Choosing a receiver
You have three basic choices in receivers:
100% finished receiver
These are just what the name implies, 100% finished ready to fit and build. They are available for most common AK rifles and range in price from $50.00 to $100.00 plus. The advantages to this receiver are that you do not have to do any of the build steps. All of the holes and openings are done and the lower rails and center support are installed. In most cases the receiver has been fully heat treated. The down side is the cost. If you are on a budget you can expect to spend an additional $40.00 plus for delivery and FFL transfer. You will want to check the chat boards for reviews of the different 100% receivers to see what issues that other builders may have had.
80% receiver blank
The name is a little misleading. This is basically a piece of 4130 sheet steel bent into the shape of an AK receiver and will usually come with a bondable template to do the finishing. Again, these are available from many sources for around $25.00 to $35.00 plus shipping. The advantages to this type of receiver are that you can have it delivered directly to your home since it is not considered a firearm and the cost. The downside is that you will need a little skill and know-how to finish it as well as some extra tools. It is best to order these from a supplier that can also include the lower rails.
Bendable flat
That is just what this is, a flat piece of 4130 sheet steel that has had the holes and openings laser cut and the dimples stamped in. Again they can be purchased from many sources for $13.00 on up and usually come with the lower rails. The advantages are that all of the "Hard" work has been done and the cost. The downside is that you will need access to a bending jig and press to properly form the receiver. Bending jigs are available for around $150.00 on up or can be rented through some chat boards. If you plan to make several receivers of this type it may be cost effective to buy a bending jig and then sell it once your finished. You can usually recoup most of your investment this way.
Last but not least you will need rivets or screws and a center support to do the assembly. For a rivet build you can order a rivet set from http://www.ak-builder.com/ak/index.php or check the chat boards for group buys or individuals selling the sets. You will also need a retainer for the FCG pins. You can use the Shepard's hook wire that came with the kit, one of the retainer plates or a pair of 3/16" "E" clips. For a screw build you will need:
6 10-32 x 1/4" button head cap screws
4 1/4-20 x 3/8" button head cap screws
7 8-32 3/8" button head cap screws
5 8-32 hex nuts
8 6-32 1/4" button head cap screws
2" of 1/4" thick wall OD tubing or 1/4" solid rod for the center support
These can be bought from most hardware stores.
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