View Full Version : Good roll pin punch set? Any better package?
http://www.brownells.com/gunsmith-tools-supplies/general-gunsmith-tools/punches/roll-pin-punches-prod38883.aspx
Rated 4.9/5 and seems to have the key sizes.
That's the set I have. Never had any issues with them.
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evilblackrifle
08-16-13, 18:12
Only need 2 sizes for an AR, correct? Seems cheaper to just buy the punches you need.
Only need 2 sizes for an AR, correct? Seems cheaper to just buy the punches you need.
Roll pins are used on many other things than just ARs. If you're only working on ARs, then have at it. I'd rather have a complete set since I work on things other than just ARs.
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I bought the same set. Many other weapons have roll pins, my Steyr and Walther included. Good set.
You would need starter punches/roll pin punches for the following;
1. Trigger guard.
2. Forward assist/bolt catch.
3. Gas tube.
4. Ejector Pin- bolt.
You ought to score some of the roll pin holder punches too, they are very helpful, especially with the tiny pins.
Those Grace punches look better built, but I have the less expensive Lyman set from Midway. (http://www.midwayusa.com/product/191653/lyman-roll-pin-punch-set-4-piece-steel) They work great.
I also have the Schuster roll pin starter set (http://www.midwayusa.com/product/694883/schuster-ar-15-roll-pin-starter-punch-set-2-piece-steel), and I can't begin to tell you how indispensable they have been. Each end has a different size hole so you actually have 4 different sizes between the two tools. Even if you go with a different brand, do yourself a favor and get roll pin starters.
I was wondering about the capture/starter punches.
Admittedly the horse had left the barn and I had done my first rifle with a 5/32 sears flat punch.
The bolt catch and trigger guard survived without issue but the FA was an issue. Seeing that it would be an issue I did it from the underside just in case …… yep, some marks :jester:
But like I said … 'first' rifle. I've already planned out the next one so I'll use the good stuff for that one. :D
Never use punches for the trigger guard. Use the specific tool made for that.
I didn't know there was a specific tool for the trigger guard. Can you post a link to it?
I didn't know there was a specific tool for the trigger guard. Can you post a link to it?
http://www.brownells.com/gunsmith-tools-supplies/general-gunsmith-tools/punches/roll-pin-pusher-prod55709.aspx
I didn't know there was a specific tool for the trigger guard. Can you post a link to it?
I use something like this, and it takes the worry out of ruining a lower.
http://www.midwayusa.com/product/318884/little-crow-gunworks-ar-15-trigger-guard-roll-pin-pusher
I don't think that you are going to see much difference in quality between any roll pin punch set that you get from a reputable dealer such as Midway or Brownells. This is assuming that you are a hobby builder, such as myself, and will not be building or repairing guns for a living. If you damage a roll pin punch, then you are doing something wrong or not using it for the proper purpose.
Interesting. Thank you both for the links. To date I've only assembled one lower but I made sure to support the bottom ear really well and drive the pin gently.
I wouldn't waste 39.00 on that tool. Ask anyone who has been to my class how easy it is to install the roll pin when you use a starter punch and the correct technique.
Interesting. Thank you both for the links. To date I've only assembled one lower but I made sure to support the bottom ear really well and drive the pin gently.
I'm kinda a tool whore myself and may get one of those, but a starter and roll pin punch works fine there.. Ron
I wouldn't waste 39.00 on that tool. Ask anyone who has been to my class how easy it is to install the roll pin when you use a starter punch and the correct technique.
Call me names, but after waiting for a whole year to get nfa items, ill spend $40 for even a 1% chance less of damaging a lower.
SilverBullet432
08-16-13, 23:12
I paid $10 for a craftsman 4 piece punch set. I dont know the sizes off top of my head. I know ones a 1/8 i used one to install my qms trigger last week
I wouldn't waste 39.00 on that tool. Ask anyone who has been to my class how easy it is to install the roll pin when you use a starter punch and the correct technique.
