Saiga-12 - 12ga - Russia

The Saiga-12 is a Kalashnikov variant in 12ga. It's a long-stroke gas-operated rotating-locking bolt shotgun. Gas is tapped from the gas block forward of the handguard, forcing the piston attached to the bolt carrier rearward. The lug on the top of the bolt engages the cam in the underside of the carrier, rotating and unlocking it. The difference between the Saiga-12 and other Kalashnikovs other than caliber is the two-piece rotating bolt, allowing the shell to remain straight when inserted into the chamber, and the adjustable gas valve on the face of the of the gas block. The FCG of the Saiga-12 is of a conventional Kalashnikov design, deviating only on the dimensions on the front of the hammer so it can fit in the 1.5mm stamped steel receiver without protruding into the ejector block; another deviation from the Kalashnikov design. Ordinarily, the ejector is integral to the lower rails with the Saiga-12 lacks. Instead the design takes more of an FN FAL approach. This particular Saiga-12 has been converted from a sporting stock to a pistol grip and folding stock, requiring the FCG to be moved forward, which is detailed here.

Right Side:

Left Side:

Right Side, Folded:

Left Side, Folded:

Field Stripped:

Bolt:

Bolt, Continued:

Bolt Carrier:

Bolt Group:

Ejector Block:

Magwell:

Gas Valve:

Sights:

Controls: