Check headspace???

**coolcraigster** · 06-28-21, 20:01

So i see alot of people say you need to check headspace between bolt and barrel after assembling new rifle. Also see alot of people say dont worry about it as long as you are using parts from reputable manufacturers. So I just finished my 3rd build... should I buy the gauges and check it? What do yall do?

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**gunnerblue** · 06-28-21, 20:30

Originally Posted by coolcraigster

So i see alot of people say you need to check headspace between bolt and barrel after assembling new rifle. Also see alot of people say dont worry about it as long as you are using parts from reputable manufacturers. So I just finished my 3rd build... should I buy the gauges and check it? What do yall do?

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I only use 5.56mm chambers and all I do is check headspace with a field gauge (Brownells carries them).

A lot of folks will buy both barrels and bolts from the same manufacturer and not worry about checking headspace- to me a gauge is cheap insurance

**opngrnd** · 06-28-21, 22:07

I check headspace. I see literally no downsides to it from a QC viewpoint.

**coolcraigster** · 06-28-21, 22:12

I've heard of GO and NOGO gauges but not a Field gauge. Whats the difference?

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**T2C** · 06-28-21, 22:19

I check headspace on everything I build or service. It's easy to do and is an indicator of reliability and safe operation. A good set of headspace gauges will last you a lifetime.

**coolcraigster** · 06-28-21, 22:22

Originally Posted by T2C

I check headspace on everything I build or service. It's easy to do and is an indicator of reliability and safe operation. A good set of headspace gauges will last you a lifetime.

Which gauges do you use?

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**Disciple** · 06-28-21, 23:14

Originally Posted by coolcraigster

I've heard of GO and NOGO gauges but not a Field gauge. Whats the difference?

This may help.

Originally Posted by Robb Jensen

Headspace gauges are for ALL guns especially BELT FEDS.

So my USGI issue 5.56mm FIELD gauge which is cutout for the extractor and ejector is now inaccurate because the 'interwebs' said so. Which way is it inaccurate? Does it say headspace is too tight when it's really excessive or is it indicating it's too big when it's still safe? Or do you not really know?

Military GO 1.4646" - 1.4648"
Military NOGO 1.4704" - 1.4706"
Military FIELD 1.4728" - 1.4730"
Colt's FIELD II 1.4736" 1.4736"

For those curious about belt fed head space.
M249 SAW GO 1.4940" - 1.4947"
M249 SAW NOGO 1.4980" - 1.4982"
M249 SAW FIELD 1.50196" - 1.50216"