AK question

[sniper7]

I only have 1 AK and never took the time to learn a ton about them.

I bought mine from AIM surplus. the rommy WASR. works for what i need so don't dog on the cheap-o AK!

My question is:

I pull the bolt back and this can be with a full mag, empty mag, or no mag inserted. If I start to release the bolt slowly forward, it will catch a little bit and stay open without me holding it. Is this normal, or do i have some binding or catching going on somewhere?

[Marlin]

Mine will do that from time to time, never has done it while fireing, so I don't worry about it that much. I'm sure it may be catching on something I just haven't figured out what it is.

[Great-Kazoo]

never release the bolt slowly. **** it and let er slam home.
WARNING
DO NOT DO THIS ANY PLACE ELSE OTHER THAT POINTED IN A SAFE DIRECTION, AT A RANGE ,OR OTHER SHOOTING AREA, WHERE YOU KNOW YOUR BACKSTOP!!!!!!

doing so anywhere else can be deadly. especially when you have a round chambered and the momentum of the bolt allows the firing pin to be exposed striking the primer setting off the round, AND OR possibly going into slamfire. emptying the whole mag in the shortest amount of time.
occurs in most comblock or us mfg Ak or SKS varients where a floating firing pin is used

[PhL0aTeR]

Mine will do that from time to time, never has done it while fireing, so I don't worry about it that much. I'm sure it may be catching on something I just haven't figured out what it is.

Mine too

[Wulf202]

It catches on the hammer. It's normal. Rack the bolt for real and you won't have a problem with it.

[micah360]

Don't rely on it as a BHO (bolt hold open) and go sticking your finger in there.

[PhL0aTeR]

Don't rely on it as a BHO (bolt hold open) and go sticking your finger in there.

truer words have never been spoken.... lol