Roll pin punches near Pittsburgh

[Bang]

Rifles and shotguns used to bear the name of the hardware store that retailed the gun similar to Sears-named guns, or Montgomery Ward (aka monkey ward).

[MattMPA]

I bought these from Brownells...https://www.brownells.com/gunsmith-t...prod38883.aspx

I also got these...which are helpful...https://www.brownells.com/gunsmith-t...prod71891.aspx

[ar15jules]

Good tools are good and great tools are great. Usually..... Unless you are removing a fixed front sight on an AR, everything else is under very little force and an el cheap set of punches works just fine. If you are deforming and bending 3/32" punches, no matter the price, you are doing it wrong...

[mork]

Haven't been bending punches, just pins

I tried to use a flat punch on the trigger guard pin and that bent it. I have a watch bracelet pin press that ended up working as well for that application, but later in the build while doing the gas tube/block pin this method resulted in a blown out spring pin.

In short, my lesson is learned. Use the right tool for the job.

[DavidH]

I spent an automotive career purchasing 10*s of THOUSANDS of dollars in high priced Snap On & Matco tools mostly. And for the constant daily abuse, they served the purpose. I don*t spend money like that on tools any longer, because they simply don*t see the same workout. Over the last 16+ years I*ve built more ARs(and other repairs & firearms), than most who aren*t doing it as a career. As to that, the inexpensive speciality tools work just fine. ESPECIALLY if you are planning only one or two assemblies.

I recommend these tools which are specific to the AR.

Upper/Lower receiver Vice blocks:
https://www.amazon.com/Tantrum-Tow-R...6804717&sr=8-5

Basic roll pin punch set(many others to choose from):
https://www.amazon.com/SEDY-19-Piece...6803490&sr=8-6

Bolt catch install kit:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B07SL...b_b_asin_image

Castle nut wrench:
https://www.amazon.com/AR-PRO-Heat-T...6803228&sr=8-9

And don*t forget the trusty 1/4* Clevis Pin for easy Pivot pin detent install. There is a special tool, but these Clevis pins can be purchased at Home Depot for like $2!

There are other choices of each of these, close in price. I simply listed the most basic & inexpensive of the lot. I also like the Aluminum Vice block for the Upper held by the pins. And I use the Barrel Vice I made to install the muzzle attachment.(because of torque required for crush washer). Although I got by without those, just using the Clamshell Vice for years!