When you think of punk rock, your mind might jump to rebellious music, hardcore shows, and underground clubs—not the firearms industry. However, for Chris Andrews of the KAK Industry, punk rock and firearms share a unique bond. In a recent interview with Palmetto State Armory, Andrews dove into his background in music and the unexpected bridge it created to his career in firearms manufacturing.
Today, KAK Industry is a go-to name for high-quality, American-made AR components, supplying parts to major firearms manufacturers and enthusiasts alike.
KAK Industry: From Humble Beginnings to Manufacturing Giants
KAK Industry (www.kakindustry.com) was founded in 2011 to meet a clear demand for precision, American-made firearm components. Starting from a small shop in Southern California, the company rapidly grew, eventually opening multiple manufacturing facilities across the country. Today, KAK is renowned for producing nearly every part of the AR platform, including bolt carrier groups (BCGs), barrels, and buffers.
Their OEM parts don’t just end up in the hands of hobbyists—they’re used by major names in the firearms industry.
Punk Rock Gun Club: A Passion Project with a Purpose
Beyond his work at KAK, Andrews co-founded the idea of the “Punk Rock Gun Club,” a loosely knit community for those who find common ground between the punk rock ethos and the firearms world. According to Andrews, both communities embrace a shared mindset: independence, self-reliance, and an anti-authoritarian streak. In his vision, the Punk Rock Gun Club aims to break stereotypes, showing that firearms aren’t just for one “type” of person—they’re for everyone who values freedom.
A Game-Changer in Suppressed Shooting: KAK’s K-SPEC BCG
One of KAK’s standout innovations is the K-SPEC BCG (bolt carrier group), specifically designed to reduce the gas blowback commonly experienced when shooting suppressed. This is a game-changer for shooters who spend a lot of time on the range. The K-SPEC BCG comes in both down-vent and side-vent models, which direct gas away from the shooter’s face, making for a cleaner, more enjoyable experience. Independent testers have even found that the BCG reduces decibel levels when shooting suppressed—a welcome bonus for anyone concerned about hearing protection.
Live Inventory Price Checker
The Heart of Innovation: KAK’s Approach to Problem-Solving
As Andrews describes, KAK’s founder, Kurt Kosman, is known for his “outside-the-box” thinking. From launching creative products like the KAK Shockwave Blade: Pistol Stabilizer, flash hiders inspired by vintage machine guns, to developing grenade launchers for recreational shooting, KAK is constantly pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in firearm design. This spirit of innovation is rooted in listening to customers and exploring new possibilities within the AR platform. Kosman’s willingness to try new ideas and adapt them to modern firearms keeps KAK at the forefront of the industry.
Where’s KAK Headed Next?
With new facilities in Missouri and California and a recent focus on increasing their barrel and BCG production, KAK is set to keep expanding. Their strategy reflects a commitment to high-quality, affordable parts that firearm manufacturers and end-users can trust. As it continues to grow, KAK remains dedicated to staying ahead in the market by bringing new ideas to the table and continuing to forge its own path.
In the end, KAK Industry stands out for its blend of punk rock attitude and commitment to American manufacturing. This unique combination fuels their mission to deliver high-quality, innovative firearm components to the market.
So whether you’re into hardcore music, DIY culture, or just want reliable parts for your build, KAK Industry has something for you.
