Lower assembly

slapshot · #1 12-07-09, 11:18

I'm building a lower using a Spike's receiver. Everything is fine except that the roll pins for the bolt catch and trigger guard are a bitch to fully seat. I've oiled them before assembly. They are sticking out a tiny bit and I'm afraid to keep beating on them for fear of breaking something or ruining the finish.

Any of you guys had that problem? Should I have prepared the parts before assembly?

11Bravo · #2 12-07-09, 17:34

Uh, in my rather limited experience, they should both set flush or a bit inside of both ends of their holes.
That make sense?
BE VERY CAREFUL on that trigger guard pin; support it.
Careful, one at a time little whacks rather than flailing away with a hammer and punch will take care of things for you.

slapshot · #3 12-08-09, 13:16

I'm well aware of supporting the opposite side of the trigger guard ears and have done so. I started the roll pin by putting it in a drill press and pushing it in about half way. Then using a hammer and pin punch, I tapped it in as far as I dare, but the pin just won't fully enter the hole on the opposite side. It sticks out slightly on one side. I guess I'll just leave it there.

I assembled another Spike's lower and everything went together as smooth as silk. Can't figure this one.

BLACK LION · #4 12-08-09, 14:24

Quote:

Originally Posted by slapshot

I'm building a lower using a Spike's receiver. Everything is fine except that the roll pins for the bolt catch and trigger guard are a bitch to fully seat. I've oiled them before assembly. They are sticking out a tiny bit and I'm afraid to keep beating on them for fear of breaking something or ruining the finish.

Any of you guys had that problem? Should I have prepared the parts before assembly?

An MIAD grip with the integral trigger guard attachment solves the trigger guard pin problem...

A pair of locking pliers with the teeth taped solves the colt catch pin problem... Just set it and squeeze it in...Then get a punch and drive it so it does not stick out at all.... You may or may not have to, the only problem is the f-ed up angle... I like to use painters or electrical tape around the works areas and contact pionts so I dont scuff, ding , scrape, scratch or strip anything....

Cafe GW · #5 12-09-09, 13:52

I had the exact same problem happen with the trigger guard. I ended up doing exactly what BLACK LION said, and using the trigger guard attachment on my Magpul grip. I like it that way better anyway--it looks better and is more ergonomic.

Realistically if a pin sticks out a little from something like a trigger guard, that's not going to affect the rifle's utility. It will provide something to snag and it won't look pretty, however.

As for the bolt catch, that pin should be flush. You might consider ordering a couple spare parts.

slapshot · #6 12-16-09, 16:26

I solved my own problem. I bought the parts kit from a dealer at a gun show. I thought they were DPMS factory reps, but later found out they weren't.

I then bought some replacement pins from RRA, punched the old one out, and the new one slid in just as it should... Guess the parts I bought at the show were crap. Never do that again.