What does it take to turn a receiver flat into a receiver?

[Marnoot]

Tapco is selling these BATF approved Yugo AK underfolder receiver flats:
http://www.tapco.com/product_information.asp?number=AK0678&back=yes&dept=28&last=.

What kind of work/machining/etc. would it take to turn this and a parts kit into a semi-auto AK clone? I'm assuming making these into a working rifle is legal?

 

[Technosavant]

Looks like you just need to bend it appropriately and then stamp a serial # onto it. Then just build it up (using the appropriate # of US made parts, of course).

I believe you can build all of these you want for your own use, but you are not allowed to make them for sale.

I've never done a build of such a thing, so somebody more knowledgable will likely be along shortly.

 

[Creeping Incrementalism]

I've seen instuctions on the Internet about turning AK flats into functioning receivers, and as I recall you need some serious machines, as in some sort of stamp press. It didn't appear easy as in you just drill some holes...

 

[kfranz]

A 7th grade reading comprehension level, a positive attitude, and a couple of flats 'fer in case you screw one up.

Don't need no serial number, don't need no permission, don't need no serious machines or any experience bending stuff or putting stuff together.

Seriously though, a $100 press and a $130 flat bending jig go a LONG way toward simplifiying the process. I've seen pics of a guy using his car as the press, and have myself bashed flats into shape with a $30 home made jig and a BFH, so it can be done for less. You'll need a $10 tap if you do a screw build, or some sort of rivet appliance if you do a rivet build.

It ain't rocket science, and the tooling investment will set you back less than the price of a new WASR, less than the price of a lo-cap WASR if you buy used.

 

[>SHOCK<^>WAVE<]

I think you need to heat treat it as well.

 

[model 649]

Gotta figure if a bunch of kids in caves can do it, so can you. Join the discussion/search here, in the AK forum:http://www.ar15.com/

Or here, these guys can help you out, too:http://www.gunsnet.net/forums/index.php?
One of those places has some discussion of several successful welded builds with pix.
Josh