WOW! I really like this rifle a lot! The price is awesome too. I bet after this video these M77s are going to get a lot more attention. Looking forward to your modifications on your M77. As always I really enjoy your videos and get much needed info for my builds or future firearm purchases. Thanks for sharing.
Zastava M77,like all other "Yugoslav" marked guns are, in fact, Serbia made guns.Evan when Yugoslavia existed as a country,all the guns were made in town called Kragujevac witch is in Serbia and all of it's parts were and still are made in Serbia.The guns with the Yugoslav mark were made until 2006,in Serbia (not 1992 as I posted on some other review of M72,sorry).That was the year when Yugoslavia formally ceased to exist.
The main upside to this rifle is the price and the fact you can buy better ammo in .308. The downside with Zastava products has been quality control. This is a touchy point with some but having done the research and worked with people who have done full auto conversions on these for contractors and put them through hard use I have seen the issues first hand. Zastava has had issues in recent years with strikes and plant closures. The workers themselves do not always have a 100% work ethic. For those who doubt me I have photos that might change your mind. My advice would be to change the recoil spring out and DO NOT use crapco triggers in Zastava products. Check to see that the recoil spring assembly is the right length. I have seen many that are too short. It's been my experience that for every 3-4 guns that are fine you get the one with all sorts and various issues. Inspect thoroughly before buying.
I really liked the review. I just ordered a Csspecs magazine, since mine won't run with the factory mag. Please make some update videos and let us know what you used, and how it works. Thanks again.
I am serbian man. So, let's start. ZASTAVA in serbian language(and all other exYU languages) means FLAG. The brandmark has ever been Serbian - since WW2. In exYugoslavia just Serbia has military tradition. Sometimes there is confusion between CZ - Serbia and CZ - Czech Republic. Crvena Zastava(red flag) and Ceska Zbrojovka. Therefore, weapons intended for export to some countries are often marked with the use of the third letter. For example, CZA for Serbian weapons and CZB for the Czech Republic. By the way, CZA products are in great demand in many countries around the world.
Great review! You mentioned some differences, in comparison with the PSL. Can you do a similar video with a PSL review and some tips that would help those of us with one? I have thought about reloading for the PSL, but it destroys casings.
@Joe Baretincic, I have no idea why youtube is not letting me reply to your comment. Anyway, I haven't looked at my rounds, I only checked for reliability. Maybe modifying another mag so it sits higher would help?
I'm having the Same Problem as Joe and I've started looking at both the Original magazine and the Converted one and it seems that the Cut is to go right below to make up for it. So I've started on another Mag and it seem that also is having Problems before I'm even finished. My theory is that the Check-Mate Inc. mags are different to Standard mags made by other Surplus companies. Also if you could show the mags actually Cycling that would be great since your instruction have made me two broken M14 mags.
Andrew Self I made a video for you this morning, it might help. Not sure what the issue is with your mags, but as you'll see, the mod works perfect for me. ua-cam.com/video/maDJ6ObWXQM/v-deo.html
I hate to but in but I saw your conversion video and was wondering how you would go about mounting a cleaning rod on this rifle? I am considering getting one of these but the lack of cleaning rod is a huge red flag.
You could use an RPK cleaning rod I think, there is a notch cut out under the front sight. Honestly, I wouldn't want to use the original type rod on a gun I'm trying to shoot for accuracy. I have a plastic coated rod I use for my guns.
They need a full line of .223/5.56, 5.45x39,7.62x39,7.62x51,7.62x54r rifles built on the RPK type bulged straight receivers, with short stroke gas systems (like the SVD and SVT 40),side scope rails, with adjustable gas systems, and spring loaded muzzle detent pins on all of them.
Great video's, but i can't find the range report after all the changes are made and the scope is on. Hope you get a chance to post one so we can see what accuracy this rifle can do with a good scope. Thanks for making these vids.
***** It still wasn't what I hoped for. I found the scope rail was missing a factory spotweld that was supposed to be part of the installation. I corrected that, and haven't had it back to the range.
Sir, did the mod on the M14 mag. Loaded 4 rounds and cycle d the action manually. Upon inspection of the rounds, found all 4 had shaved/deformed tips(FMJ). They appeared to be hitting just below the chamber throat. What did I do wrong?
Seems like a nice rifle, but how's the weight? Specs I've come across for this gun list it at nearly 5.5 kg in its military configuration with no scope. Not exactly a featherweight.