Agreed, I don't believe this is a necessary tool. I have always used the flat edge of a table or found a thick piece of wood to hold the lower and was careful with a punch and hammer.
Call me names, but after waiting for a whole year to get nfa items, ill spend $40 for even a 1% chance less of damaging a lower.
That is quite understandable, I am just getting into the NFA myself. My LEO is not as understandable on some items so I will have to go the trust route soon.
http://www.brownells.com/gunsmith-tools-supplies/general-gunsmith-tools/punches/roll-pin-punches-prod38883.aspx
Rated 4.9/5 and seems to have the key sizes.
Exact set I bought from Midway, two thumbs up from me. Nicely made, and a very nice price compared to some of the other sets out there. Lifetime warranty too (although that's starting to mean less and less in the tool industry). My only beef is the case is nothing more than a zip-lock plastic pouch, but I can't even really complain at that for the price. Time will tell how they hold up, but I've heard nothing but good things about the longevity of the Grace steel punches.
There are alot of specialized tools that are not necessary, but I like tools. I have used a punch as well, and had the same outcome as using the press. To be honest, taking a armorers course from IG would probably the most useful tool in any kit.
Your source for punches.
http://www.starrett.com/searchresults/product-matches?searchQuery=punches
I'm not a tool person and in fact my family has banned my use of power tools (long story involving blood). But over the last couple of months I have changed out the trigger guards on two ar's using only punches. I am extremely proud that both jobs went well as I sure didn't want to break those tabs (thanks for the great info on this site). I can see how that tool would be useful if changing out many trigger guards.
I wouldn't waste 39.00 on that tool. Ask anyone who has been to my class how easy it is to install the roll pin when you use a starter punch and the correct technique.
Yeah I've only done the one lower so far and all I had to work with was a regular steel punch and a small hammer. I made sure to support the bottom ear and go easy and I didn't have any trouble. I still want to take your class if it ever works out that you can teach one in my general area.
Your source for punches.
http://www.starrett.com/searchresults/product-matches?searchQuery=punches
Much agreed. I've got these on my workbench. Just like is preached here about buying a quality rifle, one should buy quality tools.
I use an $9 set from Harbor Freight and it has served me well
http://www.harborfreight.com/8-piece-punch-set-93424.html
For the trigger guard, I just use a phone book opened up to the correct height to support it, no problems so far.
As said by "TXBK" IGs class is a very good. As for tools the correct ones will make a big differences, I made it to his course in Ga. Well worth the time & $. After going through you will be able to figure out what is wrong with one and how to fix it. Plus you will know what you really need for tools. A set of starter punches and rollpin punches from the usual places Midway, Brownells, Grace ect. ect.
As said by "TXBK" IGs class is a very good. As for tools the correct ones will make a big differences, I made it to his course in Ga. Well worth the time & $. After going through you will be able to figure out what is wrong with one and how to fix it. Plus you will know what you really need for tools. A set of starter punches and rollpin punches from the usual places Midway, Brownells, Grace ect. ect.
Skill trumps tools if you can only have one ir the other...cost and place to find a schedule?
WS6,
IG's course schedule is posted under his name when he replies but here is the link.
http://www.semperparatusarms.com
I would really like to take the course in Amarillo in September but I'm racing in Dallas that weekend. Maybe he'll have a course early in the year in Arizona when we go out there. (hint-hint)
WS6,
IG's course schedule is posted under his name when he replies but here is the link.
http://www.semperparatusarms.com
I would really like to take the course in Amarillo in September but I'm racing in Dallas that weekend. Maybe he'll have a course early in the year in Arizona when we go out there. (hint-hint)
All on week-ends :(
I've already used as much time off requests as I feel comfortable this year (VTAC Streetfighter&Southnarc's AMIS). Next year, it's something I will set time aside for. Thanks!
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