Building Confidence

[Caleb]

I had to order some peel washers to make sure the brake is clocked properly. So, my upper build is on hold till I receive those washers.


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[FfNJGTFO]

Originally Posted by Caleb

I had to order some peel washers to make sure the brake is clocked properly. So, my upper build is on hold till I receive those washers.


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Is that something I need to worry about?

[Caleb]

Not really. It all depends on the flash hider or brake. Usually the crush washer that comes with it is sufficient enough to align the muzzle device correctly. If you want to just buy some peel washers to be on the safe side, I only paid like $7 for a pack of 5.


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[RKP]

Originally Posted by FfNJGTFO

There is this Little Crow Gunsmith Roll pin pusher that seems to do very well.

Originally Posted by Caleb

Great tool, might just have to add it to my box. Thanks.

I agree .... that does look to work quite well.

[FfNJGTFO]

Update: All remaining parts for the build (and most of the tools) now ordered from Primary Arms. This, including the Vice blocks, barrel wrench, and the remaining items. The vice itself and the torque wrenches were ordered from Amazon. Also an update on the gas block. Optics Planet agreed to ship a replacement item without me returning the item that had missing parts. Nice folks!


And in a real twist of Irony, I discovered that Optics Planet HQ building is 3150 Commercial Avenue in Northbrook, Ill. I actually used to work just down the street from them at 4000 Commercial Ave, although the company I worked for is not there any longer. It was 1981 - 1983, so......


Anyway, we're moving right along. I think I have roll pin punches already, but I'll have to check my kit. If not, I'll get them, along with the hammers, and that roll pin pushing tool (see above).


I'll keep y'all posted when I start the build. But I think I may need to look at a couple of "Insurance pieces" (ie. replace my 1911 and my .22) before the election just in case Biden does win.... But we'll see.


Thanks all.

[Caleb]

Awesome! Can’t wait to see your build come together!


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[FfNJGTFO]

Update: All purchased items received, as of this afternoon. I received the 2nd gas block from Optics Planet. It was not exactly the same as the first one (ie. did not have a lower rail) but, at least it came with set screws and it fit the barrel. I'll find my own allen key, I guess...


I should be able to start assembly, shortly. I'll mount the new vice onto some particle board and then test that out. I have all the vice blocks, etc. I will also need to resolve the "handguard cap" issue. Now that I have the MOE handguard, I'll check it against the triangular cap. But I think, honestly, it is not going to fit, and I will need the circular one. But I see several different sizes. Brownell's has two circular caps (one .755" and another that's .625"). There's also a triangular cap that's .750" (which I think mine is). I'll do some more measurements, but if anyone can tell me which is right for my handguard, I'd appreciate it.



We're definitely on our way. Thanks!


2nd Update: The triangular handguard cap does seem to snap in place and fits over the front of the MOE handguard. It is not a loose fit, either. Its pretty tight. Although, there is a slight bit of space at the top of the handguard that is not covered by the cap. It's on both sides of the triangular point where the gas tube hole is. If that's not an issue, then problem solved for that.


So, as soon as I anchor my vice, then I can get started. Where I think I'll need help next is in how to lubricate all the parts that need lubing when being assembled. I'll watch my Youtube videos but whatever points you have will be appreciated.

[Caleb]

Woohoo! Awesome. You will enjoy this I’m sure and shooting what your two hands built will be satisfying. Then you will want to do it again.

I use never-seize on the threads of the upper for the barrel nut as well as a light coat on the barrel hood where it goes into the upper. That’s all the “lube” I use for assembly. Before I shoot it, I will liberally oil the BCG and a little on the charging handle where the bolt slides. That’s about it.


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[Gatorade]

I believe molly grease is what is recommended for the barrel nut. Other manufacturers have said anti-seize which is available at auto parts store. You don’t need much. A small tube would probably work for a dozen builds. That is the only spot that requires lube. Maybe some oil on the trigger pins, also I put a drop of heavy oil in the moving parts of the trigger group.

Lube points from AR15.com

[RKP]

Originally Posted by Caleb

...... shooting what your two hands built will be satisfying. Then you will want to do it again ......

EXACTLY !!