Alright guys, I'm picking up a Zastava M77 next week and what I was wondering is what is, hands down, the best scope mount you can get for this rifle? How about for a little less $? Should I stay away from UTG's scope mount for this? I think there is a Midwest Industries mount I can buy for this one.
For now I think, stay away from the UTG mount. I haven't tried the Midwest industries mount or the RS Regulate mount but I think they are better options.
If the main recoil spring needs to be changed...can you get a replacement spring? I have a Saiga 308 and I cannot find one for that rifle. Some say I can use a heavy ak47 spring but I am not sure about that?? Without the ability to get replacement parts the gun has a much lower appeal to me...
Question is there a law that requires you to have a certain amount of American made parts in the rifle? I don't know much about AK's I've only every owned a AR15.
Yes, its called 922R, if you google it you have a full understanding of it. It basically says each gun has a certain number of parts. Of those parts, a certain number must be US made or the ATF considers it an assault rifle. If it has these US made parts, it is considered a sporting rifle. Doesn't make sense, but its the law.
I subscribed to your channel and have enjoyed your videos… but please.. when sighting I for accuracy, (even with irons)please shoot off a sandbag or range bag or any rest that gives better support to the rifle! Also looking forward to video when all issues are addressed and a scope is installed.
@@dlemonade312 I have one and believe that no matter how you mount your scope or brace the rifle, it's not tuned to be effective beyond 600m. Practical accuracy fails due to the shock harmonics on the structure of the rifle during the firing period.
What stock bolt do you need if you use the m76 stock is it the same longer one as the pap. . want to get the parts for apex but dont know they have two types
I bought this rifle new. The second shot it didn't feed properly. It looks as if it caught the middle of the casing and jammed the round half way in the breach at an angle. It did this over and over. Not sure what the problem is. It's almost like the mag isn't pushing the rounds up right for the bolt to strip them off of the mag. Any suggestions? Gas setting on 2.
I saw in another review that the early models were shipped with a single stack mag type of bolt and that it is a known issue and maybe you should request the different bolt if that is in fact the fix. If I buy this , I will certainly want to know that I did not get bitten by this issue.
I haven't had a single problem with mine since the first range trip so its hard to imagine what your issues might be without seeing it. Mine came with the double stack bolt also. I'm guessing though that your mag isn't sitting high enough, perhaps the bolt is digging into the top of the round and shoving it forward?
Well I knew that applied to the early model M70 7.62x39 but not the M77 308. Plus paper work that came with the M77 states it was manufactured only a year ago and not when the ban was on.
is that rifle built on a 1.5 mm receiver? I noticed the bulge material on the side..the bulge one usually sees on an RPK type receiver...Great Presentation, and thanks for the tip on determining barrel twist rate.
have you thought about building a .308 yourself, likely from an RPK parts kit? or at the very least an RPK front end? i believe AKM locking lugs are sufficient for 7.62x51 bolt thrust, may need to use a longer receiver and top cover
ginsboy2003 so do you think a .308 rifle could be built on an RPK-47 kit? and how do you think would have to be done to make the adaptations? im considering such a build and am considering the use of FAL magazines which i believe can be adapted to work possibly with a new magwell and/or mag release modifications i have the 3D solid models made from blueprints for both the AKM-47 rifle and the FAL, so i can use a 3D environment to design a sheet-metal magazine well for the FAL receivers on the AK design, i dont want to move the trigger group back and throw off the length of pull with various stocks so i'd prefer to stretch it forward so my guess is i'd need an RPK flat that had an extra chunk in the front to give me the room to cut an opening further forward if i folded a sheet metal magwell i could probably cut tabs in the front and back for the purpose of riveting to the receiver, the rear tab of the sheet metal magwell could go underneath the mag release portion of the trigger guard and also act as the selector stop.. the other end could just be drilled out under the trunnion and riveted.. or the magwell can simply and more likely just be spot welded on i think im going to measure out the locking lugs and calculate bolt thrust to see if its safe to do so
i think im going to begin the engineering phase in a 3D environment so i can check fit and fitting before going through with a build to make sure everything works, nothing interferes, etc as well as do the measurements for the locking lugs, bolt face my biggest concern is making sure there are no gaps between the carrier and the dust cover, i dont want open gaps i guess thats the first step before i even consider giving it a try
Also, look at what other people have done. No using missing something that bit somebody else. Join the forum gunco.net, there is a 33 page post on 308 ak conversion. I've read of guys using beefier M76 bolts for this.
