See? I haven't actually abandoned the AK-74. This first test build is a long way from where I want it to be, though. There are some features that haven't been perfected yet, and there are some corrections and changes that I've made to the patterns but haven't built yet (such as the grooves that should be on the stock and the bumps on the handguard). That will be the purpose of the second test build.
A couple of steps forward so far: The trigger is spring-loaded, and so is the magazine follower. The hammer still needs some work, though. The grip should be easier to build, and the muzzle brake turned out well enough.