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Posted: 12/6/2004 5:06:13 PM EDT
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Just ordered my first kit (16"CAR/flattop upper) from J&T. It'll go on a RRA stripped lower. I know I need punches for my first build, but where do I get 'em? Can I use "pin punches" that can be bought in the hardware store or do I specifically need "drift punches"? Do I need a full set or only a few select sizes? I have this horrible vision of myself at my workbench, AR parts everywhere, unable to assemble it due to lack of punches...hock.gif Can someone save me from my punch nightmare? |
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I would recommend that you acquire a set of roll pin punches from Brownells (part number 230-100-000). While you can install roll pins with drift punches, you will inevitably damage a pin. There is nothing more frustrating than having you rifle out of commission because you damaged a $0.75 pin with the wrong tool. |
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These make assembling the lower much easier: 230-100-003 roll pin punch #3 230-100-004 roll pin punch #4 www.brownells.com/aspx/NS/store/ProductDetail.aspx?p=5551&title=ROLL+PIN+PUNCHES Brownells has a low cost option on shipping charges for small items like this. |
Thanks for the link. I've been meaning to buy these but have never gotten around to it. After I clicked on the link, I sayed, "what the hell", and ordered them. Thanks for getting me off of my lazy butt, and making me spend money. M.L. |
| You don't even need punches to build a lower. I built mine using a hammer, a nail and a pair of vise grips with the jaws taped. Not a single scratch on it from the build. There's only 2 roll pins, one for the trigger guard and one for the bolt catch. I used the vise grips for these, very easy to do. |
My daughter took my broken 1/16 in yesterday and got it replaced under guarantee. I'm a happy camper. M |
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It's kinda funny really, there was a question about punches a while back, one guy insisted that regular punches worked fine, you didn't need to waste money on specialized pin punches, I noticed that about a month later the same guy was complaining about how hard it was to install the roll pins...It ain't hard if you have the right tools! |
It can be hard to install a roll pin, regardless of the tool you use, if you haven't done one before. |
| I personally just smooth the roll pins with some super fine sandpaper, especially along the rolled together side. I then give them a good soak in CLP before install. I do plan on buying some roll pin punches though. I have been waiting to do it along with another order. I hate to pay $10 shipping on $20 tools. |
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