How to remove gas tube on a Saiga sporing rifle?

[random_gun]

I turned the level to horizontal, then vertical, but it didn't come loose at all. Is there anything special with this rifle?
Thanks

 

[Deus Machina]

Remove the bolt, if you haven't. The gas piston fits down the tube and prevents it coming off.

Then move the lever past vertical and swing it back and forth until you can pop the tube up. You can see the locking bar across the top; you have to match the flat portion with the lock portion of the tube.

They tend to be tight when they're new.

 

[Pyzik]

Mine was VERY tight when new. You might have to use something for leverage. Before I installed an AK gas tube I actually filed down the saiga one a bit.

 

[Deus Machina]

Yeah, I actually wrapped some paracord under mine so I could get a good enough grip to tug good and hard on it.

I like it snug, but after moving it a few times it's more of a solid 'pop' than needing a running start.

 

[JohnnyK]

I use needle nose pliers to move the lever on mine when they are new to take apart and clean and lube.

 

[M1key]

Make sure lever is in the up position. Pry up on the tube gently with flat blade screwdriver.

M

 

[Deus Machina]

Also: for some reason, mine needs me to apply pressure up, turn the lever past the up position until it pops out of place, then turn is back slightly to actually remove it.

No idea why, doesn't bother me, but it's odd.

 

[Double Vision]

I was stumped by this too.
There's a slot on the cleaning kit tube that the lever fits into and you can use it as a grip to turn the lever.