Okay so I finally caved and bought an AK.  Don't get excited its only a WASR-10...but I checked it out myself, made sure the sights were straight, and checked all of the rivets.  I have taken it to the range and put it through a few paces (about 250rnds) and not one hiccup.  Now I have a few questions.  

1)  I'd eventually like to put a side folder on the thing.  I'm assuming I'll have to use a US made stock correct?  Also, how do I remove the wooden buttstock?  I removed two screws and it still was in there pretty tight.  Is there another screw or do I have to get a little rough with it to get it out?

2)  Luckily the barrel is threaded...but unfortunately it has either a spot weld or a spot of silver solder on it where the thread protector meets the barrel in front of the cleaning rod retainer.  Is it solder or a weld?  Its parked over it.  How can I remove this myself?  Tip of a solder gun or is it going to need taken off by a smith?

3)  If the spot is just solder, what should I use to cover the bare metal after I get it off of the thread protector?  If its not that bad I'm not going to worry about it.

4)  What are the threads dimensions under the thread protector?  I'd like to get a slant brake to put on the muzzle.

ETA :  5) I need to adjust the windage a little bit to the right.  Do I have to buy a sight tool or can I get away with just using a small c-clamp?


Thanks for the help and so far I'm enjoying my new AK.  I already have plans to get a AK-74 side folder built around christmas now!

This site should answer all your questions.  

http://www.gunsnet.net/Linx310/furnitureremoval.htm

1. No you dont have to have a US folder...Some butt stocks put up a good fight when trying to remove dont let it beat ya...
2. Dremel..
3. High temp paint at local hardware store...
4. 14mm-1.0LH..
5. Yes you can..
6. Welcome to the darkside..

i would double check to make sure that it is treaded.  if it has a tread protector it probably is not.  the threads were turned off and the nut look-a-like was pressed on before they came to the US.  if it is indeed a WASR with a threaded barrel it should have a slant brake on it and the treads will be odd size 1/2 x 20 (done in the US by Century).  

edit: they are tack welded on