Arsenal SGL-21 AK47 gas tube gap?? picture

[mini14gb]

I recently purchased my first AK47. Its an Arsenal SGL-21. The gas tube and the gas block develop a gap between them that is about a 1/16 of an inch after about 40 rounds. Is this normal? Of course after cooling down it returns to its natural tight fitting position firmly kissing the gas block and its vent holes. Enclosed is a picture when its normal now take than seem and spread it a 1/16 inch or so and it becomes a gap. Normal?

 

[fireman 9731]

You shouldn't have a worry in the world. Its completely normal.

Check out the video here from Ultimak to confirm.

http://ultimak.com/ShortGasTube.htm

 

[mini14gb]

Thanks for the reply, that is all I wanted to know. I assumed it was normal and continued to fire the rifle with no problems. I'm just not intimately acquainted with the AR like I am AR's, my little 10/22's or XDm pistols. If that is less than perfect I wanted to know so I could send it back.

 

[Sebastian the Ibis]

There is video on youtube somewhere of someone shooting an ak with NO gas tube.

If it is not hurting your fingers the gap shouldnt be a problem.