Thread: Saiga 7.62x39 receiver bulge?

I've owned a couple AKs before, but this was my first Saiga. I bought it used for a good price and even got to shoot it before buying. I didn't notice this until after I got it home and got a better look while I was cleaning it.

There apprears to be a small bulge on the right side of the receiver around where the dimple should be and where the rail is welded on the inside. I was wondering if this could cause some problems further down the road with more rounds put through it? The bolt and carrier slide along the rails fine





That top (right side) rail looks a little distorted

Seems as if it was dropped. I would take it to the range and if it works, I'd leave it alone. In fact, I am pretty sure it will work just fine. That's how AKs are, so forgiving. It is one of the advantages of the AK platform.

I have built a few AK receivers flats. Once I tempered the holes too aggressively and the receiver warped not too different to what I see here. Since I was the builder, I figured a way to fix it. In your case, I do not recommend you try to "fix" it. Lower rails spot welds may come off, and that will ruin your whole day.

Just my non-expert opinion.

I wouldn't worry about it in the least, there is a lot of room for error in an AK/Saiga.

From the pictures. It looks like there maybe some interfere with the safety arm. Cartridges may not eject as well as before. Stubbing a little on that side. I've seen worse and not have a problem.