Tag Archives: SDS

Market Analysis and Engineering Assessment of the Military Armament Corporation MAC-1014 Shotgun

The Military Armament Corporation (MAC) 1014 is a 12-gauge, semi-automatic shotgun imported into the United States by SDS Imports of Knoxville, Tennessee. The firearm is manufactured in Turkey by Özerbas, a firm located in the Konya region, which has become a significant hub for Turkish firearms production. The MAC-1014 is an overt and faithful clone of the renowned Benelli M4/M1014 combat shotgun, a platform that has served with the U.S. Marine Corps since 1999 and remains a benchmark for tactical semi-automatic shotguns.

The core value proposition of the MAC-1014 is its ability to deliver the operational system, aesthetic, and a high degree of parts compatibility of the premium Benelli M4 at a dramatically lower price point. While an authentic Benelli M4 typically retails for over $2,000, the MAC-1014 is offered in various configurations—including polymer pistol-grip, wood furniture, and marine-coated versions—with Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Prices (MSRPs) generally ranging from approximately $375 to $600. This positions the shotgun as a direct market response to the significant demand for the M4 platform among consumers for whom the original is cost-prohibitive. The MAC-1014 is a prominent example of a broader industry trend wherein Turkish manufacturers are producing functional, increasingly reliable firearms that challenge the market dominance of established European and American brands, particularly in the value segment.

The choice to market this firearm under the revived “Military Armament Corporation” brand is a significant strategic decision. The original MAC was an American company famous for the Ingram MAC-10 submachine gun, a firearm with a distinct place in 20th-century small arms history. By adopting this legacy name, SDS Imports is able to associate its Turkish-made products with a sense of American martial heritage and proven combat design. This branding strategy serves to build consumer trust and lend an air of credibility that a new or unfamiliar Turkish brand name might struggle to achieve. It directly counters the prevalent negative stigma associated with Turkish firearms, often pejoratively labeled “Turknellis,” which are frequently perceived by segments of the market as products from “no-name fly-by-night brands” with questionable quality and nonexistent customer support. The MAC branding, therefore, is an intentional effort to differentiate the product and mitigate a primary barrier to purchase for many consumers.

1.2. Summary of Key Findings

This report provides a comprehensive technical and market analysis of the MAC-1014 shotgun. The key findings are summarized as follows:

  • Strengths: The shotgun’s principal strengths are its exceptional affordability, the inherent reliability of its gas-piston operating system when paired with appropriate high-velocity ammunition, and its extensive parts compatibility with the Benelli M4 aftermarket ecosystem. This final point is arguably its most significant competitive advantage, as it de-risks the purchase and provides a clear path for customization and repair.
  • Weaknesses: The most critical and widely documented weakness is a systemic sensitivity to low-velocity, low-dram equivalent ammunition, which results in frequent cycling malfunctions such as failure to eject. Additional weaknesses include ergonomic deficiencies in the stock configuration, specifically a small bolt release, a small charging handle, and a long length of pull on fixed-stock models. Minor quality control inconsistencies, such as cracked wood furniture on certain models, have also been reported.
  • Consumer Behavior: Market analysis reveals a dominant and predictable consumer trend: the MAC-1014 is frequently purchased not as a finished product, but as a base platform or “chassis” for a custom build. Owners systematically upgrade the shotgun using Benelli-compatible aftermarket parts to address its inherent weaknesses in ergonomics and capacity, effectively transforming a budget firearm into a highly customized and functional weapon that mirrors the performance of a much more expensive shotgun.

Section 2: Engineering and Design Assessment

2.1. Analysis of the A.R.G.O. Clone Gas System

The heart of the MAC-1014 is its operating system, a direct copy of the Benelli “Auto-Regulating Gas-Operated” (A.R.G.O.) system. This is a dual short-stroke gas piston design located just forward of the chamber. Two stainless steel pistons, positioned on the left and right sides of the barrel, are driven by gas tapped from the bore upon firing. These pistons act directly against the bolt carrier, eliminating the need for complex linkages or long action bars found in other gas-operated designs. The bolt itself is a rotary design that locks securely into the barrel extension.

The engineering benefits of this system are significant. First, the design is inherently self-cleaning and self-regulating. Gas pressure in excess of what is required to cycle the action is vented forward, out of the system. This auto-regulation provides two key advantages: it allows the shotgun to function reliably with a range of powerful loads, from standard 2 ¾-inch buckshot to 3-inch magnum shells, and it mitigates felt recoil by not transferring superfluous energy into the action. Second, the direct-impingement nature of the pistons on the bolt carrier results in a fast, reliable cycle time. Compared to inertia-driven systems, this gas operation is less dependent on the shooter firmly shouldering the weapon, reducing the likelihood of malfunctions when firing from unconventional positions.

However, this design carries an inherent trade-off that is central to understanding the MAC-1014’s performance characteristics. The Benelli M4 was developed in response to a 1998 U.S. Army solicitation for a semi-automatic combat shotgun. The primary design requirement was absolute reliability with full-power military loads, such as 00 buckshot and 1-ounce slugs. The A.R.G.O. system was therefore engineered and tuned specifically for the gas pressure and impulse generated by this type of ammunition. The MAC-1014, being a “one-for-one clone” as described by SDS Arms’ marketing vice president, faithfully replicates this military-spec tuning. Consequently, the widely reported “ammunition sensitivity” of the MAC-1014 is not a manufacturing defect or a flaw in quality control. Rather, it is a predictable design characteristic. The system is not optimized for, and often lacks sufficient energy to cycle reliably with, the low-cost, low-velocity birdshot and target loads common in the civilian market. This understanding reframes the most common user complaint from a “QC problem” to a matter of user education and adherence to the manufacturer’s break-in procedure, which specifies the use of at least 100 rounds of high-velocity (>1350 fps) ammunition to smooth the action’s bearing surfaces.

2.2. Materials, Fit, and Finish

The MAC-1014 is constructed with materials appropriate for its price point and intended function. The receiver is machined from aluminum with a black anodized finish, and the 18.5-inch barrel is chromate-lined for corrosion resistance and longevity. User and reviewer feedback on the overall fit and finish presents a spectrum of experiences, which points toward a specific manufacturing and cost-control strategy.

On one hand, many users report being impressed with the quality out of the box, describing the fit and finish as “perfect” and the firearm as “well-built”. On the other hand, it is not uncommon for users to report a “gritty” feel to the action before an initial cleaning and lubrication, the presence of minor metal shavings from the manufacturing process, or components that are not fully tightened from the factory, such as the choke tube or magazine tube extension.

A more specific and documented quality control issue is the cracking of the Turkish walnut handguard on the “Wood” variant of the shotgun. In a review by Outdoor Life, the handguard developed a long crack after the first magazine of high-brass shells was fired. While the importer’s customer service was reportedly responsive and provided a replacement part, this incident suggests potential weaknesses in the material selection or curing process for non-critical components.

