AR15 - BOLT CATCH PIN PUNCH: Is it necessary?

[DavidR310]

I just finished my first AR15 lower and am thinking about the next one. I like being professional and hate mickey mouse/hack jobs and found this.

http://www.brownells.com/.aspx/pid=26484/Product/BOLT_CATCH_PIN_PUNCH?avad=avant

BUT Is this tool really necessary?

Why not just install the bolt catch pin from the right side with a regular punch?

Is going from the left better?

Thanks!

[SmellOfCordite]

BUT Is this tool really necessary?

Why not just install the bolt catch pin from the right side with a regular punch?

Is going from the left better?

Thanks!

Necessary no but if you like keeping the finish nice, it will help. I use a center punch from the right side, but whatever floats your boat. I think going from the other side could be good because the buffer tube part of the receiver won't get in the way.

[wash]

I use a security Torx bit in a screwdriver handle to start the pin, T25 I think.

It works fine and I can buy another in just about any hardware store (but some times you have to buy a bit collection to get the one you need).

I usually install an LPK with only two screwdriver handles and a few different bits. When I need a hammer I swing the unused screwdriver handle to do the job, you shouldn't need more than that.

[Peter.Steele]

When I did mine, I used a drill bit as a punch. Set the point of the bit on the inside of the roll pin, and used a VERY small, lightweight hammer to gently tap it in. I did have a piece of cloth, an old T shirt, I think, between the hammer / bit and the side of the receiver.

Just for reference, the hammer was actually from a kid's toolset that I got when I was 5. It's got a long handle, but a TINY head on it. I find it extremely useful for gun work. Also, when I say "gently" about tapping on the drill bit? I really mean it. Those things snap if you look at them cross-ways. BUT it works very well, and the point fits securely into the roll pin and doesn't slip out.

[GMG]

I usually crush the end of the the roll pin a little to get it started. Then use a punch like in post#1 to get it in the first boss. Install the spring and bolt catch, then I use a pair of pliers that are taped up with elec. tape and squeeze the pin the rest of the way.

But a regular pin punch will work.

[goober]

that tool is designed for removal of the bolt catch roll pin, not installation.

[FashionBiff]

Here is one is use and they give their reason why to use the punch and the possible issues from going the other route. Basically the same info everyone gave you here but more pro tool.

http://www.itstactical.com/warcom/firearms/diy-ar-15-build-bolt-catch-installation/

I stumbled on to these guys while trying to figure out how to wrap a knife handle, they show a lot of info and you get to see what can go wrong while you work stuff out.

[bombadillo]

I just tape up the receiver and use a punch with LIBERAL lubrication as the pin is going in.

[21SF]

Vise grips wrapped in electrical tape work better for install just line up the pin and squeeze it in.

[Metal Magic]

don't forget to use a spiral roll pin and not a notched type. The spiral roll pins go in SO much easier, I have installed one, then removed it, the re-installed with no damage to the receiver (using a regular punch). Now the C notched style pins take a lot more force and what I have heard are weaker overall. So overall I guess I'm sayin' the special punch really isn't needed and I would recommend a spiral roll pin to make the job much easier.

[h0use]

Go to harbor freight and get the punch set for 5$ you get like 7 different kinds. Been using it for my builds for about a year. Get a brass hammer as well.

[DavidR310]

Well I went from the right. I doubled up on duct tape and used the AR15 ProMag Brass Hammer and Punch Set 14-Piece:



I did have a c-notched pin, which is maybe why it was a little difficult to get in (also going to use lubricant next time).

One trick I did, was use a second punch from the left and used that as a guide as I drove in the pin from the right.

After watching the ITS vid, I think it is worth it. The guy used no tape and came out with no scratches. I would still use tape though knowing my clumsy luck.


Thanks.

[OutlawStar]

Vise grips wrapped in electrical tape work better for install just line up the pin and squeeze it in.

This: very much so. You don't need to buy any punches if you have a pair of needle nose vice grip liers. I've assembled 2 lowers with electrical tape, masking tape, and parts kits. I'm regretting the purchase of punches.

[goober]

This: very much so. You don't need to buy any punches if you have a pair of needle nose vice grip liers. I've assembled 2 lowers with electrical tape, masking tape, and parts kits. I'm regretting the purchase of punches.

if all you will ever have to do is install roll pins, then you may never need punches.
but if you ever need to remove them, those vise grips will be pretty useless

to the OP, roll pin starter punches are quite useful as well.