Prioritizing Safety First
Gun Safety
Before you begin, safety is paramount. Any work performed on firearms requires meticulous attention to safety protocols. Always prioritize your well-being and the safety of others.
First and foremost, verify that your firearm is unloaded. Physically check the chamber and magazine well to confirm the absence of ammunition. This step is not just a recommendation; it’s an absolute necessity.
Always maintain the muzzle pointed in a safe direction. Ensure the weapon is pointed towards a safe area, such as a shooting range berm or a location where an accidental discharge would pose minimal risk to people or property.
Wear appropriate eye and ear protection throughout the entire process. Eye protection will shield your eyes from any debris that may come loose, and ear protection will safeguard your hearing from the loud noises associated with gunsmithing.
Work in a well-lit and uncluttered area. This ensures good visibility and reduces the chance of losing small parts or making mistakes. A clean workspace promotes efficient and safe work practices.
The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only. Readers are responsible for their own safety and for ensuring that any modifications to their firearm comply with all applicable laws and regulations. Consult with a qualified gunsmith if you are not comfortable performing any of the steps.
Gathering Your Needed Materials
Successful installation hinges on having the right tools and materials ready. This ensures a smooth process and prevents frustrating interruptions. The following is a comprehensive list to help you get ready:
- Aero Precision Adjustable Gas Block: Ensure you have the correct model specifically designed for your barrel diameter (0.750″ or 0.625″ are common).
- Gas Tube: A new gas tube is often advisable, especially if you’re replacing an existing gas block.
- Gas Tube Roll Pin: This is often included with the gas block or gas tube.
- Handguard: If applicable and you’ll need to remove it to access the barrel and old gas block.
- Gas Block Set Screws: Aero Precision typically includes these; confirm they’re present.
- Loctite (Blue 242 or similar): For securing set screws to prevent loosening under recoil.
- Roll Pin Punch Set: These specialized punches allow for the safe and precise removal and installation of roll pins.
- Small Hammer: For use with the roll pin punch.
- Torque Wrench: If you’re following torque specifications from Aero Precision, this is essential.
- Hex Wrenches (Allen Wrenches): Sizes appropriate for the set screws and adjustment screw on the Aero Precision AGB.
- Gunsmithing Vise (Recommended): A vise provides a stable platform for working on the upper receiver, enhancing safety and precision.
- Receiver Block (Recommended): Supports the upper receiver during disassembly and assembly, preventing damage.
- Cleaning Supplies: Include a degreaser or other cleaning solution suitable for your firearm components.
Preparing Your Upper Receiver
The preparation of the upper receiver is a crucial preliminary step. This is where the old components are removed or where we prepare for the installation of the new adjustable gas block.
If you are replacing an existing gas block, begin by removing your handguard. This provides clear access to the barrel and the existing gas block. Depending on your handguard design, this may involve removing screws, handguard retainers, or other fasteners. Refer to your handguard’s specific installation instructions for guidance.
With the handguard removed, you can now remove the existing gas block. Depending on how your current gas block is installed, this may require removing set screws. Make sure you have accounted for them and have a method in place to remove them.
Next, clean the barrel journal where the gas block will be mounted. Use a degreaser or solvent to remove any oil, grease, or residue. This ensures a clean and secure interface between the gas block and the barrel. A clean surface promotes better heat transfer and a more consistent fit.
Installing Your Adjustable Gas Block
With the upper receiver prepared, the installation of the Aero Precision Adjustable Gas Block can begin. This is where we take the new gas block and install it onto the rifle.
First, orient the Aero Precision AGB correctly. Note the position of the adjustment screw; it is the key for controlling the flow of gas. Ensure it’s accessible and oriented correctly for easy adjustment after installation.
Carefully slide the AGB onto the barrel, aligning it with the gas port. Make sure the gas tube hole in the gas block is correctly aligned with the gas port drilled into the barrel. If you do not align it correctly, the rifle may not function properly.
Achieving perfect alignment between the gas port in the barrel and the gas port in the AGB is absolutely critical. You can use a straight edge to visually check the alignment. Some gunsmiths use a gas tube to assist.
Now, secure the gas block using the set screws provided. Apply Loctite to the set screws to prevent them from backing out during firing. Follow Aero Precision’s torque specifications.
Next, install the gas tube. Insert the gas tube through the gas block. If a roll pin is needed to secure the gas tube to the gas block, use the roll pin punch set and the hammer to carefully install it.
Finally, reinstall the handguard if you removed it during the initial steps.
Initial Testing and Adjustment
Once the gas block is installed, the process of adjusting the rifle begins.
Start with the gas adjustment screw in the closed position. This means the screw is fully turned in.
You will want to test cycling with your chosen ammunition. The first round should be single-loaded.
If the bolt does not lock back after firing a single round, the gas flow is likely insufficient. The rifle isn’t getting enough gas.
If the bolt locks back, the gas flow is sufficient for your current setup.
Begin by opening the gas block. Use the correct size hex wrench to gradually open the adjustment screw. Make small, incremental adjustments – perhaps a quarter-turn or less at a time.
After each adjustment, test the rifle’s function. Fire another round, observing the cycling behavior. Does the bolt lock back? Does the spent casing eject cleanly? Is the recoil manageable?
The aim is to find the optimal gas setting, or “sweet spot”, that reliably cycles the rifle with the chosen ammunition while minimizing recoil, excessive wear and tear, and brass ejection issues.
Troubleshooting for Optimal Performance
Despite careful installation and adjustment, you may encounter issues. Here’s how to troubleshoot common problems:
If you experience a failure to cycle, which means the bolt does not cycle fully, look for potential causes. Insufficient gas flow might be the problem. Repeat the adjustment process, opening the gas block slightly. Ensure the gas tube is not obstructed.
If you detect excessive gas flow, which may involve increased recoil, the bolt slams back with significant force, or the brass ejection pattern is erratic, then close the gas block and consider a few things. Excessive gas can lead to premature wear and potential damage.
A gas leak is a possibility, which will result in poor rifle function. Check the gas block-to-barrel seal. Ensure the gas tube is properly installed and not damaged or blocked. Inspect the gas block set screws for any signs of leakage.
Caring for Your Adjustable Gas Block
Regular maintenance is critical for maintaining the reliability and longevity of your adjustable gas block.
Regular inspection is vital. Check the gas block periodically for any signs of wear, looseness, or damage. Ensure the set screws are still tight.
Cleaning is essential. Remove any carbon buildup. Clean the gas block, gas tube, and surrounding areas.
Apply a small amount of lubricant after cleaning, especially to the adjustment screw and other moving parts. This will help ensure smooth operation.
In Conclusion
Mastering the installation and adjustment of the Aero Precision Adjustable Gas Block is a rewarding skill. With a careful approach, following these instructions, and prioritizing safety, you can enhance your rifle’s performance, personalize the shooting experience, and optimize your firearm.
The ability to precisely control gas flow opens doors to a wide range of ammunition choices. You can minimize recoil, ensuring a more comfortable shooting experience.
Now is a great time to take the rifle to the range. Experiment with different ammunition types and find the ideal gas setting.
***Disclaimer: Firearms are dangerous and should be handled with extreme caution. Always follow all local, state, and federal laws.*
