JP handguard installation-DPMS AP4

[marshallwk]

Ok so I have a DPMS AP4. The front sight base is a pain to come off. Is it possible to shave it down and leave it on the barrel, then change out the free float it has now with a VTAC/JP handguard. Or will the installation of the new handguard require the gas block to be off? If so I will have a gunsmith complete the process as it is hard to get off the FSB and I do not want to mushroom out the set pins.

[smschulz]

Unless it is a low profile gas block it has to come off.
It was a PITA on my CMMG ~ I had to drill the pins out.
Going back on is not so hard though.
Good Luck.

[Robb Jensen]

The JP uses it's own barrel nut. The entire gas system must come off for installation.

[marshallwk]

Thanks for the response. Looks like I will try heating the pins and punching them out and drilling if that doesn't work

[MistWolf]

I'm told JP recommends red locktite when installing their handguard. Is it necessary?

[Robb Jensen]

I'm told JP recommends red locktite when installing their handguard. Is it necessary?

Yes it's required to keep the threaded on flange from spinning when torquing the unique JP bbl nut.

[3kids1gun]

In order to save yourself a bunch of grief why don't you just contact JP and ask them to do the job for you? I did and it turned out great I think it cost around $205 total.

[MistWolf]

Wouldn't it work if the FSB were shaved, then simply unpin the gas tube and remove it? Isn't the gas tube installed after the barrel nut is tightened anyway?