spring loaded firing pins?

[preokc]

i have a .308 ndm 86 that i had to have the bolt sent back to get a spring loaded firing pin installed by the distibutor and then others telling me i still need to send them the bolt to make it safe. just wondering why my m1a or yugo ak(m90 in 308) and my romak 3 psl dont have slfp's? i noticed my ar 15's dont have slfp's but my ar 180 , m17s, and my poly ak does. i know the reasoning behind slfp's but then to me every semi auto should have one. thanks for any help! Phil E. GOD BLESS OUR ARMED FORCES!!!!!!

[Packrat]

Some of the Chinese AKs have it; my first MAK-90 did, but none of the others do. It's a nice feature, especially in a rifle using corrosive ammo, but not necessary. However, on any firearm that doesn't have it, the firing pin should be checked for movement while cleaning. There were a few cases of SKSs having the firing pin frozen in the forward position and going uncontrolled full-auto when the first round was chambered.

And what is the rationale for having to return it to someone to have the firing-pin installed? Unless they are manufactured with excessive protrusion--and in that case, any firing pin replacement should require returning. I think someone just wanted the extra revenue, or was worried about lawsuits.

[Hilljack]

"or was worried about lawsuits."

I think this is more likely the case. The main problem seems to be with standard .308 ammo using softer primers. Military surplus ammo has harder primers.

It would have been nice, if these rifles would have come into the country with the proper slfp.

Hilljack