As I watch your videos I realize that while I'm not necessarily doing anything wrong with my ARs, there are a number of things that I can be doing better. Thanks Chad!
@@ayougo it's possible it could. But with quality barrel and quality parts the odds of that are pretty low. In all the AR groups I'm in, the ones that shoot badly have characteristics that would have been caught and prevented using his methods. There is only one case I can think of where it made zero sense why the rifle was shooting bad groups.
This amount of free information by somebody that actually knows wtf they are doing is mind boggling. Thank you for this! I myself can know install triggers and trust that I've done it right! Thank you !!
I like your posts. As a machinist I think you put up a lot of good information that most people don't know or understand. You see a lot of people saying, "a lower is just a lower" or "milspec is milspec." The stuff you put in this video is what I've often tried to explain to people that they just don't grasp. Another issue I've seen that you didn't cover is improperly shaped disconnector hooks on hammers causing a trigger to fail to reset
Thank you Ryan. I completely agree, and even though the video was quite long, I did leave out some things. Ill likely add a part 2 that will cover these things: 1) I didnt cover was the disconnect issue you raised. Its an important one too. I would like to discuss Primary Sear and Disconnect/Hammer engagement and proper angles. 2) Filing the Hammer Spring Seat in the Trigger. This is sometimes needed when the Hammer Spring Legs wont retain the Trigger Pin. 3) I meant to mention shimming out slop but I overlooked it. 4) Pitfalls and Positives of Stoning, and/ or Polishing Engagement and Operating Surfaces. 5) Anti-Rotation/Anti-Walk Pin Issues 6) Fitting/FIling the Safety 7) Proper Lubrication
I 2nd that! I took a temp job assembling 400 lowers a few years ago. When I ran into an issue, I visited the mfr (same city) and told them, "I have found the safety select detente hole for the pin, sloppy". Come to find out, if it does not get drilled all the way through when on the machine because a new drill bit was just installed and needed calibration, the tech might take a drill with the same bit and finish drilling out the hole the rest of the way because he already started a new lower in the machine. When he drilled it, he was careful to be straight, but human we are, and I saw him get just a little tilt. I asked him if I could install a safety select and him being a decent guy, let me. I showed him the slop I suspected we'd see, and he was taken back. He said from then on, he'd reinstall the lower into the machine and re-drill it after calibration. I told him I could trace all my mistakes in life back to being in hurry. He got that look on his face like he was processing his life...then said, "No sh_t!" Then he smiled like he learned something which would make life better. I know it's helped me and like him, I was grateful to learn it. One lower (with artistic work at the mag-well), the mag catch slot was too tight for a mil-spec catch, so I tried a couple of the more expensive ones which one of them worked and I used it instead of messing with the slot. On the upper I had (different mfr, my personal upper), at the bolt catch ears...one of them had not been drilled, but the other had. I sent that one back because I did not have a long, proper sized drill bit. So it does happen.
@@SchooloftheAmericanRifle I'd love to see that part deux pretty please. This video was so helpful. I could really use a video on shimming and maybe slop between upper&lower and pins overall.
Iv watched thousands of tutorials throughout my education of this platform and none are as thorough and informative as yours. Thank you for the content.
Of the 6 people I have recommended to your site, only 1 has said "too much info". Unfortunately, he is closest. I just got a range report of a successful range trip from your info! Great stuff, please keep it up!
Thank you for the time you’ve spent educating us. The sticky grease “trick”, spring orientation demonstrations, safety spring stretch and general install tips are priceless. My only disappointment is finding out the KNS hammer cage is no longer sold by KNS and seems to be sold out everywhere I’ve looked. Please stay active on your channel!
Fantastic video! Amazing how much I learn about the intricacies of these weapons & PROPER assembly methods each time I watch Chad in action. Literally had an "OMFG" moment at the KNS hammer cage, it's so simple but elegant - had to stop & order one immediately. Thank you Chad!
Stumbled across your channel a few days ago. Thank you for taking the time and effort to record this and post it. There's a wealth of information here that everyone should have. Currently reviewing all of the content you've published to UA-cam, FaceBook, Instagram, and am anxiously awating the course schedule for 2021.
Thank you for sharing your knowledge of firearms with us. I will be attempting my first build in a few weeks and the information I learned from your channel may have saved me from making some serious rookie mistakes. Awesome channel.
@@SchooloftheAmericanRifle then they are fools you should never stop learning. Watching your videos you always learn something new. Hell I learn stuff I didn’t even think I needed to know. Please keep making amazing and helpful videos
This video has SO much good information in it! I’ve obviously been running my hammer springs backwards and dealing with pins walking for years now! Thank you for the fix!
