So I started with a VEPR12, loved the gun and started to get interested in a rifle to match it. After doing a bit of searching I initially decided to go with the new VEPR FM-ak4-11, but after thinking about it I don’t think it is the best option for me. I love tinkering with my firearms and feel I would get more enjoyment and end up paying less (or the same) by buying the sporter version with thumbhole stock and modifying it to accept surplus mags, pistol grip, and normal AKM furniture (with mods of course). Before I make the purchase, I wanted to ask a couple questions to make sure I am not missing something. I tried searching but feel that I am missing part of the appropriate terminology needed to do a proper search. Here is what I am wanting to confirm:
1 – The following mods are going to be needed to “convert” the rifle – bulled guide addition to trunnion, AKM mag release or modify stock release, slant back adapter plate for stock, pistol grip addition to receiver, low profile gas tube, bolt on AKM lower retainer for VEPR rifles. With this I should have everything covered to use any mag I want for a standard AK and accept any AKM furniture (with mild mods due to the heavier barrel or smaller receiver hole), am I correct or am I missing something?
2 – for the pistol grip, do I just need the grip nut and screw, or do I also need to cut a hole (I’m sure I’ll be apparent when I remove the stock, but helps to know before hand), and I am heavily considering the Hogue grip which I remember reading “extends” farther forward and may need modification, any insight there? And is the VEPR one that needs a reinforcement plate for the grip?
3 – is there anything else I need to take into consideration before I make a purchase?
FYI the reason I wanted to go this route is mainly to do the converting work myself to help learn about the rifle, but secondly of the items I’m going to be replacing anyhow: stock, handguard, trigger group, grip, magazines, brake. It didn’t make sense to me to get the FM11 for 1k++ when I’m going to replace the items that came different on it already. In my mind the only benefit would be the square back, and the already added bullet guide, which does not seem to be worth ~300 dollars in my mind. Any insight to my potential project is welcomed.
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