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Posted: 1/9/2017 3:10:33 PM EDT
Tried a search, but nothing came up with my terms.
So, looks like I've run into that issue with my stripped Anderson lower where the grip screw hole isn't threaded all the way through. What have you guys done to get your grip to tighten down? Find a shorter screw? Buy some washers from the hardware store?  
Update: Thanks to everyone for all of the ideas, and for those who provided the exact specs on the screw. I went back to Ace Hardware and found the exact screw in stock. Just missed it the first time I guess! Update #2: Complete! I ran to the gun shop and bought a lower spring/pin kit for $14 bucks. Good to have some other springs around anyway. Here's the finished product, a product of election night pre-MAGA panic.  It's my 2nd AR. A PSA 5.56 upper and LPK on that Anderson lower. Planning on keeping it fairly simple: sling, rear BUIS w/small red dot, flashlight.
Thanks again for all the assistance and ideas! Been several years since I built my first one. 
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Posted: 1/9/2017 3:19:45 PM EDT
[#1]
Quoted:
Tried a search, but nothing came up with my terms. So, looks like I've run into that issue with my stripped Anderson lower where the grip screw hole isn't threaded all the way through. What have you guys done to get your grip to tighten down? Find a shorter screw? Buy some washers from the hardware store? It's a commonish problem. Both of the solutions you mentioned should work. |
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Posted: 1/9/2017 3:37:52 PM EDT
[#2]
-Get a shorter grip screw.
-Cut down your current grip screw -Shim with washers -Use a tap to cut threads through the rest of the hole. As stated, a known issue with some older runs of Anderson lowers. |
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Posted: 1/9/2017 3:51:43 PM EDT
[#3]
I just use a washer.
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Posted: 1/9/2017 4:44:26 PM EDT
[#4]
Thanks for the replies, fellas. I'll hit the hardware store here shortly.
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Posted: 1/9/2017 5:03:49 PM EDT
[#5]
I like running a set screw up into the grip hole to take out the pre travel of he trigger, therefor requiring to run the tap all the way through.
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Posted: 1/9/2017 5:16:09 PM EDT
[#6]
Washer would be easiest.
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Posted: 1/9/2017 5:39:05 PM EDT
[#7]
1/4-28 3/4".
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Posted: 1/9/2017 5:50:13 PM EDT
[#8]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
1/4-28 3/4". I ran up to Ace and tried to find a similar screw. I thought I had it perfectly, but it won't thread into the receiver. I bought some washers as a back up, but they won't fit into the grip. I need to find some that have a smaller overall diameter. |
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Posted: 1/9/2017 6:11:20 PM EDT
[#9]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
Thanks, will look for that. I ran up to Ace and tried to find a similar screw. I thought I had it perfectly, but it won't thread into the receiver. I bought some washers as a back up, but they won't fit into the grip. I need to find some that have a smaller overall diameter. If you build many Anderson's it pays to pick up a package of 3/4 in screws, they are cheap and easy to find at just about any hardware store. I just use my tap to fully thread the hole. |
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Posted: 1/9/2017 6:17:03 PM EDT
[#10]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
Thanks, will look for that. I ran up to Ace and tried to find a similar screw. I thought I had it perfectly, but it won't thread into the receiver. I bought some washers as a back up, but they won't fit into the grip. I need to find some that have a smaller overall diameter. Hit them with a grinder and make the washers fit. |
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Posted: 1/9/2017 6:27:08 PM EDT
[#11]
You can also use rivet back up plates, they work fine as well and they are smaller in diameter than regular washers.
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Posted: 1/9/2017 7:19:22 PM EDT
[#12]
Goddam Andersons!
Ima quit buying them. I've used 7 now, no issues. My lucks gonna run out. I've got a stash of 3/4" screws and a few taps, just in case.
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Posted: 1/9/2017 7:48:00 PM EDT
[#13]
Tap! Easy Peacy!
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Posted: 1/9/2017 8:00:12 PM EDT
[#14]
But, I was assured that all lower receivers were exactly the same.
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Posted: 1/9/2017 8:26:27 PM EDT
[#15]
The grip screw issue if you want to call it that, has been known for a really long time now!
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Posted: 1/9/2017 8:47:40 PM EDT
[#16]
If you are using a magpul grip the screw fits perfectly. However if you are using the screw from another grip they use longer screws.
