I actually ordered the kit before I found a rifle to stick it on, because at the time the wait was still 2 -3 months. It used to be more then a year! I actually got the kit after about 4 weeks and that wait is now down to about 2 weeks, so Shernic has got their production running smoothly now.
After I got the rifle I removed a ton of cosmoline, to find the rifle, in fantastic condition, with a bright fresh bore, and zero rust, the rifle still had about 95% of the original bluing on it too.
After cleaning I cut the first 4 inches of barrel off, removing the front sight and bayonet. I sold this piece since I would need it anymore. I then faced the barrel and turned it down on my lathe to 14mm, so I could thread it for 14x1LH AK threads. Then I put a 11 degree crown on it. The next mod was to the bolt. I removed the lower flange on either side of the bottom so that a removable magazine can be added with the bolt closed. Finally I added an aftermarket spring loaded firing pin, to avoid a slam fire. I know it is unlikely, but on a rifle with my supporting hand so close to the end of the barrel I didn't want to take any chances.
My kit arrived and I put it together, it required very little fitment and the kit is top quality. I took it to the range for a shake down, and it performed flawlessly! Even though the barrel has been cut down the SKS has a huge gas port hole, so no cycling problems at all. Finally I duracoated it with an attempt at a Fall Oakentarn pattern, It ended up looking a bit more deserty but I still like the results.
Here are some pics.
Preduracoat
other side
Suppressed
After duracoating
other side
Near leaves
With suppressor
Black mag
In the garden shot
Can you believe this used to be an SKS? Over all length with birdcage is 27 inches, with the YHM hider, it is a little under 29 inches overall, It handles nice and fast, even with my heavy YHM SS phantom on it.
Chris Rummel
How much weight was added with the kit (not including the can)? I recall reading on this forum a long while back that it was not entirely suitable for use with a silencer. Is it quieter than an AK? My suppressed AK is still rather loud. Can us lefties shoot it without the bolt handle touching the face? Thanks.