Saiga 12 Magwell conversion

[Dedicated_Dad]

So...

The discussion with NPR in re: my new Saiga 12 got me poking around the 'net.

It seems there are several different magwell conversions available...

In essence, you install a magwell on the bottom of the receiver, and thereafter use modified mags.

The modification to the mags is essentially removing the front "tab" -- which is coincidentally the part of the US mags that most often breaks. It appears the mag-makers are also now making "magwell" mags that come from the factory sans-tab - thus eliminating the chance of me screwing up a mag while removing the tab.

Another alleged advantage to this is that post-conversion the mags go straight in, similar to an AR mag. This eliminates the typical "rock-n-lock" motion necessary for an AK-style mag, theoretically speeding up mag changes.

Further, it also allows the mags to drop free without rocking forward on removal - so in tandem with an extended mag-release it will DEFINITELY speed up mag changes.

Lastly, there's apparently some challenge with using the higher-cap mags, because of the usual AK-style "rock-n-lock" on a closed bolt. The 12-ga rounds stick up much higher than a rifle-round, and thus make it much harder to rock the mag into place under a closed bolt. Since the Saiga-12 doesn't have a LRBHO this can make mag-changes a challenge.

Using the "straight-in" insertion post-conversion, this problem too is eliminated.

With all this combined, it seems like this would be a worthwhile thing to do!

Also - for clarity - the magwell can be removed, and will then allow use of standard mags - though the "converted" mags would not work without the magwell.

So... I'm wondering what you guys think! Does anyone have experience with this?

Even if not, I'd appreciate your input. Seems to me that the only real "downside" to it would be the inability to use other-people's mags. To me, it seems pretty unlikely that I'd ever find myself in a situation where I REALLY needed someone else's mag RIGHT NOW! Even in a SHTF situation, the odds of me being able to borrow a mag in a firefight for a Saiga-12 is probably not good -- so the usual AR-style interchange benefits would likely never be in play.

Input greatly appreciated -- ESPECIALLY negatives!

DD

[Netpackrat]

I'm probably the wrong person to be rendering an opinion on this, because part of the reason I wanted an S-12 was to have a shotgun that works the same as my AK rifles. I'm used to the whole AK "rocking" the mag in place to load, so it isn't that big of a deal to me. I can see the point if you are used to running an AR or something else that uses straight insertion of mags. Plus, my brother also bought an S-12 and has AK rifles, so sticking with a common mode of operation and unmodified magazines makes more sense.

If you are planning on competing and are looking for every possible edge, it makes sense. I'm pretty sure that you give up the ability to use one of the drums if you have the magwell installed, which may or may not be a consideration for you.

[Dedicated_Dad]

I'm actually wondering if a similar conversion is available for a standard AK - or my SKS-D...

Hmmm.....

Otherwise, I'm never likely - being crippled as I am - to be a serious competitor in any shooting sport where mobility and speed are a factor. I can shoot, but moving isn't my strong suit...

Ergo, while I LIKE the sports, and participate as much as I can, FOR ME it's more about the enjoyment and some training/practice than any real competitiveness. After all - where else can one really practice "practical shooting scenarios"?

I'm not SURE, but I'd *THINK* that a drum SHOuLD be able to be modded just like a mag -- after all, the part that inserts into the gun is no different than a standard mag - right? I guess it would depend on how much rectangular-area existed - if enough to clear the magwell then it should work like any other.

Oh, the reason he wouldn't keep the mag/cut the price is that he'd paid a local 'smith to "fit" the mag to the gun. Yeah, I know - but if HE knew he wasn't admitting it...

DD

[Netpackrat]

Oh, the reason he wouldn't keep the mag/cut the price is that he'd paid a local 'smith to "fit" the mag to the gun. Yeah, I know - but if HE knew he wasn't admitting it...

Well, the MD-20 drum that I have had to be fitted to my shotgun. There is a lot of variation in Saiga mag wells, and MD made the lugs slightly oversize for the tighter guns, so they have to be fitted. That way you get the best fit for all Saigas. I'd be kind of surprised if Promag did something like that intentionally, however. I'd at least try it out; you never know, if you get lucky it might run okay.

Possibly stupid question: You live in CA, right? How is a pistol grip converted Saiga legal there?

[Netpackrat]

I looked at my MD-20 again and there is no way it will work with the add on mag well. The top of the drum portion tucks right in underneath the receiver when it is locked in.

[Aglifter]

That's a, somewhat, common conversion for 3 gun. It works well for the man I saw who ran one.