He just makes everything look so easy to do . I know it’s because he does it all the time and has been doing it for years. I’ve personally never assembled a lower or upper . That is because before watching all of his videos it looked more complicated than it actually is.
One thing I have always done when installing pins is to use a smaller punch as a slave pin to hold everything in place and slide it out using the pin. If I encounter resistance on the hammer pin, I can wiggle the punch until everything lines up properly but the pin you use seems like a genius invention I never thought about, haha
I’ve built a few rifles now and have learned more about gauging things in this video than I have from all the builds I have done. Thank you for this information. Would love to one day attend your classes. Just stuck on the left coast here..one day maybe!
Been working with metal and lathe's, torches, different metal's for a long time my father being a machinist and wielder, only after getting into gun's a few years ago I began to try and learn everything I can about gun smithing, out of necessity and curiosity. Absolutely love the meticulous nature of you're videos, so in depth, you just don't see people whom take as much pride in their passion.
Thank you sir for the very interesting video. I have built only three AR projects. ( So far ) My first AR was sort of a self evolved rifle. In the end it decided it wanted to be a 20" AR-15A2 HBAR. After a few teething issues with a very snug chamber it turned out to be a very accurate rifle. After getting my Battlesight Zero at 50 yards I took one last set of three shots with my iron sights. They were all in the same hole. Bench rested on a sand bag not a sled. My second AR project was more by design. I wanted an AR that had that perfect balance in my hand like I remembered my M-16A1 had when I served in the US Army. I live on a low disability income ( Not service related ) so i took about two years to finish this one, I was in no hurry. I won't list all my parts but I will say my lower parts kit I bought from Palmetto State Armory. I have been very happy with the folks at PSA by the way. Of course I performed my trigger safety check and everyth8ng functioned as it should. I did notice one odd thing. Every now and then I would get a " Double Tap ". I thought it was me. I have a slow and even trigger pull. I thought perhaps the recoil from the first shot was causing me to pull the trigger a second time. It was a rare occurrence and only required a few apologies to the range officers. After watching another UA-cam video I realized this could also be caused by my trigger and or hammer being slightly out of spec as you illustrated. In effect my rifle was acting like it had a " Binary Trigger " if I released the trigger slowly. Some would say Yay but that was not what I wanted. By this time my Lower parts were at least a year out of warranty but I decided to call and let PSA know what had happened. Without any questions they sent me a new hammer and trigger. They work perfectly now in my AR-15A1. It is good that you are telling folks that when they perform the AR function check to do both a quick and also a slow trigger release.
Thanks this was clear fine to earth work Many need to understand with do many users that need to learn about what they had purchased really before they even use it . The trouble may have been do many parts . That even at basic only a part of all the break down was challenged As arms room wanted to control what was happening with the weapon malfunctions and research study’s . Now the full boat of break down adds what was missing . Thank you for your upgrades well done 👍👍💯❤️👍😎👍
I know this is a few years old but just want to say your channel is my Netflix...video, after video, after video. I'm new to the AR platform and have gained so much insight and knowledge from your videos. I'm a very technical person and like to understand how things should work and what I'll find when it isn't performing at it's best. I don't aim to ever be a gunsmith but the more I understand the better...we all started somewhere. I extend my deepest thanks for all the time and effort you put into these videos to help us all be better. And BTW...My checkbook can't afford another tool for a while. 🤣🤣🤣
I actually had a fire control group from a spikes tactical enhanced lower parts kit that had hammer fallow after like 100-200 rounds. I was amazed. It really made me rethink things a lot. Now I'm supper in to gauges and function checks.
Two thoughts; Why Don't use Graphite Grease, and is Moly Grease ok? When Starting Screws into Softer Materials, Turn the Screw Backwards Feeling for the threads to Slip Into Threads of adjoining material. This CAN PREVENT cross-threading of the softer material. This is especially helpful with Self Tapping and Coarse screws in Plastics, and ALUMINIUM or Brass. Great Video, BTW. THANKS!!!
I ordered a complete gauge set for my Kalashnikov. 2 weeks later I got a box of steel cased Tulla in the mail. The directions said “install. Pull trigger. Boom is good, no boom no good”
Wow! I have learned so much from watching your videos for the last few month. I am a long time shooter and firearms enthusiast but I am finally getting ready to build my first AR and I can't tell you how much more confidence I have because of the knowledge that you have so graciously shared. Thank you so much. I really and truly appreciate the time and effort you have taken to produce these videos. Stay safe and take care.
