Hi all. I'm a bit new to all of this, so bear with me. I have a question for those of you who use the Osprey OPS-416 piston system or have experience with it.

I installed my first one into my AR last night, and it was a lot harder than I thought it would be. I ended up having to adjust my barrel nut to get the op rod to align properly and move freely without rubbing against anything. Only thing is, in the process of fighting with the installation, the op rod was slightly bent. Now, it still seems to fit just fine. The problem is that inside the receiver, the bend shows ever so slightly. By slight, I mean that it's off center but just barely. This has me worried for two reasons. One, I don't want the rod to wear out and break under pressure due to this bend. Two, I don't want the bolt carrier to wear out prematurely due to the impact key not being struck the way it's supposed to.

So has anyone here ever seen these things work with a slightly bent op rod. Do you think it's as big of a deal as I'm making it out to be? I've already sent mail to Osprey Defense directly asking them the same question. I've yet to hear back from them, but I wanted to see what insight people here had as well.

The Op rod should fit into the end portion of the key carrier without rubbing or any impengement. Remove the upper so you can slide the BCG in and out by hand from the rear of the upper. Look through the ejection port and slide the BCG into place to ensure the OP rod slips into the key without rubbing. another option verses visual, is the make sure the op rod is seat all the way forward, seat the BCG, and push the ope rod backwards. if you feel a rub or click prior to seating and rear movement, it may not be aligned properly. You may be able to work with the rod to make sure you are good.

Joe at Ops Defense is a great guy to deal with. They stay busy, so if you decide to call, you make have to wait a day or so after leaving a message and try back.
They have always answered and help with any issue or question I have ever had. Good luck.