shooter or non shooter

Hello gentlemen

A topic similar to this one also exists on the gk43 forum, where it probably belongs, however, we have many smart peple here, so maybe you guys can contribute as well.

The rifle in question is a G43, ac44.

The bore was rusted, but thats to "wipe-out" bore cleaning foam, it actually shines and is comming back to life.

however, what makes me wonder about this rifles range capabilities is this:

https://www.milsurps.com/images/imported/deleted.gif

normally cracks appear on the other end of the bolt carrier. So im hoping it might be a forging error, and its safe to shoot. However, has anyone here had similar conditions on a rifle, especially a g43?

btw, the crack is only visible from the outside, and it can clearly be felt with a nail.

I'd hesitate to make any verdict on the external appearance. You need to get it examined by someone qualified in Non-Destructive Testing. Dye check/Ultrasonic/X-ray should tell you what you need to know.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Stevo

I'd hesitate to make any verdict on the external appearance. You need to get it examined by someone qualified in Non-Destructive Testing. Dye check/Ultrasonic/X-ray should tell you what you need to know.

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Great idea, why didnt i think that far ahead. Luckily I know where I can borrow an x-ray mashine for free.

However, even if it is external, would it be safe to shoot?

It might just be line from scale that flaked off during forging. It the X-ray shows it to be a surface mark, then I would not hesitate to fire it. Doesn't looks ot be in a stress-bearing area anyhow, unless I'm missing something?

Sigismund,
My sister does Destructive Testing (not exactly what you need) in Edmonton. Her firm does NDT as well. I'm sure I can find out where you can get it done if you decide to.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Stevo

Sigismund,
My sister does Destructive Testing (not exactly what you need) in Edmonton. Her firm does NDT as well. I'm sure I can find out where you can get it done if you decide to.

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Thanks Stevo :thup:

First thing Im going to do is get it x-rayed. Afterwards I will consult a company in the states that deal specifically with g43 cracked bolt carriers, called Apfeltor I believe. Then see what is what. Hopefully all is well, otherwise I'll just have to buy another part, and then she'll be range ready.

Could also consider magnaflux, but, cracks get a no shoot tag in my shop everytime. I lost a very close friend from a bum Lee Navy, he installed four very small holes in his fore head. He was dead before he hit the ground. Since that day I have retired several guns in mint condition but, with questionable serial # range's. It's just not worth it-SDH

Quote:

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Originally Posted by sdh1911

Could also consider magnaflux, but, cracks get a no shoot tag in my shop everytime. I lost a very close friend from a bum Lee Navy, he installed four very small holes in his fore head. He was dead before he hit the ground. Since that day I have retired several guns in mint condition but, with questionable serial # range's. It's just not worth it-SDH

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Im sorry to hear about your friend. We do indeed have to be very careful. Hence why I havent had this out. The GK43 guys think its a forge flaw, and nothing to worry about, however, an x-ray will anwser that.

G43 cracks are quite common, but in the other end of the bolt carrier, hence why this one is a mystery. Also, ill need to buy a shooters kit, which reduced the gas pressure, and possible damage to the fragile g43 parts.