Try 100% isopropyl alcohol for degreasing. It's cheaper that brake cleaner, just as effective, won't harm plastics, and it's non-toxic. You can put it in a spray bottle and a quart will last you a long, long time. You can buy it in bulk. Excellent video, thank you.
I watch all your videos. And absolutely love them!! But in almost everyone you show a quick view of your peg-board and the holders that are being used to hold the certain tools that are best to be had easily accessible. Could PLEASE do a short video explaining how and why it is setup that way also what holders or dividers you are using to hold the tools and bits. Thanks so much for this content it is my new favorite channel on UA-cam! And if I lived closer I would most certainly be signing up for the class. Thanks again for the great info!!!
I am really glad I watched this video, my first and so far only AR, I did myself, and I had the hammer spring backwards. Fixed that as soon as I watched this.
Thank you for making and posting these videos. I just recently joined the Facebook group and decided to go through the video library and learn all I can this way before even buying parts for my first build. Awesome content!
I really wish that I had watched this a week ago before replacing a trigger. Think I’ll take it apart and go over most of your checks just in case. The trigger was a *tight* fit in the receiver. I knew about the trigger safety check but did not know about releasing the trigger very slowly to test the disconnect. So much great information presented in a patient, thoughtful way. The Obsidian AR tool kit is on my “wish list” at Brownells now. Can’t find that cool buffer tube clamp though.
Update: bought the Obsidian Arms 4 piece AR kit and that tapered pin is great for hammer installation! Also bought the buffer tube clamp directly from Botach. The way my vise is located on the left corner of my bench is great for barrel and muzzle device installs. However, clamping on the buffer tube gets the lower over my primary work area. Necessary? No, but nice.
Absolutely awesome video! You are truly a wealth of knowledge on the AR-15. I learn a considerable amount every video thank you very much! I would love to take a class someday!
The part about anti-rotation pins raises a question for me. Assuming that the hole being a few thousandth over the pin size is not a big deal, this would indicate that the j spring and trigger spring are responsible for maintaining the pins. If someone is having an issue with pins walking out during operation, is the the j spring on the hammer or the trigger sprong a likely culprit as they should be preventing the pin from walking out? Any advice for diagnosing a pin walk issue? Am I on the right track? Would you recommend changing the spring and or hammer? Thanks for this helpful info. If you have any books or tools you offer or recommend feel free to share that as well. I see all your classes for this year are full so if you have alternative ways for me to utilize you for knowledge, like a consolidated book or manual, that would be fantastic. If not, in lieu of not being able to take a class with you anytime soon would you recommend any books? Sorry for all the questions. Just a geek seeking to learn new things.
I agree with even name brand being out of spec. I bought new in box Super Scar trigger for a Scar L. Trigger pin fit into the trigger but hole for the disconnector was undersized and the trigger pin would not fit even if you tried to install the pin only through the disconnector out of the rifle. Had to send it into G for a RMA
1:28:25 - that is EXACTLY what happened to my trigger. Since buying gun parts is not as easy as it is in the US, someone from AR15 forum has instructed me to file down a tiny tiny amount of the front of the disconnector where it sits on the trigger sear, it fixed now. It made the hammer catch the primary sear, as before the gap was too wide somehow. It was a new Tanfoglio AR, made by ADC (armi dalera custom). Any other ways to fix that without the method i did?
I'm shocked nobody ever answered you. You may or may not know by now, but SOTAR'S gauges were all acquired from hard to find milsurp or he found them at a online auction etc.. Some may have even been donated to SOTAR. This is all from what I have perceived. Chad has acquired his stuff slowly over time and he has even made several of his gauges by himself. So moral of the story, you can't just buy most of his gauges. The only ones you can buy are like the field gauge, no-go gauge and go gauges. And a couple others but I am not 100% sure which ones. If he sold a $300 gauging kit of all the gauges, I would buy it!
YIKES! @33:00 you talk about using valve grinding compound to lap the bore of fire control parts. being a lifelong mechanic, I know how rough that can be. I have some 2000 grit lapping compound (the exact same thing you are using, except MUCH finer). would you use that if I sent you some? I really enjoy your videos. I'm certain you could find other uses for it as well.
Why no graphite ? I've missed that in your other video's if you explained why? What is your opinion on using a magnetic screw tip for assembly? It was a fast hour and half! Great detail ! I've watched almost all your video's the last three days. Much, much better than the "Get-er-done". It is a great machine that will out work you, if you do the correct work in assembly.
