My gas key came loose and Bushmaster was gracious enough to send me a new gas key (free of charge) along with screws. Bushmaster insisted that staking the key is a simple procedure and thay even I could do it and that I needn't was cash on shipping to the part to them.

I have a table vice and some wood blocks to hold the bolt carrier in place. I also have a mallet. I do not have a chisel, however.

Please direct me as to what type and size of chisel would be most appropriate for the procedure.

Thanks.

what ever should do, chisel, punch, screwdriver..........



check the troubleshooting forum or use your search function

okay... when I searched the first time I did not see it.

ar15.com/forums/topic.html?b=3&f=4&t=236921

Alas, it still doesn't really answer my question-- which is, what is the preferred staking tool.

Thanks anyway.

Preferred tool is a dedicated machine, but the field-expedient preference is apparently a center punch.

I just haven't been able to find a center punch that's tapered sharp enough yet.

Use a flathead screwdriver, put it at roughly a 45 degree angle, and strike sharply.  You don't need to move much metal.  Do it from opposite sides.  

A screwdriver will work as well as anything else, and while I have the proper staking tool, you can't tell the difference after both have been used.

Quoted: Use a flathead screwdriver, put it at roughly a 45 degree angle, and strike sharply.  You don't need to move much metal.  Do it from opposite sides.   A screwdriver will work as well as anything else, and while I have the proper staking tool, you can't tell the difference after both have been used.

+87

It's not a critical operation.  Don't over think it.

Great input guys, thanks!