The variance in fit-and-finish reports, from “perfect” to “gritty,” combined with specific material failures in cosmetic parts, is indicative of a value-engineered production philosophy. This approach prioritizes manufacturing resources, tight tolerances, and higher-quality materials for the core functional components of the firearm—namely the bolt, barrel, receiver, and gas system assembly. To achieve the highly competitive sub-$500 price point, costs are controlled by reducing or eliminating final polishing and deburring steps (leading to the “gritty” feel) and by using lower-grade materials for less critical parts like furniture and some small pins. This is a logical and common cost-reduction strategy. It allows the heart of the firearm to remain functional and reliable by closely adhering to the proven Benelli design, while accepting lower cosmetic standards in areas that do not compromise safety or core function. This trade-off is particularly viable because many of these non-critical components, such as the stock and handguard, are among the first items that the target consumer base intends to replace with aftermarket upgrades. The manufacturer can, therefore, afford to use less expensive stock components with the implicit understanding that a significant portion of the user base will discard them in favor of customized parts.

Section 3: Performance Evaluation: Strengths and Competitive Advantages

3.1. Reliability Under Optimal Conditions

When operated within its designed parameters—specifically, with ammunition that generates sufficient gas pressure—the MAC-1014 demonstrates a high degree of reliability that belies its low cost. Multiple independent tests and a large volume of user reports confirm that the shotgun functions flawlessly with the types of ammunition it was designed for: high-velocity buckshot, slugs, and heavy birdshot loads with velocities typically exceeding 1250-1350 feet per second (fps).

For instance, a 500-round test conducted by Outdoor Life using a wide variety of shell types resulted in only a single stoppage, a stovepipe malfunction that occurred near the end of the test at round 486. Similarly, a review in American Rifleman noted that their sample MAC-1014 exhibited zero malfunctions during an aggressive 100-round “load-and-dump fest,” even when forgoing the manufacturer’s recommended break-in period. These results are consistent with user testimonials that describe the shotgun as “flawless” and “perfect” after firing hundreds of rounds of appropriate ammunition.

A key performance strength directly related to its gas system is the shotgun’s recoil impulse. The A.R.G.O. clone system effectively vents excess gas, resulting in a recoil that is described as a “push” rather than a sharp kick. This makes the shotgun significantly more comfortable to shoot with heavy buckshot and slug loads compared to many inertia-driven or pump-action shotguns. This manageable recoil allows for faster and more accurate follow-up shots, a critical advantage in defensive or competitive shooting scenarios.

3.2. The Strategic Advantage of M4 Parts Compatibility

While its reliability with proper loads is a core strength, the MAC-1014’s single greatest competitive advantage and strategic asset is its high degree of parts interchangeability with the Benelli M4. This compatibility is a central pillar of the product’s marketing and is consistently highlighted in reviews, with some sources claiming up to 98% of parts are fully interchangeable.

This feature fundamentally de-risks the purchase for the consumer and overcomes the primary anxieties associated with buying a Turkish-made firearm. The fear of being left with an unsupported product should the importer change or cease operations is rendered moot. If a component on the MAC-1014 breaks or wears out, the owner is not dependent on SDS Imports for a proprietary replacement. Instead, they have immediate access to the entire mature and robust ecosystem of OEM Benelli M4 parts and a vast array of third-party aftermarket components from reputable manufacturers like Mesa Tactical, Midwest Industries, RX Arms, and Taran Tactical. This ensures the long-term viability and serviceability of the firearm.

This high degree of compatibility creates a symbiotic relationship between the budget MAC-1014 and the premium Benelli M4 aftermarket. The introduction of a popular, low-cost M4 clone dramatically expands the Total Addressable Market (TAM) for companies that manufacture M4 accessories. A company developing a new M-LOK handguard or an improved trigger group is no longer designing for a relatively small pool of Benelli owners, but for a much larger and faster-growing combined market of Benelli and MAC-1014 users. This larger market provides a stronger business case for research and development, incentivizing continued innovation for the M4 platform as a whole. The result is a wider variety of available accessories, potentially at more competitive prices due to higher production volumes. In this dynamic, the MAC-1014 acts as a “gateway” to the M4 aftermarket, drawing in a new, more price-sensitive demographic. The success of the MAC-1014, therefore, does not simply cannibalize Benelli’s sales; it actively enriches and expands the accessory ecosystem that supports the entire M4 platform, ultimately benefiting owners of both the premium original and the budget-friendly clone.

Section 4: Documented Deficiencies and Common Failure Points

4.1. Critical Weakness: Ammunition Sensitivity and Cycling Failures

The most prevalent and consistently documented complaint regarding the MAC-1014 is its failure to reliably cycle low-velocity ammunition. This manifests as a Failure to Eject (FTE), where the spent hull is not fully extracted from the chamber, or as “short-stroking,” where the bolt does not travel far enough to the rear to eject the spent hull and pick up a fresh round from the magazine.

These malfunctions are directly linked to the shotgun’s military-derived gas system, which is tuned for high-pressure loads. Specific ammunition types cited as problematic include Fiocchi “low recoil” 1250 fps buckshot, which caused an FTE with nearly every shot in one user’s test, and various brands of Winchester target and birdshot loads with velocities around 1150 fps, which also failed to cycle consistently. Conversely, these same shotguns run perfectly with higher-velocity ammunition, typically anything rated at or above 1300-1350 fps.

The manufacturer addresses this issue directly in the owner’s manual by recommending a break-in period of at least 100 rounds of ammunition with a velocity of 1350 fps or higher. The technical rationale behind this procedure is that the friction between the bolt, bolt carrier, and receiver rails is highest on a new firearm. Firing a series of high-power shells generates maximum force in the action, which helps to lap or polish these mating surfaces, reducing overall friction. Once the action is “broken in,” the energy required to fully cycle the bolt is slightly reduced, which can improve reliability with some lighter loads. However, reviews and user reports suggest that even after a break-in period, the shotgun remains unreliable with the cheapest and lowest-velocity target shells. From an engineering perspective, these cycling failures are caused by insufficient gas pressure to drive the pistons and bolt carrier rearward with enough velocity and momentum to overcome the inertia of the components and the tension of the recoil spring.

4.2. Analysis of Component Failures and Ergonomic Complaints

Beyond the systemic issue of ammunition sensitivity, analysis of user feedback reveals a pattern of specific component complaints and ergonomic deficiencies.