Graphite and aluminum don't play well together. I'm glad you enjoyed the video. This one does not get too much activity, but it's one where I share a lot of class information.
What if u are working with a mulled out 80%, would u suggest using aluminum black or something on the holes and inside u drilled to cover the exposed aluminium. Or something better to cover exposed aluminium.
I notice those threads for the grip screw are shiny where the finish has worn. Will swapping grips frequently eventually wear out those threads (being aluminum) or is that purely cosmetic? 1:14:50
This is the most informative interesting channel I have found in a long long time.. where would one get the info for the specs and tools you are showing here? I would love to learn all this and possibly take a class of yours
As an AR15 owner I really enjoy your video's and appreciate your willingness to take the time to share your knowledge and experience. I was wondering if you could share your thoughts on lower receivers modified for the Teal Blue Bravo PDQ ambi bolt catch/release? Does the modification of the lower for installation of the PDQ raise concerns for the integrity/strength of the lower, or is this something not be concerned about ?
I happen 2 have various platforms of my 3 AR 15's but as customizations and improvements go? there must be a few negatives in my AR's from a total & finished tight perfection standpoint, compared to a correct modern mil.spec. finished product ! starting with various parts bought and added to make a reliable hard sturdy working firearm. After seeing this video? I can feel in my gut, I don't have the best combat or competition AR on the planet! 😢
Do you see many aero precision m4 receivers? I'm thinking about using a set for a build but I'm curious how they compare to alternatives as far as specs.
If you have a lower that was machined leaving a lot of exposed aluminum (but is in spec/functioning properly) would cerekote/durakote be the best way about covering the trigger pocket and trigger pin holes?
If u had to use a cheaper lower & lower parts, would you buy your trigger springs and components separate, but from the same reputable company, or just buy a whole FCG at once, but a cheaper fire control group? And is there any cheaper FCG or component companies you would recommend?
Great video FYI The Geissele SSE-E doesn’t come with 2 trigger springs. I own 6 Geissele triggers (including 3 SSA-E) and none of them ever came with 2 trigger springs. The LaRue trigger does
In the time that it takes you to check each individual piece for magnetism, wouldn't it just be faster to just run all the parts at once through the machine and asure yourself that they're not magnetic? Whats the percentage rate of parts being magnetized?
As I watch your videos I realize that while I'm not necessarily doing anything wrong with my ARs, there are a number of things that I can be doing better. Thanks Chad!
Imagine having a rifle built by Chad with all the many quality checks and quality parts. That would be one sweet shooting rifle
It would simply mean it runs well but that's all. It could still shoot like shit.
@@ayougo it's possible it could. But with quality barrel and quality parts the odds of that are pretty low. In all the AR groups I'm in, the ones that shoot badly have characteristics that would have been caught and prevented using his methods.
There is only one case I can think of where it made zero sense why the rifle was shooting bad groups.
@@CoryHobbs2178 I would wager that if Chad found a winning combo, he could get into the rifle game but boy is it a risk.
@@ayougoyou mean you could still shoot like shit
@@ayougoNext time please STFU! I feel sorry for your family.😱
Chad is the Bob Ross of AR's... Change my mind.
This is the best UA-cam channel for learning gunsmithing
This amount of free information by somebody that actually knows wtf they are doing is mind boggling. Thank you for this! I myself can know install triggers and trust that I've done it right! Thank you !!
I like your posts. As a machinist I think you put up a lot of good information that most people don't know or understand. You see a lot of people saying, "a lower is just a lower" or "milspec is milspec." The stuff you put in this video is what I've often tried to explain to people that they just don't grasp. Another issue I've seen that you didn't cover is improperly shaped disconnector hooks on hammers causing a trigger to fail to reset
Thank you Ryan. I completely agree, and even though the video was quite long, I did leave out some things.
Ill likely add a part 2 that will cover these things:
1) I didnt cover was the disconnect issue you raised. Its an important one too. I would like to discuss Primary Sear and Disconnect/Hammer engagement and proper angles.
2) Filing the Hammer Spring Seat in the Trigger. This is sometimes needed when the Hammer Spring Legs wont retain the Trigger Pin.
3) I meant to mention shimming out slop but I overlooked it.
4) Pitfalls and Positives of Stoning, and/ or Polishing Engagement and Operating Surfaces.
