i just finished my first build but i've got this nagging in the back of my head and i need some opionions. i realize the recommended barrel nut torques is between 30-80 ft. lbs but heres my issue.  i used the torque wrench and hit the 30 ft lbs then i figured it would be easy to just tweak it to line the next groove up for the gas tube (this is a standard barrel nut btw).  so i set my wrench to 80 ft lbs for the adjustment just so i did not exceed that.  after the adjustment the groove still wasnt in line.  i did a little research and yankee hill recommends hand tightening it then using the wrench to make the adjustment.  so i went with that.  im thinking its on about 25-27 ft lbs as it stands.  what do ya'll recommend?  just for clarification its a rainier arms mountain series barrel, rainier arms mil spec upper, and bcm standard barrel nut.  thanks

It is recommended that you do the tighten/loosen thing 3 times before you do the final alignment.

Also using AeroShell 33MS to lube the barrel nut

https://www.ucwrg.com/materiel/miscellaneous-components/18/aeroshell-33ms-grease/

The YHM instructions are for their proprietary aluminum barrel nuts.
It is usually best to go with the instructions written for what you are installing.
The military TM available on this site includes numerous procedures in addition to barrel mounting.
The TM also gives the mil-spec for assembly lube which Aeroshell 33MS meets.
Since you are using a std steel nut the TM would apply in this case.

If you are close to 30 I wouldn't worry about it.  If it bothers you, I'd try another barel nut.