wysoft In hindsight, the upper rails of the receiver had a lot of sharp edges on them I polished down after the first trip to the range. Maybe they were causing the carrier to hang up? Its smooth as silk now and on setting 2 I have no problems. I'll try it on 1 next time out.
ginsboy2003 The carrier on mine had some weird ding in it where the recoil spring inserts, and it would rub up against the spring coils when charging back the carrier, giving it a real gritty feeling. I had to stone the inside of that area before the carrier motion was truly smooth. These Zastava rifles are really well put together, very high overall workmanship, but both had a couple odd quirks in spots that I wouldn't have expected. Oddly enough I have an AES-10B where the lower rails are very uneven and wavy, but the carrier moves back and forth very smoothly I prefer not to touch the rails for fear of screwing up the heat treating.
Great review. So it looks like you must remove the gas tube to change the settings? Also, I wish they stuck a little tab on that gas selector so you could turn it without tools after it gets carbon fouled.
If you use a g2, they have a casting line in the middle of the disconnector engagement surface and on the hammer wing surface it hooks on. I spent about 40 minutes yesterday stoning out a set to the point where it was smooth and didn't stick. You can end up with a very nice trigger group from a g2, as you probably know. I also have a RSA trigger and IMO it is about as nice as you could get on an AK. Especially if you refine the polish before installing.
Also looking forward to your creative solutions for the magazine situation. edit- CCSpecs is working on the mags. Their mags are supurb, so that makes this gun worthwhile.
Too bad the Serbians do not Chrome plate the bore and gas system, if they did then these would be perfect. Great review by the way, best I have seen so far.
gas valve and piston are stainless steel - otherwise, yes the gas system is non-chromed. unless you have a huge stash of corrosive 7.62 surplus, it's unlikely that you'll ever experience any problem or significant wear with the non-chromed barrel and gas system. the barrel is hammer-forged, so even without chrome lining it still has very high wear resistance.
littleteethkeith chrome is not only about resisting corrosion. chrome lining is significantly harder than even a bare hammer-forged steel barrel, and provides much better resistance against wear during sustained firing, high heat, etc..
you'll never have the sustained fire in semi auto that would need chrome plating, if full auto, that's another matter. as for high heat, it will warp the entire barrel so the chrome plating won't really be helpful there.
maybe i missed this when you said it but how much did you pay for this because ive been looking for a bigger caliber rifle that is magazine fed ( i have a mosin) and a .308 sounds like it would be a big enough round to take out most animals and other things that i might need to do with it
Really Nice review. I just caught this M77 at Bud's and looked it up on UA-cam to find this video The gas setting was preset on #2 when you opened the box, if I remember correctly? Maybe CIA knew exactly where she should be ? Get a Vepr ??? You are talking BooKoo Money. LOL.
Mine was set on 1, but after smoothing out the upper receiver rails ( I just took the sharp edges off, so the carrier movement was smoother) and I haven't had a problem since. I think it just needed to break in.
ginsboy2003 The M77 is my first semi automatic rifle with a variable gas system. Can you provide some general guidance on how to use it? I am assuming the setting of 1 is the smallest gas opening. Are the medium/large openings used for heavier bullets? Or is it just simply if the action does not cycle, try a higher setting (2 or 3)? Thank you for the excellent videos on the M14 magazine and scope mount modification. With your videos as guidance, I was able to successfully make both modifications. I probably would not have attempted either without your 'how to' videos.
I am in the middle of finding a accurate hand load for the M77.I need help finding a good bullet weight that the M77 seems to like, please message me through my youtube account. I will upload a video once I find a good bullet weight. I just want to see what this rifle can achieve.
IMO the factory trigger is way nicer than a G2, and when cleaned up a little bit, gives a great 2-stage trigger for accurate shooting. The factory FCG is a bit rough with a lot of tooling marks - it was this way on both my M77 and M92. The contact surfaces on the trigger legs are milled perpendicular to the direction of motion, and results in a notchy feeling on the first stage takeup. Once the tooling marks are cleaned up, and the edges of the trigger legs lightly chamfered, the first stage is very smooth, with a predictable second stage break of about 6lbs. The G2 trigger by comparison is not appropriate for the type of accurate shooting that many will be using the M77 for. G2 is a single stage trigger and in many cases breaks too lightly.
