Safety First!
Verify the Firearm is Unloaded
This is the absolute first step. Always treat every firearm as if it is loaded. Ensure the magazine is removed. Then, pull back the charging handle and visually inspect the chamber to make sure there’s no round present. If you have any doubt, double-check. Physically feel the barrel and ensure no objects are there.
Point the Muzzle in a Safe Direction
This applies at all times, not just during disassembly. Make sure the muzzle is pointed in a direction where, should an accidental discharge occur, it won’t cause harm or damage. Usually, this means pointing it in a clear area away from people, pets, and anything you don’t want to be destroyed.
Remove the Magazine
This is essential for safety. Even if the chamber is clear, a loaded magazine can still pose a risk. Remove the magazine and set it aside in a safe place.
Be Aware of Your Surroundings
Make sure you have a safe, well-lit, and uncluttered workspace. Be mindful of where you are and who is around you.
Know and Obey the Law
Familiarize yourself with all local, state, and federal laws pertaining to firearm ownership, handling, and maintenance. Disassembly and maintenance could be restricted in certain regions.
Protective Gear
It’s a good practice to use safety glasses to protect your eyes from debris and a well-ventilated area. If you have sensitive skin or are working with solvents, consider wearing gloves.
Necessary Tools and Materials
Cleaning Rod or Substitute
This is used to push out the bolt. If you do not have the original cleaning rod, a solid, non-marring rod or dowel of the appropriate size will suffice. Avoid using anything that could damage the barrel.
Cleaning Solvent
This is essential for dissolving powder residue, carbon buildup, and other contaminants. Choose a quality solvent specifically designed for firearms.
Lubricant
After cleaning, you’ll need a lubricant to protect the metal parts from corrosion and ensure smooth operation. Use a gun-specific lubricant.
Cleaning Patches or Brushes
Patches are used to clean the barrel and other components. Brushes help remove stubborn debris. Choose the appropriate size for your barrel.
Small Tools (Optional)
A small punch or pin punch might be useful for removing stubborn pins, especially on older rifles. Make sure these are the correct sizes for your rifle.
Work Surface
A clean and stable work surface is crucial. Avoid working on surfaces that can be easily damaged, such as wood or metal.
Lighting
Adequate lighting is essential to see small parts and the details of the mechanism.
Disassembly: The Process Unfolded
Magazine Removal
This is your first step. Depress the magazine release lever, which is located behind the magazine well. The magazine should drop free. If the magazine sticks, remove the bolt carrier and bolt to help it.
Chamber Check
After removing the magazine, pull back the charging handle fully and lock it to the rear. Visually and manually inspect the chamber to ensure it’s empty. If there’s a cartridge in the chamber, remove it.
Dust Cover Removal
Locate the release button, typically found at the rear of the receiver. Push the button and lift the dust cover upwards and away from the receiver. The dust cover protects the internal components from dirt and debris.
Recoil Spring Assembly Removal
Grasp the rear of the recoil spring assembly. Pull it rearward, and then lift it up and out of the receiver. Be careful. The spring is under tension.
Bolt Carrier and Bolt Removal
Grasp the charging handle of the bolt carrier. Pull the bolt carrier fully to the rear and lift it up and out of the receiver rails. This might require a little bit of manipulation, as the bolt carrier needs to slide freely along the receiver. Then, carefully pull the bolt carrier forward.
Bolt Disassembly (Optional)
This can be done during a more thorough cleaning. Remove the bolt from the bolt carrier. The firing pin can now be removed, followed by the extractor. This part might be difficult to remove and may require some force or a special tool.
Gas Tube Removal
Press the gas tube lever, which is often located on the front sight block. Then, slide the gas tube off.
Handguard Removal (If applicable)
Depending on the AK-47 variant, handguard removal can vary. On most models, the lower handguard will slide forward after the retaining lever is released. Upper handguards are often held by the gas tube.
Cleaning and Lubrication: Maintaining Precision
Barrel Cleaning
Solvent Application
Attach a cleaning patch to the cleaning rod. Apply the cleaning solvent to the patch and push it through the barrel from the chamber end to the muzzle. Repeat this several times, allowing the solvent to dissolve fouling.
Bore Brushing
Use a bore brush specifically designed for your caliber. Push the brush through the barrel from the chamber end to the muzzle, scrubbing the inside of the barrel. Repeat this several times. Then, use a dry brush to remove any loose debris.
Patches and Inspection
Continue using clean patches, pushing them through the barrel until they come out clean. Check for any remaining fouling. Once the patches are clean, allow the barrel to dry completely.
Component Cleaning
Bolt Carrier, Bolt, and Other Parts
Use solvent and a brush to clean the bolt carrier, bolt, and other components. Remove any carbon buildup, grease, or debris. You can use a small brush to get into hard-to-reach areas.
Wiping and Drying
Once the parts are clean, wipe them down with a clean cloth to remove any remaining solvent residue. Allow them to air dry completely.
Lubrication
Key Areas
Apply a thin coat of gun lubricant to key areas, such as the bolt carrier rails, bolt, firing pin, and other moving parts. Use a small brush or cotton swab to apply the lubricant accurately.
Avoid Over-Lubricating
Don’t over-lubricate. Excessive lubricant can attract dirt and debris, leading to malfunctions. A light coat is usually sufficient.
Reassembly: Putting It Back Together
Reverse the Steps
Go through the disassembly steps in reverse order.
Alignment is Key
Ensure each part is correctly aligned and seated properly.
Bolt Carrier and Bolt Alignment
Insert the bolt into the bolt carrier. Reinstall the bolt carrier and bolt assembly into the receiver, ensuring it slides smoothly along the rails.
Dust Cover Installation
Reattach the dust cover, ensuring it is securely latched.
Function Check
Charging Handle
Pull back the charging handle and release it to ensure the bolt cycles smoothly.
Trigger Pull
Test the trigger pull to make sure the trigger works correctly and the hammer drops.
Visual Inspection
Double-check all components to ensure everything is properly installed.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Failure to Feed
This can be caused by a dirty magazine, a worn magazine, or a problem with the feeding lips. Try cleaning the magazine or replacing it with a known-good magazine.
Failure to Extract
This can be caused by a dirty or worn extractor, a dirty chamber, or weak ammunition. Clean the extractor, ensure the chamber is clean, and try different ammunition.
Failure to Eject
This can be caused by a dirty or worn ejector, a dirty chamber, or weak ammunition. Inspect and clean the ejector and chamber.
Conclusion
Disassembling and maintaining your AK-47 is a rewarding experience that can greatly enhance your understanding of this fascinating firearm. By following this comprehensive guide, you can confidently disassemble, clean, and reassemble your AK-47.
Regular maintenance is not just about aesthetics; it directly contributes to your firearm’s reliability and longevity. It also increases safety by allowing you to inspect all of the firearm’s parts for damage.
Always prioritize safety and follow all local, state, and federal laws regarding firearms. Responsible firearm ownership requires a commitment to education, practice, and adherence to the law.
