Warning

 

Close
Confirm Action

Are you sure you wish to do this?

Cancel Confirm
AR15.COM
AK Sponsor
3/17/2005 5:19:16 AM EDT
I was at a local gun show this past weekend when I passed a guy that had a brand new Vector undefolder slung over his shoulder. I have really been wanting one of these so after a few minutes of haggling, we made a deal. I was pretty pumped to get one of these for a decent price.

My plan was to have the Z-recto refinish the handguards and add a wood pistol grip, so last night I break it out to remove the handguards. As I'm starting to get it together, I notice that the upper handguard is not even with the lower.

Long story short, it looks to me like the gas chamber is canted fairly badly, which is pulling the upper handguard to the right, which is resulting in a pretty misaligned piece of shit. (From sadness to anger)

Needless to say, I'm pretty disappointed with the gun, but more disappointed with myself for not catching this before I purchased the gun. I let my excitement get in the way of the inspection of the gun, and I had read so many glowing reports on the Vector, I assumed (Iknow, I know....) everything was good to go.

I'm going to call Vector to see what if anything they will do. Anybody else seen this issue with this gun?
3/17/2005 5:21:18 AM EDT
[#1]
Sorry to hear it.  I'd be pissed too.  Any chance the guy who sold it to you didn't know?
3/17/2005 5:35:37 AM EDT
[#2]
I really don't know if he caught it or not. It would be a good reason to dump it though....
3/17/2005 5:45:19 AM EDT
[#3]
Send it to InRange for repair.

KF
3/17/2005 5:46:03 AM EDT
[#4]
I know this won't make you feel much better:

While any canted parts may be visibly unpleasant, the canted parts normally do not affect the performance of the rifle.

If Vector won't fix it then there are plenty of AK smiths who will and it shouldn't cost too much.
3/17/2005 6:40:15 AM EDT
[#5]

While any canted parts may be visibly unpleasant, the canted parts normally do not affect the performance of the rifle.



It looks like the gas chamber is so canted, that it may make serious contact with the gas psiton during operation. Is that not the case?
3/17/2005 7:21:28 AM EDT
[#6]
Use a bore light to see if the gas vent is on top of the bbl as installed on the gun. If it's straight up, then it's just the gas block that needs to be reset.
3/17/2005 7:46:23 AM EDT
[#7]

Quoted:

While any canted parts may be visibly unpleasant, the canted parts normally do not affect the performance of the rifle.



It looks like the gas chamber is so canted, that it may make serious contact with the gas psiton during operation. Is that not the case?



Do what RS39 said to check out the gas port.

When you cycle the bolt does it feel like it sticks or hangs up on anything?
3/17/2005 8:24:29 AM EDT
[#8]
Everything feels and looks fine from an operation standpoint. Looks like it will not effect the operation, just like you said.

I talked to Vector. At first, they were reluctant to swap out the rifle, stating that about 80% of the AK's out there had this issue. (I'm not too sure about this, but I'm not in the business) I told them I expected this on a lesser gun, like a WASR, but for the money I dropped on this, I was disappointed. I was nice about it, but firm. After a few minutes, the tech agreed with me, saying if it was his, he would want it right too. He gave me all the return info and said he would hand pick me one to make sure it was 4.0.

So far, I'm impressed with the service. We'll see how long it takes them to get me another rifle.

I'm bummed that I have to go through this hassle, but again, its mostly my fault for not paying closer attention when buying the gun. Lesson learned, again.

I don't think I'm being too critical here. I like my stuff to be right, and I was so pumped about making this gun a thing of beauty with the Z-recto furniture, that I just felt I needed to get it fixed.

3/17/2005 9:12:56 AM EDT
[#9]

Quoted:
I don't think I'm being too critical here. I like my stuff to be right.



I totally understand.  I hope Vector gets you squared away.  

Keep us posted!
3/17/2005 9:47:31 AM EDT
[#10]
Before you assume the worst...

Recheck your rifle.  The upper handguard is just a pressure-fit to the gast tube...You may be able to simple rotate the upper handguard to make it even.  The gas tube may not be canted at all.

You can take the upper handguard off by just turning it off of the gas tube.  They usually are not aligned just right from the factory.

 
3/17/2005 10:03:49 AM EDT
[#11]
I hear ya, but the gas chamber is canted, I can see the cant
3/17/2005 10:06:15 AM EDT
[#12]
That really sucks, I bet that was the reason he dumped it.
3/17/2005 10:17:02 AM EDT
[#13]
Vecor is a great company.  You sould talk with Rex, he's pretty nice guy.
I had problem with my Vector UZI and they replace the part promptly at no charge even after 5 yrs.
Try him next time!
3/17/2005 10:43:44 AM EDT
[#14]
Just for the record guys, I'm not accusing anyone of anything. I take full responsibility for this issue. I flat out know better.
3/17/2005 11:27:03 AM EDT
[#15]
It happens. My .22 AK has a canted front sight. You'd think I'd know to check any Romy, but it was $50 over SOG out the door, a very fair price on a limited model. Ooops, another project in line...
3/26/2005 9:31:53 AM EDT
[#16]
I've got a Vector underfolder , I bought off EE . I'm really new to AKs and the underfolder was the only model that interested me . Its basicly brand new @200rds no problems . After reading your post i looked at mine , no visible cants but the lower handgaurds are nearly flush w/ the left side of the receiver . On the right side the handgaurd extends nearly a 1/4" beyond the receiver ???? I NEVER even noticed it till now ! Ive seen lots of the $350 "type/ class" AKs and this thing looks like a National Match next to them . It still seems over all pretty funky to me , especialy the safety/ selector , but I ve owned several SKS's and they seem more "user friendly" espiecialy the Safety as im left handed . Im very happy i dont get any gas or brass in the cheek
Is there a tack or post specificly on what parts are used or how to ID? Id like to know more about it . Its got a bayo lug , slant brake with spring loaded pin It doesnt seem to want to unscrew in either direction more than about a turn or two . Also its got a funky brown plastic Pistol grip marked A- USA  . Sorry i dont know all the nomenclature but the #'s on the left side below rear sight is  76 DA 2055  . Didnt mean to hi jack your thread but I have all the same kinds of ?s , The stupid newbie ones (in my case).  RL
3/26/2005 9:37:25 AM EDT
[#17]
Z-recto
3/26/2005 1:28:22 PM EDT
[#18]
some have to realize is  these guns are made from parts kits and arent new guns....


Even $500 guns have problems.
3/28/2005 7:42:54 AM EDT
[#19]

Quoted:
Z-recto



He makes and refinishes wood for AK's. He's in SC and does top notch work. He's a real artist!!
4/18/2005 6:50:24 AM EDT
[#20]
I just wanted to give the end of the story on this. I received my replacement AK from Vector last week. It is as close to perfect as I could want. They were very helpful during this process, and even shipped the replacement to me on their dime. I would not hesitate to purchase another one of their products.

Now its off to Z-recto for his beautiful finish job and a wood pistol grip.

Thanks guys.
4/18/2005 8:26:56 AM EDT
[#21]
Glad it finally got worked out.  Pics?  
AK Sponsor