Excellent work, my friend. I'm proud that one of my unique firearms went to an intelligent guy and one who appreciates its strange heritage.
I think the direct impingement with adjustable gas is a bit superfluous and unnecessary, but it does help reduce felt recoil without a piston flying backward toward you. Also considering the smaller/lighter Rasheed bolt, firing the Rasheed compared to the SKS is a whole different experience.
Tearing down the gas system is usually unnecessary and a PITA too. I never did it on this Rasheed but I have on the similarly designed Hakim. When I wanted to clean out the gas tube I just ran Hoppes down the tube, followed by Gun Scrubber, followed by some compressed air. I'm not sure if there's a better way, but it worked for me.
Also, pay special attention to that gas adjuster valve. It will lock up if not cleaned regularly and that is an absolute bear of a chore to fix. That's one sticky that you Hakim/Rasheed gurus will have to tackle one day.
Great job RM. It made my day to see this post and how much fun you're having with my poetically beautiful Rasheed.
