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3/18/2011 7:01:10 AM EDT
Perhaps "stupid" question, I am installing a magpul trigger guard on my second ar lower build - without any special tools and I am nervous about damaging the lower receiver.  is it worth it to wait and borrow tools?  (all I have been using, successfullly so far, is a hammer and screwdriver) thx
3/18/2011 8:00:42 AM EDT
[#1]
A standard set of punches will work, but roll pin puches will make your life a little easier.  

Just be sure to support the ears of the trigger guard during removal and installation.  

A drop of CLP or Kroil will help the pin slide in and out a little more easily.  You can also use Vise Grips wrapped in electrical tape to press the new pin in.
3/18/2011 12:46:39 PM EDT
[#2]
I just did this for the first time last week. I had a heck of a time getting that pin all the way through. My problem was my hammer was TOO light. I had to really come down with my light hammer to get that pin to move. If I had to do it again, I'd consider the taped pliers. That worked REALLY WELL for the bolt catch pin. But you'll still need to drive the pin a little further once its as far as you can go with the pliers. I'd borrow a punch to finish it off.
3/18/2011 1:18:35 PM EDT
[#3]
Def. get a punch.  Less likely to scratch your receiver.
3/18/2011 1:20:16 PM EDT
[#4]
Wait a sec, you can build ARs in the peoples republic of nj?  I grew up there and couldnt stand their gun laws so I hopped the border.  It was for other reasons too tho.  Its a great state tho.  I kinda miss it.
3/18/2011 1:30:17 PM EDT
[#5]
A regular C clamp with tape on the pads will allow you to apply pressure to the pin and leave a hand free to wiggle the trigger guard.

Yes we can have ARs in Jersey, we just have to practice mag changes like a mother.
3/18/2011 1:55:20 PM EDT
[#6]
Get the roll pin punches. It is well worth it.
3/18/2011 2:30:32 PM EDT
[#7]
I'm doing my first build, and using vice grip pliers with electrical tape on the jaws worked very well. Just set the  vice grips so they close a bit further each time you close them. This method supports ears that the pin slides into and lessens the chance of damage.
3/19/2011 4:31:10 AM EDT
[#8]
Quoted:
I'm doing my first build, and using vice grip pliers with electrical tape on the jaws worked very well. Just set the  vice grips so they close a bit further each time you close them. This method supports ears that the pin slides into and lessens the chance of damage.


That's the same method that I used on my AR build as well. Went really smooth and everything looked great afterwords.
3/19/2011 4:37:48 AM EDT
[#9]
if its the plastic magpul trigger guard, I sugest you prethread the screw into the polymer and remove it before you try and install it. It will help line up the ear hole if it's off any and make things easier.
3/19/2011 4:47:24 AM EDT
[#10]



Quoted:


I'm doing my first build, and using vice grip pliers with electrical tape on the jaws worked very well. Just set the  vice grips so they close a bit further each time you close them. This method supports ears that the pin slides into and lessens the chance of damage.


I've used this method for building quite a few ARs.  It's the only method I use anymore.  I have a pair of Vice Grip needle nose pliers that installing AR roll pins is all they are  used for.



 
3/19/2011 4:53:03 AM EDT
[#11]



Quoted:


if its the plastic magpul trigger guard, I sugest you prethread the screw into the polymer and remove it before you try and install it. It will help line up the ear hole if it's off any and make things easier.


This is a good little piece of advice.  I do the set screw then the roll pin with vise grips.  

 
3/19/2011 4:56:24 AM EDT
[#12]
Quoted:
A standard set of punches will work, but roll pin puches will make your life a little easier.  

Just be sure to support the ears of the trigger guard during removal and installation.  

A drop of CLP or Kroil will help the pin slide in and out a little more easily.  You can also use Vise Grips wrapped in electrical tape to press the new pin in.


A small "C" clamp works as well, it can also be used for the roll pin in the bolt catch assembly.
3/20/2011 4:14:56 PM EDT
[#13]
Thank you for the advice. And thankfully my AR is still legal in NJ.  Paid a little extra for the 15 round mag though.
3/22/2011 2:16:55 PM EDT
[#14]
I just recently did this mod myself.

I just went to Sears and bought a set of roll pin punches and a mallet and tapped the pin out.
I tried the taped pliers to try and put the pin back in, but that method really didn't work for me,
but CLP, and a punch and I drove the pin back in a minute.

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