Domestic weapons masters have long been famous for resourcefulness and original structural ideas. One of these products is the Saiga 308 carbine, isp. 44. It is suitable for both stern experienced hunters and beginner men or women in terms of shooting and hunting. Let us consider in more detail the characteristics of the weapon, its features and owner reviews.
Creature
"Saiga 308" isp. 44 is a prototype of the popular AK-74M, converted to use rifle charges. The carbine has a practical design, high strength, a significant reserve of working life. These indicators stand out against the competition. In fact, the modification in question was developed for NATO format cartridges (308win 7.62x51).
Izhevsk gunsmiths successfully remade the AKM for firing rifle charges. The gun is characterized by high build quality, reliable operation of all mechanisms, high power and accuracy. The carbine is rightfully considered the best among domestic and foreign counterparts, it has a high accuracy and original design.
Modifications and purpose
The Saiga carbine, the price of which is quite reasonable, is focused on hunting activities. It is suitable for amateur activities, as well as commercial production of large and medium-sized animals. With this weapon it is quite possible to hunt bears and elks.
Izhevsk gunsmiths produce several varieties of the weapons in question. All models are based on the famous legendary Soviet AK assault rifle. In addition to the considered option, there are modifications 410, 12, 20K, 340. There are no elements on the versions that allow converting the carbine into a combat machine.
Technical plan options
Below are the characteristics of "Saigi 308" isp. 44:
- Caliber Type - 308win.
- The total length of the weapon is 1.12 m.
- The size of the stem is 0.55 m.
- Curb Weight - 4.1 kg.
- Cartridge capacity - eight rounds.
- The effective firing range is 300 m.
This carbine for hunting has a fairly simple device for its class. The weapon consists of a chrome receiver, the barrel itself, a bolt with a frame, a return device, a firing trigger assembly, a butt, a gas pipe and a magazine. Optionally, the installation of optics on the bracket.
Options and principle of operation
Delivered "Saiga 308" isp. 44 with a passport, certificate, license confirmation, instruction manual, which indicates the characteristics of the rifle, as well as methods for lubricating and disassembling it. The package is an oiled wrapper, protected from moisture, which is marked with the emblem of the Izhevsk arms factory.
The designers made the mechanism as simple as possible. The principle of operation is based on the use of the return energy of the spring and the shutter. Under the influence of powder gases, the working part moves forward. When sending a charge to the chamber, the channel should be blocked by turning the shutter. Then the synchronized erection of the trigger in a combat position. After pulling the trigger, the mainspring is triggered, a shot occurs, after which the mechanism returns to its original position and the cartridge sleeve is ejected. Then you can reload weapons.
Device and disassembly
The considered carbine for hunting is reliable and simple in design. Recharging is carried out automatically. When firing, gases from the barrel channel enter the gas compartment, and the channel is closed in the traditional way (by turning the shutter around its own axis).
The trigger mechanism has a trigger type, which after firing can be set to safe mode with a fuse. Reliability and durability of the weapon is ensured by the chrome coating of the barrel and chamber.
Dismantling the carbine "Saiga 308" 1 isp. 44 (415 mm) provides for the mandatory discharge of weapons. Incomplete disassembly is carried out to inspect the main components, identify their performance, clean and lubricate if necessary.
Complete disassembly is recommended only in exceptional situations. These include severe contamination of the working mechanism, damage or the need to dry the main components of the gun. In the latter case, the carabiner must be thoroughly cleaned, lubricated and put on a long shelf life.
Advantages and disadvantages
"Saiga 308" isp. 44 is a popular model among hunters. This demand is due to the use of high-quality and reliable materials in the creation of weapons. Specialists and users note the following advantages of a carbine:
- The reliable sound design which is not demanding special service.
- Reasonable price.
- A wide range of ammunition used.
