Head space gauges? Recommendations?

AR/M4 AR Technical Discussion
1

I didn’t realize how expensive head space gauges were. However, I feel like I am putting enough rifles together that maybe investing in some would be a good idea and the cost would be justified over time.

What are some preferred/better brands that I should be looking at, or are they all fairly good enough? Where’s a good place to keep an eye out for some that are priced decently as well.

Thanks in advance!

-Don

2

I have not purchased any yet but awhile back while researching for some myself, I came across the following link (It may have even been on M4C but I can’t recall) :

http://www.tothtool.com/Gauges_c_11.html

3

Here is a ton of info on this subject:

https://www.m4carbine.net/search.php?searchid=1129076

4

Do their 5.56 gauges have a space for the ejector to go? Also, are they really 5.56 gauges or are they .223 gauges that are marked 5.56?

5

The photo shows an ejector cut but there are no dimensions beyond stating “NATO specifications”.

Here is a field gauge (which is the only one you need) but it doesn’t have an ejector cut, that can be fixed with a little careful dremel work.
http://www.brownells.com/gunsmith-tools-supplies/measuring-tools/headspace-gauges/colt-5-56-headspace-gauge-sku319418033-6646-15967.aspx

6

Whichever brand gauges you purchase for a particular caliber, buy Go, No Go and Field gauges of the same brand.

Brownell’s is a good source and there is a great deal of information on their website.

7

Thanks for the link, I’ll take a look at it.

I actually didn’t know there were other gauges other than go/no go gauges actually.

As a side note. I remember reading somewhere that at last year’s SHOT show, there was a company that produced head space gauges that were not fully polished in non-important areas, and their pricing was lower than other gauges out there. Can’t seem to remember the name or brand of the gauges though.

8

What t2c said.

Plus, I’m not sure what the allure of the field gauge is. It’s way out past no-go. Yes, it tells you if your rifle is dangerous, but that’s about it. If your rifle is somewhere past max, and shooting like crap, but not yet to the field gauge, the gauge won’t answer your question.

Clymer and forster are both relatively inexpensive, and work fine.

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