Pinning a clamp-on gas block

AR/M4 AR Technical Discussion
1

I’m new to the rifle building thing, so please don’t kill me for this. :eek:

I want to get a Noveske Switchblock as I plan on getting a suppressor sometime in the next few months (if possible). However, the Noveske website, as well as gunsmiths I’ve talked to, say that it’s best to get a pinned gas block as opposed to a clamp on. The thing is, Noveske only offers pinned Switchblocks on rifles, uppers, and barrels and not as a stand alone piece. I already have my upper and barrel all set and I don’t want to have to get a whole new barrel (plus it looks like the pinned Switchblock is only available in medium and heavier barrels).

Can I have a gunsmith order the pinned Switchblock and put it on my barrel? If not, can I have him modify the clamp-on block so that it can be pinned in some way?

2

Will the switchblock be hiding under the front of the rail or completely exposed?

If under the rail I would recommend just staking the cross bolts and calling it good.

I have never seen a pinned clamp on gas block. (That’s almost an oxymoron eh?)

I have seen staked ones though.

3

I think it would be exposed. According to their website, the switchblock doesn’t fit under any rails.

4

My understanding is that noveske does not sell just the switch lock so the only way to get one is to buy one second hand.

I have cross pinned many clamp-on gas blocks.
As long as there is room to drill a hole, I can do it…