Front sight block questions

[TxAgSaiga1979 16]

If you remove and re-position the FSB (for the purpose of threading the barrel to accomodate a muzzle brake or flash hider) is it possible to re-use the original pins? Or do you have to purchase something aftermarket?

 

How about drills/reamers for the 2nd hole you have to machine?

 

Thoughts? I'm considering threading for a brake for my 308.

[Sdustin 578]

I'd also like to know this. As well as if it's possible to thread it in this way and be accurate enough for a silencer eventually I'd like to get a YHM phantom 7.62 Ti

[ColoradoKLR650 4]

I believe most re-use their pins if they can get them out without major destruction and don't need to correct a canted FSB.

 

If necessary, new pins are as easy as buying the right size drill bit, cutting it, then grinding down the two pieces to the length of the original pins.

 

Your FSB may be pinned on in a canted position. To fix this, many redrill/machine the pin holes a hair wider and are sure to be as a straight as possible in preparation for new slightly larger pins. If you're moving your FSB back for threading, you definitely will end up drilling/machine at least one entirely new slot for the rearward pin. When I threaded my barrel I had my FSB tack welded in place as straight as my eyeball could see and am happy with it.

 

There are many videos on YouTube about removing, installing, and making FSB pins and fixing canted sights.

 

Regarding threading for a suppressor, generally you want concentric threading (done on a lathe) for that application. But I've read online that the bore of AK barrels aren't even cut concentricly which means concentric threading would be pointless. Note that this was just something I read online, not something I heard from a gunsmith. In the end I'd look at what other people are doing for their suppressed AKs...did they thread their barrels on a lathe or by hand and what were the results?

Edited January 14, 2013 by ColoradoKLR650