Gunsmithing Recommendation on AR-15 upper receiver block

[Stubb]

I'm looking for a recommendation on an AR-15 upper receiver block for installing/removing barrels and free-float rails. The two main styles appear to be clamshells and blocks with pins (e.g., the DPMS action block). I'm leaning toward the DPMS action block, the design appears better suited for installing free-float rails. My first project will involve installing a LaRue rail, and it appears that I'd need to have at the clamshell with a Dremel tool to make room for the anti-twist device. Any reason to go with a clamshell design instead?

Thanks,

Andreas

 

[Doug308]

Re: Recommendation on AR-15 upper receiver block

I have used both, and I like the block with pins, the clamshell style left marks on the reciever.

 

[KaneK]

Re: Recommendation on AR-15 upper receiver block

I used the DPMS to install my LaRue handguards, it worked well for the job. I have not used the clamshell style one.

 

[Stubb]

Re: Recommendation on AR-15 upper receiver block

Thanks for the comments. I'll go with the DPMS block.

—Andreas

 

[McLarenross]

Re: Recommendation on AR-15 upper receiver block

I have the clam shell style one. It works fine. Its never marred an upper that I have used it on, but Ive never put an A2 in it, just flat tops. It holds the upper tight and is good for getting that barrel nut torques down good. Ive never used a pin on block though.

 

[smokshwn]

Re: Recommendation on AR-15 upper receiver block

I have both styles and they both have worked well for me. The reason I ended up buying a pin on block style mount is that I needed one for the AR10 size receivers. Don't know what your plans for the future hold but if an AR10 is in them it is nice to be able to work on both sizes of receivers.

In that light for the money PRI makes a pin style mount that will fit both AR15 and AR10 sized receivers. So for a single purchase it is a little more economical.

 

[TriggerTX]

Re: Recommendation on AR-15 upper receiver block

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Andreas</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Thanks for the comments. I'll go with the DPMS block.
</div></div>

Good call, I have used my DPMS block a ton and its one of the best tools in my kit.