SKS folding stock assembly...HELP!

[97widerider]

Happy New Year Everyone! I am trying to assemble my new stock on my Norinco SKS and am having trouble punching out the small rivet that runs cross wise on the handuard sheet metal cover. If I can't punch this out and remove the metal sleeve on the gas tube, then I won't be able to get the handguard on. I am pretty sure I am punching it the right way but I am to the point I think I am going to damage the little metal sleeve. Anyone else have this kind of problem? Any suggestions?Thanks.

[BlenderWizard]

Did you check the import date on that SKS before installing the folding stock? It may not be legal to install it. And that pin in the gas tube/handguard is something I have never been able to knock out.

[97widerider]

It has to come out somehow. How else could they sell so many stocks?

[BlenderWizard]

They do sell complete gas tube/handguard assemblies. www.tapco.com

[Ivan]

I tried for hours to punch mine out, but it didn't go. Instead, I had to drill it. Then I made my own pin by shaving down a nail. It's just like the original pin, only this one can be punched out.

[97widerider]

Thanks for the advice. I will try drilling the pin out and replacing with a finishing nail or something the same size. I am afraid if I keep punching it I will break the shroud. If all else fails, I can order a integrated gas port/hand guard through TAPCO for 24.00. It's just that darn shipping that hurts.

[Sniper]

I had a heck of a time with getting the one out on mine. It only comes out one way and it's been so long I forget. The real issue was getting it back together.

:sniper: