[infoseeker456]

I have been reading threads that discuss the fact that there are two different maxim semi kits out there, but I don't understand the differences.

Can someone please outline the differences in kits and where to get the parts. It sounds like some of the builds one needs to source parts from a couple of different people

It has been my experience that most people that post to this board are excellent craftsmen and provide quality products. I am not looking for anyone to run down one versus the other, I am just trying to understand the differences in the kits. There is some real expense on the maxims and I just want to make sure I make an informed decision. Do both versions have approval letters from ATF?

Thank you for the guidance and information.

 

[sdk1968]

both of the fellows doing these are top notch guys and indeed i would feel like i was running one down by saying the other guys is best...

so its a no loose situation for the builder.

 

[infoseeker456]

Can someone describe the difference?

 

[sdk1968]

you really should just ask them yourself and make a decision as to who's you want to go with..

but at this time, neither of them has a "approval" letter YET...

 

[UncleDad]

but at this time, neither of them has a "approval" letter YET...

Are ya sure about that? I thought one of them has an approval letter?

 

[OLDBEAR]

Maxim approved by BATFE?

Midwest Metal Creations went through the process of getting the approval. OLDBEAR.

 

[loboslanding]

I don't think the approval letter is a big deal. Ohio Ordnance Works never got an approval letter for the '28 semi and BATFE never pushed it even though they knew the gun was being built. As long as it's a legal semi auto that can't be easily converted to FA then it's legal.

 

[30calmachinegunner]

besides the approval which is (not)worth the paper it's written on based on prior BATF approvals(see AKINS and AW-SIM) the biggest difference is Midwest's design has some mods that are on the outside(bottom) of the gun which are noticeable while SHERMANS doesn't and Midwest modifies the feed block. I've seen SHERMANS design work while I haven't personally seen Midwest's.

I also think Midwest suggests using new plates for both sides while SHERMANS works fine with an original plate on the LH side.

Please correct me if I'm wrong.

 

[sdk1968]

30 cal is correct on Shermans set up.

as to the letters..... Sherman hasnt submitted his yet.

Midwest may have submitted theirs and not got an answer yet.. hadnt heard either way.

 

[weasel_master]

Dennis told me at the Creek last fall that his was approved. I'm not a fan of modifying the feedblock or stuff on the bottom of the gun though.

 

[infoseeker456]

What does Mid West Metal do for side plates? Where does one get side plates for their design?

 

[panaceabeachbum]

but at this time, neither of them has a "approval" letter YET...

The ATF approval letter I have from Midwest is a year old already , they do indeed have approval .
The midwest also doesnt require you to use a new left side plate , he just reccomends it as its easier to fit up cams and dovetails on two new sideplates via match drilling than getting the new right plate and original left plate to line up. I chose to use an original left plate with no problems.

All that said I have looked at both and they both seem to be very solid designs