The gun "Saiga 308" isp. 44, the accuracy of which is high, has several disadvantages. Among them: a decent return when fired, the presence of flashes, fairly quick heating of the barrel. After prolonged use, external and internal cosmetic defects in the form of soot and deformities may appear.
Operational Safety
Like any weapon, the Saiga 308 carbine isp. 44 (barrel 555) requires compliance with certain rules when using. The manufacturer recommends strict adherence to the following aspects:
- Even a discharged specimen should be treated as a charged weapon.
- Never point your gun at people.
- When firing, you need to remember that the range of the bullet is about three kilometers.
- When disassembling or reloading, the barrel must be kept at a safe distance.
- Before carrying out the manipulations, you need to make sure that there are no charges or any small particles in the chamber.
- In case of misfire, do not proceed with opening the shutter for at least 3 minutes, since a prolonged descent may occur.
- After use, the carabiner must be put on the fuse without fail.
- Disconnecting the stock is only allowed with an empty chamber.
- After firing, weapons should be fully discharged.
- Ammunition and the carbine itself must be stored separately. This will protect yourself and others in case of theft.
Observing these rules, you can avoid unforeseen and dangerous situations during the operation of weapons.
"Saiga 308" isp. 44: reviews
As evidenced by the responses of the owners, the carbine in question is excellent for hunting different animals, has a simplicity of design and reliability. Izhevsk gunsmiths began its production in the nineties of the last century. All modifications found their consumers not only in the domestic market, but also in neighboring countries, as well as abroad.
Mostly reviews about this weapon are positive. Among the minuses, users note high returns and not very high accuracy. The last point concerns owners who first picked up such a gun or were unable to fully master it. It is worth noting that the “Saiga” is available in more than 45 versions. In each series there is a numbered index talking about a particular model.
The owners note that the weapon has excellent quality, has an excellent indicator of accuracy and accuracy. The gun is intended for hunting game, as well as large and small animals. The carbine is not inferior to most domestic and foreign counterparts. As users advise, novice shooters should conduct a few target shooting exercises. This will allow you to get used to this type of weapon and understand its features.
Cleaning and lubrication
The service life and reliability of the carbine in question directly depends on proper maintenance. Regularly clean and lubricate the weapon at least once after each use. The operation is carried out at a temperature of 15-25 degrees Celsius. In winter, manipulations are carried out indoors, when the carbine warms up to the desired temperature.
The cleaning procedure consists of the following steps:
- The stem channel, the chamber are cleaned and lubricated with a special composition with a brush.
- After lubrication is complete, the duct should be wiped dry with a wipe.
- The process is repeated up to ten times until all existing carbon deposits are removed.
- After plaque removal, the barrel and chamber are treated with clean gun grease.
It must be emphasized that these simple manipulations play an important role, since they ensure the safety and reliability of the weapon.
Shooting
The Saiga carbine, the price of which is from 350 to 600 dollars, depending on the modification and configuration, requires a responsible approach to preparing and firing. It is carried out as follows:
- The holder is disconnected from the case by moving the magazine down and forward, after pressing the special lock.
- After charging, the store is put in its place.
- When filling the cartridge with cartridges, you must pay attention to ensure that each charge fits snugly against the wall and fits under the flap without distortions.
- The fuse must be removed (position F).
- The bolt frame will need to be retracted to the extreme rear position by hand and released, after which it automatically enters the extreme forward position.
- The sight is mounted in a position depending on the range of the target. For example, “1” is one hundred meters, “3” is three hundred.
The carabiner is now ready for use. After emptying the cage, the shutter remains in the front position. By repeating the above manipulations, you can continue further shooting.
In conclusion
The considered gun is one of the best in the domestic market in its class. It is affordable, has a high reliability threshold and several use cases. Simplicity of design and practicality are the main advantages of the Saiga carbine. A wide range of products allows you to choose an option for hunting for game or a large predator. The main thing is to comply with safety rules and conduct timely product prophylaxis. This will extend its service life without loss of quality indicators.