When to install the flash-hider

[heycorey]

Hi All,

I just dicovered this forum about a week ago. This site is a gold-mine of information! I'm learning more and more every time I log in.

I recently bought a couple of 14.5" Colt M4 barrels and need to get flash-hiders permanently installed. My reason for this post is to ask about the order of assembly for the barrel components.

I want to install DD Lite 7.0 Rails on both. My question is, do I have to assemble the entire upper first (with the rail) before getting the hider(s) permanently attached? My understanding is that the fsb has be be removed to install the rail. And I'm guessing the hider has to be removed in order to remove the fsb.

Is that correct or can the hider be installed first and then deal with the rails later?

Thanks! Corey

[Hoplophile]

Yes, you'll have to install the flash hider last.

You may want to consider a different free float tube. Designs like the Troy and Samson rails can be installed last and can be removed without having to cut off the flash hider.

[heycorey]

That's what I thought. Thanks for the info!

Is there a consensus on Troy vs. Samson?