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AR15.COM
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7/8/2004 6:27:17 PM EDT
I just recently bought my first Ak style rifle, a SAR1, While cleaning the gun and figuring out how it works and comes apart, and goes back together,  I noticed a small gap just in front of the rear sight and before the top hand guard. There is a small opening in this gap and I can see the piston moving inside, through the hole when I cycle the charging handle. What does this gap/opening do? Wouldnt hot gasses come out of this hole when the gun is being fired? Its on both sides of the gun, and looks like it is supposed to be there. I couldnt find anything about this in the manual or online.  Im sure I may have some more noobie questions in the near future. Thanks
7/8/2004 6:49:30 PM EDT
[#1]
Yeah, it's supposed to be there. I don't know why... to help cool down the gas tube, let in circulation - beats me.

Nah, it doesn't spit out anything - only if the gas tube release isn't closed all the way would this happen.
7/9/2004 3:05:18 AM EDT
[#2]
no worries.  while there will be some venting of exhaust gases thru the top of the rear sight block, this is just the rear end of the gas tube and the lock bar that retains the gas tube on the rifle.

the entire receiver becomes positively pressurized during shooting. gas escapes thru the ejection port and every other crack and crevice and hole in the receiver area. combustion gases will also exit the push button cover at the rear of the receiver...another reason to wear eye protection while shooting.
7/9/2004 7:48:41 AM EDT
[#3]
Thanks for the answer and tip about wearing glasses. Sometimes I find myself forgetting about the safety glasses and just wearing ear protection. Sure dont want an eye full of hot gas
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