5) Anti-Rotation/Anti-Walk Pin Issues
6) Fitting/FIling the Safety
7) Proper Lubrication
I 2nd that! I took a temp job assembling 400 lowers a few years ago. When I ran into an issue, I visited the mfr (same city) and told them, "I have found the safety select detente hole for the pin, sloppy". Come to find out, if it does not get drilled all the way through when on the machine because a new drill bit was just installed and needed calibration, the tech might take a drill with the same bit and finish drilling out the hole the rest of the way because he already started a new lower in the machine. When he drilled it, he was careful to be straight, but human we are, and I saw him get just a little tilt. I asked him if I could install a safety select and him being a decent guy, let me. I showed him the slop I suspected we'd see, and he was taken back. He said from then on, he'd reinstall the lower into the machine and re-drill it after calibration. I told him I could trace all my mistakes in life back to being in hurry. He got that look on his face like he was processing his life...then said, "No sh_t!" Then he smiled like he learned something which would make life better. I know it's helped me and like him, I was grateful to learn it.
One lower (with artistic work at the mag-well), the mag catch slot was too tight for a mil-spec catch, so I tried a couple of the more expensive ones which one of them worked and I used it instead of messing with the slot.
On the upper I had (different mfr, my personal upper), at the bolt catch ears...one of them had not been drilled, but the other had. I sent that one back because I did not have a long, proper sized drill bit. So it does happen.
@@SchooloftheAmericanRifle
I'd love to see that part deux pretty please. This video was so helpful. I could really use a video on shimming and maybe slop between upper&lower and pins overall.
Iv watched thousands of tutorials throughout my education of this platform and none are as thorough and informative as yours. Thank you for the content.
Totally amazed how you are so meticulous and look for perfection on every nooky of an AR rifle , do far you are the best AR15 doctor in America!
Of the 6 people I have recommended to your site, only 1 has said "too much info". Unfortunately, he is closest. I just got a range report of a successful range trip from your info! Great stuff, please keep it up!
This guy makes me want to go back and rebuild all my builds- lol
You and me both. Actually, though, I think it would be a good idea anyway. Who doesn't like tinker time anyway?
Thank you for the time you’ve spent educating us. The sticky grease “trick”, spring orientation demonstrations, safety spring stretch and general install tips are priceless. My only disappointment is finding out the KNS hammer cage is no longer sold by KNS and seems to be sold out everywhere I’ve looked. Please stay active on your channel!
Fantastic video! Amazing how much I learn about the intricacies of these weapons & PROPER assembly methods each time I watch Chad in action. Literally had an "OMFG" moment at the KNS hammer cage, it's so simple but elegant - had to stop & order one immediately. Thank you Chad!
Stumbled across your channel a few days ago. Thank you for taking the time and effort to record this and post it. There's a wealth of information here that everyone should have. Currently reviewing all of the content you've published to UA-cam, FaceBook, Instagram, and am anxiously awating the course schedule for 2021.
4 years later and this video is still a banger! I finally got to know what you use the magnet test for lol.
Thank you for sharing your knowledge of firearms with us. I will be attempting my first build in a few weeks and the information I learned from your channel may have saved me from making some serious rookie mistakes. Awesome channel.
It's great to see someone really care about his work.....Great job.
This is awesome! Very informative. Thank you for taking the time to make and post it!
Thank you Michael McShane. Its a long video that many wont bother watching.
@@SchooloftheAmericanRifle then they are fools you should never stop learning. Watching your videos you always learn something new. Hell I learn stuff I didn’t even think I needed to know. Please keep making amazing and helpful videos
This video has SO much good information in it! I’ve obviously been running my hammer springs backwards and dealing with pins walking for years now! Thank you for the fix!
He just makes everything look so easy to do . I know it’s because he does it all the time and has been doing it for years. I’ve personally never assembled a lower or upper . That is because before watching all of his videos it looked more complicated than it actually is.
One thing I have always done when installing pins is to use a smaller punch as a slave pin to hold everything in place and slide it out using the pin. If I encounter resistance on the hammer pin, I can wiggle the punch until everything lines up properly but the pin you use seems like a genius invention I never thought about, haha
I’ve built a few rifles now and have learned more about gauging things in this video than I have from all the builds I have done. Thank you for this information. Would love to one day attend your classes. Just stuck on the left coast here..one day maybe!
Been working with metal and lathe's, torches, different metal's for a long time my father being a machinist and wielder, only after getting into gun's a few years ago I began to try and learn everything I can about gun smithing, out of necessity and curiosity. Absolutely love the meticulous nature of you're videos, so in depth, you just don't see people whom take as much pride in their passion.
Thank you sir for the very interesting video. I have built only three AR projects. ( So far )
My first AR was sort of a self evolved rifle. In the end it decided it wanted to be a 20"
AR-15A2 HBAR. After a few teething issues with a very snug chamber it turned out to be a
very accurate rifle. After getting my Battlesight Zero at 50 yards I took one last set of three shots with my iron sights.