Component Failures: While catastrophic failures of major components appear to be rare, several specific, lower-level issues have been documented:

  • Cracked Wood Handguard: As noted previously, the Turkish walnut handguard on the “Wood” model has been reported to crack under recoil, indicating a potential weakness in the material or its preparation.
  • Broken Gas Plug: One user reported breaking the gas plug while attempting to remove it for cleaning, which, while likely user-induced, may suggest that the part is brittle or that the factory thread locker is excessively strong.
  • Weak Magazine Extension Spring: A user review for the MAC-branded 7-round magazine extension noted that the included spring was too weak, leading to feeding issues. This suggests a potential quality control problem with accessory components.

Ergonomic Deficiencies: A more common category of complaint relates to the ergonomics of the shotgun in its factory configuration. These issues are not failures in the sense of breakage, but rather design elements that users find suboptimal for modern tactical use:

  • Small Bolt Release: The factory bolt release button is frequently described as “tiny” and “annoying to press,” hindering the speed and efficiency of administrative loading and emergency reloads.
  • Small Charging Handle: The stock charging handle is also criticized for being too small, making it difficult to manipulate quickly, especially while wearing gloves.
  • Long Length of Pull (LOP): The fixed polymer and wood stocks have a standard LOP that many users find too long for a comfortable, squared-up tactical stance, particularly when wearing body armor or bulky clothing.
  • Limited Sling Mounting Options: The base models often lack sufficient or well-placed attachment points for modern tactical slings, a notable drawback for a firearm intended for defensive use.

It is critical to recognize that this pattern of ergonomic complaints is not unique to the MAC-1014. The small controls and long LOP are faithful reproductions of the original Benelli M4’s design, which dates to the late 1990s. The Benelli itself has been subject to these same criticisms for years. The evolution of tactical shooting doctrine and equipment (e.g., the widespread use of body armor and the emphasis on ambidextrous controls) has created a demand for features like larger controls and adjustable stocks that were not priorities in the original design. Therefore, when consumers purchase aftermarket parts to “fix” these issues on their MAC-1014, they are not just correcting flaws in a Turkish clone; they are participating in the broader, user-driven evolution of the M4 platform’s ergonomics, addressing perceived shortcomings in the original design that the clone has inherited.

Section 5: Consumer Intelligence: A Data-Driven Analysis of Aftermarket Modifications

5.1. Methodology for Social Media and Forum Analysis

To provide a quantitative analysis of consumer behavior and identify the most common aftermarket modifications for the MAC-1014, a formal methodology was developed for mining and analyzing publicly available data from online sources.

  1. Source Identification: A curated list of high-value data sources was compiled to capture a broad cross-section of owner experiences and discussions. These sources included:
  • Social Media Platforms (Subreddits): r/Shotguns, r/Tacticalshotguns, r/Guns_Guns_Guns.
  • Video Platforms: Comment sections of YouTube videos featuring reviews, tests, and modifications of the MAC-1014 and similar Turkish M4 clones (e.g., Panzer M4).
  • Specialist Online Forums: The Benelli USA Forums, particularly threads discussing clone compatibility and performance.
  • E-commerce and Manufacturer Websites: Customer review sections on the product pages for the MAC-1014 and its compatible accessories on sites such as sdsarms.com, milarmamentcorp.com, midwayusa.com, and others.
  1. Data Mining and Keyword Strategy: A systematic search was conducted across these platforms using a variety of keyword strings to identify relevant content. Search terms included: “MAC 1014 upgrade,” “MAC 1014 parts,” “MAC 1014 mods,” “MAC 1014 problems,” “Benelli parts on MAC 1014,” and specific queries like “MAC 1014 stock” or “MAC 1014 handguard.”
  2. Data Point Extraction: Each relevant post, comment, or review that mentioned a specific part purchase or modification was logged. The following data points were extracted for each instance: (1) Component/Part Name, (2) Brand of the component (if mentioned), (3) The user’s stated motivation or reason for the purchase, and (4) The source of the data point (URL/thread ID).
  3. Motivation Categorization: To analyze the “why” behind each purchase, the stated motivations were classified into one of five primary categories:
  • Capacity Enhancement: To increase the shotgun’s shell capacity.
  • Ergonomic Improvement: To improve handling, control manipulation, shooter comfort, or length of pull.
  • Accessory Mounting: To add capabilities for mounting lights, lasers, optics, or slings.
  • Durability/Repair: To replace a broken, worn, or perceived low-quality factory part with a more robust alternative.
  • Aesthetic Customization: To alter the visual appearance of the firearm.
  1. Quantification and Ranking: The frequency of mentions for each distinct component was tallied. The ten components with the highest frequency of mentions were identified and ranked to form the basis of the following analysis. This ranking provides a data-driven snapshot of consumer priorities and spending habits related to the MAC-1014 platform.

5.2. The Top 10 Aftermarket Components for the MAC-1014

The analysis of consumer data yielded a clear and consistent hierarchy of aftermarket modifications. The following table details the top ten most frequently purchased components for the MAC-1014, ranked by frequency of mention, along with the primary motivations and common brands associated with each upgrade.

RankComponentPrimary MotivationCommon Brands MentionedSummary of Rationale & Supporting Evidence
1Magazine Tube Extension / Full-Length TubeCapacity EnhancementRX Arms, MAC/SDS, Panzer, Briley, Freedom Fighter TacticalThe stock 5+1 capacity is seen as a primary limitation. Owners overwhelmingly seek to upgrade to the 7+1 capacity of the military M1014 configuration. This is often the first modification performed.
2Collapsible / Adjustable StockErgonomic ImprovementMAC/SDS, Mesa Tactical, Panzer, Benelli OEMThe long length of pull on the factory fixed stock is a major ergonomic complaint. An adjustable stock allows for a customized fit, especially for users with body armor, and provides the desired military aesthetic.
3M-LOK HandguardAccessory MountingMidwest Industries, Strike Industries, RX ArmsThe factory polymer handguards lack modern mounting solutions. An M-LOK handguard is essential for users wanting to mount weapon lights, lasers, and forward grips, significantly enhancing the shotgun’s tactical utility.
4Oversized Charging HandleErgonomic ImprovementMidwest Industries, GG&G TacticalThe small factory charging handle is difficult to operate under stress or with gloves. An oversized handle provides a larger, more positive gripping surface for faster and more reliable manipulation of the bolt.
5Oversized Bolt ReleaseErgonomic ImprovementAgency Arms, Freedom Fighter Tactical, Taran Tactical InnovationsThe factory bolt release is widely criticized as being too small and difficult to depress. An oversized or extended release makes reloading procedures significantly faster and easier.
6Upgraded Magazine SpringDurability/RepairWolff GunspringsOften purchased concurrently with a magazine extension to ensure reliable feeding with the increased capacity and spring compression. Some extension kits are reported to have weak springs, making a premium spring a necessary supporting upgrade.
7Barrel Clamp with Picatinny / QD SocketAccessory MountingMAC/SDS ImportsProvides a forward mounting point for both a sling (via a Quick Detach socket) and a weapon light (via a small Picatinny rail section), addressing two accessory needs with a single component.
8Upgraded Magazine FollowerDurability/RepairFreedom Fighter TacticalThe stock follower is replaced with a higher-quality aluminum or steel follower to improve feeding reliability, prevent binding, and, in some cases, contribute a part for 922(r) compliance.
9Side Saddle Shell HolderCapacity EnhancementMesa TacticalAllows the user to carry additional shells directly on the receiver for faster reloads. This is a common upgrade for any shotgun intended for defensive or tactical use.
10Trigger Group Components / SpringsErgonomic Improvement / DurabilityTaran Tactical Innovations, Wolff GunspringsThe factory trigger is reported to be heavy, with one measurement at 9 pounds, 10 ounces. Upgraded springs or trigger components are installed to reduce the pull weight and create a smoother, more crisp trigger action.

