The QA: January 2019

This guide details the installation of the Palmetto State Armory Sabre Builder Set, focusing on completing the upper receiver and attaching the QDSM M-LOK rail. It covers critical steps such as torquing the barrel nut to 50 ft-lbs, correctly positioning and torquing the gas block to 30 in-lbs, and securing the handguard with its specific screws to 30 in-lbs. The video emphasizes using the correct tools and torque specifications for a reliable firearm build.

This guide details the process of building a 6.5 Grendel AR-15 upper receiver, covering component selection and installation. It emphasizes proper torque values for the barrel nut and handguard screws, gas block alignment using a borescope, and the assembly of a 6.5 Grendel bolt carrier group. The video highlights key differences from a standard AR-15 build, such as the barrel, bolt, firing pin, and magazine.

This video demonstrates the installation of a Rise Armament Rev 535 drop-in trigger into an AR-15 platform rifle. The process involves removing existing pins, carefully aligning the new trigger assembly, and reinserting the pins. The speaker emphasizes ensuring the plate goes through the bottom of the receiver first and rocking the assembly under the safety selector. The goal is to achieve a fast installation, with the current top score being just under eight seconds.

This video from Brownells, featuring Caleb, advocates for building an AR-15 rather than just owning one. Key benefits highlighted include extensive customizability, akin to 'adult Legos,' allowing for a personalized firearm. Building also fosters a deeper understanding of the AR-15's internal mechanics, aiding in troubleshooting and maintenance. The presenter emphasizes that AR-15s are versatile, suitable for home defense, hunting in various calibers, and can be tailored to individual needs, even for niche applications not offered by manufacturers.

This video details how to build a functional AR-15 rifle on a strict $600 budget, contrasting it with a premium Daniel Defense Mark 18. The build focuses on selecting cost-effective yet reliable components, including a specific lower receiver assembly with Magpul furniture, an upgraded trigger, a 4150 CMV barrel, a free-float handguard, and basic iron sights. The presenter emphasizes avoiding common pitfalls of budget builds by prioritizing key components for performance and usability, demonstrating that a capable rifle can be assembled without compromising essential features.

This guide details the installation and testing of two AR-15 triggers: the Geissele Automatics SD-C and the AT3 Tactical Nickel Boron 2-Stage Trigger. The video demonstrates their mechanisms using a cutaway lower receiver and measures pull weights with a digital gauge. The Geissele SD-C registered 3 lbs 0.0 oz, while the AT3 Tactical measured 4 lbs 11.6 oz. This content is presented with high authority, utilizing specialized tools for objective comparison.

This video showcases a novel magnetic optic mount for pistols, demonstrating its quick attachment and detachment capabilities. The speaker tests its retention by racking the slide, highlighting its potential as a firearm innovation. While initially shown on a Glock, the mount is available for other platforms like Sig Sauer and HK.

This guide covers the basic operation and features of the EOTECH OGL, a compact laser aiming device. It highlights the interface controls, including the activation button and the illuminator adjustment lever, and explains the benefit of co-aligned visible and IR lasers for simplified zeroing. The use of VCSEL technology is also noted.

This entry details the innovative Full Conceal M1 system for the Sig P320 and a prototype Folding Glock 19, both designed for enhanced concealability. The M1 system, priced at $899, integrates an 18+1 capacity with a smartphone-like footprint and active retention. The Folding Glock 19 prototype showcases a unique mechanism for rapid deployment from a compact state, utilizing a 23-round 9mm magazine. Expert insights from Chris Tran (Guns & Tactics Magazine) and Mike (Full Conceal) highlight the technical aspects and practical applications of these designs.

This guide, drawing on expert instruction from UN12 Magazine, details the critical steps for properly installing and maintaining firearm sights. It emphasizes the use of witness marks on red dot sights to ensure screw security and highlights the importance of checking iron sights for mechanical integrity to prevent zero loss. Proper installation and regular checks are vital for all sighting systems.