Je P I've built a Cetme which is basically the same and hated it. It put the rear sight too close to my eye so it was blurry for me. A good H&K claw mount for optics is $400. The rifle is also known for denting brass making reloading it difficult. Look at the PSA AR10. Their complete AR10 was just on sale for $719, considering M77 plus the conversion parts cost me $750, the PSA is a better candidate I think for the price. I'd also take it over the C308 anyday. What it comes down to with firearms is personal preference though. You have more options with the AR10 style rifle though.
ginsboy2003 Do you know if PSA AR10 uses the Armalite or DPMS style lower? Or is it completely different than both which means you can uppers on their uppers etc? Nor can you use their mags??? Thanks,
It uses neither, the PSA uppers and lowers only fit on their rifles, but they do take Magpul AR10 mags which is a huge plus. You could rebarrel the PSA upper easy enough from what I hear. Not a huge deal to me considering the oddball the M77 is, if thats my choice or the C308 and its drawbacks.
would you like to buy original M76 M77 zastava mags? I have 4 in .308 (NATO) they came from my M76 'designated marksman' sniper Zastava. I sold the rifle years ago(MISTAKE!!!) and the mags have been in my safe ever since.
ginsboy2003 This rifle looks like such a good deal but the fact that it has really bad cheek slap is such a let down. The stock on my M70 does the same thing. It is so disappointing.
For the 308, I feel the goal it to reach out a lot farther than the standard AK sights will allow. Considering that you're going to want to use optics and think the cheek weld is perfect for that setup.
Well 2 reasons really. The initially sold at a higher price in the US. They didn't sell well and were heavily discounted to clear them out. the 2nd reason, you're in Slovenia. You probably have very high import and/or firearms taxes.
***** With the thumbhole stock it does when trying to use open sights. Keep in mind a scope when mounted will allow you to lift your face up a bit. Having used a scope, after converting it, its not a problem anymore.
WOW! I really like this rifle a lot! The price is awesome too. I bet after this video these M77s are going to get a lot more attention. Looking forward to your modifications on your M77. As always I really enjoy your videos and get much needed info for my builds or future firearm purchases. Thanks for sharing.
Great weapon from great Serbia
Zastava M77,like all other "Yugoslav" marked guns are, in fact, Serbia made guns.Evan when Yugoslavia existed as a country,all the guns were made in town called Kragujevac witch is in Serbia and all of it's parts were and still are made in Serbia.The guns with the Yugoslav mark were made until 2006,in Serbia (not 1992 as I posted on some other review of M72,sorry).That was the year when Yugoslavia formally ceased to exist.
Petar Petrovic Thank you.
The main upside to this rifle is the price and the fact you can buy better ammo in .308. The downside with Zastava products has been quality control. This is a touchy point with some but having done the research and worked with people who have done full auto conversions on these for contractors and put them through hard use I have seen the issues first hand. Zastava has had issues in recent years with strikes and plant closures. The workers themselves do not always have a 100% work ethic. For those who doubt me I have photos that might change your mind. My advice would be to change the recoil spring out and DO NOT use crapco triggers in Zastava products. Check to see that the recoil spring assembly is the right length. I have seen many that are too short. It's been my experience that for every 3-4 guns that are fine you get the one with all sorts and various issues. Inspect thoroughly before buying.
Rich Limon have they gotten any better? I just bought one in 5.56
I haven't had any problems with my. I recently sold it to fund another project.
I really liked the review. I just ordered a Csspecs magazine, since mine won't run with the factory mag. Please make some update videos and let us know what you used, and how it works. Thanks again.
never mind! Noticed I missed them.
I am serbian man. So, let's start. ZASTAVA in serbian language(and all other exYU languages) means FLAG. The brandmark has ever been Serbian - since WW2. In exYugoslavia just Serbia has military tradition. Sometimes there is confusion between CZ - Serbia and CZ - Czech Republic. Crvena Zastava(red flag) and Ceska Zbrojovka. Therefore, weapons intended for export to some countries are often marked with the use of the third letter. For example, CZA for Serbian weapons and CZB for the Czech Republic. By the way, CZA products are in great demand in many countries around the world.
Great review! You mentioned some differences, in comparison with the PSL. Can you do a similar video with a PSL review and some tips that would help those of us with one? I have thought about reloading for the PSL, but it destroys casings.
Great review. But isn't Zastava Serbian now?
Vaistinu
@Joe Baretincic, I have no idea why youtube is not letting me reply to your comment. Anyway, I haven't looked at my rounds, I only checked for reliability. Maybe modifying another mag so it sits higher would help?
