Quote Originally Posted by M1orNone View Post
Crap! So much for me thinking they were a direct replacement. What kind of modification?
IIRC, the receivers are nearly to spec but the bolt/barrel relationship isn't. The controlling factor on Poly-Tech/Norinco guns - they are the same, same factory, different markings - is the cost of a good forged receiver. They still go for less than $800 around here.
Not to recommend another 'smith besides Tim, but for M14 custom work:
http://www.warbirdscustomguns.com/M14-M1A.htm
from http://www.warbirdscustomguns.com/Ri...20services.htm :
Polytech & Norinco owners must read this about USGI bolt conversion

This information will educate you about how to avoid so-called gunsmiths & armorers who claim they know how to do the USGI bolt conversion to your Polytech or Norinco.

If others charge a fee for a tech inspection, that's your first clue that you should find someone else to do the work. They should already know what needs to be done, not trying to educate themselves by working on a customers rifle.

I never charge a fee for a tech inspection, ever. I don't need to because I know what needs to be done to install a USGI bolt properly. Also, the Chinese barrel "can be used" when I do the USGI bolt conversion. "You don't need a new commercial barrel" as some gunsmiths claim. Bottom line is they just want your money.

Please remember that Chinese rifles converted to use a USGI bolt by these inexperienced people will not be accepted by me, to do work on. The USGI bolt conversion is not being done correctly by some of the others because they don't have the experience to do it right.

I will only accept Chinese rifles with a USGI bolt conversion already done, if Smith Ent. or myself did the work. It's my intention to help customers avoid very costly mistakes.

I have done 1000's of these bolt conversions and not 1 customer has ever had a problem. My reputation far exceeds me and customer satisfaction is always guaranteed. I have been doing the USGI bolt conversion on Chinese receivers for over 25 years. The other so called gunsmiths are just starting and have no experience at all. You be the judge. I believe you will make the right choice and rely on a true expert with years of experience.
My personal preference is towards the BM59, but if you have to have an M14 there are very few good gunsmiths and a lot of expensive parts out there!

Eli