The WASR-10, a Romanian-made variant of the AK-47 rifle, is a perfectly reliable rifle, overall. However, like any piece of equipment it is plagued with a few occasional issues.
Whether you are in the process of deciding to buy it, or are already an owner of this beast, you need to know the common issues that come as a part of the parcel.
So buckle up as we list the common occasional hiccups that you experience owning a WASR-10 AK-47.
Canted Front Sight
Imagine lining up your shot only to find that your aim is consistently off. This issue can often be traced back to a canted front sight. When the front sight isn’t correctly aligned with the barrel, accuracy suffers.
This problem can occur due to manufacturing errors, rough handling during shipping, or improper assembly.
Solution
To rectify this, you can adjust the front sight block using the appropriate tools and instructions provided in your rifle’s manual.
However, if you lack the necessary skills or tools, it’s advisable to consult a skilled gunsmith. They can ensure the front sight is correctly aligned, improving your rifle’s accuracy.
Magazine Wobble
Feeling your magazine wobble inside the rifle can be disconcerting. It’s not only a nuisance but can also lead to feeding problems, affecting your shooting experience.
These issues can often be attributed to magazine quality or minor manufacturing variations.
Solution
There are two main solutions. First, ensure you’re using magazines designed for the WASR-10 that fit securely.
If magazine wobble persists, you can slightly modify the magazine well for a more snug fit. This can involve adding shims or adjusting the magazine catch.
Trigger Slap
Trigger slap is an uncomfortable and potentially painful problem, where the trigger mechanism causes the trigger to hit the shooter’s finger during recoil. It can be distracting and affect your accuracy.
Solution
To mitigate trigger slap, consider replacing the trigger group with an upgraded, smoother trigger. This change can significantly enhance your shooting comfort and precision.
Various aftermarket trigger components (like trigger spring, hammer, trigger axis pin, hammer spring, etc.) are available for this purpose.
Loose Furniture
“Loose furniture” in the context of firearms refers to components that are typically wooden, such as handguards and stocks, and are not securely attached to the firearm’s frame.
When these parts become loose or wobbly, it can harm shooting stability and accuracy.
Solution
Tighten any loose parts on your rifle. For handguards, check the handguard retainer and ensure it’s secure.
If problems persist, consider replacing the handguards or stock with sturdier alternatives.
Firing Pin Issues
Firing pin issues can arise from wear and tear caused by repeated use. Corrosion may develop due to exposure to various environmental conditions.
Additionally, the accumulation of dirt and debris in the firing pin channel is another common problem. If that’s the case use a quality gun cleaner, like the Original Gun Oil, to clean and lubricate the components.
These issues collectively hinder the firing pin’s ability to strike the primer effectively. Consequently, this can result in misfires or the failure to discharge ammunition.
Solution
Regularly inspect the firing pin and its related components ( retaining pin, firing pin spring and firing pin channel) for wear or damage. If you notice any problems, it’s essential to replace the faulty parts promptly.
A properly functioning firing pin is crucial for consistent and reliable shooting.
Failure to Feed (FTF)
Experiencing a “Failure to Feed” (FTF) issue with a firearm can be both frustrating and potentially dangerous.
This problem occurs when a round of ammunition fails to enter the chamber correctly during the firing cycle.
This can result from various factors such as ammunition jams, magazine problems, feed ramp issues, or extractor and ejector malfunctions.
FTF issues can lead to firearm malfunctions, misfires, or potentially hazardous situations.
Solution
To address FTF problems, consider polishing the feed ramp to ensure smooth cartridge feeding.
Additionally, invest in high-quality magazines designed for the WASR-10 and use reliable ammunition. This combination will significantly reduce the occurrence of feeding issues.
Gas Block Misalignment
If your WASR-10 rifle isn’t cycling correctly, a possible reason is a misaligned gas block. This component directs gas from the fired round to operate the rifle’s cycling mechanism.
Misaligning the gas block can cause insufficient gas pressure, leading to problems such as failure to eject spent casings, erratic cycling, and reduced accuracy and reliability.
Solution
Correcting a misaligned gas block requires precision. It’s recommended to seek professional assistance if you suspect this issue. Attempting to realign it yourself may lead to further complications.
8: Excessive Recoil
Excessive recoil in the WASR-10 can have adverse effects on both accuracy and the shooter’s comfort.
This issue often arises from factors like the type of ammunition used, the fit of the stock, firearm setup, and incorrect shooting techniques.
Solution
To mitigate excessive recoil in your WASR-10, consider these solutions.
First, opt for ammunition with lower recoil that matches your shooting needs. Ensure your stock is adjusted correctly for a comfortable fit and use aftermarket recoil pads to reduce felt recoil.
Experiment with various muzzle devices like compensators or brakes, bearing in mind potential increases in noise and muzzle blast.
Invest in firearm training to improve your shooting technique, focusing on grip, stance, and follow-through. Utilize recoil management accessories like recoil pads, specialized buttstocks, or grips designed to reduce recoil.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the WASR-10, while known for its robustness, can encounter these common issues. Armed with these in-depth solutions, you can address these problems and keep your rifle functioning optimally.
Remember that regular maintenance and safe firearm handling practices are paramount to ensure your shooting experience remains safe and enjoyable. Happy shooting!
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