How to Switch a Tufting Gun From Cut Pile to Loop Pile (AK-V & AK-1)

Most AK-V and AK-1 tufting guns can operate in either cut pile or loop pile mode. Switching between the two only takes a few minutes and requires a simple adjustment of the front mechanism. In this tutorial, I'll show the exact steps needed to convert your tufting gun from cut pile mode to loop pile mode.

If you prefer following the process visually, you can also watch the complete video version above while working through the steps.

Supplies and tools used:

1. AK-V or AK-1 tufting gun
2. Hex key / Allen key

Most of the materials used in this tutorial can be found at Tufty.eu.

AK-V and AK-1 tufting guns can operate in either cut pile or loop pile mode. In cut pile mode, the scissors cut the yarn after each stitch. In loop pile mode, the yarn remains uncut, creating loops on the rug surface.

Switching between the two modes only takes a few minutes and requires a simple adjustment of the front mechanism.

Locate the adjustment components at the front of the tufting gun. These are the parts responsible for controlling the cutting action and pile type.

Before loosening the adjustment screw, take a moment to identify the components that will be moved during the conversion.

Before switching the tufting gun to loop pile mode, loosen the adjustment screw shown above. You do not need to remove the screw completely—only loosen it enough to allow the front mechanism to move.

This screw controls the position of the cutting assembly and allows the machine to be converted from cut pile mode to loop pile mode.

Be careful not to over-loosen the screw, as the components only need enough freedom to be repositioned in the next step.

Move the adjustable components fully to the outermost position as shown. This repositioning changes how the cutting mechanism operates and converts the machine from cut pile mode to loop pile mode.

Once the parts are fully positioned, tighten the screw securely to lock everything in place.

This is the main step that performs the conversion.

After moving the components, tighten all screws firmly. Double-check that nothing shifts while tightening and confirm that the mechanism remains in the correct position.

Proper tightening helps maintain consistent operation during tufting.

Check the scissors after the adjustment. In loop pile mode, the scissors should no longer close in the same way they do in cut pile mode.

This confirms that the conversion was successful and the machine is now configured to create loop pile rugs.

Your tufting gun is now configured for loop pile operation. You can begin creating loop pile rugs immediately without any additional adjustments.

If you want to switch back to cut pile mode in the future, simply repeat the process and return the mechanism to its original position.