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Posted: 8/9/2005 5:01:31 PM EDT
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Okay, I finally got my first build under my belt. Thanks to the forum for all the info. I called one local gunsmith today to check the headspace. They said it would be 35 dollars and they would need the firearm for 2 days. his Since I have three more stripped recievers that are being built, I am thinking about buying a set of headspace guages for myself if it works out better economically. I have no problem buying tools. 4 firearms x $35 headspace check + 8 days shop time= too much I am kinda confused about the different guages. I thought I read somewhere that you can't use the same ones that the military uses. Which one or ones do I need? Anyone know where to order? Thanks....hug.gif |
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The military field gage is better because you don't have to disassemble the bolt to use it. I got one from seller DrJekl from the Equipment Exchange, here's his ad link. He told me last week that he only have a few more in stock. Good luck.  |
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Headspace http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Headspace It is measured with a steel gage that conforms with min/max standards for the cartridge. For .223 chambers use .223 gages, for 5.56 chambers use the military gage. $35 and 2 days is a rip. My local smith will check headspace for free. Of course, I buy things from him too. If you are running a small production line, buy the tool, you need one. BSW |
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If you are using a new bolt and new barrel, I wouldn't even bother with checking the headspace. Q: How do I Headspace an AR-15? A: Courtesy of LTC Santose 99% of any "concern" about headspacing is based on a lack of knowledge about what headspace is and does. Unless you take a grinder to the bolt, or fire several thousand rounds of ammunition on AUTO, you can't induce dangerous headspace. The Army, which fires a zillion rounds a year has one (1) gauge. Gauge, headspace, field. That's it. If you buy commercial barrels and bolts from Bushmaster or Colt's you don't need to worry -- or even THINK -- about headspace. Unless you've fired several thousand rounds of ammunition you don't need to worry -- or even THINK -- about headspace other than an ANNUAL check with the field gage. Reserve units only do it every two years. If the bolt closes on the field gage you fit a new bolt. If it closes you fit a new barrel and use the OLD bolt. If that fails use a new bolt and new barrel. No GO or NO-GO checking, just FIELD. There's no concern about a NEW bolt in an old barrel. Heck it's going to be larger -- no wear -- than the old bolt and there will be less headspace. |
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