Quoted:
Quoted: I own two VEPRs, one I have in its original configuration, the second I wanted to clone a "classic" AK with - just to have one. I like the quality and accuracy of the VEPR but like the look of classic AKs as well, in other words I am trying to get the best of both worlds.
Does Krebs still do VEPR conversions?
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Kreb's no longer does any custom work for individuals, only "production custom" work.
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Biggerstick is correct. Krebs no longer does the custom stuff for individuals. There is a way to get a standard lower handguard on Vepr, but you would have to have access to a mill. You mill a new lower handguard retainer in the same dimensions as a standard one, then cut it in half horizontally. Slot the back side of the lower half to accept the "locking tang/tab" ,if you will, from the new lower handguard. You drill out the top half on both side to allow a 8-32 screw to slide through the holes. Drill the holes deep so the screw heads are recessed and you do not see them. Purely for asthetic reasons. The lower half you drill/tap to accept before mentioned 8-32 screw. It would work through tension. A barrel clamp if you will. Or, for more security, you can slot the top of the barrel to the same dimensions as the sideways width of the upper clamp piece and it would rest in the slot. The lower piece you can drill a hole centerline and your cleaning rod can slide through that.
Have I tried it yet? NO. Am I convinced it will work? Yes. Am I going to try it? Yes. But it will be several months. I am in the middle of a 11" FAL SBR project and it is draining my funds at the moment.
Krebs did theirs by pulling the gas block, taking a standard handguard retainer and cutting out the locking lever, drilling out the barrel hole so it would slide over the Vepr barrel, and making a new locking lever by using a screw that slid through the old locking lever holes and secured with a nut on the other side. They of course milled a corresponding slot in the barrel for the screw shaft to rest in.
I know this because I called and asked Mark Krebs.
I cannot, at the moment, think of another way to do the conversion. I am convinced the theory is sound though.