AR gas block roll pin install help

[beagler]

I was trying to install a new gas block last night and struggled to get the roll pin in without splitting it. I have a few new pins, but I need advice on how to get it installed properly. I was using a 5/64 starter punch followed by a roll pin punch. Thanks

 

[Varminterror]

Bevel the leading end, and hit your roll pin punch squarely.

 

[Tilos]

I was trying to install a new gas block last night and struggled to get the roll pin in without splitting it. I have a few new pins, but I need advice on how to get it installed properly. I was using a 5/64 starter punch followed by a roll pin punch. Thanks

They make "starter" punches, basically oversize punches with a center hole (hollow end) that slips over the pin so it doesn't split.
I bought a cheap set on amazon but there are better sets there too:
Pridefend Punch Set, Roll Pin Starter Punch, BC Punch, BCG Cleaning Scraper, Hammer with Replaceable Heads, 18-Pieces Hammer and pin punch set - - Amazon.com\
check 'em out for the size you need before buying them though,

Edit: here's a hollow end set:
Gunsmithing Roll Pin Starter Punch Set Tool (Pack of 1): Amazon.com: Tools & Home Improvement
read the reviews...
do a search, there are others:
Amazon.com : roll pin hollow end roll pin punch set for gunsmithing

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[js8588]

Put a little aeroshell on the pin, then pound it in.

 

[Megawatt maker]

I carved out a piece of 2x4 to lay the barrel/gas block on so it holds steady and the hole is vertical. Once you have that, apply a little light oil (gun oil, even WD-40)to the pin and few drops in the hole, and tap it in. Use a brass hammer or brass punch.

 

[theotherwaldo]

On my first assembly I beveled the edge of the pin and clamped it a bit with a small pair of Vise Grips.
My next assembly (and all thereafter) was done with a starter pin, with a bit of lube.

 

[FL-NC]

Stick a safety pin through the hole and make sure it goes all the way through to check allinement. Once this is done, spray in some type of oil. Hold the pin with a small set of needle nose pliers and tap it in slowly with a small hammer to get it started and going in straight. Once its about 1/2 in, give it a good tap to seat the rest of the way.

 

[JJFitch]

As above and include a slight bevel to the hole in the gas block!

 

[David Hoback]

Im also a proponent of touching up the bevel. They typically have a slight bevel, but usually has flashing on the edges. Get rid of that flashing. Also, on more than a couple, I’ve held the tip of the pin tightly teased together with Needle Nose pliers first. Unfortunately, since 2014 can longer do that, as I’m paralyzed in my left arm/hand. So now I just make sure it has a pronounced bevel & use a starter pin punch, followed by a regular punch.

 

[citizenconn]

https://www.onmissiongear.com/product-page/low-profile-gas-block-gas-tube-install-tool

https://www.brownells.com/gunsmith-...es/roll-pin-tool-for-gas-block-prod55671.aspx

A couple of tools like this make it much simpler for me.

 

[David Hoback]

The tooling block is something easily made. I made mine from wood. And the install tool is a “starter” punch. But yes, they do lend a “helping hand”. Invaluable in my case

 

[herrwalther]

A bench block or a wood board to hold the barrel flat is nearly a must when installing pins. You don't want your upper receiver moving when putting in small pins. I keep a bottle of 3 in 1 oil around to help put pins in easier. Nearly any lube will do including a dab of ATF. Most roll pins already come with a beveled edge, that goes in first. If not, it is easy to add with a wood block and 220 grit sandpaper.