SKS Firing Pin Retainer Hard to Remove

[MAJONES]

I have a Russian SKS and the firing pin retainer is very hard to remove; I have to take a mallet and a punch to it. I previously had a CHICOM SKS and the firing pin retainer could be pushed out using the T handle from the cleaning kit and hand pressure.

I'm just wondering if others have encountered this and if they have any fixes.

 

[Buck1950]

I've had 2x '51 Tulas and Both were quite snug. I'd guess the Chinese was 'looser' tolerances than the Russians. I didn't mind since if it comes loose the FP could stick ? I just used a punch and small hammer, over a perforated block of wood then the hammer to drive it back in afterwards.

 

[Buck1950]

dupl

 

[Joe Amorosi]

Same as above...

I have a 51 or 52 Tula and I have to take a punch and hammer to it.
No apparent mushrooming on the pin, just a helluva tight fit
Goes back in pretty easy

 

[Suther]

My Tula SKS is tight too, particularly the first/last bit of getting it out/putting it in. I wouldn't be concerned about it.

 

[MAJONES]

Cool! Thanks.