Field-Stripping an AK-47 Rifle (and Variants)

This is not required for basic field-stripping, but it is a must if you wish to notch your lever or swap it. Rotate the Safety/selector lever upward until it is in a vertical position, then simply pull it out of the right side of the receiver. You may need the hammer to be in a fired position in order to remove and/or install the safety. If so, with the safety lever in its down (fire) position, place your thumb over the hammer, pull the trigger, and ease the hammer upward. This prevents dry-firing, which places undue stress on the hammer and receiver.