They were all in the same hole. Bench rested on a sand bag not a sled.
My second AR project was more by design. I wanted an AR that had that perfect balance in my hand like
I remembered my M-16A1 had when I served in the US Army. I live on a low disability income ( Not service related )
so i took about two years to finish this one, I was in no hurry. I won't list all my parts but I will say my lower parts kit
I bought from Palmetto State Armory. I have been very happy with the folks at PSA by the way.
Of course I performed my trigger safety check and everyth8ng functioned as it should.
I did notice one odd thing. Every now and then I would get a " Double Tap ". I thought it was me. I have a slow and even trigger pull. I thought perhaps the recoil from the first shot was causing me to pull the trigger a second time. It was a rare occurrence and only required a few apologies to the range officers. After watching another UA-cam video I realized this
could also be caused by my trigger and or hammer being slightly out of spec as you illustrated. In effect my rifle was acting like it had a " Binary Trigger " if I released the trigger slowly. Some would say Yay but that was not what I wanted. By this time
my Lower parts were at least a year out of warranty but I decided to call and let PSA know what had happened.
Without any questions they sent me a new hammer and trigger. They work perfectly now in my AR-15A1.
It is good that you are telling folks that when they perform the AR function check to do both a quick and also a slow trigger release.
Thanks this was clear fine to earth work Many need to understand with do many users that need to learn about what they had purchased really before they even use it . The trouble may have been do many parts . That even at basic only a part of all the break down was challenged As arms room wanted to control what was happening with the weapon malfunctions and research study’s . Now the full boat of break down adds what was missing . Thank you for your upgrades well done 👍👍💯❤️👍😎👍
You make this process unbelievably accurate and understandable! Great content! I’m hooked!
I'm about to build my first AR and i feel so much more comfortable after watching your videos. Appreciate the sharing of knowledge
I know this is a few years old but just want to say your channel is my Netflix...video, after video, after video. I'm new to the AR platform and have gained so much insight and knowledge from your videos. I'm a very technical person and like to understand how things should work and what I'll find when it isn't performing at it's best. I don't aim to ever be a gunsmith but the more I understand the better...we all started somewhere. I extend my deepest thanks for all the time and effort you put into these videos to help us all be better.
And BTW...My checkbook can't afford another tool for a while. 🤣🤣🤣
Most of the time I'm learning something new. And this vid has given some ideas to try on a problem rifle
I fall asleep to these my goal is to become a master ar builder in my sleep
Brilliant Chad. I don't own an AR yet, but my friends do. Thanks for that masterclass in assembling the FCG.
I actually had a fire control group from a spikes tactical enhanced lower parts kit that had hammer fallow after like 100-200 rounds. I was amazed. It really made me rethink things a lot. Now I'm supper in to gauges and function checks.
Two thoughts; Why Don't use Graphite Grease, and is Moly Grease ok? When Starting Screws into Softer Materials, Turn the Screw Backwards Feeling for the threads to Slip Into Threads of adjoining material. This CAN PREVENT cross-threading of the softer material. This is especially helpful with Self Tapping and Coarse screws in Plastics, and ALUMINIUM or Brass. Great Video, BTW. THANKS!!!
I ordered a complete gauge set for my Kalashnikov. 2 weeks later I got a box of steel cased Tulla in the mail. The directions said “install. Pull trigger. Boom is good, no boom no good”
Wow! I have learned so much from watching your videos for the last few month. I am a long time shooter and firearms enthusiast but I am finally getting ready to build my first AR and I can't tell you how much more confidence I have because of the knowledge that you have so graciously shared. Thank you so much. I really and truly appreciate the time and effort you have taken to produce these videos. Stay safe and take care.
Thanks for being so thorough. I love this channel. Keep up the good work algorithm post.
Try 100% isopropyl alcohol for degreasing. It's cheaper that brake cleaner, just as effective, won't harm plastics, and it's non-toxic. You can put it in a spray bottle and a quart will last you a long, long time. You can buy it in bulk. Excellent video, thank you.
And it disinfectes as you go.
Do you think there was a lot of carelessness and negligence during the manufacturing of the Armalite rifles of the viet nam era?
God bless you. I am inspired and I’ve loved every second. I appreciate you sharing your passion and your years of knowledge with us.
You showed me everything I was doing wrong, Thank you for taking the time to make this informative video.