5.3. Deconstructing the “Why”: An Analysis of Purchase Motivation

The data presented in the preceding table reveals a highly predictable and logical upgrade path that MAC-1014 owners follow. This path is not random but adheres to a clear hierarchy of needs, aimed at systematically transforming the budget-oriented base gun into a fully featured tactical shotgun. The progression typically follows these stages:

  1. Rectify Core Limitations (Capacity): The first and most urgent modification for the majority of users is increasing the magazine capacity from 5 to 7 rounds. This brings the clone in line with the standard military configuration of the Benelli M1014 and is seen as a fundamental requirement.
  2. Optimize Core Ergonomics (Handling): The next priority is to address the primary points of physical interaction with the firearm. The long stock is replaced with an adjustable one, and the small, inefficient bolt release and charging handle are swapped for larger, more effective controls.
  3. Modernize for Accessories (Utility): Once the core function and handling are optimized, the focus shifts to adding modern accessories. This is primarily achieved by replacing the stock handguard with an M-LOK version and adding a barrel clamp, which together provide mounting points for weapon lights and slings.

This clear, multi-stage upgrade path supports a larger conclusion about the product’s market position and the consumer mindset. The MAC-1014 is not typically purchased with the intention of being used as a finished firearm in its stock configuration. Instead, it is acquired as a functional “receiver and barrel kit” or a “base chassis” upon which a custom build will be completed. The low initial purchase price of ~$400-$500 is psychologically re-framed by the consumer not as the total cost of the weapon, but as a “down payment.” There is an implicit understanding and expectation that an additional $300 to $800 will be invested in aftermarket parts to bring the shotgun up to the user’s desired specification.

For example, a user might spend $450 on the base shotgun, then immediately add a $50 MAC magazine extension and a $75 MAC adjustable stock. With a total investment of $575, they have already addressed the two most significant shortcomings. Over time, they might add a $30 oversized charging handle and a $195 Midwest Industries handguard , bringing their total investment to $800. For this price, they have assembled a shotgun that is ergonomically and functionally very similar to a Benelli M4 that would have cost over $2,000 before any of the same upgrades were added. This modular, gradual investment model is the core of the MAC-1014’s appeal. It makes a high-performance, highly customizable platform accessible to a much broader market segment that is willing to trade out-of-the-box perfection for affordability and the opportunity to build a personalized firearm over time.

Section 6: Concluding Analysis and Strategic Outlook

6.1. Synthesized Assessment

The Military Armament Corporation MAC-1014 is a strategically successful product that effectively leverages a proven, high-performance design and a robust aftermarket ecosystem to overcome the limitations of its value-engineered manufacturing. Its market success is not predicated on being a perfect replica of the Benelli M4, but on being a functionally sufficient one at a price point that opens the platform to a new class of consumer.

The analysis concludes that the MAC-1014 is a viable and reliable firearm under a specific set of conditions. The primary condition is that the owner must understand and respect the operational parameters of its military-derived gas system, namely its requirement for high-velocity ammunition for reliable cycling, especially during the initial break-in period. The secondary condition is the owner’s willingness to invest in aftermarket components to correct the platform’s inherent ergonomic shortcomings.

For the informed consumer who fits this profile—one who is willing to use appropriate ammunition and views the initial purchase as the start of a building project—the MAC-1014 represents an exceptional value. It is not a “perfect gun out of the box,” but it is an excellent platform. It provides the reliable core of a world-class combat shotgun, allowing the user to customize the interface and accessories to their exact specifications at a total cost that remains a fraction of the original.

6.2. Future Considerations

The long-term market trajectory and reputation of the MAC-1014 will depend on two critical factors. The first is the ability of the Turkish manufacturer, Özerbas, to maintain a consistent level of quality control on the core components of the firearm. Any significant decline in the quality of bolts, barrels, or gas system components could quickly erode consumer confidence and undermine the product’s reputation for reliability. The second factor is the continued strength and commitment of the U.S. importer, SDS Imports/MAC. Consistent availability, responsive customer service for warranty issues (such as the reported handguard replacement), and a steady supply of branded accessories are crucial for maintaining market momentum.

There is a clear opportunity for SDS/MAC to further solidify the MAC-1014’s market position by incorporating solutions to the most common complaints into future production runs. User feedback suggests that the importer is aware of these issues and may be planning changes. Shipping future models with an improved, larger bolt release, a stock with a shorter length of pull, or even offering a “factory upgraded” package with these features pre-installed could significantly enhance the out-of-the-box experience. Such improvements would not only address the primary consumer pain points but would also position the MAC-1014 to more effectively compete against and challenge firearms in the established mid-tier market segment.


If you find this post useful, please share the link on Facebook, with your friends, etc. Your support is much appreciated and if you have any feedback, please email me at in**@*********ps.com. Please note that for links to other websites, we are only paid if there is an affiliate program such as Avantlink, Impact, Amazon and eBay and only if you purchase something. If you’d like to directly donate to help fund our continued report, please visit our donations page.


