be taking orders on these until April 15, then they'll go into production/send out invoices the second half of the month and ship when completed.

     

    Hopefully, that should place it out for delivery sometime early May! Can't wait!

  17. New Saiga 12 Owner Introduction

    in Saiga-12

    Posted · Edited by smilingbob

    @GAG

    ClassicFirearms.com didn't process payment for either order, so no harm, no foul there, but I agree that if I pay for something, I should know when I'm going to get it!

     

    @Caged

    Will do!

     

    @GunFun

    Thank you, that's a very valid concern! I did take a look at the sticky on this forum for Saiga's and reviewed the checklist.From what I understood, the only parts remaining after the conversion and installing the booster piston should be:

    1. Receiver
    2. Barrel
    3. Bolt
    4. Bolt Carrier
    5. Trigger
    6. Hammer
    7. Disconnector
    8. magazine body
    9. Magazine follower
    10. Magazine floor plate

    I plan on using after-market US-made magazines, so I should be ok? My only other experience with 922r is on the AK47 platform. Thanks again, and I appreciate all of the tips and suggestions!

  19. New Saiga 12 Owner Introduction

    in Saiga-12

    Posted · Edited by smilingbob

    Hi GAG,

     

    I can't wait, shooting my friend's Saiga was an absolute joy, and so I'm looking forward to getting mine! Thankfully, I live in Missouri, so I'm not limited to low capacity magazines :)...I've learned a lot from this forum, and hope to continue to hear be able to enjoy this great community!

  20. New Saiga 12 Owner Introduction

    in Saiga-12

    Posted · Edited by smilingbob

    Quick update, I ended up having to cancel my order with ClassicFirearms, they over sold the factory Saiga 12's and can't say when they'll have them again sad.png...It's a real shame because they're always friendly and helpful, very pleasant to work with! Unfortunately, that's the second order I've placed with them that I've had to cancel due to unavailability on an item advertised as "in stock" sad.png...

     

    Still I would do business with them again, and appreciate that they did call me to let me know.Between the two orders, I would have given them about $1,000 worth of business sad.png...

     

    I was able to find one on GunBroker for about the same price, so it all worked out!

    • Like 1

  21. New Saiga 12 Owner Introduction

    in Saiga-12

    Posted

    Hello All,

     

    I recently became the proud owner of a Saiga 12, and am looking forward to enjoying my new shotgun! I bought the factory stock model from classicfirearms.com, and picked up an MD Arms V-Plug and Booster Piston.

     

    I first got my hands on a converted Saiga 12 about 2 or 3 years ago, and have wanted on ever since! I've been looking at after-market stock/grip/fore-end options, and am strongly leaning toward a CBRPS Spike bullpup kit (anodized black).

     

    Here are my thoughts/intentions:

    • I wanted a pistol grip, but I'm not keen on making permanent alterations to the shotgun
    • I'd like to have mounting rails for sights, a flashlight, possibly a vertical fore-grip...may get a combination grip/flashlight...will have to give some more thought
    • I'm looking at some muzzle brakes, and am strongly leaning toward the JT Engineering Competition Brake
    • I would enjoy having a bullpup style weapon in my arsenal!

    After looking around on the forums here, I saw that a few people have ordered them seemed to have pretty good luck with them, so I'm looking forward to getting mine! Keep your fingers cross for me, I'm waiting to see if CBRPS will have my kit in their next round, Bernie's very helpful and responsible, and should have an answer next week.

     

    Will post pictures and a video when I get it put together!

     

    Thanks all

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