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Posted: 1/9/2017 8:54:43 PM EDT
[#17]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
But, I was assured that all lower receivers were exactly the same.
Imo, they are. As long as they are in spec. |
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Posted: 1/9/2017 9:16:23 PM EDT
[#18]
never had that problem yet with an Anderson but i sure do remember the older style Aero Precision lowers had the shorter grip screw threads.
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Posted: 1/9/2017 9:22:16 PM EDT
[#19]
They should have a tap and a holder at the hardware store. Few bucks more, but you can make it right.
I have never built on an Anderson, but I always run a tap through there. Those threads can get fkn tight after anodizing. |
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Posted: 1/9/2017 9:22:46 PM EDT
[#20]
Anderson states on their website; may require 3/4" grip screw.
Eta: now reads; uses 3/4" grip screw. Anderson |
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Posted: 1/9/2017 9:37:47 PM EDT
[#21]
I just use a 1/4-28 tap to fully thread the hole.
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Posted: 1/9/2017 9:46:45 PM EDT
[#22]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
Imo, they are. As long as they are in spec. That's true enough, but how does one know what's in spec other than just going by reputation? There is a list of reasons to avoid Anderson products, not the least of which is their poor QC. Their dishonest practices on this site are another matter entirely. Others may be willing to look past all that, but I'm not. |
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Posted: 1/9/2017 10:07:21 PM EDT
[#23]
To each his own. I can buy 2 Andersons for the price of a Spikes, Stag or RRA. And I will until/if I encounter an issue. And as long as Anderson resolves it, I will continue. If not, I'll move on.Again, just my
opinion. From what I am hearing, it's not just Andersons that are having reoccurring issues as of late.Pre election supply rush most likely to blame. |
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Posted: 1/9/2017 10:18:09 PM EDT
[#24]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
Imo, they are. As long as they are in spec. I guess it depends on what specs you are going by. I've yet to see a spec for that dimple they machine into the inside of the forward port trigger guard ear. |
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Posted: 1/9/2017 10:31:30 PM EDT
[#25]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
I guess it depends on what specs you are going by. I've yet to see a spec for that dimple they machine into the inside of the forward port trigger guard ear. I'm not sure of what you are referring to? And by in spec, I mean that all of my parts attach/install as intended and operarate issue free. |
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Posted: 1/9/2017 10:58:00 PM EDT
[#26]
I've not seen one in person, but if I am hearing you right, my guess is it is for the set screw many trigger guards use nowadays to lock into on that side?
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Posted: 1/9/2017 11:13:40 PM EDT
[#27]
I have yet to see one. None of mine have that feature. Plain old GI trigger guard.
Eta: and I am not insinuating that Anderson lowers are the "best of the best" here, but I can say that they are not total shit as some would have us to believe . To each his own , I always say. |
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Posted: 1/10/2017 12:26:27 AM EDT
[#28]
I've had nothing but bad luck with Anderson components. All returned for refund..
Look elsewhere. This is my opinion you may have had better luck.. |
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Posted: 1/10/2017 12:59:52 AM EDT
[#29]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
I've had nothing but bad luck with Anderson components. All returned for refund.. Look elsewhere. This is my opinion you may have had better luck.. Really, Hm I have several guns around here that I have built with Anderson parts and have had no problems at all with any of them. |
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Posted: 1/10/2017 7:01:02 AM EDT
[#30]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
I've had nothing but bad luck with Anderson components. All returned for refund.. Look elsewhere. This is my opinion you may have had better luck.. Details? |
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Posted: 1/10/2017 9:15:32 AM EDT
[#31]
My first build was on an Anderson lower and I had zero issues. Everything lined up the way it was supposed to. Only issue was the funnier of them all - the roll mark looked like it wasn't perfectly milled in there. Some spots were a little higher than others but I don't really care. Structurally and operationally, no issues. Granted I bought a few Sons of Liberty Gun Works lowers in bulk and snagged a few VSEVEN on Black Friday, I'm not sure when I'll actually get another Anderson [if ever due to quality and attention to detail to others I have] but I wouldn't hesitate building one up and running it into the ground.
