I’m considering getting my 16” barrel cut to around 13”. This thread isn’t a debate on whether to do this or not.

I’m fully aware of the need to remove the barrel using the specific tool and clamping the barrel in vice jaws. I have done this previously.

My question is, with a standard barrel, there is just enough room to hold the barrel in a vice and have the barrel nut removal tool in place.

Once the barrel is shortened, there will not be enough barrel left to grip it in vice jaws, when re-tightening the nut to 20 in lbs using the dedicated tool.

So how have any of you who have reduced the barrel length overcome this issue without the danger of damaging the polymer upper receiver?

Thanks in advance.

Regards,
Danny.

Assuming you are in the USA -- are you fully aware of the legal implications of shortening the barrel below 16"?

__________________
Pisgah

No, I’m based in the U.K.

Back to your question. That should be ft. lbs. 20-25 is fine. Just lube it well, secure the upper well to minimize flex and have at it. Should be no issues with such a low torque value.

Oh yes, ft lb, in lb would probably be a bit loose 😅

So you think it’s okay in this case just to grab the gun and screw it down with the hands as opposed to a vice?

Thanks

The barrel nut does not require that much force because it has fine threads. I put a drop of blue lock tight on the inside of the barrel nut. I used the barrel nut wrench to hand tight. It has never come loose in many years.

Yes. Might be easier with 2 people if awkward.

One of my favorite AR tools (not sure about the 15-22) is the rcvr block from PlastiXrevolution. I tried it once due to having several left-hand uppers. Unlike the conventional clamshell-types, it grabs top-bottom. I don't have the additional "anti-torque" plates they offer. I have the basic item as seen in the video. They now offer assorted pkgs. Priced right.

Thanks for the info and link, doubt very much that I’ll be able to get that tool here in the U.K.

I’ll try to enlist the help of a strong 💪

Get the proper breech block wrench

__________________
Buy cheap, pay twice.