Oh, I did make a new floor plate for the original mag to give me another US made part so I still use it also.
I'm having the Same Problem as Joe and I've started looking at both the Original magazine and the Converted one and it seems that the Cut is to go right below to make up for it. So I've started on another Mag and it seem that also is having Problems before I'm even finished. My theory is that the Check-Mate Inc. mags are different to Standard mags made by other Surplus companies. Also if you could show the mags actually Cycling that would be great since your instruction have made me two broken M14 mags.
Andrew Self I made a video for you this morning, it might help. Not sure what the issue is with your mags, but as you'll see, the mod works perfect for me. ua-cam.com/video/maDJ6ObWXQM/v-deo.html
I hate to but in but I saw your conversion video and was wondering how you would go about mounting a cleaning rod on this rifle? I am considering getting one of these but the lack of cleaning rod is a huge red flag.
You could use an RPK cleaning rod I think, there is a notch cut out under the front sight. Honestly, I wouldn't want to use the original type rod on a gun I'm trying to shoot for accuracy. I have a plastic coated rod I use for my guns.
They need a full line of .223/5.56, 5.45x39,7.62x39,7.62x51,7.62x54r rifles built on the RPK type bulged straight receivers, with short stroke gas systems (like the SVD and SVT 40),side scope rails, with adjustable gas systems, and spring loaded muzzle detent pins on all of them.
Great video's, but i can't find the range report after all the changes are made and the scope is on. Hope you get a chance to post one so we can see what accuracy this rifle can do with a good scope. Thanks for making these vids.
***** It still wasn't what I hoped for. I found the scope rail was missing a factory spotweld that was supposed to be part of the installation. I corrected that, and haven't had it back to the range.
ginsboy2003 Thanks for the update. I look forward to the range trip once it is all sorted out. Cool rifle and some cool things you have done to it.
Are there any readily available extra mags out there I can use with the M77? I will be purchasing one in a few months.
Century Arms sells extra 10 rnd mags and I also have a video showing an easy M14 mag conversion.
Why is the barrel welded? Isn't it 16in?
Sir, did the mod on the M14 mag. Loaded 4 rounds and cycle d the action manually. Upon inspection of the rounds, found all 4 had shaved/deformed tips(FMJ). They appeared to be hitting just below the chamber throat. What did I do wrong?
Seems like a nice rifle, but how's the weight? Specs I've come across for this gun list it at nearly 5.5 kg in its military configuration with no scope. Not exactly a featherweight.
Great vids D-Boy! You got a subscriber for life! Great rifle review! Stickman
chrome lined barrel?
Alright guys, I'm picking up a Zastava M77 next week and what I was wondering is what is, hands down, the best scope mount you can get for this rifle? How about for a little less $? Should I stay away from UTG's scope mount for this? I think there is a Midwest Industries mount I can buy for this one.
For now I think, stay away from the UTG mount. I haven't tried the Midwest industries mount or the RS Regulate mount but I think they are better options.
It won't fit the rail properly, I have several of those. RS Regulate is making a mount specifically for this rifle.
Great review! Please make a new video when you mod it back to military configuration!
What's the accuracy like with optics?
If the main recoil spring needs to be changed...can you get a replacement spring? I have a Saiga 308 and I cannot find one for that rifle. Some say I can use a heavy ak47 spring but I am not sure about that?? Without the ability to get replacement parts the gun has a much lower appeal to me...
Question is there a law that requires you to have a certain amount of American made parts in the rifle? I don't know much about AK's I've only every owned a AR15.
Yes, its called 922R, if you google it you have a full understanding of it. It basically says each gun has a certain number of parts. Of those parts, a certain number must be US made or the ATF considers it an assault rifle. If it has these US made parts, it is considered a sporting rifle. Doesn't make sense, but its the law.
ginsboy2003 Its an incredibly stupid law considering the 2nd amendment wasn't created for sporting purposes.
I subscribed to your channel and have enjoyed your videos… but please.. when sighting I for accuracy, (even with irons)please shoot off a sandbag or range bag or
any rest that gives better support to the rifle! Also looking forward to video when all issues are addressed and a scope is installed.
and of course …please sight in the irons using an adjustment tool ( Rob Ski at AKOU Store has them) and watch one of his excellent “sight in videos”
@@dlemonade312 I have one and believe that no matter how you mount your scope or brace the rifle, it's not tuned to be effective beyond 600m. Practical accuracy fails due to the shock harmonics on the structure of the rifle during the firing period.