I watch all your videos. And absolutely love them!! But in almost everyone you show a quick view of your peg-board and the holders that are being used to hold the certain tools that are best to be had easily accessible. Could PLEASE do a short video explaining how and why it is setup that way also what holders or dividers you are using to hold the tools and bits. Thanks so much for this content it is my new favorite channel on UA-cam! And if I lived closer I would most certainly be signing up for the class. Thanks again for the great info!!!
I love your videos SOTAR! So informative and very soothing to watch.
I am really glad I watched this video, my first and so far only AR, I did myself, and I had the hammer spring backwards. Fixed that as soon as I watched this.
I really enjoy, watching your educational show😊
You make me want to disassemble my ARs and recreate this video. Considering how lazy I am, that is a high compliment!
Thank you for making and posting these videos. I just recently joined the Facebook group and decided to go through the video library and learn all I can this way before even buying parts for my first build. Awesome content!
Literally needed this video 24hrs ago. Thank you for the content.
Man! You are a great teacher!! I am so humbled by this video. Thank You for sharing!! you. sir are a master armorer God!!!
I really wish that I had watched this a week ago before replacing a trigger. Think I’ll take it apart and go over most of your checks just in case. The trigger was a *tight* fit in the receiver. I knew about the trigger safety check but did not know about releasing the trigger very slowly to test the disconnect. So much great information presented in a patient, thoughtful way. The Obsidian AR tool kit is on my “wish list” at Brownells now. Can’t find that cool buffer tube clamp though.
Update: bought the Obsidian Arms 4 piece AR kit and that tapered pin is great for hammer installation! Also bought the buffer tube clamp directly from Botach. The way my vise is located on the left corner of my bench is great for barrel and muzzle device installs. However, clamping on the buffer tube gets the lower over my primary work area. Necessary? No, but nice.
Man, that was thorough. Lots of great information, thanks for putting this up.
You have convinced me that I don’t know what I don’t know!
My new favorite channel.. I am learning a lot about the details that makes a good rifle great.
Well that was a whole LOT of great information. Thanks!
50:40 for hammer spring installation
That hammer cage tool is pretty slick!
Great info Chad...thanks for the education.
Thank you John
Absolutely awesome video! You are truly a wealth of knowledge on the AR-15. I learn a considerable amount every video thank you very much! I would love to take a class someday!
Learned something new...as always.
Incredible information, especially on the safety detent springs, always felt mine were a little sloppy.
The part about anti-rotation pins raises a question for me. Assuming that the hole being a few thousandth over the pin size is not a big deal, this would indicate that the j spring and trigger spring are responsible for maintaining the pins. If someone is having an issue with pins walking out during operation, is the the j spring on the hammer or the trigger sprong a likely culprit as they should be preventing the pin from walking out? Any advice for diagnosing a pin walk issue? Am I on the right track? Would you recommend changing the spring and or hammer?
Thanks for this helpful info. If you have any books or tools you offer or recommend feel free to share that as well. I see all your classes for this year are full so if you have alternative ways for me to utilize you for knowledge, like a consolidated book or manual, that would be fantastic. If not, in lieu of not being able to take a class with you anytime soon would you recommend any books?
Sorry for all the questions. Just a geek seeking to learn new things.
You do a wonderful job teaching and I learned a lot.
This is just an awesome Video!!!!! Thank You Sir!!!
Anyone building a lower I suggest watching this through several times. Let it soak in.
I agree with even name brand being out of spec. I bought new in box Super Scar trigger for a Scar L. Trigger pin fit into the trigger but hole for the disconnector was undersized and the trigger pin would not fit even if you tried to install the pin only through the disconnector out of the rifle. Had to send it into G for a RMA
QC Inspectors check their closets for Chad before bed every night.
1:28:25 - that is EXACTLY what happened to my trigger. Since buying gun parts is not as easy as it is in the US, someone from AR15 forum has instructed me to file down a tiny tiny amount of the front of the disconnector where it sits on the trigger sear, it fixed now. It made the hammer catch the primary sear, as before the gap was too wide somehow. It was a new Tanfoglio AR, made by ADC (armi dalera custom). Any other ways to fix that without the method i did?
Awesome video. Thank you so much. Just ordered a 250 piece gauge set. This will be fun.
Where can I find most of these gauges? I’ve seen a lot of videos but your tool set and work is the most professional out there
I'm shocked nobody ever answered you. You may or may not know by now, but SOTAR'S gauges were all acquired from hard to find milsurp or he found them at a online auction etc.. Some may have even been donated to SOTAR. This is all from what I have perceived. Chad has acquired his stuff slowly over time and he has even made several of his gauges by himself.