Sources Used

  1. Solid Values: MAC 1014 & MAC 2 | An Official Journal Of The NRA – American Rifleman, accessed September 29, 2025, https://www.americanrifleman.org/content/solid-values-mac-1014-mac-2/
  2. MAC 1014 Shotgun, Tested and Reviewed | Outdoor Life, accessed September 29, 2025, https://www.outdoorlife.com/guns/mac-1014-review/
  3. MAC-1014 & MAC-2 Shotguns, 1911 JSOC, MAC 9 DS, and MAC-5 Series – Military Armament Corporation, accessed September 29, 2025, https://milarmamentcorp.com/mac-firearms/
  4. SDS Imports MAC 1014 12 GA Semi Auto 5+1 Pistol Grip Shotgun | Tombstone Tactical, accessed September 29, 2025, https://tombstonetactical.com/product/mac-1014-semi-12g
  5. MAC 1014 the M4 Clone – YouTube, accessed September 29, 2025, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nGyH1L0o85s
  6. I loved the Beretta but the MAC 1014 is more affordable. Is there a big difference? If there isn’t, I’m gonna go with the Beretta. Beretta is $1050 without tax and the Mac is about $400 without tax. : r/Guns_Guns_Guns – Reddit, accessed September 29, 2025, https://www.reddit.com/r/Guns_Guns_Guns/comments/1hdn3kb/i_loved_the_beretta_but_the_mac_1014_is_more/
  7. MAC Agency Tradesman 1014 Review: Optimized Turkelli Tactical …, accessed September 29, 2025, https://www.recoilweb.com/mac-agency-tradesman-1014-review-optimized-turkelli-tactical-shotgun-189761.html
  8. What’s the best M4 Benelli clone made in Turkey? : r/Shotguns – Reddit, accessed September 29, 2025, https://www.reddit.com/r/Shotguns/comments/1eqaxi0/whats_the_best_m4_benelli_clone_made_in_turkey/
  9. MAC 1014 Semi-Auto Shotgun Channels Benelli M4 on a Budget – Athlon Outdoors, accessed September 29, 2025, https://athlonoutdoors.com/article/mac-1014-semi-auto-shotgun/
  10. MAC 1014 Shotgun Review – News & Current Events – USCCA Community, accessed September 29, 2025, https://community.usconcealedcarry.com/t/mac-1014-shotgun-review/101614
  11. How do we feel about the Mac 1014 or any other Turkish m4 clone …, accessed September 29, 2025, https://www.reddit.com/r/Tacticalshotguns/comments/19d0e7c/how_do_we_feel_about_the_mac_1014_or_any_other/
  12. Is The MAC 1014 Shotgun as Good as the Benelli M4? – YouTube, accessed September 29, 2025, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=76xOuLjDjLo
  13. MAC 1014 12GA Semi-Auto Shotgun – SDS Arms, accessed September 29, 2025, https://sdsarms.com/mac-1014/
  14. Military Armament Corp MAC 1014 12ga Semi Auto Shotgun 18.5″ Barrel 5+1 21000120 – Buds Gun Shop, accessed September 29, 2025, https://www.budsgunshop.com/product_info.php/products_id/160755/military+armament+corp+mac+1014+12ga+semi+auto+shotgun+18.5+barrel+5+1
  15. Panzer M4 (Benelli M4 Clone) initial impressions #1 : r/Shotguns, accessed September 29, 2025, https://www.reddit.com/r/Shotguns/comments/18bshma/panzer_m4_benelli_m4_clone_initial_impressions_1/
  16. 2025 Shotgun Of The Year: SDS Arms MAC 1014 – American Rifleman, accessed September 29, 2025, https://inglismfg.com/news/2025-shotgun-of-the-year-sds-arms-mac-1014-american-rifleman/
  17. MAC1014 – Apache Solutions, accessed September 29, 2025, https://apachenc.com/mac1014/
  18. SDS Imports MAC 1014 Marine Shotgun 12 ga 3″ Chamber 5rd Magazine 18.5 – San Diego Guns, accessed September 29, 2025, https://sandiegoguns.com/product/sds-imports-mac-1014-marine-shotgun-12-ga-3-chamber-5rd-magazine-18-5-barrel-black-with-pistol-grip/
  19. Lipsey’s Bulletin – MAC 1014 Shotgun: A Premier Turkish-Made Benelli M4 Clone, accessed September 29, 2025, https://tisasusa.com/news/lipseys-bulletin-mac-1014-shotgun-a-premier-turkishmade-benelli-m4-clone/
  20. Most Popular Original Benelli M4 Upgrades – Freedom Fighter Tactical, accessed September 29, 2025, https://freedomfightertactical.com/collections/most-popular-benelli-m4-upgrades
  21. Benelli M4: Shotguns, Clones, Parts, Accessories – MidwayUSA, accessed September 29, 2025, https://www.midwayusa.com/interest-hub/benelli-m4
  22. Basic M-4 – First 5 upgrades – Benelli, accessed September 29, 2025, https://forums.benelliusa.com/topic/24645-basic-m-4-first-5-upgrades/
  23. MAC 1014 Issues/Testing : r/Shotguns – Reddit, accessed September 29, 2025, https://www.reddit.com/r/Shotguns/comments/1j94cvb/mac_1014_issuestesting/
  24. What Causes Failure To Eject A Round? No Ejection Of The Round – Polymer Cased Ammo, accessed September 29, 2025, https://www.virtusammo.com/what-causes-failure-to-eject-a-round-no-ejection-of-the-round/
  25. Diagnosing Pistol Malfunctions – Part 3: Failure to Eject – Aegis Academy, accessed September 29, 2025, https://aegisacademy.com/blogs/test-blog-post/diagnosing-pistol-malfunctions-part-3-failure-to-eject
  26. MAC 1014 Magazine Extension, Black – Military Armament Corporation, accessed September 29, 2025, https://milarmamentcorp.com/mac-1014-magazine-extension-black/
  27. Urbino® Pistol Grip Stock For Benelli M4 (12-GA) – Mesa Tactical, accessed September 29, 2025, https://mesatactical.com/urbino-pistol-grip-stock-for-benelli-m4-12-ga/
  28. Panzer Arms M4 Review 2025 – Gun University, accessed September 29, 2025, https://gununiversity.com/panzer-arms-m4-review/
  29. Benelli M4/M1014 Titanium 7rd Magazine Tube – Full Length Mag Tube – Black – eBay, accessed September 29, 2025, https://www.ebay.com/itm/396394285000
  30. Benelli M4 Magazine Extension for Black & H2O shotguns – Rx Arms Solutions, accessed September 29, 2025, https://rxarms.com/products/benelli-m4-parts-and-accessories/benelli-m4-magazine-extension/
  31. Military Armament Corp Parts & Accessories – MAC – SDS Arms, accessed September 29, 2025, https://sdsarms.com/mac/mac-knives-firearms-accessories/
  32. MAC 1014 Adjustable Breacher-Style Stock – Military Armament Corporation, accessed September 29, 2025, https://milarmamentcorp.com/mac-1014-adjustable-breacher-style-stock/
  33. Benelli M4 M-LOK® Handguard – Midwest Industries, accessed September 29, 2025, https://midwestindustriesinc.com/benelli-m4-m-lok-handguard/
  34. MI MAC 1014 M-LOK® Handguard – Lightweight & Durable – SDS Arms, accessed September 29, 2025, https://sdsarms.com/mi-mac-1014-m-lok-handguard/
  35. Original Benelli M4 Magazine Tube Extensions + Tube Accessories – Freedom Fighter Tactical, accessed September 29, 2025, https://freedomfightertactical.com/collections/magazine-tubes-tube-accessories
  36. MAC 1014 12GA Semi-Auto Shotgun – Military Armament Corporation, accessed September 29, 2025, https://milarmamentcorp.com/mac-1014/
  37. SDS Imports Mac 1014 Shotgun Barrel Clamp Picatinny Rail with QD Socket, accessed September 29, 2025, https://www.natchezss.com/sds-imports-mac-1014-shotgun-barrel-clamp-picatinny-rail-with-qd-socket

Full Length Benelli M4 Carbon Fiber Magazine – Briley, accessed September 29, 2025, https://www.briley.com/p-63664-full-length-benelli-m4-carbon-fiber-magazine.aspx

What are rear stock options for SDS Lynx 12 Gauge shotguns?

