I'm a noob...so please, laugh all you want!

I've replaced the handguard with a 2-piece UTG quadrail. It's nice. Now, I'd like a flip up front sight.

As best as I can describe it, towards the front of the handguard, you have what is shaped like a bottlecap that the two pieces of the handguard slip into as you're installing it.

My question: Is that actually a piece of the front sight/gas block, or would it come off when a new gas block was installed??

I could take it apart, but am sort of short on time the next two weeks due to work.

All I'd like to do is put a low profile gas block on with flip up sight... I know I'd probably be better off going to a gunsmith due to the horror stories about the pin removal, but I need to get my ducks in a row and buy the correct parts before anything.

Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Sorry if I've used incorrect terminology.

It is called the handguard cap, and no it is not part of the front sight base. However, sometimes it fits tight enough that it doesn't rattle and seems to be attached. If you remove the front sight base, then the handguard cap will have to come off too. One of the big reasons to upgrade to a low profile gas block and rail system is to free-float the barrel, meaning the handguard cap has to be taken out of the equation.

Removing the front sight base is not to be taken lightly. It requires specific tools and technique to remove correctly. If you attempt to kitchen counter gunsmith this one, you are going to end up with a mess on your hands. Do extensive research and buy the right tools if you really want to do it at home, or take it to a reputable gunsmith experienced with ARs.

Did your current rail simply replace the plastic handguards with no modifications? If so, I would recommend scrapping that and buying a free-float rail system to go with your gas block upgrade. Get a good quality rail, not UTG. Spend the money and do it right.

Another consideration: do you want a railed low profile gas block, with a carbine length rail behind it and flip sight on the gas block, or a low profile gas block that will not be visible under a longer rail system? That is an important decision to make before you buy. I would recommend the latter. Also keep in mind that going from a standard handguard to a railed free float handguard will require a different barrel nut, and of course correct installation.