Finally going forward with the VZ58 projects

[Hal O Peridol]

Finishing up some long term projects.\\I have 2 of the VZ58 parts sets lying around. One is not complete as the barrel got boogered up in a previous build attempt that used erroneious information.
Last week I was looking around on the net for parts when I saw that Atlantic had one of my long wanted rifles in stock, the VZ58 rifle in 5.56 Nato. So I quickly snagged one of those, just before the unpleasantness hit the news. I am looking forward to getting that one in. It also allowed me to sekk a couple of rifles to fund this current build/buy event.

The next day, while looking for a m16 mag adapter for above rifle, I saw that there were actual Czech made receivers for sale at a price comparable with the Tortot and other offerings. I picked one of those up, and it has arrived already. I am very impressed with the quality and finish of the receiver.

The last project/kit is a build on a Grand Power receiver I bought several years agoIt will be nice to finish that one up too.

The only real dilemma is which one gets the wood furniture set?

[RSR]

Grandpower receivers are rare, and have an oval or circular milling IIRC, vs OEM square-ish milling.  Furniture is easily swapped however. 

Would only worry about furniture if you need to match its color (gray or black) to a specific build...

Keep us posted on your progress!

[Hal O Peridol]

Found out that Centerfire Systems out of Versalles, KY had take off barrels with front sight and gasblock, so that will help out going forward.

Now to check tutorials for barrel mounting. Any recommensations?

[RSR]

Found out that Centerfire Systems out of Versalles, KY had take off barrels with front sight and gasblock, so that will help out going forward.

Now to check tutorials for barrel mounting. Any recommensations?

ORF/AWO used to have a barrel press jig available.  Either or both AK Files or FAL Files had threads on recirculating those -- many more home builders there than here.  Might check with AWO to see if they might have one available.  They're still selling Vz58 receivers AFAIK.

There might be some threads here if you search.  Generally google better than search bar here -- use the following without the quotes and replacing search words with what you're looking for: "site:czfirearms.us searchwords"

[Wobbly]

Now to check tutorials for barrel mounting. Any recommendations ?

The job can be done without a jig. As with any precision job, 99% of the work is in the setup. It helps to have knowledge of proper machine shop practice and tools.
• The position of the barrel relative to the receiver is critical. The barrel with front sight gives you lots of measurement points, use them. Devise a plan for reference measurements between the 2 parts BEFORE you start.
• Stop 1/8" in, and re-check all your alignment measurements.
• Research proper "press fits" for that diameter range. Polish the receiver well to bring the 2 parts into spec.
• Use a lubricant.
• Use a hydraulic press, not a hammer. Protect the barrel threads with something disposable. Weld on the permanent suppressor later.
• Recognize early-on that the final barrel position sets the "head space". Buy a head space tool.
• Work with this truth in mind: There is one chance for correct assy. Once assembled, there's no going back; no adjustment; no second chance.

[ObiWanBonJovi]

I Very strongly advise against pushing on the end of the barrel like most do for ak builds.  The sa vz 58 has a much longer journal with a tighter press fit.  You will bend the barrel if dit is as tight as factory rifles.
I use a homemade barrel clamp.  Drill a hole in a block of aluminum sized for the barrel directly in front of chamber area.  Cut aluminum block in half at the hole, and clamp together with bolts.  Then press receiver onto barrel.  I use an angled aluminum block on back of receiver and a c clamp to prevent receiver from spreading at top while pressing.

Also a very good idea to polish edge of gas piston stop hole in receiver, as sometimes that edge can gall into barrel while pressing.  And dont forget to install gas piston stop first, I hold mine in with green loctite.

[RSR]

I Very strongly advise against pushing on the end of the barrel like most do for ak builds.  The sa vz 58 has a much longer journal with a tighter press fit.  You will bend the barrel if dit is as tight as factory rifles.
I use a homemade barrel clamp.  Drill a hole in a block of aluminum sized for the barrel directly in front of chamber area.  Cut aluminum block in half at the hole, and clamp together with bolts.  Then press receiver onto barrel.  I use an angled aluminum block on back of receiver and a c clamp to prevent receiver from spreading at top while pressing.

Also a very good idea to polish edge of gas piston stop hole in receiver, as sometimes that edge can gall into barrel while pressing.  And dont forget to install gas piston stop first, I hold mine in with green loctite.

These plus a headspacing jig might be worth adding to your Bonesteel store...

[Hal O Peridol]

hanks for tje  help guys. Haven't decided to DIY or send out to have done. I do have a small press bur probably not enough oomph to Get Er Done.

[Forced March]

I've pushed in LOADS of vz58 barrels.  Built jigs.  Lubed.  Gas piston stop is held in place with heavy grease.  You can f it up and still press them right out again though it takes a totally different set of tools.  Galing the barrel is a real thing, avoid any flashing in and around the open end of the receiver. 

My advice, try it, mess it up, fix it, and try again.