Semi-technical thread regarding torque on barrel nuts.

[netchemica]

I see a lot of people making tutorials on forums and YouTube on how to install a barrel.

99% of the videos/pictures have the torque wrench in line with the nut adapter and set their torque wrench to 30ft/lbs. The problem is that the adapter provides additional leverage (think along the lines of a breaker bar).

Who here takes the time to figure out the proper torque setting and who places their torque wrench at a 90° angle to negate any leverage?

[markm]

Depending on the wrench, I'll either turn it 90, Use the mathematical formula to correct the torque value, or simply add 5 ft lbs to get it there.

On a USGI nut, there's really only one correct position, and I won't even use a torque wrench.

[BufordTJustice]

I just turn it 90 degrees. Basically no guesswork at that point.

[Onyx Z]

The extra leverage the barrel nut wrench provides is kind of moot since the torque spec window is so wide. It's not like you're getting another 50ft/lbs...

[markm]

The extra leverage the barrel nut wrench provides is kind of moot since the torque spec window is so wide. It's not like you're getting another 50ft/lbs...

Yep. Torque specs are really for people without a SHRED of common sense. Some handguards/upper/barrel nuts have material characteristics that require a lower spec than the top end of a USGI nut and receiver...

But for the most part, getting the nut snugged down without Gorilla arming it is not complicated stuff.

[BufordTJustice]

Yep. Torque specs are really for people without a SHRED of common sense. Some handguards/upper/barrel nuts have material characteristics that require a lower spec than the top end of a USGI nut and receiver...

But for the most part, getting the nut snugged down without Gorilla arming it is not complicated stuff.

Very true. MANY a reliable rifle have been built using the mk1 mod0 not-a-gorilla-arm hand and elbow.

[markm]

That said.... I'll use my torque wrench on my next build just because I have it and I haven't torqued a barrel nut down in nearly a year and this nut isn't timed for a gas tube... so might as well nail it to the spec.

[GH41]

90 degrees for me. GH

[DreadPirateMoyer]

This has been covered so many times, guys. Do a search both on here and on Google.

The torque range provided by manufacturers usually takes this additional leverage into account. Colt's recommended 30-80 takes the additional leverage of the adapter into account. It's in the manual, though I don't feel like searching for it for you guys. You can find it if you look hard enough.

There is no need for this 90 degree nonsense.

[Failure2Stop]

Colt's recommended 30-80 takes the additional leverage of the adapter into account. It's in the manual, though I don't feel like searching for it for you guys. You can find it if you look hard enough.

This is correct. Barrel replacement can be found in TM 9-1005-319-23&P on page 0015-15 through 0015-17.

http://www.kdeguns.com/ar-manual/M4%...23Pchange8.pdf

There is no need for this 90 degree nonsense.

Depends on manufacturer.
Many are anticipating a 90 degree offset of the torque wrench by the assembler, however, this should be covered in the manufacturer specific armorer's course.