So moral of the story, you can't just buy most of his gauges. The only ones you can buy are like the field gauge, no-go gauge and go gauges. And a couple others but I am not 100% sure which ones.
If he sold a $300 gauging kit of all the gauges, I would buy it!
Thank you for a such detailed instruction. Best in UA-cam.
Very informative and enjoyable to watch .
Thank you for passing on all of this knowledge
YIKES! @33:00 you talk about using valve grinding compound to lap the bore of fire control parts. being a lifelong mechanic, I know how rough that can be. I have some 2000 grit lapping compound (the exact same thing you are using, except MUCH finer). would you use that if I sent you some? I really enjoy your videos. I'm certain you could find other uses for it as well.
Why no graphite ? I've missed that in your other video's if you explained why?
What is your opinion on using a magnetic screw tip for assembly?
It was a fast hour and half! Great detail ! I've watched almost all your video's the last three days. Much, much better than the "Get-er-done". It is a great machine that will out work you, if you do the correct work in assembly.
Graphite and aluminum don't play well together.
I'm glad you enjoyed the video. This one does not get too much activity, but it's one where I share a lot of class information.
Once again, superb content. Thank you
What if u are working with a mulled out 80%, would u suggest using aluminum black or something on the holes and inside u drilled to cover the exposed aluminium. Or something better to cover exposed aluminium.
That's a kick ass intro.
Great job. I just wish you included links to the various tools used. Especially the buffer tube vice rig.....that is very handy looking......
AGREED. ESPECIALLY THE GAUGES..
Excellent video. Why not use a mechanics magnetic boly keeper to test ferrous faster?
I notice those threads for the grip screw are shiny where the finish has worn. Will swapping grips frequently eventually wear out those threads (being aluminum) or is that purely cosmetic? 1:14:50
This is the most informative interesting channel I have found in a long long time.. where would one get the info for the specs and tools you are showing here? I would love to learn all this and possibly take a class of yours
I have found that Gun Scrubber by Birchwood Casey melts some plastics unlike Quick Scrub 3 by Shooters Choice. Carb cleaner works great like he says .
Great video thank you . Can you post a part 2 here on UA-cam discussing trigger/disconnecter angles
As an AR15 owner I really enjoy your video's and appreciate your willingness to take the time to share your knowledge and experience.
I was wondering if you could share your thoughts on lower receivers modified for the Teal Blue Bravo PDQ ambi bolt catch/release? Does the modification of the lower for installation of the PDQ raise concerns for the integrity/strength of the lower, or is this something not be concerned about ?
I thoroughly enjoy your content. What bolt carrier do you recommend? What do you run ?
Aluminum cutting fluid who would of ever thought 💭!!!!
Thank you for explaining the magnetism test. I wonder how that works for AK's?
Same, nothing about that topic was in any way AR specific
I happen 2 have various platforms of my 3 AR 15's but as customizations and improvements go? there must be a few negatives in my AR's from a total & finished tight perfection standpoint, compared to a correct modern mil.spec. finished product ! starting with various parts bought and added to make a reliable hard sturdy working firearm. After seeing this video? I can feel in my gut, I don't have the best combat or competition AR on the planet! 😢
Do you see many aero precision m4 receivers? I'm thinking about using a set for a build but I'm curious how they compare to alternatives as far as specs.
Awesome video. I learned *a lot* here!
You sir are a national trreasure.
If you have a lower that was machined leaving a lot of exposed aluminum (but is in spec/functioning properly) would cerekote/durakote be the best way about covering the trigger pocket and trigger pin holes?
Excellent! I should have watched it sooner.
Great vids, thanks for sharing your knowledge.
If u had to use a cheaper lower & lower parts, would you buy your trigger springs and components separate, but from the same reputable company, or just buy a whole FCG at once, but a cheaper fire control group? And is there any cheaper FCG or component companies you would recommend?
Can we buy some of these tools from you? Or do you have a link to where we can buy them from?
Have you tried throttle body cleaner? Should be better on plastics and it’s made to clean up oil and carbon deposits.
Thank you for this video.
Great video
FYI
The Geissele SSE-E doesn’t come with 2 trigger springs.
I own 6 Geissele triggers (including 3 SSA-E) and none of them ever came with 2 trigger springs.
The LaRue trigger does
Man I wish I could get my hands on those gauges!
I would love to see a list of where he got all the tools used in this video.....
In the time that it takes you to check each individual piece for magnetism, wouldn't it just be faster to just run all the parts at once through the machine and asure yourself that they're not magnetic? Whats the percentage rate of parts being magnetized?