Safety First: A Non-Negotiable Precaution
Emphasis on Firearm Safety
Before commencing any work on your firearm, safety must be your paramount concern. This cannot be stressed enough. Mishandling firearms can lead to serious injury, and it’s vital to approach this process with a mindset of respect and caution.
Verifying the Firearm is Unloaded
Begin by verifying that the firearm is completely unloaded. This is a non-negotiable first step. Carefully inspect the chamber to ensure it is empty. Then, remove the magazine and visually confirm that no ammunition is present. This double-check process helps eliminate any possibility of accidental discharge.
Importance of a Clean Workspace
Consider the environment you are working in. A well-lit space is critical. Good lighting ensures that you can clearly see all the parts and mechanisms, reducing the risk of mistakes. Also, a clean workspace minimizes the chances of losing small components or encountering obstructions.
Recommendation for Protective Gear
For additional safety, it is highly recommended to wear safety glasses throughout the entire process. Flying debris is a common hazard, and eye protection is a simple yet effective way to prevent serious injury.
Focus and Concentration for Safe Operation
Finally, working in a space free of distractions is essential. Focusing on the task at hand allows you to concentrate on the steps and avoid careless errors. Take your time, follow the instructions carefully, and do not rush the process.
Gathering the Essential Tools and Materials
Tool and Material Preparations
Preparing your workspace by gathering the necessary tools and materials is a crucial step in ensuring a smooth and successful stock removal. Having everything readily available will prevent frustrating interruptions and keep you focused on the task at hand.
Screwdrivers
You will need a set of screwdrivers. Depending on the specific model of your PSA M110 and the stock it’s equipped with, you may require flathead or Torx screwdrivers. It’s wise to have both available. The right fit is essential to avoid stripping screws and causing damage.
Punches
A suitable punch is another necessity. Punches are used to drive out pins that secure certain stock components. Make sure you select a punch of the correct size to avoid damaging the lower receiver or the pin itself. A roll pin punch set provides the various sizes needed for this job.
Hammer Considerations
A small hammer will be needed in conjunction with the punch to gently tap out any pins. A rubber-tipped or brass hammer is highly recommended. These types of hammers are less likely to mar or damage the metal surfaces of your rifle than a standard steel hammer.
Gun Cleaning Mat Benefits
A gun cleaning mat will protect your firearm’s finish and provide a stable working surface. The mat will also help keep small parts organized and prevent them from rolling away.
Additional Tools
If you plan to remove the buffer tube, a vise and a vice-grip or soft-jaw vise are helpful. The buffer tube can sometimes be stubbornly tight, and these tools provide a secure means of holding it while you apply the necessary force.
Optional Tools
Optional tools to include are a bench vise for stability and an armorer’s wrench if you’re removing the buffer tube.
Optional Cleaning and Lubrication
Finally, depending on your plans, cleaning solvent and lubricant can be useful for reassembly and future maintenance.
Undoing the Stock: A Detailed Step-by-Step Guide
Preparation and Initial Steps
Now, let’s begin the actual stock removal process. Following these steps precisely will help to ensure success.
Begin by creating a safe working area, following all safety precautions outlined earlier. Place the unloaded firearm on your gun cleaning mat. double check the firearm is unloaded, magazine removed, chamber clear.
Stock Attachment Method
Before you begin, take note of the specifics of your PSA M110. Stocks can vary, so identify how the stock is attached to the lower receiver. There are different ways to attach the stock; such as, a set of screws, a quick-detach lever, or pins. Once you know the attachment method, the removal will become simpler.
Screw Removal Procedure
If the stock is secured with screws, use the appropriate screwdriver to carefully remove them. It is essential to use the right size and type of screwdriver. Over-tightening is a common cause of stripped screws.
Pin Removal Instructions
If the stock uses pins, you’ll need your punch and hammer. Carefully position the punch on the head of the pin and, using light taps with the hammer, gently drive the pin out. If the pin is resistant, make sure the punch is aligned correctly. Use a small amount of penetrating oil. Work slowly and deliberately to avoid bending or breaking the pin.
