AES-10B and accessorizes

[brainplay]

Well I just got a line on an AES-10B RPK clone fairly cheap from a guy I know. He's only got 2 30rd mags for it but it's well cared for. It's chambered for 7.62x39 not the newer 5.45x39

I would like to kit this thing out with some 40rd long mags but most forums have little info on decent mags and even less on containment systems. The M23 Pioneer Russian chest rig comes up in searches regularly (that and the over the shoulder canvas man-bag) but I'm looking for more a modular MOLLE type of pouch. My weak google-fu is giving me weak results about what can fit in what. Any info on mags to stay away from or quality mags would also be helpful.

While he says it's well cared for, are there any quarks I should know about or inspect? Or do I treat it like a regular AK?

And my searches have come up with conflicting results about the barrel. Are these thing supposed to be chrome lined or not? I've never had to check for this before. Is it obvious if I just shine a light down the bore?

And of course any upgrades that would be recommended.

[Jippo]

Plenty 40 rounders available (few examples):

http://www.cheaperthandirt.com/MAG0203-36.html
http://www.cheaperthandirt.com/MAG0201-36.html

Most double AK pouches with lid accept a single RPK mag, so you should be able to get a vest from just about any manufacturer as long as they carry double pouches with lids.

You can treat your RPK just like any AK, because that is what it is. Majority of AK and RPK barrels are chrome lined, but not all. In the end it doesn't make any difference as it only protects the barrel when using corrosive ammunition. In any case you are better of, health and otherwise, if you do not use corrosive ammunition. With 7.62x39 barrel wear is not a very big issue as the bullet speeds are rather low. You can use mild steel bullets and steel cased ammunition without any worries.

[NicholasNystrom]

Regarding chest rigs or vests, Soviet-propaganda.com is a good source:

http://www.soviet-propaganda.com/index.php?main_page=index&cPath=3

The site is setup to sort by type of product, then by manufacturer. You may have to search around for what you're looking for, or use the search funtion for RPK:

http://www.soviet-propaganda.com/index.php?main_page=advanced_search_result&search_in_description=1&keyword=rpk

If you have any concerns or questions about any products, email the owner, he's pretty helpful.