Installing an AR-15 Barrel

by
posted on May 24, 2011
d10764.jpg

Parts

BarrelBarrel nut

Tools

DPMS Multi-Tool or other barrel wrenchBrownells upper-receiver action block with insertTorque wrench with 1⁄2-inch driveBench-mounted vise

The YHM free-floating fore-end I chose for this build came with a barrel nut. The following instructions are for installing the barrel using this hardware and are typical for fore-ends of this type. However, the process may vary a bit with other models.

Slide the action-block insert inside the receiver to support it and prevent distortion under pressure. Then clamp the receiver in the action block, and secure the works in a bench-mounted vise.

Clean the receiver threads with a small brush, and coat them with an anti-seize compound or high-quality grease. Insert the barrel through the front of the receiver. Thread the barrel nut onto the receiver with the wide, threaded portion to the rear. Tighten the barrel nut using a DPMS Multi-Tool or other barrel wrench.

The Multi-Tool is designed to be used with a 1⁄2-inch-drive torque wrench. The mil-spec tightening technique is as follows: Torque to 35 foot-pounds. Loosen. Torque again to 35 foot-pounds. Loosen again. Torque past 35 foot-pounds, until the next hole in the nut aligns with the gas-tube hole in the receiver, but do not exceed 80 foot-pounds.

Latest

9mm, 9x21 mm
9mm, 9x21 mm

No Fun Finding 9x21 Ammo

When dealing with two similar calibers like the 9x21 mm and the 9 mm one must be particularly cognizant that the ammo used matches the caliber stamped on the barrel to lessen the possibility of potential damage to yourself and/or your firearm. 

SilencerCo Launches Summer Promotion

Buy one suppressor, get another free from SilencerCo.

First Look: Fix It Sticks for SIG Sauer Pistols

Working on your SIG just got easier thanks to Fix It Sticks

Pistol Trigger Performance

Take your pistol shooting to the next level.

Laser Training Pistol Roundup

Become a better shooter without sending rounds downrange.

First Look: Breakthrough Clean Suppressor Cleaner

Now there's an easier way to clean those baffling areas.

Interests



Get the best of Shooting Illustrated delivered to your inbox.