Does the Saiga's handguard retaining plate

[Kayback 0]

work like a normal AK's? I've rotated the lever, but I can't get it to budge. Am I not using enough force or am I missing something?

 

KBK

[Spacehog 2,218]

I am assuming you are talking about the gas tube lock down lever on the Saiga. Yes it works just like all other AK's. They can be a little stubborn, especially if they are new or have not been taken off before. Look down from the top while rotating the lever. You will see when it disengages the gas tube. You may have to temporarily remove the bottom handguard to get enough leverage to remove the gas tube. It gets easier the more it is removed and reinstalled. Good luck.

[Kayback 0]

Actually no, I got that bit off, and yeah it was harder than any other AK I've used, but it is the bottom hand guard I'm trying to remove. My Saiga came in AK-103 setup so I have an AK handguard, not a Saiga hunting rifle handguard.

 

KBK

[Spacehog 2,218]

Is the lower handguard retainer a solid piece, where you must press off the gas block to remove, or is it a two piece aftermarket with set screws? I am assuming if it has a locking lever, it looks like a standard AK lower retaining bracket. If that is the case I would expect that you are doing the right thing, it is just being stubborn.

[Kayback 0]

Yeah thanks. Stubborn it was. Lackey Imperialist Westerner not strong enough to work good Russian equipment! It's all working now.

 

KBK