Is the dpms claw or the clam shell type preferred?
My take:
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I haven’t used my clam shell-style in years.
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The DPMS upper block (“claw”) is better for most applications. Be prepared to modify it slightly if you use Vltor MUR uppers. I use this for mounting scopes, sights, and similar non-torquing activities.
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For almost all uses involving torquing something attached to the upper (e.g., barrel nuts, muzzle devices) I use a Geissele Reaction Rod (best alternative).
Same here.
The DPMS claw works, but you need to rotate the upper 90 degrees, so that the vise is clamping through the vertical axis of the upper
On a budget? This works perfectly fine:
https://www.plastixrevolution.net/collections/ar15-upper-vise-blocks/products/ar-15-basic-upper-receiver-vise-block
Want the nicer tool, that is a little faster, more convenient to use? This:
https://geissele.com/ar15-m4-reaction-rod.html
I go with a Magpul Bev Block is budget was the main concern as it will handle both the upper and lower.
I have to admit that using the DPMS claw rotated like that never occurred to me. Then again, I still fool around with old A2 uppers with integral carry handles (at least sometimes), and that would not work well.
Even with care and a block of soft wood to cover the Pic-rail on the “top” of a flattop upper, I would be a little trepidatious with that setup. Could be done though.
Magpul bev block
^^ This ^^
I use the PRI.
I have literally built thousands of uppers on this.
https://www.precisionreflex.com/Detail.aspx?PROD=186711
Does that little thumbscrew deal hold the rail tight wnough to do any work?
This is what I use, plain-jane. No doubt made from scraps by high school kids:
https://www.squirreldaddy.com/PRO-AR-Upper-FF-Lower-Vise-Block-Pin-Pusher-p/sd20-131.htm
The total arsenal:
https://www.botach.com/kley-zion-barrel-spline-socket-rod-for-ar15-m4-ar10-sr25-upper-receivers/
https://www.botach.com/kley-zion-ar15-m4-receiver-extension-buffer-tube-bock/
I know, they are clones, but I wouldn’t have bought the buffer tube block in particular at the orignal’s price of $100.00.
To be honest, my PRI block is older and does not have that thumb screw thingy. I have some other device for that application. I replaced the pin with stronger ones. The safety pins on the Tomahawk Missiles make for wonderful upper vice block pins!
The OP already knows about this tool from his thread on TOS, but I’ll just link it here too. > https://www.2uniquellc.com/product-page/m16-barreling-spud
Based on the tool from this thread. > https://www.ar15.com/forums/Industry/Windham-Weaponry-upper-assembly-jig-2UniqueLLC-jig-now-available-/489-254215/
Just to show that there is nothing new under the sun, the previous tools have no connection to this antique military armorer’s tool to my knowledge, but they accomplish the same thing. > https://www.ar15.com/forums/AR-15/Anybody-ever-seen-one-of-these-AR-Jig-/118-721634/?page=1
Wow. Their tools look beefy AF. Pricey, but they look like they’re worth it.
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They are very nice, I kind of want to get another set just because.
I have done several hundreds and possibly as many as a thousand with the Reaction Rod. It’s hands down the most versatile tool for all around upper receiver work.
This. Hands-down works every time, fast and easy.
I haven’t bought a tool for this yet, but after taking Iraqgunz’ class, I’ll definitely be buying a reaction rod, and the reaction block to hold the lower.
What is the difference between the Guyslee Reaction rod and super reaction rod? Done a bunch of lowers, but looking at getting into uppers, since I never find exactly what I want, with all the options out there.
Geissele Reaction Rod. All. Day. Long. I’ve used pretty much everything under the sun, and it’s hands down the best tool for the job.