Necessary to check headspace?

[Bluto]

My apologies if this is not the correct forum section. If not, mods please move.

I just finished building an upper from separate components. All the components are brand new Colt: upper receiver, barrel, BCG, gas block and gas tube.

I have not yet fired it. Everything looks fine and cycles by hand smoothly. It goes into battery just fine and I cannot see any play in any component.

That being said, would it still be necessary to run a go/no-go headspace gauge test? I don't have a set and since I hardly ever build uppers from components (this is my first and likely last), I just don't want to shell out the cash.

Yes? No? Crazy for not checking?

Thanks in advance for the advice!

[Thorpew]

The 1st one I built would not head space I'm glad that I checked it. It is pretty inexpensive insurance.

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[markm]

Not needed.

[gunnerblue]

I would. You only need the Field Gauge, tho. Brownell's has them

[signal4l]

I would. You only need the Field Gauge, tho. Brownell's has them

This is correct. You can also get a maximum headspace gauge. Don't waste your money on a go / no-go set.

[D_M]

Not needed.

Why not?

[Thorpew]

I like how JP Rifles sells their barrels. They pair them with a BCG already headspaced.

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[markm]

Why not?

He's using good parts. I've never had a headspace issue in 27 years of AR obsession. I have a sweet ass headspace gauge that Iraqgunz gave me. I never use it though.

[Leonardo]

I’ve checked a few over the years,.....have never seen one check poorly.
Use quality parts and it’s not an issue.

If you have the gauges, break your bolt down and have a nut.

[markm]

That's the other thing. If you have those shit gauges where you have to take out the ejector??? F$%K that crap!!

Likely do more harm than good for no real gain.