A fellow messaged me the other day and asked what options he had to replace the light fixed stock on his SDS 12 gauge shotgun. I told him that he has a lot. The rear of an SDS is very similar to an AKM or AK-74.

The rear piece that holds the stock in is called a “trunnion” they are what provide the real strength in the sheet metal receiver. The stock is held in place by the two screws you see. Be sure to use a blade screw driver bit that completely fills the slot. You can see that whomever installed the screws at the factor did not do this and slightly deformed both slots by using an undersized screwdriver or blade bit.
You may need to use a wood dowel, or whatever you have handy, to tap the stock out. I like using a hardwood dowel because it doesn’t bend or scratch things all up.
I used a Rifle Dynamics adapter that lets you convert from the AK-rear to an AR/M4 buffer tube. Both the Rifle Dynamics adapter and the one sold by PSA are very well made.

With the rear stock removed, you can use any AKM/AK-74 traditional wood or polymer stock that you want or adapter to use an AR-style stock. Read up online before you buy because there are tons and tons of options and combinations for you.

I hope this helps you out and here are a few examples for your consideration:



If you find this post useful, please share the link on Facebook, with your friends, etc. Your support is much appreciated and if you have any feedback, please email me at in**@*********ps.com. Please note that for links to other websites, we are only paid if there is an affiliate program such as Avantlink, Impact, Amazon and eBay and only if you purchase something. If you’d like to directly donate to help fund our continued report, please visit our donations page.



New SDS 10 Round Magazines At The Range – They Worked Great

As you may have read, my first range session with my new SDS Lynx shotgun didn’t go very well when I used new untested 10 round SDS brand magazines.  I posted my findings and David Fillers of SDS immediately reached out to me to address the issue.

David told me they did have a few quality control problems early on and that he wanted to replace my four magazines.  Note, David said they have sold over 3,000 magazines with just a few problems  and given that I haven’t heard or read about others having problems, it must have just been bad luck for me.  At any rate, I was impressed that he reached out so quick and a few days later the replacement magazines arrived.

To make sure I didn’t have further problems, they had opened each package and tested the followers, which I appreciated.   Let me tell you, the difference was night and day.  The replacement magazine followers were much looser as they approached the top of the mag and felt great from the start.  Exactly what I would normally expect.  Of course, this then begged the question of how would they perform?

About a week after that, I finally got a chance to take the Lynx and the new magazines to the range.  I could tell the Lynx was still wearing in.  Whenever you have a weapon with parkerizing, it is to be expected.  We put about 25 rounds of 2-3/4″ Remington 00 buckshot through it the first time and then I put about 70 more through on this trip.  I’d say somewhere between cumulative round 40-50 (meaning from the fist session and this one), the SDS really started to smoothen out.

How could I tell?  It was cycling faster and it was kicking rounds out very aggressively so I turned the gas port down from wide open to the third widest setting.  I bet I can turn that down again for these higher-power rounds in the near future.

Those 12 gauge rounds are stout.  It’s been years since I shot more than 25 in one session so I was feeling it.  You’ll also notice that my JMAC brake loosened up.  I had hand tightened the jam nut and forgot to secure it with a wrench.  I fixed that problem as soon as I got home.

At any rate, the new SDS 10 round magazines worked great especially once the action started smoothing out.  I tried them all the way full with 10 rounds as well as starting with only five rounds.  I also fired both buck shot and some Brenke slugs.  Thus, I’m happy to report that the SDS magazines appear to be good to go.

There is a good lesson here for all of us – including me – definitely test your gear before you need to rely on it.  Thankfully this was just me getting embarrassed by my buddies at the range razzing me vs. a critical situation.

Now, I next need to point out that I took the CSSpecs magazines with me also and all they did was jam so I need to contact those folks and work on them next.



If you find this post useful, please share the link on Facebook, with your friends, etc. Your support is much appreciated and if you have any feedback, please email me at in**@*********ps.com. Please note that for links to other websites, we are only paid if there is an affiliate program such as Avantlink, Impact, Amazon and eBay and only if you purchase something. If you’d like to directly donate to help fund our continued report, please visit our donations page.



Fitting a Csspecs Steel Magazine To A SDS Lynx 12ga Shotgun

Csspecs makes wicked steel magazines for a variety of niche weapons. They make a well respected magazine for 12 gauge Saiga shotguns. That meant it would fit my SDS Lynx 12ga also.

I placed my order on their website and within a week receive to magazines that were built like a tank. I had a problem with some of the plastic SDS 10 round magazines in terms of the follower going all the way to the top. The Csspecs follower shot up in the top so fast I think you could take off a body part 🙂 just kidding but it is very well done.

You have to love a magazine that is so heavily made it can be used as a defensive weapon all by itself 🙂  Seriously, Csspecs makes some wicked mags and they tell you right up front that you may need to do a bit of fitting and I did.

Fitting The Magazines

The magazines come with a small instruction pamphlet for fitting that makes perfect sense to anybody who’s ever had to fit AK magazines. Step one is to make sure that the magazine fits correctly from front to back. If it does not you trim a little bit off the back tab of the magazine.

In my case it set right in. You can see how the mag stops are coming right against the bottom of the receiver.  This is good!  If I did need to trim it, I would have carefully filed a bit and tested over and over until the mag stops contacted the receiver, polished the surface and applied cold blue per the details in the next step.

In my case, the magazine locking lever would not engage the mag’s tab at all. That means that little tab was too thick and needed to be filed down. This is really a situation where you want to use a fine hand file and take off a little bit at a time and test – don’t rush this. Take care to maintain the slight angle. This helps with the lock up.  Do not make it flat and try to keep it as straight across as possible.

I can’t stress enough, take your time.  The above was done with a single-cut file where one edge was ground down so I can make cuts like this with out damaging the surface.  You can sometimes buy files like I show below with one or both edges left plain.  In my case, I used my belt sander to remove the teeth on that side.

This is not a situation where you want to rush. Take a little bit off at an angle and test over and over. It probably took me about 5 minutes per magazine. You want the magazine to lock into place firmly. If it is really loose I would recommend welding some material back on and fixing it.

