How to adjust front sight on AK 47 - A Question

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RetiredMajor

New member
I've researched this on the web and think I've figured it out. But I'm looking for confirmation and I have one question

It appears as though the front sight can be adjusted for both elevation and windage. To adjust for elevation you screw the front sight post either up or down.

To adjust for windage, it looks as though you have to move the front sight post left or right. I read about a tool you can buy, which is simply a clamp that exerts pressure and slides the post over.

As far as I can see there is no lock or screw that has to be loosened first. The front sight post rides on a metal piece that can be shifted right or left. Can I just try and knock it over with a wooden mallet, or tap it over with a hammer?

Thanks for any advice.
Major
 
My experience with moving the front sights on both SKS's and AK's is that they're a b**ch to move, even when using the right sight tool. There isn't anything to loosen when adjusting windage, but most are really frozen in place over time.

The "C-clamp" style tools are usually available at many gunshows, or Numrich Arms and other on-line parts dealers. For the small cost, I wouldn't want to risk damaging the sight base or barrel. I think I paid $7 for mine about a year ago. YMMV
 
Buying a front sight tool is the way I'll probably go. I just wondered if anyone had a different solution that worked for them. I do believe in using the right tool for the right job, and I sure don't want to damage the gun.

Thanks!
 
I just got my second AK so I decided to get the tool instead of borrowing one. Well worth the 8 or 9 bucks.
 
I've seen it done on a vise and light taping with a small hammer. Realistically buying the tool is really the only way to go. Yes it's another $15 single purpose, likely once or twice used tool. If you want it precisely adjusted that's really the only option.

Good luck and enjoy it.
 
Heat and beat if tool does not work.I have had luck soaking in penetrating oil for a while before trying tool.
 
One trick to adjust the sight if you have no tool is to put a socket from a socket wrench in a vise so it fits over the sight drum, then put some brass or plastic shim stock over the other side of the drum and tighten the vise.
This will squeeze the drum over.

Best option is to spend a few bucks and buy the Tapco tool.
That way, if you ever change ammo you can re-sight the rifle.
 
What's amazing is I have an AK sight adjustment tool around here I have never used...need it? NcStar still in the package.

PM if you want it, free.
 
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Good luck knocking it with a mallet! :D

In all seriousness, it really depends on the gun. Some are so tight you'll just break your front sight tool... I'd definitely give it a shot with the tool first though; most will work fine.
 
The tool you want is made by B Square. Costs about $25. It will move the toughest sight barrel, and wont bend or fail doing so. It allows for more precise adjustments, and can be left on the gun while shooting it in.

You may also find that the front sight isnt centered when your done. It may be completely to one side or the other once you get it zeroed. Something that drives me nuts. You can replace the rear sight with an RPK windage adjustable rear sight, and with a centered front post, and a few clicks on the windage knob, all will be well.
 
tool

The tool is the way to go, but......an improvised method would be a padded vise. a brass punch and a hammer. Soaking in penetrating oil is a good idea.
I have seen photos of a spent brass case being used, (on edge) but wonder about that.

It will likely be tough to move. The "ears" on my cheapo tool bent when trying to move the post vertically for elevation.
 
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