Removing a collapsable stock

[RBruce]

What tool is used to remove the castellated nut holding the buffer tube to the receiver on a shorty stock? My combination tool won't fit around the tube. --TIA

[RBruce]

I knew that didn't look right when I wrote it - collapsible....

[Litt'le Lee]

c-shaped and cheap to buy- you need one

[Bill Hollinger]

They are on back order all over the place right now.

Make sure when you break the nut lose you back it off far enough to allow the take-down poppet and spring plate to be pulled straight back to take tension off the spring. Don't unscrew the tube until you back the nut off. You can damage the spring if you don't.

[albud3]

If you're careful, you can use a brass punch and a hammer to break the nut loose. Lightly tap the punch until the nut starts to turn, when loose enough take off by hand. You can assemble the same way.
If you're carefull you won't damage the nut.

[RBruce]

Hmmmmm. Tried that - just chewed up the brass punch - didn't budge the nut.

[albud3]

Is your nut staked to the spacer? If so, you will need the wrench to remove. If it's not staked, use a steel punch to break it loose. Do it carefully as it's very easy to form a burr on the nut if you're not carefull.

[Bill Hollinger]

Buy the tool!

[STYER]

Listen to Bill when he says "BUY THE RIGHT TOOL"! I was taught many years ago by my highschool shop teacher to never skimp on tools because of the cost. Buying the right "HIGH QUALITY" tool will always pay off. I have tried to prove him wrong numerous times and always wished I had listened to his words!!! Besides, you soon forget how much you paid for a tool but that knarled nut or scuffed finish will haunt you the rest of your life.
By the way, I just checked out Bill's jeep website. WOW!!! I highly recommend everyone take a look, especially if you like the WWII stuff.

[Bill Hollinger]

Thank you for the plug Styer. That jeep was a load of fun and putting the site together was my first try at something like that. Please sign the guest book if you didn't do so before.

[goo]

don't force it.
get a bigger hammer

[RBruce]

Well, I bought an AR tool from Blue Ridge parts, Josh Kincaid or Morganton, NC. Put the stock in a vice, applied the tool, and the teat immediately broke off with hand pressure (probably some cheap tool from China - it wasn't as described). I advised the seller. He offered to refund $15 of the $45 cost and shipping. I objected and filed a complaint. He relented in an email, and said he'd refund the total if I returned the tool. I did, and have USPS delivery confirmation. I haven't heard from him since in spite of several emails. I sent a letter yesterday promising to follow through until I receive a refund. Beware of Blue Ridge Parts. --RBruce

[RBruce]

Forgot to add. I then purchased a Rock River tool which engages three of the slots in the nut (the other tool only engaged one). It worked.