XTM rail cover question

[riderrick65]

I just purchased some Magpul XTM rail covers and I was kind of confused by the removal instructions, "Using the tips of two 5.56
NATO rounds (or similar non-sharp tool), push inward while prying upward on two oppisite-sided locking tabs". Ok, since this is a .22 cal. rifle I don't have access to the 5.56 NATO rounds, so what would be a good non-sharp tool to use for removal? Any help will be greatly appreciated.

 

[Dragon88]

You could use a punch, delrin takedown punch, a section of dowel, a chop stock....lots of things. You just have to work up one side a little and then you can separate the other side with your finger nail or the tool. Avoid using a metal object to do this because it will mar the rail cover section slightly.

 

[E6type]

I've used two small flat tip screw drivers to move mine around. It's a pain to do at first, but once you figure it out its easy to do all of them. I pry up on the two halves just until the begin to separate, then take one of the screwdrivers and place it in the gap created and twist to open them up fully until they just come apart. Yeah, it's a sharp tool but I'm just careful when I'm messing with them. I have one little nick in the rail from moving them around, but it's hidden by the covers anyway.

 

[ChattanoogaPhil]

I use two kitchen forks (my wife is very patient with me) You only need to just barely pry them up and apart... maybe like a 1/32 of an inch or less. They will stay together and you can just take em off in one piece with your hand and put em back in one piece.

 

[riderrick65]

Thanks for all the in-put, will try some of the methods mentioned.

 

[guy22]

Two BIC pens also work!
Guy22