Could an a2 profile barrel with fixed sight/gas block be milled to more of an A1 profile in front of the gas block without removing the block?
I know it still be thicker under the gas block but would still remove a few ounces off the front of the barrel.
Why not just remove the FSB?
Practically, however, It’s probably cheaper to just buy the barrel you want… factoring in machining and refinishing costs.
Isn’t removing the FSB difficult on a BCM?
As for buying just what I want, I have another thread about that. Nobody of high-rep makes such a thing. (A1 barrel, fixed fsb, flat top receiver)
So I thought modifying an A2 fsb barrel might be the thing to do.
I don’t know the process, but I know someone that can do it for a good price if you’re looking for shops.
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Probably. But not impossible. I think Gunz used a large flat punch to get the initial bump on the taper pin… then finishes with a regular taper pin punch. I have a taper pin punch that was concave on the tip. I got some Colt pins to move with that thing for member here. Some of my FSBs are just scratched up because I get lazy on my own guns and end up letting the punch slip/move.
Why are you soo against getting the Faxon barrel and have a FSB pinned on?
Yeah why not remove the FSB?
Id expect at minimum $100 from a machinist who knows what he’s doing, and with a barrel I wouldn’t go with a bargain shop.
If you think the FSB will cause you angst, just chop the FSB down and use it without pulling it.
I have never had a problem removing a BCM FSB. I do let some Kroil soak in around the pins the day before I remove it. After that; easy-peasy! 
I agree and I’ve done that, too. Worked out great for me. 
I think he is working on this project: https://www.m4carbine.net/showthread.php?207665-Lightweight-20-in-A3-w-pinned-front-sight-block
Thanks for the advice.
There are very few places you can ship a barrel and fsb and say, “drill holes through my barrel, pin this on and make sure it’s perfectly straight”.
And they’ll probably tell you they’ll try for a price but the result, ruined barrel, perfect job, or canted sight, is your problem and no refunds.
You haven’t done much research. I’m not going to tell you where to go. Sounds like you are scared to dive in. Look at it this way… If Colt can pull it off anybody can. It isn’t rocket science… Maybe give Marvin a call.
I said on the first page that I know of a shop, you can just PM me if you want an answer…
…but I repeat myself. Again…
I believe OP wants a 20” even though it wasnt specified in this thread.
Emphasis mine. Only way to know is to ask.
As for OP, i believe it depends on lathe, though you could remove fsb, but keep profile under it same for reinstall of same fsb with new taper pins.
Ah…
I’m sorry, yes, I’d like a 20 inch barrel.