r/canadaguns • u/MasterScore8739 • May 21 '26

Feets / Collection / My build Throw back to fun times.

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Just about had this set up how I wanted to be. The only thing I was missing was a longer stock to increase the LOP for my long gangly self.

Seeing all these posts with SKSs in them really makes me regret trading mine off for a Mosserg 500 Mariner… that I never even shot and traded for an Axis, that I sold without shooting. 🤦🏽‍♂️

Gawd looking back I was such a schmuck of a kid. Lessons have been learned the hard way for sure.

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u/IcySkyDream May 22 '26

The GOAT Eh-Kay, that I would still choose over an actual AK for several reasons.

Mine will be staying mine. 🖕🫡

3

u/MasterScore8739 May 22 '26

I’ve never gotten to handle an AK, but outside of the factory safety selector I feel like they’d be similar enough.

I do agree though, what’s mine is mine.

3

u/IcySkyDream May 22 '26

I handled one at a rental gun range on Cambodia, so I may be biased but the Type 81 feels better.

I’m not a fan of the safety on the 81, but it’s a very small gripe on an otherwise excellent 20th century milsurp that was legal.

3

u/MasterScore8739 May 22 '26

That’s fair, I feel like all stamped guns would have the same “cheap” feeling to them but clearly they’re out there holding their own.

I did end up putting a 90° safety on my T81 and honestly, that fixed my single pain point. After that it was close to perfect as a guy could ask.

3

u/IcySkyDream May 22 '26

I just pulled out my 81SE for some dry firing, and I wish I’d shot it more before it became a safe queen.

Mine wasn’t even fully broken in, but function was always 100%.

I was particularly impressed by the detent click adjustable rear sight, which reminded me of an M16A2 rear sight.

A very regal queen she is, though.

Pouring one out for one of the greatest Canadian NR rifles of all time. 😔

3

u/Late_Winner6859 May 22 '26

What slightly bothers me with 81s - is that receiver metal feels a bit too thin. I wonder if it’s the same with AKs. Never actually got to handle the AK, starting to wonder if I ever get a chance to

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u/IcySkyDream May 22 '26

Yeah, stamped steel receivers were always meant to be cheap and easy to manufacture in large numbers, and have noticeable flex.

Some AKs had machined receivers, but those are uncommon and also heavier.

The Type 81 came about because the Chinese military was dissatisfied with the AK for the following reasons:

1) poor accuracy; 2) cracked receivers; 3) no last-round bolt lock; and 4) no adjustable gas block.

The Type 81 looks a bit goofy, but is functionally superior to the AK, and mine was pretty accurate with Norinco non-corrosive.

All the easily-fouled parts are chrome-lined, and the bolt lug recesses are so easy to clean compared to an AR.

Overall I was pleasantly surprised and impressed when I took apart my T81SE, and then again when I shot it. 👍🧐

1

u/Last_Temperature_599 May 23 '26

Its actually thicker gauge steel than AKM's made in USSR