A few thoughts.
Based on the picture your top cover is not properly installed. There should not be a gap at the front. If the top cover is installed properly it will set the recoil spring further forward. That may be enough to run the gun without the buffer.
A somewhat common issue with home build AKs is installing the rear trunnion too far to the rear of the receiver. This allows the bolt carrier to travel too far rearward and to "hop off" the rails often getting stuck. Not sure if this is the problem you are experiencing or not. By adding a buffer you limit the travel of the bolt carrier and prevent if from coming off the rails.
If the hand guard is missing hardware contact RS Regulate. They will likely sell you the missing hardware. RS is considered a good brand in the AK world.
If you decide you do want to install the Magpul hand guard you should know that only the MOE AKM hand guard can be installed without modifications to your gun. If you want the MOE AK you will need to remove the sling loop from your lower hand guard retainer. This is easy with a Dremel tool. If you want to use a Zhukov hand guard you will need to completely remove the lower hand guard retainer. This is more involved and considered a "permeant" change. In other words there is no quick and easy at home way to add back a lower handguard.
Based on the picture your top cover is not properly installed. There should not be a gap at the front. If the top cover is installed properly it will set the recoil spring further forward. That may be enough to run the gun without the buffer.
A somewhat common issue with home build AKs is installing the rear trunnion too far to the rear of the receiver. This allows the bolt carrier to travel too far rearward and to "hop off" the rails often getting stuck. Not sure if this is the problem you are experiencing or not. By adding a buffer you limit the travel of the bolt carrier and prevent if from coming off the rails.
If the hand guard is missing hardware contact RS Regulate. They will likely sell you the missing hardware. RS is considered a good brand in the AK world.
If you decide you do want to install the Magpul hand guard you should know that only the MOE AKM hand guard can be installed without modifications to your gun. If you want the MOE AK you will need to remove the sling loop from your lower hand guard retainer. This is easy with a Dremel tool. If you want to use a Zhukov hand guard you will need to completely remove the lower hand guard retainer. This is more involved and considered a "permeant" change. In other words there is no quick and easy at home way to add back a lower handguard.
