It does not matter if you are enhancing, building, maintaining or repairing, it is important to have the proper AR15 tools on hand. If money is not an object for you, you will be able to purchase a top of the line ready-built armorer’s kit that is filled with all sorts of fine gadgets.
In addition to all of the essential tools, you will also have several that you may never even use. If you do not want to spend all that money or you only want the tools that you need, then it is probably more your speed to put together your own kit.
A High-Quality Punch and Drift Set
Assembling and disassembling your AR15 is practically impossible if you do not have a good punch and drift set. Punches will help you align holes for fastening when you drive objects, such as drift pins and roll pins. With these tools, you will be able to work with precision even on the smallest parts.
You can purchase sets in hardened steel or brass. However, you will find that it may be best to have both in your kit, depending on the task you wish to perform. Brass is soft and will not damage the steel parts of your gun. However, regular use can deformity and bending. Harden steel is strong, but may break due to its brittle structure. You may want to invest in a stockpile of the smaller sizes so you will have replacements on hand when they break or become warped.
A Gunsmithing Screwdriver Set
A variety of screwdrivers is essential to have in your AR15 tools kit. While you will be able to get by with a standard set, specialized gunsmithing screwdrivers are more durable and safer to use on your firearm.
As opposed to the tampered ends like on the standard screwdrivers, a gunsmithing set are hollow-ground. This makes it possible for the blade to fill the screw slot completely. In addition to allowing for more torque, the likelihood of the blade slipping is considerably decreased.
Mallet and Hammer
A durable, lightweight hammer is required to insert and remove pins in an AR15 lower parts kit. If the task you are performing risks damage to the finish of your gun, then you will need to use a rubber mallet in order to avoid any damage or marring.
While these are the most essential tools to have in your armorer’s kit, they are far from the only tools you should keep. Other essential AR15 tools that you should add to your kit include a combination wrench, vise and blocks, cleaning and lubrication tools, masking tape and touchup marker as wells as a few AR15 manuals and other educational materials.