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8/24/2009 11:07:19 AM EDT
I just pieced together a new upper with a new barrel, but with a used B/C group. I do not really want to wait for new gauges if I order them, but the gunsmiths around town are charging me $50 to check.

Ive searched and read a few mixed answers anywhere from ARs are self-headspacing, to only needed to check if having a used barrel, or to always check it.

Could I just take the firing pin out of my bolt and put a round in and see if the bolt will close?
8/24/2009 11:12:02 AM EDT
[#1]
Also I read that
The headspace is set by the extension that is attached on the barrel. As long as you have spec parts, it doesn't matter if you change bolts.


I like this answer because it would mean I could save the $50. Can I get a second opinion?
Thanks,
Mark
8/24/2009 11:14:16 AM EDT
[#2]
I would get a new bolt for a new barrel.  Cheap insurance.
8/24/2009 11:15:05 AM EDT
[#3]
Quoted:
I just pieced together a new upper with a new barrel, but with a used B/C group. I do not really want to wait for new gauges if I order them, but the gunsmiths around town are charging me $50 to check.

Ive searched and read a few mixed answers anywhere from ARs are self-headspacing, to only needed to check if having a used barrel, or to always check it.

Could I just take the firing pin out of my bolt and put a round in and see if the bolt will close?


It's not a matter of "if the bolt will close".  It'll close if you have excessive headspace.  Excessive headspace = bad.
8/24/2009 11:33:12 AM EDT
[#4]
If the units are low round count, you can be fairly safe in just throwing a different bolt at any barrel and not have to check headspace. If you are unceratin of the round count or know it is high, get a gauge and check it. One time cost and then you do not have to worry about it on later builds.
8/24/2009 11:47:00 AM EDT
[#5]
Just get a new bolt.
8/24/2009 11:56:23 AM EDT
[#6]
buy headspace guages!!! and then sell them when your done if you dont wont to keep them!
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