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Posted: 1/10/2017 9:31:37 AM EDT
[#32]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
Details? I also would like to know the details of this. I periodically hear that the Anderson stuff is junk, or that someone had problems, but have never heard what it was that made them total junk, and needed to be sent back. I have, however, heard of fairly minor problems, or issues that just needed to be corrected, which is the same with nearly any manufacturer out there. So, I am really curious to hear what the issues are. I don't currently own any Anderson stuff, but was considering picking some up. |
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Posted: 1/10/2017 12:15:53 PM EDT
[#33]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
My first build was on an Anderson lower and I had zero issues. Everything lined up the way it was supposed to. Only issue was the funnier of them all - the roll mark looked like it wasn't perfectly milled in there. Some spots were a little higher than others but I don't really care. Structurally and operationally, no issues. Granted I bought a few Sons of Liberty Gun Works lowers in bulk and snagged a few VSEVEN on Black Friday, I'm not sure when I'll actually get another Anderson [if ever due to quality and attention to detail to others I have] but I wouldn't hesitate building one up and running it into the ground. The newer Anderson lowers have much deeper machining than the older ones. I got one two years ago and it was like you said, it almost looked more stamped than machined. The one I got last year had much deeper/thicker markings. Looked a lot like my brother's Aero. Finish was much darker on the newer one too. |
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Posted: 1/10/2017 2:28:04 PM EDT
[#34]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
I just use a washer. This is what I do. |
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Posted: 1/10/2017 3:58:02 PM EDT
[#36]
First thing I do with any new build is run the proper size number drills through all the pin holes by hand. The second thing I do is run a 1/4-28 tap up through the PG mounting hole. I do this with any assembly that has been coated in any way.
Discovering a grain of sand or some other shmutz lodged in a detent pin hole is better done before assembly begins. |
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Posted: 1/10/2017 4:32:19 PM EDT
[#37]
Good discussion, guys!
Just thought I'd add that I just received a reply from Anderson's regarding the email I sent. As posted earlier in this thread, their lowers take the 3/4" screw and they sell them on their website for $2.00. Since I'm out of town on a trip, I'll probably just order one up and finish it when I get home. You guys are great- thanks again. 
ETA: WTF $13.21 shipped...maybe a tap from the hardware store or a Magpul grip is the way I'll go.
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Posted: 1/10/2017 5:01:55 PM EDT
[#38]
Just grab some 1/4" lock washers . They are small enough to fit inside any grip.
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Posted: 1/10/2017 5:02:55 PM EDT
[#39]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
Good discussion, guys! Just thought I'd add that I just received a reply from Anderson's regarding the email I sent. As posted earlier in this thread, their lowers take the 3/4" screw and they sell them on their website for $2.00. Since I'm out of town on a trip, I'll probably just order one up and finish it when I get home. You guys are great- thanks again.
ETA: WTF $13.21 shipped...maybe a tap from the hardware store or a Magpul grip is the way I'll go. Hardware store. |
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Posted: 1/12/2017 11:50:30 PM EDT
[#40]
I've read this is an issue on Anderson lowers, but I've yet to actually see it myself....and I just finished 7-8 builds on their lowers.
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Posted: 1/13/2017 12:05:19 AM EDT
[#41]
Why don't they just tap the fucking hole all the way through?
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Posted: 1/13/2017 1:20:19 AM EDT
[#42]
I've built 5 now. Two had issues. They were easy enough to overcome, but they required fitting other parts due to them being out of spec. $39 to $49 per lower is not worth it to me. I won't be getting anymore.