After the filing, I did use a fine rubber abrasive polishing but in my Dremel to smooth the surface out so the lock up process would be smoother.

After I had the fitting correct, I use the little bit of Brownells Oxpho blue liquid on Long dobbers and blued the surface followed by some oil.

That is all there was to it. I hope this helps you out. Kudos to CS specs for making some very nice magazines. These things are rock solid and I may very well pick a couple more up at some point.



If you find this post useful, please share the link on Facebook, with your friends, etc. Your support is much appreciated and if you have any feedback, please email me at in**@*********ps.com. Please note that for links to other websites, we are only paid if there is an affiliate program such as Avantlink, Impact, Amazon and eBay and only if you purchase something. If you’d like to directly donate to help fund our continued report, please visit our donations page.



Tuning SDS 10 Round Magazines for Saiga and Lynx Shotguns

Well, Scott, Brooks and I went shooting a few weeks back. I was really excited to take my new SDS Lynx out and I had bought four brand news SDS 10 round magazines that I took out of the wrapper and threw in my range bag. That turned out to be a mistake. The photo above is of Scott trying to clear yet another jam from the Lynx with one of the 10 round magazines inserted – they had feed failures constantly.

One of the things I was told years ago was to test everything before you rely on it. Now granted I was just going to the quarry to shoot with my friends but I really should have tested those magazines. Of the four, only one kind of worked. The followers were all hanging up about an inch from the top. The five round SDS magazine that came with the shotgun ran great but five founds at a time is not the most exciting thing. It was frustrating and disappointing at the same time.

The Lynx and the mags went back in the gun case and I felt pretty stupid for not checking the mags before going. On the other hand, they were brand new and should have worked. I was more than a bit miffed also – clearly there was a manufacturing issue, Followers should spring to the top of a magazine like a rocket – not get stuck part way down. A person should not need to buy magazines and then tune them inside – getting them to fit an AK-style weapon, sure that happens all the time, but not needing to redo the internals.

In the following photos notice how the followers are not all the way to the top compared to the small 5 round magazines.

At that point I made a decision – the SDS magazines really did look well made and rather than send them back, I decided to tune them and document what I did to share with others.

The Lynx shotgun uses Saiga magazines so this design is common and writing up what to do might very well help others out. So with my mind made up, it was just a matter of finding the time to do it.

A couple of weeks went buy before I could dig in but finally the time came. I’m going to try and show you what I found and explain what you need to do to correct it. You’re going to need a Dremel (or similar rotary tool), rubberized polishing bits, felt/wool polishing bits, and a plastic polish – I use Plastix a lot but even toothpaste would work. Yes, toothpaste is a very fine grit polish – you can even use it to polish plastic headlights.

Disassembling a SDS Magazines

The SDS magazine comes apart just like any AK magazine – you push the button on the bottom with a screw driver and slide the floor plate off of the magazine body. Now take a look at it. It can only push off one. All of the magazine Parts in the SDS can only go one way.

So push the button down and shove the floor plate in the direction of the opening. You may need to use a small Mallet or something hard to give it a little bit of a whack to get it started.

Now once you get that floor plate off the rest is going to want to spring out so use your thumb to keep it from flying across the room or in your face.

Fixing The Problem Area

The problem area in the magazines seem to be in the upper inch to inch and a half. You’ll see a mold seam that needs to be erased using the Dremel tool with the rubberized abrasive tips as well as it being tight in general all the way around.

So the first thing I did was to use a small rubberized abrasive tip to erase the mold seemed entirely that runs around the inner area of the magazine. In the next two photos you’ll see a shiny protruding lip inside the magazine that is just above the follower — that is the mold seam I am speaking of. It’s important to note that the follower is binding even before getting to that seam.

I used a small rubberized fine abrasive tip in my Dremel to literally erase the mold seam flush with the rest of the mold body.

At this point I blew out the magazine body with compressed air and the overall fit of the follower to the magazine body was just too tight. It and the body needed to be thinned a bit – not a bunch, just a bit.

In terms of the trimming, I would definitely recommend that you use the abrasive tip to remove just a little and test over and over. I can’t stress this enough – don’t try to do it all at once. As the saying goes, it’s easier to take more material off than to try and put it back on.

I wound up switching to a bigger rubber abrasive wheel when I did the follower and as far as I could reach in with the bit on the Dremel. The bit is still fine, I would not recommend using anything very aggressive. I used this bit on the follower and the inside of the magazine body. You just need to take a little bit of material off. I went all the way around the magazine body and the follower in that top area. You’ll see just below the scene there is a little elevated area inside the magazine that guides a follower up into position that is too tight.

Now I found I needed to do a second step to really smooth things out. The abrasive bit leaves a rough surface and the next thing I did was to use a felt bob/bit with felt on the end in my Dremel along with Plastix polish to finely polish all the surfaces. I tried skipping this step with a couple of the magazines and the end result was so much better that I went back and polished the surfaces I worked on in all of the magazines.

The polishing with the Plastix really made a big difference and I would recommend you do it as well. You could tell the parts were smoother. Definitely wipe everything down and do not leave the grit in the magazine.

Next, I sprayed the Dupont Teflon dry film lubricant in the magazine body and on the follower. I would not recommend using oil or anything that leaves a residue that dirt will stick to. Instead you want something that is going to leave a dry film behind. This really fixed everything once and for all.

9/21/23 Update: Dupont no longer sells a Teflon spray due to environmental and health concerns. They sell a ceramic-based spray now that I use instead.

I then reassembled the magazines. As mentioned the parts can only go one way. I never took the spring off the bottom plate so I didn’t have to worry about its orientation.

I went ahead and did one final spray of Teflon around the follower and let it run down in. While it is still a liquid, the lubrication will not be very good. You need to let it dry. In my case, it shot up like a rocket. Job done.

End Result

The magazines all seem to work fine now. I think the problem was a combination of the mold seam and that inside area being just a tad too tight. I hope this post helps you out. Small side note to SDS – you really ought to fix this.

10/15/18: First thing this morning SDS reached out to me and is sending replacement magazines. I will test them and report back. They have sold over 3,000 magazines with just a few problems so I might just literally have a bad batch.



If you find this post useful, please share the link on Facebook, with your friends, etc. Your support is much appreciated and if you have any feedback, please email me at in**@*********ps.com. Please note that for links to other websites, we are only paid if there is an affiliate program such as Avantlink, Impact, Amazon and eBay and only if you purchase something. If you’d like to directly donate to help fund our continued report, please visit our donations page.