What stock bolt do you need if you use the m76 stock is it the same longer one as the pap. . want to get the parts for apex but dont know they have two types
I bought this rifle new. The second shot it didn't feed properly. It looks as if it caught the middle of the casing and jammed the round half way in the breach at an angle. It did this over and over. Not sure what the problem is. It's almost like the mag isn't pushing the rounds up right for the bolt to strip them off of the mag. Any suggestions? Gas setting on 2.
I saw in another review that the early models were shipped with a single stack mag type of bolt and that it is a known issue and maybe you should request the different bolt if that is in fact the fix. If I buy this , I will certainly want to know that I did not get bitten by this issue.
I haven't had a single problem with mine since the first range trip so its hard to imagine what your issues might be without seeing it. Mine came with the double stack bolt also. I'm guessing though that your mag isn't sitting high enough, perhaps the bolt is digging into the top of the round and shoving it forward?
I own one and gave never had an issue. But it definitely sounds like a gas issue. Turn it up
I believe it is going to be the magazine that came with the gun. Century is sending me another magazine. I will let you know if that is the problem.
Well I knew that applied to the early model M70 7.62x39 but not the M77 308. Plus paper work that came with the M77 states it was manufactured only a year ago and not when the ban was on.
I'm not sure what your refering to, please explain so I can answer.
Just curious if you know of any quad rails that will fit the rifle. I have one coming in tomorrow and don't want to buy something I cant use.
What ever will fit the Yugo M70 will fit this rifle.
is that rifle built on a 1.5 mm receiver? I noticed the bulge material on the side..the bulge one usually sees on an RPK type receiver...Great Presentation, and thanks for the tip on determining barrel twist rate.
Yes it is the 1.5mm. Glad you liked the video.
have you thought about building a .308 yourself, likely from an RPK parts kit? or at the very least an RPK front end? i believe AKM locking lugs are sufficient for 7.62x51 bolt thrust, may need to use a longer receiver and top cover
megadeth22885 Yea, I've thought about it. Cash for projects is keeping me from doing it.
ginsboy2003 so do you think a .308 rifle could be built on an RPK-47 kit? and how do you think would have to be done to make the adaptations? im considering such a build and am considering the use of FAL magazines which i believe can be adapted to work possibly with a new magwell and/or mag release modifications
i have the 3D solid models made from blueprints for both the AKM-47 rifle and the FAL, so i can use a 3D environment to design a sheet-metal magazine well for the FAL receivers on the AK design, i dont want to move the trigger group back and throw off the length of pull with various stocks so i'd prefer to stretch it forward so my guess is i'd need an RPK flat that had an extra chunk in the front to give me the room to cut an opening further forward
if i folded a sheet metal magwell i could probably cut tabs in the front and back for the purpose of riveting to the receiver, the rear tab of the sheet metal magwell could go underneath the mag release portion of the trigger guard and also act as the selector stop.. the other end could just be drilled out under the trunnion and riveted.. or the magwell can simply and more likely just be spot welded on
i think im going to measure out the locking lugs and calculate bolt thrust to see if its safe to do so
I don't know all of the work involved, but I do know that it has been done before by guys on the akfiles forum.
i think im going to begin the engineering phase in a 3D environment so i can check fit and fitting before going through with a build to make sure everything works, nothing interferes, etc as well as do the measurements for the locking lugs, bolt face
my biggest concern is making sure there are no gaps between the carrier and the dust cover, i dont want open gaps
i guess thats the first step before i even consider giving it a try
Also, look at what other people have done. No using missing something that bit somebody else. Join the forum gunco.net, there is a 33 page post on 308 ak conversion. I've read of guys using beefier M76 bolts for this.
Sorry I was responding to motorsickie. Look at my previous post. I put the info there. Thanks for any help!
Which cartridges failed with gas set to 1?
Was the failure a stovepipe, or simply FTE?
Any case marks set on 2?
I used Cavim, which is known for being hot stuff. Shooting the gun on setting 2 eliminated and problems.
wysoft In hindsight, the upper rails of the receiver had a lot of sharp edges on them I polished down after the first trip to the range. Maybe they were causing the carrier to hang up? Its smooth as silk now and on setting 2 I have no problems. I'll try it on 1 next time out.
ginsboy2003
The carrier on mine had some weird ding in it where the recoil spring inserts, and it would rub up against the spring coils when charging back the carrier, giving it a real gritty feeling. I had to stone the inside of that area before the carrier motion was truly smooth.
