Do you know anyone that can check headspace in the SLC area?  Recommend a gunsmith that has done it for you?

Thanks!

Try calling these guys. Last time I was in there there were specializing in AKs and Saigas.
High Energy Arms
Address: s 84010, 1635 S 500 W, Woods Cross, UT 84010
Phone:(801) 296-2744

Barlow's Custom Guns is best known for their work on 1911's, but they make some awsome custom AK's.

2698 S Redwood Rd, West Valley City, UT 84119

(801) 973-4788

I'm thinking you probably got it done by now. I don't get to the htf very often. If you have a 5.45x39 or 7.62x39 I'll be happy to do it fo free. The problem is I'm up around the Brigham area.

Thanks to everyone that has posted.



Very COOL offer.  THANKS!

No problem. I'm having so much fun building these. Just thought I'd help someone out.

Just curious why do you think your rifle has a h/s issue? Is it a homebuild or store bought? Maybe it is something easily fixed.

No problem.  I purchased an Arsenal SLR-107UR that was new, never fired.  Upon getting around to fully inspecting the rifle, I noticed the bolt numbers did not match (55 numbers off) the rest of the rifle (trunnion, bolt carrier & dust cover).  Without doubt, the rifle was unfired.  The previous owner offered to take it back, but I declined.  I wanted this rifle.  My concern was that with the bolt number being different, it wasn't likely head spaced with the rifle as it was assembled.

When I called Arsenal, they were initially very helpful.  They explained that it was likely switched out during the assembly, by mistake.  The builder likely grabbed the wrong one as he/she was putting it back together after painting...  I was getting ready to send it back to Arsenal and they then informed me that it was too old for them do cover it under warranty, even though it was new...

I was able to talk with a Gunsmith in SLC and he took the time to do a safety check on the bolt to the rifle.  I made sure the rifle was on SAFE.  He had me pull the bolt from the carrier and insert a new cartridge into the bolt face, under the extractor.  Then slide the bolt w/ cartridge into the chamber and check to make sure the bolt locks into the trunnion completely and that there isn't excessive play, or too tight.  He explained that as long as this was ok, the rifle will be safe to fire.  Once I fire it, I can check the spent cartridge for any signs of excessive head spacing and measure the cartridge for growth.  

Things have checked out well by following his instructions.  Next time I head to Cache County, I'll give you a heads up and see if you're available to check it out with the gauges.

While that was more of a expedient method I think you're fine. Arsenal factory builds are considered to be some of the best. If it was a century build I would worry, as some of thiers I have checked have been functional, but all over the place from loose to tight. If it was mine the ocd in me would want to gauge it.  Just keep an eye on your fired cases and anything abnormal while shooting it. Have fun.