My quandary:  A friend of mine built me a Yugo AK-47 with a parts kit and US made receiver that I purchased, along with all the necessary US parts.  He is an attorney and huge firearms enthusiast.

My problem is that I'm not sure exactly how much I trust his work.  Looks great and he claims that the no-go headspace gauge didn't go and that the go gauge fit just right.  

So my question is this:  what is the worst that can happen if the headspace is incorrect or if there is another malfunction due to his assembly?  Kaboom?  Should I worry about loosing fingers?

This is my first AK, although I own 5 ARs.  I can strip an AR in my sleep, but have NO experience with AKs.

Thanks for your time,
Papagallo

Use the tried a true DARKSIDE TESTING METHOD..

Let a buddy shoot it first!! hehehe, No just kidding.

Lash the rifle to a tree, load the mag with about 5 or so rounds..

Tie a long string to the trigger, and get back several yards, preferablly behind cover..

Fire all the shots with the string..

If the gun no KABOOM, inspect the empty casings for signs of overpressure..

If everthing seems OK you are good to go..

Use the tape trick that is talked about in this thread.  It may not be the best way to headspace a rifle, but it will tell you if he came close.

The BUILDER should always fire the first three rounds.  Makes no difference if its you or someone else.  Anyone that does not have the balls to fire what he (or she - sorry about the balls) builds is to be avoided.

Thanks for the info.