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Posted: 1/14/2013 8:12:05 AM EDT
| Im doing my first install of a LPK on a stripped lower. Is a punch set necessary? And what is a good one to get? |
I know most people recommend the Brownells Roll Pin Punch sets. I've seen 2 or 3 sets of those all bent up/broken. This is the set of tools I build AR's with. That set of Starrett punches you see is worth its weight in gold. Not a bent pin or punch yet. Get them from Brownells. The whole set is at the bottom of the page: [link]http://www.brownells.com/gunsmith-tools-supplies/general-gunsmith-tools/punches/565-pin-punch-set-prod12625.aspx[/link] I use a pair of needle nose pliers to hold the roll pins (mag catch and trigger guard) while I get them started with the hammer. Then, finish with the punch:
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I did my first builds with a Sears punch set, maybe $7. I eventually got the roll pin punch set from Brownells. Roll pin punches have a little nub on them to prevent deforming the pin. +1on both sets! There was also a guy on here selling what he called his AR Essential Tools... I believe his son was making them for a school project. Anyway, it had a steel rod with an offset hole drilled into it that makes installing the bolt catch roll pin a dream. |
| I bought these: Here and between a few builds and numerous other things,they have held up great. |
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Go to Home Depot, they have all different size punches, .154 etc. That's what I did, grab a rubber hammer if you don't already have one laying around. The only aspect I needed to complete my lower was a castle nut wrench, which I had to order because all the gun stores in my area were all sold out. Besides the wrench, which is nice to have for various reasons, you don't need a special kit blah blah blah.
-Stay low and keep firing brotha! |
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I did my first few builds with a set of Harbor Freight punches. Two or three of them have given up the ghost. Many of the others are way too big for AR work.
I've since invested in a set of Starrett punches that have proven to be awesome. Roll pin punches are on the list of things to buy. |
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At minimum you should have a set of brass punches...wheeler makes a good set...
I have some Proto Roll Pin Punches...Work awesome... Also you will most likely need a good AR multi tool... I have all the tools for AR separately and a decent multi tool/wrench... My 2 cents... I'm sure I'm forgetting something... Bret |
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Grace roll pin punch set. Long enough to get the bolt catch easily and all are still straight as arrows. Posted Via AR15.Com Mobile +1 The Grace roll pin punch set is high quality. The Snap-On roll pin punch set is of equal, professional quality. Roll pin punches are superior for what you want to do and roll pin starter punches are a very nice luxury. I use Grace RP punches from Midway and RP starters from Brownells. Be advised, if you choose to monkey with pliers for this task, you have to surrender your Man Card. 
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I bought these: Here and between a few builds and numerous other things,they have held up great. These punches are excellent. A roll pin punch that's long enough to clear the receiver for the bolt catch pin allowing you to safely use a small hammer. Now there is no need for that blue tape nonsense. These are the right tool for the job at a reasonable price. 
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I have a set of steel and brass punches I picked up at Sportsmans Warehouse. It came with a small hammer both Brass and Steel. I did however break a punch trying to get the Taper Pins out of my front sight.
Now, I will be investing in a stronger set before my next build. Lower receiver pins aren't so tough but if you plan on doing any uppers or barrel work you'll want some fairly stout punches and a heavier hammer. |
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