Robert Kay interviewed Jim Fuller of Rifle Dynamics in the Hawaii Reporter recently. Fuller is the founder of Rifle Dynamics, and is one of the better AK builders in the nation, specializing in heavy use, high-round-count AK-pattern rifles, who also teaches the proper building of an AK-series rifle in traveling classes, something that you absolutely will not find in the various “build parties” around the country.

From Part 1:

Q: There is a lot of hype on the Internet about the AK. Is there a particular myth or inaccuracy that you would like to dispel?

A: There are many myths but let’s address the most obvious one: The AK is not accurate. Wrong. Most people saying this are comparing a high end M-4 with quality US ammo against a WASR with old surplus ammo, Apples and Oranges. If you take a properly build AK 74 chambered in 5.45×39 you can make combat effective hits out to 600 yards and beyond. Most properly built AK’s in 7.62 x 39 will hold a 2-3” group or better @ 100 yards. A service grade M-4 issued to the military is only required to shoot 4 MOA. Bottom line is most people if they ever shoot a rifle in self-defense, it will be less than 50 yards where accuracy is purely in the hands of the trigger puller.

From Part 2:

Q: Can you tell me a bit about what’s entailed in a class?  Sounds like you purchase a pile of parts and then assemble it. What all is involved?

The build classes have been huge for us,  We do this mainly to establish a standard for building these properly. There are so many misconceptions and frankly very bad info on the internet of how building an AK is done. We have seen the failed attempts of people who buy a parts kit and receiver and going on info that is wrong, incomplete or not the right info for the gun they are trying to build and it can be a disaster. In this class we provide all parts, tools and info to properly build an in spec AK which is your gun when it’s all done.

There is no better way to know your gun as well as you will after finishing this class.  We have taken the guess work out of building.We show you proper methods construction, proper tooling to use and the right aftermarket and 922R parts. Many who have taken this class have gone on to privately build themselves a nice collection, some are starting there own companies and some are or work for existing AK builders who just want to check their skills. There are still spaces available in some of the classes this year and we are starting to book classes for 2015.

We’l be going to the Jacksonville, NC Rifle Dynamics AK Builder’s Course in late May.

It looks like a chance to learn a lot from one of the masters.