Building Confidence

[Caleb]

I punch my pins in with no problems but, squeezing them is a lot safer (and probably easier with the right tools).


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[Gatorade]

Originally Posted by Caleb

I punch my pins in with no problems but, squeezing them is a lot safer (and probably easier with the right tools).


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Nothing may happen 99 times out of 100 but that one time can be a real pain! Break an ear off a lower and you are stuck. The repair would probably be more expensive than a new lower and because it is serialized and requires an FFL transfer you can’t just swap it out.

My first few builds I would sandwich the stripped upper between a couple of wood blocks and torque the barrel nuts down. Then on one I was tightening and trying to get the tube aligned when I hear a “tink” I cracked the lower part of the upper at the thin spot where the ejector port is. Was probably just unsupported by just a bit and the whole stripped upper is scrap. $90 mistake at the time. I still have it to remind myself to go slow and not do any unnecessary banging or pressure if not needed.

[Caleb]

Yep, mistakes can be pricey but, we learn from mistakes. (Ours or others). I use a block designed to hold the upper with and insert to prevent it from collapsing in the vice. It still has some play that I don’t care for so, I just take my time with the barrel nut alignment (aiming for the lowest torque possible). When inserting the trigger guard pin I put the guard in place to prevent flex on the ears as well as support the lower ear on a block (when later down). Then, lightly tap in the pin till it’s flush. Patience is key.


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[RKP]

You got me motivated, I just ordered 2 'naked' lowers yesterday.

[FfNJGTFO]

Originally Posted by RKP

You got me motivated, I just ordered 2 'naked' lowers yesterday.

Me or C aleb?


Anyway, I have a 2nd lower as well. But I will wait for after the election to build that one out. As long as Pres. Trump is re-elected, I can wait a little while, and recover other of my inventory (shotties, my P226, etc., my Shield), and maybe look at a P365 as well. If Biden is elected, I'll have to scramble for the parts for that lower immediately, especially since I doubt I'll get my hands on any other replacement items... Still waiting on some spare parts that were delayed 1 day until tomorrow. Then I can resume the build.

[RKP]

Good to hear you're moving along.
It's good to take an occasional break, sit back, relax and think things through .... patience is a good thing !!


BTW ....

Originally Posted by RKP

You got me motivated, I just ordered 2 'naked' lowers yesterday.

Ordered them on Tuesday from 'Classic' and they arrived today, via FedEx. My local Gun Shop of 40yrs/family owned is closed for the weekend to go hunting , I will pick the lowers up Monday.

[Caleb]

Congrats.


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[Caleb]

I’m innocent, I dindonuffin.


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[sdmc530]

Originally Posted by Caleb

I dindonuffin.


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DUH.....

[FfNJGTFO]

Update: We are having an issue with attempting to remove the errant trigger guard roll pin. It just ain't coming out. Even attempting to punch it out with a roll pin punch isn't working. And I don't want to force it that way any longer for fear of damaging or tearing up the dog ears/lower. Right now, they're OK.


I have taken out the opposite roll pin screw in an effort to not cause that damage as well. If I then jiggle the trigger guard back and forth, it's tight, but it does move and the roll pin moves with it (slightly). My next step is to attempt to loosen the pin with some penetrating oil (unless you think I shouldn't since it may damage the finish). I'll then try to remove it with my new roll pin pusher toll. Right now, that's not working as I can't get it to anchor properly.



At EOD, if it means I have to sacrifice the trigger guard to save the lower and its dog ears, I'm willing to do that. It's only $19.00 and it's non- FFL, so I can get another. I can't get another lower just as easily. Whatever help you can offer to help me resolve this would be greatly appreciated.





Further Update: The penetrating oil did the tricik! Just a small squirt and 15 min. later, some light taps and it came right out. I was then able to use the roll pin pusher to put in the new pin.



All is well now and the build continues. Now I'm focusing on installing the barrel, delta ring and gas tube, etc., It will be fun trying to align all the pieces of the delta ring. I guess I'll use a separate tube to ensure they stay aligned as I mount the delta ring. Then comes torquing it properly. I have the torque wrench etc, so I'll watch some more YouTube videos.


Onward!