The Lynx 12 – Post 2 of 3: Disassembly and Observations

In the first post, I documented my favorable first impressions of the SDS Lynx 12 shotgun.  After posting, at least 10 gentlemen have come forward stating how much they like their Lynx 12 shotguns and nobody reported any problems.  In this post, I’ll write about taking the shotgun apart in order to install my planned customizations, which will be in the next post.

Palmetto State Armory has SDS Lynx 12 gauge shotguns for sale – click here to go to their order page.

Call me old school, but the first thing I did was to read the manual 🙂  The next thing was to hose down the hole shotgun and wipe it down to remove all the odd smelling rust preservative.  I really didn’t care for the tacky feel to be there while working on it.  Once removed, I sprayed on Rem Oil to prevent rust while I was working on it.  Rem Oil is nice and thin and doesn’t have too much of a smell.  It’s my go to for situations like this.  If you do remove the preservative, just be sure to apply whatever oil or rust inhibitor you prefer.

Removing the Dust Cover and Recoil Spring

The dust cover comes off by pushing the release latch (the little button that sticks up) on the recoil spring and pushing the whole assembly forward while lifting the dust cover up and off the receiver.

You’ll notice I have the Lynx sitting in my Tipton vise.  I’ve had it for years and it really makes working on long arms way easier.

With the dust cover off, you can get a good look at the recoil spring  assembly.  Some guys will call this the operating spring or the return spring but basically it absorbs the energy of the bolt carrier assembly coming back after firing and then when the spring has enough energy, it pushes the bolt carrier assembly forward to then cock the trigger and strip a round off the magazine and go back into battery.

Compared to a regular AKM, you will notice the release latch and the rubber buffer assembly at the rear.  I find the use of a buffer interesting.  Normally the spring should absorb the energy and my bet is that the designers put it there in case the user either adjusts the gas regulator such that the system is over-gassed and the carrier comes back with more force than the spring alone can handle or they put it there just in case of a round that generates more pressure than what the spring can handle but the gas regulator doesn’t exactly have the right setting — imagine needing a gas setting of “3.5”. At the third position there is too much gas but at 4 there is too little.  I have little doubt it is a good idea.  I’d recommend to keep a spare buffer on hand and inspect the one in the shotgun regularly.  It ought to last a long time under most conditions but the buffers are dirt cheap.

To remove it, push forward on the rear part that normally protrudes from the dust cover.  It should slide forward in the slot that holds it on the trunnion until it is free and you can then lift up and pull back to remove the assembly from the bolt carrier and shotgun overall.

You will also note that the designers made the recoil spring assembly two parts – the rear is a tube like an RPK or older milled AKs with one spring.  There is then an additional cover that rides on that rear tube and normally closes the otherwise enlarged ejection port in the dust cover.  In front of that is then a floating spring.

Removing the Bolt Carrier Assembly and Looking Inside the Receiver

First, remove the bolt carrier assembly.  It slides to the rear of the receiver and can then be lifted up out of the receiver.  Note – it must be fully to the rear or the receiver’s guide rails will retain it.

It’s interesting how the bolt carrier is short.  In the gas tube, which is pinned in place, is a disc, that some call the “gas puck” or just “puck” which is the gas piston.  Unlike an AKM, the gas tube is held in place by the gas tube seat (it reminds me of a rear sight block in a way) that would need it’s retaining pin to be punched out to be removed.  When you tilt the shotgun forward and back, you can hear the puck moving back and forth in the gas tube.  I didn’t take the gas tube assembly apart but it looks straight forward enough.

The carrier is holding a really massive bolt.  It operates very much like any AK – the bolt head has a cam that travels through a slot in the carrier that in turn rotates it into or out of battery.

By moving the bolt head to the rear, the cam can be rotates out of the slot and the bolt head then removed from the carrier.

Look at the size of the extractor!

Interestingly, the firing pin has a spring pushing it backward compared to the floating firing pins you normally find in an AK rifle.  In this photo you can see the tail of the firing pin pushed out the back of the bolt body by the spring.

Looking down in the receiver was a very typical looking fire control group.  Note, it has been tweaked slightly to work in a Saiga or Lynx so if you want to replace the fire control group you will need to either buy one made for the the Saiga or Lynx or you will need to make some modifications.

Normally I replace the fire control group (FCG) with a US made set but the Lynx’s trigger is surprisingly decent.  Not great, but decent.  It was gritty from the parkerizing and lack of use but I figured grease and time could cure that.  I may well swap it out in the future but time will tell.

The Pistol Grip

Now I did run into one surprise that I did not expect – see the grip nut below?  I figured it would be a regular AKM nut meaning threaded for a 6mm diameter x 1.0mm pitch screw.  It’s not.  I did not expect this but the grip screw is actually smaller than an AK’s.  The screw is actually 5mm diameter x 106mm long.  I did not bother finding out the pitch by the way because it would not be staying!  Instead, I focused on the hole in the receiver – it was the same size as a normal AKM grip nut.  Whew – Problem solved.  I would replace it  with a beefier AKM nut and one of our high-strength alloy grip screws (I’ll detail that in the next post).

To remove the grip, there is a blade screw head on the base.  Simply unscrew it and remove the grip and the grip nut.

Removing the Buttstock

The plastic buttstock is held in place by two machine screws on the top of the rear trunnion.  The rear trunnion is an AK-74 forked style with the front portion open.  The stock with its lightning cuts on the side harks to the 74 also other than having a recoil pad thicker than what you would find on a 74.

Given how front heavy the shotgun felt, I was not surprised to find out that the buttstock was actually hollow.  The Chinese installed threaded inserts for strength.  I think that is commendable actually.  The fit of the buttstock to the receiver is both well done and very tight.  This is what will bear the recoil – the screws are just there to hold it together.

Because of the tight fit, I secured the rifle in my vise after removing the selector lever.  I then used a wood dowel and hammer to tap on the lip of the stock to push it backwards out of the receiver.  It really didn’t take much force to get it out.  For those of you who have tried to get an old varnished AK-47 stock out of a receiver, you know exactly what I mean and the Lynx requires just a small fraction of that.

The Forearm

The sporting looking forearm is held in place by a 5mm diameter x 11mm long screw.  Unscrew it and push the handguard forward past the gas tube and then pull it off the barrel.  Mine was a tight fit so I did need to pull it off the barrel and not just lift.  I did use a small piece of wood and a hammer to get it started out of the receiver.

Done

At this point, I had the shotgun all the way apart other than the muzzle cap.  I left that on to protect the threads while I worked.  The next blog post will detail the customizations and a few surprises that happened along the way.



If you find this post useful, please share the link on Facebook, with your friends, etc. Your support is much appreciated and if you have any feedback, please email me at in**@*********ps.com. Please note that for links to other websites, we are only paid if there is an affiliate program such as Avantlink, Impact, Amazon and eBay and only if you purchase something. If you’d like to directly donate to help fund our continued report, please visit our donations page.