AR-15 gas block? - The Firearms Forum

bustedmp · 12-02-2012, 10:47 PM

Making good progress in my 2 AR builds, I only need a few things to get one finished. I am going to be using low profile gas blocks, but not sure what style. Clamp, or set screw? I think the clamp on style would be less of a hassle, but don't have any first hand knowledge. I just think the clamp on block would be less likely to work loose. Am I worried about the difference between 6 and half a dozen here or what?

USMCSpeedy · 12-02-2012, 10:59 PM

I used a set screw type on my last build. I haven't had any problems with it. A little red Loctite was all I used. I haven't built a lot but I would think that as long as their installed properly any of them would be fine.

GunHugger · 12-03-2012, 06:35 AM

While I do agree with the above reply, having used both types I would go with the clamp on type.

The clamp on type is easier install, less possible troubles and less trouble to remove and reassemble later.

Even assembled correctly I have seen the set screw type move forward from firing. When it moves enough it blocks of the gas system and you have a single shot. To fix this problem I drill dimples in the barrel for the set screws so it can't move. More work.

Loc-Tite...barrel gets hot from firing. Heat loosens Loc-Tite. Rockset is a better choice since it's not effected by heat.

12-02-2012, 10:47 PM	#1
bustedmp V.I.P. Member Join Date: Jul 2012 Location: Shamokin PA. Posts: 157	AR-15 gas block? Making good progress in my 2 AR builds, I only need a few things to get one finished. I am going to be using low profile gas blocks, but not sure what style. Clamp, or set screw? I think the clamp on style would be less of a hassle, but don't have any first hand knowledge. I just think the clamp on block would be less likely to work loose. Am I worried about the difference between 6 and half a dozen here or what? -->

12-02-2012, 10:59 PM	#2
USMCSpeedy Senior Member Join Date: Jan 2009 Location: Minnesota Posts: 627	Re: AR-15 gas block? I used a set screw type on my last build. I haven't had any problems with it. A little red Loctite was all I used. I haven't built a lot but I would think that as long as their installed properly any of them would be fine. __________________ If all else fails, VOTE FROM THE ROOFTOPS Trying to reform a liberal is like trying to pick up a turd from the clean end. What this country needs is more family trees that will produce more lumber and fewer nuts!

12-03-2012, 06:35 AM	#3
GunHugger Advanced Senior Member Join Date: Jul 2007 Location: SW PA Posts: 1,161	Re: AR-15 gas block? While I do agree with the above reply, having used both types I would go with the clamp on type. The clamp on type is easier install, less possible troubles and less trouble to remove and reassemble later. Even assembled correctly I have seen the set screw type move forward from firing. When it moves enough it blocks of the gas system and you have a single shot. To fix this problem I drill dimples in the barrel for the set screws so it can't move. More work. Loc-Tite...barrel gets hot from firing. Heat loosens Loc-Tite. Rockset is a better choice since it's not effected by heat. __________________ . “There will be a revolution in this country!” “I don’t believe people should to be able to own guns.” ~Barack Obama "Stand your ground. Don't fire unless fired upon, but if they mean to have a war let it begin here." ~Captain John Parker, to his Minute Men on Lexington Green, April 19, 1775.