Lever Operation
If the stock has a lever mechanism, simply disengage the lever according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This should release the stock.
Stock Assembly Removal
Once the screws are removed, the pins driven out, or the lever disengaged, you should be able to remove the stock assembly from the lower receiver. Be gentle and avoid forcing anything.
Understanding and Handling the Buffer Tube
Buffer Tube Removal is Needed
Before you can get to the stock, sometimes you must remove the buffer tube, which houses the buffer and spring. The buffer tube is the part that the stock typically attaches to.
Identify and Locate the Buffer Tube
If you are removing the buffer tube, you will have to remove the buffer tube. Start by identifying and locating the buffer tube. If your stock has a castle nut, carefully remove it with the appropriate armorer’s wrench, if applicable. If your PSA M110 does not use a castle nut, you can skip this step.
Buffer Tube Unscrewing
Once the castle nut is removed, carefully unscrew the buffer tube from the lower receiver. The buffer tube can sometimes be very tight. If it is stuck, you can use your vice and vice-grips to hold the buffer tube while you apply the necessary force.
Buffer and Spring Removal
Once the buffer tube is removed, remove the buffer and spring from inside the buffer tube. Be careful. It is important to keep the buffer and spring together for proper function.
Inspecting, Cleaning, and Preparing for the Next Phase
Inspection of Components
After removing the stock, take a moment to inspect the lower receiver and the area where the stock attaches. Look for any signs of damage, excessive wear, or any other issues. Clean any debris or residue from the area with a suitable gun cleaning solvent or lubricant, such as CLP. This ensures a clean surface for reassembly.
New Stock Inspection
If you are upgrading your stock, this is the time to examine the new stock and its components. Make sure all the parts are present and in good condition. This step is crucial to ensure the smooth transition to the new stock.
Putting it Back Together: Tips for Reassembly
New Stock Installation
The reassembly process is as critical as the disassembly. If you intend to reinstall your stock, whether the original or a new one, these tips will help.
Carefully reinstall the new stock components to your lower receiver. Refer to the previous steps to review how it goes together.
Buffer Tube Reinstallation
Reinstall the buffer tube, making sure it’s properly threaded and secured if applicable. If you have a castle nut, make sure it’s properly tightened.
Compatibility Check
If the new stock type differs, be sure it is compatible with the AR-10 platform. Ensure that any necessary adjustments are made for the new stock. Finally, test the new stock to ensure that it operates properly.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Dealing with Stripped Screws
Even with careful adherence to instructions, you may encounter some challenges. Here are a few common problems and their solutions.
Stripped Screws: If you strip a screw, you can try using a screw extractor. Otherwise, you may need to visit a professional.
Addressing Stubborn Pins
Pins that are difficult to remove can often be loosened by applying penetrating oil. Ensure the punch is the right size.
Managing Stuck Buffer Tubes
Stuck Buffer Tube: If the buffer tube is stuck, use the appropriate tools, as previously discussed.
Correcting Stock Alignment
Incorrect Stock Alignment: Check the stock’s alignment before tightening any fasteners.
Professional Assistance
In difficult circumstances, do not hesitate to seek help from a qualified gunsmith or a skilled individual with experience in firearm modification. It’s always best to err on the side of caution.
The Final Steps and Important Considerations
Concluding Summary
This guide provides the framework for safely removing the stock from your PSA M110. It is essential to review the steps before you proceed. Take your time, follow the steps, and focus on your safety.
Reinforcing Key Points
Always prioritize safety.
Make sure the stock is disassembled.
Test the function of the newly installed stock.
Further Resources
If you have any questions or comments, there are a number of resources online, from Palmetto State Armory and other firearms enthusiast groups. Share your experiences, questions, and solutions.
Disclaimer and Legal Considerations
Remember, this article is for informational purposes only. The author is not responsible for any damage or injury resulting from the use of this guide.
Consult a qualified gunsmith for any complex or advanced modifications.
Ensure adherence to all local, state, and federal laws regarding firearms.
