Yesterday my Model 1 Armorer’s action block, with T-handle, arrived from Midway.
The clamshell goes around the upper, the action fits 'rattlely" loose in the block until you clamp down on the block with the vise a bit. Fine.
What I don’t understand is the function of the “T Handle”?
Slipped into the receiver, it is a loose fit even with the vise clamped down???
Can ya help a guy out?
The “T” handle is used to prevent a person from crushing the receiver if they tighten the action block too tight in the vise
The insert provides internal support to prevent crushing the upper and minimizes the lateral forces on the upper when when torquing a barrel. Had the same issue with my Model 1 block. Brownell’s insert is more snug.
I use a M1S block and insert, no problems here with fit. I do put the upper in a heavy gauge plastic bag (Ziploc) before I put it into the block, it helps keep rub marks off the upper.
I tried using the search feature and had no luck finding information about the different types of blocks.
May I ask why you chose the Clamshell type action block…
Over the DPMS Delrin type Blocks?
Good question…I too am in the market.
Anybody have an input?
The “T-handle” is a waste of plastic. It doesn’t prevent the receiver from being crushed. Your vise will grenade long before you can crush a 7075-T6 receiver.
The DPMS receiver block is a piece of crap. It transfers way to much torque to the takedown/pivot lugs on the receiver. More likely to damage your receiver with this POS.
For barreling, I personally prefer the clamshell block over the claw style - I’ve had both. The clamshell seems to give better support to the upper and spreads the torque forces over a wider area. The claw style always felt spongy to me with everything concentrated on the lugs; I was never impressed with how the claw block fit the inside of the upper. That said I need to get another claw since my next build may be on a Vltor upper receiver.
YMMV - many people feel the exact opposite. This is just my experience.
the dmps claw is the best! holds very firm and no worry of over tightening the vice!
I’ve never used the clamshell but it does look like it would handle the torque of barrel and some rail installations. I have used a claw style block and I think it’s fine for installing a rear sight, some rail systems and bore sighting. I have a nylon block for holding onto an A3 upper by the rail. I only plan on using it for cleaning, of course my CASV rail and rear sight would have to be removed to use it…:rolleyes: