I have an Aero PDQ lower (with the PDQ & spring, pin) already installed from the factory. The issue is on the right side the end of the roll (split pin) is flush, but on the other (left side) the end doesn’t go all the way out flush, there are a few millimeters of space. I’m concerned that with it being that uneven & not centered it could potentially break off during hard use. Is this normal? Please let me know what you guys think & what you think I should do. I’ve attached a few photos. Thanks.
I wouldnt worry about it. Its not a high-stress area.
It should be fine, if you’re worried you could use a roll pin punch and tap the flush end just a little to ensure the other side is supported.
Sent from my SM-S908U using Tapatalk
It looks far enough through that it probably wouldn’t cause any problems. Just put in a new roll pin to ease your mind.
I would get a roll pin punch and tap it until its even on both sides.
https://www.littlecrowgunworks.com/store1/BCT-Bolt-Catch-Assembly-Tool-p106089764
Oh, for Pete sake . . .
This.
^^This^^
True. That too. But I’d center it up. You don’t NEED a roll punch pin since it’s already seated. (assuming you have a punch already that sizes up to the pin)
After looking at the second pic… I’d DEFINITELY center that roll pin up.
Just out of curiosity, I checked that pin on my Colt 6920 that I’ve used for over eleven years. And wait for it… it looks just like yours. Have had no problems what so ever. Don’t blame us if you tap in that pin and go flush to the other side and then tap it back the other way, and so forth and so forth! Something to think about as the thought enters your psyche at three in the morning! Pleasant dreams OP. :laugh:
I had the same issue with a SOLGW parts kit a few years back. Just even it out. It’s been fine since
Sent from my SM-G970U using Tapatalk
I think this is the most logical answer. There isn’t enough real estate to make it perfectly flush on both sides, but I’m gonna try to at least center it a little better (not perfectly - I know what a careful area it is) maybe just push it in a millimeter or two just to center it a little better. Thanks to all you guys for your knowledge & answers. Aero emailed me and said this is the way it’s supposed to be. They said flush on one side and some space on the other, as long as the bolt release is covered that’s all that matters.
I wish they made all lowers with the new solid screw method. Makes it so much easier. I wonder why Stoner didn’t choose that route when he designed it.
Ease of manufacture.
That’s a good point.
I prefer the roll pins honestly.
On to the OP’s concern, I have never seen a factory assembled lower that was any different. On my own builds I install the bolt catch roll pin just below flush, but they still don’t end up with an even amount of the roll pin on both sides… No issues here to report.
What does Pete have to do with any of this!?
Because Stoner was a reasonably good engineer that knew that low stressed parts do not require complicated, expensive retainers when low cost, simple, reliable retainers will do.
Or to put it a different way, because he was an American engineer, not a German one.
Isn’t the grip screw the the only screw on the M16?
And THANK GOD!!! Or we might be shooting some retarded fluted chamber and have no bolt lock back feature.