AK experts and gunsmiths in SA

**zguy** · 30-10-2024, 13:05

What stores and gunsmiths are considered AK experts in SA, particularly in Gauteng?
Im curious how easy it is to get rivets and who can actually install correctly without butchering the job.

Also curious on spares for the platform, not accessories

**Stevin** · 31-10-2024, 07:55

I'm curious if you're looking to replace a rear trunion?

I've kinda looked into it a little, not the hardest job with the right die and forming tools.
Considered it when I was rebuilding the T56, but meh cost is high for a aesthetic modification for my use.

**PeaceOfficer** · 31-10-2024, 08:26

Do we have skilled gunsmiths in general?
Been holding on doing some work on my shottie for years now simply because I'm risk averse!

**oafpatroll** · 31-10-2024, 09:10

I think I'd struggle to pay someone to set rivets for me.

**zguy** · 31-10-2024, 09:13

Originally Posted by Stevin

I'm curious if you're looking to replace a rear trunion?

I've kinda looked into it a little, not the hardest job with the right die and forming tools.
Considered it when I was rebuilding the T56, but meh cost is high for a aesthetic modification for my use.

Thinking about it , but not dead set on it. Depends on how I find the underfolder.

To buy rivet dies and a tool, is not worth it unless you going to be doing a lot of modifications.

**zguy** · 31-10-2024, 09:15

Originally Posted by PeaceOfficer

Do we have skilled gunsmiths in general?
Been holding on doing some work on my shottie for years now simply because I'm risk averse!

There are smiths with good reputations, but they normally specialize in a certain platform or modification.

For shotguns, there is a guy in Linbro Park i think, that is considered excellent. Seen his details on the forum a few times.

**zguy** · 31-10-2024, 09:16

Originally Posted by oafpatroll

I think I'd struggle to pay someone to set rivets for me.

I've seen your workmanship on your projects, I'm sure you could do an excellent job.

If the smith can do a proper rivet, and doesnt charge an arm and a leg, for someone like me, its worth it.

**oafpatroll** · 31-10-2024, 10:27

Originally Posted by zguy

If the smith can do a proper rivet, and doesnt charge an arm and a leg, for someone like me, its worth it.

Fair enough. Buying the tools and then learning to do something on a licensed part isn't the greatest idea.

**GAZZAMCK** · 31-10-2024, 10:32

https://polenartactical.com/shop/fur...apter-tdi.html

Are you wanting to go full stock?

**oafpatroll** · 31-10-2024, 10:36

Originally Posted by zguy

There are smiths with good reputations, but they normally specialize in a certain platform or modification.

For shotguns, there is a guy in Linbro Park i think, that is considered excellent. Seen his details on the forum a few times.

That would be Demotorque. Solid operation by all accounts.