The WASR AK platform, while affordable and reliable, often benefits from upgrades to enhance its performance and ergonomics. Midwest Industries (MI) offers a range of popular accessories designed specifically for AK pattern rifles, significantly improving the shooting experience. This guide delves into the various MI upgrades available for WASR AKs, exploring their benefits and considerations. We'll cover everything from handguards and rails to stocks and grips, helping you build the perfect customized WASR AK.
Enhancing Your WASR AK with Midwest Industries Upgrades
The WASR AK, known for its ruggedness and affordability, can be transformed into a precision-shooting machine with the right upgrades. Midwest Industries, a reputable manufacturer of firearm accessories, provides a comprehensive selection of components tailored to the AK platform. This section will explore the key MI upgrades and how they benefit WASR owners.
Midwest Industries Handguards and Rails
One of the most popular upgrades for any AK is replacing the standard wood or polymer handguards with a modern, railed handguard system. MI offers several options, including:
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MI AK-47 Enhanced Handguard: This handguard replaces the factory handguard, providing a sleek, low-profile design with a Picatinny rail on top. This allows for mounting optics, lights, and lasers, significantly expanding the rifle's capabilities. The improved ergonomics make for a more comfortable shooting experience, particularly during extended use.
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MI AK-47 G2 Handguard: Building upon the success of the Enhanced Handguard, the G2 model features even more refined ergonomics and a lighter weight design. The improved heat shielding is particularly beneficial for sustained firing.
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MI AK-47 Enhanced Handguard with Integrated Rail: This option integrates a full-length Picatinny rail directly onto the handguard, providing maximum mounting versatility. This setup is ideal for users who need to mount multiple accessories.
Case Study: A competitive shooter upgraded their WASR AK with an MI G2 Handguard and a low-profile red dot sight. They reported a significant improvement in accuracy and target acquisition, leading to a substantial increase in their scores.
Midwest Industries Stocks and Grips
Beyond handguards, MI offers a variety of stocks and grips to enhance the ergonomics and adjustability of your WASR AK. These upgrades can significantly improve comfort and control, resulting in increased accuracy and reduced fatigue.
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MI AK-47 Adjustable Stock: Replacing the standard fixed stock allows for personalized length of pull adjustments. This is crucial for finding the perfect fit for different shooters and body types, leading to better shooting posture and accuracy.
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MI AK-47 Grip: MI offers ergonomic pistol grips designed to improve control and comfort. The textured surface provides a secure grip, even in wet or sweaty conditions.
Table 1: Comparison of MI AK Upgrades
| Upgrade | Key Features | Benefits | Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Enhanced Handguard | Low-profile, top Picatinny rail | Improved ergonomics, optic mounting | May require slight fitting |
| G2 Handguard | Lighter weight, improved heat shielding, ergonomics | Enhanced comfort, reduced heat transfer | Slightly more expensive than the Enhanced model |
| Integrated Rail | Full-length Picatinny rail | Maximum mounting versatility | Adds more weight |
| Adjustable Stock | Adjustable length of pull | Personalized fit, improved shooting posture | Higher cost than fixed stocks |
| Ergonomic Grip | Improved comfort and control | Enhanced handling, reduced fatigue | May require some getting used to |
Installation and Considerations
Installing Midwest Industries upgrades generally requires basic gunsmithing skills. However, many online tutorials and resources are available to guide you through the process. Always prioritize safety and refer to the manufacturer's instructions before attempting any modifications. Some fitting might be required, depending on the specific WASR AK model.
Conclusion: Optimizing Your WASR AK with Midwest Industries
Upgrading your WASR AK with Midwest Industries components significantly enhances its performance, ergonomics, and overall shooting experience. By carefully choosing the right upgrades, you can transform your rifle into a highly customized and reliable firearm. Remember to prioritize safety and consult professional help if needed during installation. The investment in these high-quality upgrades pays off in increased accuracy, comfort, and enjoyment of your WASR AK.