Brownells Retro Rifle A1 Build - Part 3

Published on September 3, 2018
Duration: 19:51

This guide details the assembly of an M16A1 upper receiver using Brownells retro components. It covers the installation of the forward assist, rear sight assembly, ejection port dust cover, barrel, and gas tube, emphasizing proper torque specifications for the barrel nut and alignment procedures for critical components. The process concludes with flash suppressor installation and a function check.

Quick Summary

Assembling an M16A1 upper receiver involves installing the forward assist, rear sight, dust cover, barrel, and gas tube. Key steps include torquing the barrel nut to 35 ft-lbs (repeatedly) for proper gas tube alignment and using an alignment gauge to ensure correct gas port positioning. A function check and headspace check are also vital.

Chapters

  1. 00:56Forward Assist Installation
  2. 02:14Rear Sight Assembly
  3. 05:05Ejection Port Dust Cover
  4. 05:57Barrel Installation
  5. 07:02Barrel Nut Torque
  6. 08:47Gas Tube Alignment
  7. 09:31Gas Tube Installation
  8. 10:39Handguard Installation
  9. 11:02Flash Suppressor Installation
  10. 12:05Bolt Carrier Group Check
  11. 12:41Upper/Lower Receiver Assembly
  12. 12:51Function Check
  13. 13:24Headspace Checking
  14. 17:57Build Recap & Resources

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key steps for assembling an M16A1 upper receiver?

The assembly involves installing the forward assist, rear sight, dust cover, barrel, and gas tube. Proper torque for the barrel nut (35 ft-lbs, repeated) and alignment of the gas tube are critical for functionality. A function check and headspace check are also recommended.

How do you properly torque the barrel nut for an M16A1 build?

For an M16A1 build, torque the barrel nut to 35 foot-pounds. It's recommended to torque it, back it off, and repeat this process twice more. This ensures correct alignment for the gas tube and overall receiver stability.

What is the purpose of an alignment gauge during M16A1 upper receiver assembly?

The alignment gauge, used with the bolt carrier group, is essential for ensuring the gas tube is correctly positioned. It verifies that the gas tube aligns precisely with the barrel's gas port, preventing operational issues.

What tools are necessary for assembling an M16A1 upper receiver?

Essential tools include a roll pin punch holder, a specific slave punch for small pins, a torque wrench set to foot-pounds, and an alignment gauge for the gas tube. Anti-seize compound is also recommended for barrel threads.

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