These Zastava rifles are really well put together, very high overall workmanship, but both had a couple odd quirks in spots that I wouldn't have expected.
Oddly enough I have an AES-10B where the lower rails are very uneven and wavy, but the carrier moves back and forth very smoothly
I prefer not to touch the rails for fear of screwing up the heat treating.
The carrier movement on mine sounded "gritty" until I polished the rails.
Great review. So it looks like you must remove the gas tube to change the settings? Also, I wish they stuck a little tab on that gas selector so you could turn it without tools after it gets carbon fouled.
If you use a g2, they have a casting line in the middle of the disconnector engagement surface and on the hammer wing surface it hooks on. I spent about 40 minutes yesterday stoning out a set to the point where it was smooth and didn't stick. You can end up with a very nice trigger group from a g2, as you probably know. I also have a RSA trigger and IMO it is about as nice as you could get on an AK. Especially if you refine the polish before installing.
Also looking forward to your creative solutions for the magazine situation.
edit- CCSpecs is working on the mags. Their mags are supurb, so that makes this gun worthwhile.
Too bad the Serbians do not Chrome plate the bore and gas system, if they did then these would be perfect. Great review by the way, best I have seen so far.
gas valve and piston are stainless steel - otherwise, yes the gas system is non-chromed.
unless you have a huge stash of corrosive 7.62 surplus, it's unlikely that you'll ever experience any problem or significant wear with the non-chromed barrel and gas system.
the barrel is hammer-forged, so even without chrome lining it still has very high wear resistance.
littleteethkeith
chrome is not only about resisting corrosion. chrome lining is significantly harder than even a bare hammer-forged steel barrel, and provides much better resistance against wear during sustained firing, high heat, etc..
you'll never have the sustained fire in semi auto that would need chrome plating, if full auto, that's another matter. as for high heat, it will warp the entire barrel so the chrome plating won't really be helpful there.
Other than getting a bit of a bigger round is there any other reason to buy this weapon or is it basically just like a AK47?
Very old comment, but yes in addition to it being in .308 instead of 7.62x39 the barrel is almost 4 inches longer at 19.7 inches.
1 and 12 twist rate means it won't shot heavy grain for the 308 accurately correct??
Je P I'd have to look that up, I don't know. I do know the AR10 PSA now sells is 1 in 10 twist.
ginsboy2003 Yes the 1 and 10 will accurately shoot the 170ish to 180ish grain..
That looks like my gun range. Would it by chance be south river?
maybe i missed this when you said it but how much did you pay for this because ive been looking for a bigger caliber rifle that is magazine fed ( i have a mosin) and a .308 sounds like it would be a big enough round to take out most animals and other things that i might need to do with it
KillaJ4L At the time, it was $519 at Century Arms.
The Zastava m77 today is around $1,400 😢
Really Nice review. I just caught this M77 at Bud's and looked it up on UA-cam to find this video The gas setting was preset on #2 when you opened the box, if I remember correctly? Maybe CIA knew exactly where she should be ?
Get a Vepr ??? You are talking BooKoo Money. LOL.
Mine was set on 1, but after smoothing out the upper receiver rails ( I just took the sharp edges off, so the carrier movement was smoother) and I haven't had a problem since. I think it just needed to break in.
ginsboy2003 The M77 is my first semi automatic rifle with a variable gas system. Can you provide some general guidance on how to use it? I am assuming the setting of 1 is the smallest gas opening. Are the medium/large openings used for heavier bullets? Or is it just simply if the action does not cycle, try a higher setting (2 or 3)?
Thank you for the excellent videos on the M14 magazine and scope mount modification. With your videos as guidance, I was able to successfully make both modifications. I probably would not have attempted either without your 'how to' videos.
I am in the middle of finding a accurate hand load for the M77.I need help finding a good bullet weight that the M77 seems to like, please message me through my youtube account. I will upload a video once I find a good bullet weight. I just want to see what this rifle can achieve.
Great Review. Also, nice Gun Range -- what's the name of the range?
South River Gun Club in Covington.
How does the stock trigger compare to other triggers?
I've heard the M77 trigger was better compared to others, but its the same in my experience and I have put about 300 rnds through it now.
ginsboy2003 Compared to a Tapco G2 which do you prefer?
IMO the factory trigger is way nicer than a G2, and when cleaned up a little bit, gives a great 2-stage trigger for accurate shooting. The factory FCG is a bit rough with a lot of tooling marks - it was this way on both my M77 and M92.
