AR Gas Block/FSB Removal Tool

[michaelmew]

Brownell's has a cool little tool to help remove/replace the gas block.

http://www.brownells.com/.aspx/pid=20727/Product/AR-15-Front-Sight-Bench-Block

The problem is, it has been out of stock for awhile. So, does anyone have one they want to sell me? Or, if none for sell, can I borrow one?

I think I can see a need for some AR tools beyond the basics used for assembly. Therefore, I am going to get a vise block for the upper and lower, and an AR armorers wrench. Does anybody want to weight-in on which one to get or should I be getting something else instead?

Thanks,
michaelmew

[LRRPF52]

I have that B-Store tool. It needs modification, in my opinion. The surface needs circulars built into it for the barrel and rounded profile of FSB's, as well as the low-profile gas blocks. It's a PITA to try to work with it really, but better than just using blocks.

I've always used the receiver clamshell to hold the upper in the vice, but I tape the crap out of my uppers before doing it to protect the finish from minor marring.

[ss355]

If you have an upper with the carry handle, then you probably do need the clamshell-type blocks that support the receiver when doing barreling operations. I use nothing but flattops now, so when I need to barrel an upper, I simply turn the upper on its side and clamp the rail side and lower side in my vise. I use hardwood blocks to protect the surfaces of the upper. Works like a champ.

The Brownell's block you mentioned looks nice, but I don't think it's necessary. It's easy enough to set the FSB on a wood block with a hole for the pin and then wail away with your BFH (big, fine hammer) and starter punch.

This coming from a guy who whittled his own FAL receiver wrench from a bar of cold rolled 3/4" steel using a drill, hacksaw, and files.