Problems included bolt catch slot too tight. Tried several bolt catches before I found one that would just barely slide in. Several would not fit at all. Had to file it slightly for it to be loose enough to work reliably. Front takedown pin hole milled too small. Had to put the pin in a drill and use emory cloth on the pin until it would fit in the lower. Also had the same issue with the grip screw. |
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Posted: 1/13/2017 2:04:07 AM EDT
[#43]
Here you go:
http://www.homedepot.com/p/Everbilt-1-4-in-x-3-4-in-Fine-Plain-Socket-Cap-Screw-804858/204282096 My HD never has them (had to order a 20 pack, so opted for combo head instead of socket head cap, as I like to be able to use the more common standard screw driver in the field for fix in the field). IIRC the 20 pack was only about $10, so it may pay to buy in bulk if you're going to do more Anderson lowers. As far as them not threading all the way though... that is common with MANY lower manufacturers now. Not sure why. But as mentioned, Magpul supplies 3/4" screws with their grips that work fine, as do any 3/4" 1/4-28. Not worth the hassle of tapping IMHO (even though I have the tap, but not worth the time when a simple screw replacement is all that's needed). 28 is NOT easy to find in common hardware stores, and most won't carry it (as mine doesn't). Careful not to get 20 thread (will NOT work), as those ARE common. I'd advise to just buy/order a bulk 20 pack so you have spares for more later. |
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Posted: 1/13/2017 2:45:03 AM EDT
[#44]
Problems included bolt catch slot too tight. This is the only issue I have had with an Anderson lower, and it only happened with one...all it took was a little time with a jeweler's file, works fine now. |
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Posted: 1/13/2017 6:58:37 AM EDT
[#45]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
Here you go: http://www.homedepot.com/p/Everbilt-1-4-in-x-3-4-in-Fine-Plain-Socket-Cap-Screw-804858/204282096 My HD never has them (had to order a 20 pack, so opted for combo head instead of socket head cap, as I like to be able to use the more common standard screw driver in the field for fix in the field). IIRC the 20 pack was only about $10, so it may pay to buy in bulk if you're going to do more Anderson lowers. As far as them not threading all the way though... that is common with MANY lower manufacturers now. Not sure why. But as mentioned, Magpul supplies 3/4" screws with their grips that work fine, as do any 3/4" 1/4-28. Not worth the hassle of tapping IMHO (even though I have the tap, but not worth the time when a simple screw replacement is all that's needed). 28 is NOT easy to find in common hardware stores, and most won't carry it (as mine doesn't). Careful not to get 20 thread (will NOT work), as those ARE common. I'd advise to just buy/order a bulk 20 pack so you have spares for more later. Both of my Ace Hardware stores carry them. As well as the local Fastenal and Williams Fasteners. |
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Posted: 1/13/2017 7:58:23 AM EDT
[#46]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
I just use a washer. I had the same issues before myself and the easiest way that I fixed it was to add washers. |
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Posted: 1/13/2017 10:20:03 AM EDT
[#47]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
Here you go: http://www.homedepot.com/p/Everbilt-1-4-in-x-3-4-in-Fine-Plain-Socket-Cap-Screw-804858/204282096 My HD never has them (had to order a 20 pack, so opted for combo head instead of socket head cap, as I like to be able to use the more common standard screw driver in the field for fix in the field). IIRC the 20 pack was only about $10, so it may pay to buy in bulk if you're going to do more Anderson lowers. As far as them not threading all the way though... that is common with MANY lower manufacturers now. Not sure why. But as mentioned, Magpul supplies 3/4" screws with their grips that work fine, as do any 3/4" 1/4-28. Not worth the hassle of tapping IMHO (even though I have the tap, but not worth the time when a simple screw replacement is all that's needed). 28 is NOT easy to find in common hardware stores, and most won't carry it (as mine doesn't). Careful not to get 20 thread (will NOT work), as those ARE common. I'd advise to just buy/order a bulk 20 pack so you have spares for more later. I just got home last night. Don't know if I'll be able to get to this project for a while- ice storm on the way. 
If I can't find one of those screws, instead of tapping, I'll either buy a Magpul grip since I'd probably get one anyway, or grind the washers down. FWIW, I was able to get my bolt catch installed easily enough. The roll pin and hole for the trigger guard has me concerned though... 
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Posted: 1/14/2017 12:58:05 AM EDT
[#48]
Quoted:
Update: Thanks to everyone for all of the ideas, and for those who provided the exact specs on the screw. I went back to Ace Hardware and found the exact screw in stock. Just missed it the first time I guess!
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Posted: 1/14/2017 10:21:03 AM EDT
[#49]
And nooooooow I think I threw away one of my last detents, lol. Oh, my luck.
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Posted: 1/14/2017 11:13:47 AM EDT
[#50]
Detents for what?
I have made temporary detents out of both SS rod and a drill bit shank before, it'll at least get you together until you get a replacement. Cut it a little long, chuck it into a cordless drill and profile it on a sander/grinder. Dial calipers help to get the OAL right. |
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