The contact surfaces on the trigger legs are milled perpendicular to the direction of motion, and results in a notchy feeling on the first stage takeup. Once the tooling marks are cleaned up, and the edges of the trigger legs lightly chamfered, the first stage is very smooth, with a predictable second stage break of about 6lbs.
The G2 trigger by comparison is not appropriate for the type of accurate shooting that many will be using the M77 for. G2 is a single stage trigger and in many cases breaks too lightly.
That's a nice range.
Before disassembling any weapon REMOVE THE MAGAZINE!
Will Saiga 308 mags work in this?
No, they are too different.
How to do compare this to the C308?
Je P I've built a Cetme which is basically the same and hated it. It put the rear sight too close to my eye so it was blurry for me. A good H&K claw mount for optics is $400. The rifle is also known for denting brass making reloading it difficult. Look at the PSA AR10. Their complete AR10 was just on sale for $719, considering M77 plus the conversion parts cost me $750, the PSA is a better candidate I think for the price. I'd also take it over the C308 anyday. What it comes down to with firearms is personal preference though. You have more options with the AR10 style rifle though.
ginsboy2003 Do you know if PSA AR10 uses the Armalite or DPMS style lower? Or is it completely different than both which means you can uppers on their uppers etc? Nor can you use their mags??? Thanks,
It uses neither, the PSA uppers and lowers only fit on their rifles, but they do take Magpul AR10 mags which is a huge plus. You could rebarrel the PSA upper easy enough from what I hear. Not a huge deal to me considering the oddball the M77 is, if thats my choice or the C308 and its drawbacks.
Why is your mag in while you are messing around with the rifle..
would you like to buy original M76 M77 zastava mags? I have 4 in .308 (NATO) they came from my M76 'designated marksman' sniper Zastava. I sold the rifle years ago(MISTAKE!!!) and the mags have been in my safe ever since.
I've since sold this rifle to fund other projects but I'm sure you could get a nice price for them.
thx
Also, will this shoot 7.62x51 NATO?
Yes. Surplus Pakastani ammo and Cavim 7.62x51 is about all I've shot so far.
ginsboy2003 This rifle looks like such a good deal but the fact that it has really bad cheek slap is such a let down. The stock on my M70 does the same thing. It is so disappointing.
For the 308, I feel the goal it to reach out a lot farther than the standard AK sights will allow. Considering that you're going to want to use optics and think the cheek weld is perfect for that setup.
is that a slant receiver
Yea, it is slant cut. I have a video showing how to correct that.
How it's possible that M77 cost only 500$ in US? I'm from Slovenia, country that was part of Ex Yugoslavia and that baby cost me € 1.249,00.
Well 2 reasons really. The initially sold at a higher price in the US. They didn't sell well and were heavily discounted to clear them out. the 2nd reason, you're in Slovenia. You probably have very high import and/or firearms taxes.
@@cs-rj8ru the M-77 Rifles are above $2k in 2021 if you can even find one to buy !!!
Dear Santa...
Pow! Damn my ears are ringing.
nice
For whatever reason the Yugos love to have their rifle stocks punch them in the cheek. My N-pap smacks me in the face if I use irons.
Same here man. Does this M77 have the same problem?
***** With the thumbhole stock it does when trying to use open sights. Keep in mind a scope when mounted will allow you to lift your face up a bit. Having used a scope, after converting it, its not a problem anymore.
***** thats right. it clearly says Zastava Serbia on the gun
You have to put your face closer to the dust cover or more forward than you are now. Try that out, makes shooting the NPAP a lot more fun.
Thomas Jefferson HOLY FUCK!!! You're still alive?
I have a like new 20 round mag for the .308 Zastava M77 I am willing to sell if you are interested. Just let me know.
Very good video. Nice rifle.
yugoslavian? can you read its Serbian
dude!
ULTRACROATA You are correct, but it sold as a "Yugoslavian" M77 by many retailers so I apologize for spreading their ignorance!
zastava-arms.rs/en/civilianproduct/semiautomatic-sporting-rifle-m2010
for a .308 long barrel rifle at 50 yards , you are a very poor shot.
He was resting the rifle on solid block of wood instead on something soft, it had to jump and spray around...
zastava-arms.rs/en/militaryproduct/assault-rifle-m77-b1
.
SERBIA 🇷🇸 not yugoslavia FFS