DRACOs

**m4brian** · 12-04-23, 09:36

Thinking about DRACOs and whether it even makes sense to consider a mini at all. The std DRACO is basically a military model in semi auto.

The mini barrel is so short along with the gas system that it requires a buffer to keep the piston from short stroking. Do folks consider this a complete non-starter? (I did read a review in which the pistol chewed up the buffer after just 300 rounds - still funcitoned but regular replacement is likely required.

I do like the SHORT system, but maybe this is not advisable.

Thanks.

**Bret** · 12-04-23, 15:16

While I'm a complete AK whore, I just can't bring myself to buy a mini Draco. I do really like my SBR'd underfolding Draco.

**SteyrAUG** · 12-04-23, 16:05

Originally Posted by Bret

While I'm a complete AK whore, I just can't bring myself to buy a mini Draco. I do really like my SBR'd underfolding Draco.

I'm with Bret, but I made mine a side folder.

**Bret** · 12-04-23, 17:33

If you can swap out the rear underfolder trunnion for a regular rear trunnion, I think that the side folder is more functional and looks better. Here's my underfolder.

**Ed L.** · 12-05-23, 04:53

Here is a Vector semi auto AK that I bought about 9 years ago:

**m4brian** · 01-02-24, 15:39

Almost got the mini, but in the end, I could not bring myself to rely on a buffer to operate and not go with a "military version".

**SteyrAUG** · 01-02-24, 22:39

Originally Posted by m4brian

Almost got the mini, but in the end, I could not bring myself to rely on a buffer to operate and not go with a "military version".

Good call.

**m4brian** · 01-03-24, 15:58

I still think there is a sweet spot that CAI should have gone to - like 9.5 or 10" to run with no buffer reliably for their mini/mid. I looked at the M92 but another pound+ does not interest me.

**SteyrAUG** · 01-03-24, 23:01

Originally Posted by m4brian

I still think there is a sweet spot that CAI should have gone to - like 9.5 or 10" to run with no buffer reliably for their mini/mid. I looked at the M92 but another pound+ does not interest me.

I think for 7.62x39 the Draco 12.25" is as short as you can go for practical. If it was 5.45x39 then you can go to Krink lengths.