Assembling first AR lower - launched and lost buffer detent spring

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GSoD

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So I couldn't sleep and decided to assemble my AR lower.

You would think by now I would know enough not to trust myself with anything involving springs (don't even ask what I did with a sks).

But I don't.

And managed to launch my buffer retainer and my buffer retainer spring.

Found the retainer. Spring is as gone.

Does anyone have a spare they could mail to a newb for a couple of bux?

Failing that, can anyone point me towards where to pick up this part?

ARG!
 
vacuum cleaner with a bunch of rare earth magnets inside the tube works wonders for finding lost springs and parts.
 
I've got a magnetic broom (large magnet on the end of a broom handle I think I got it at Cambodian Tire) you are definitely not alone.
 
You might be able to get one or something close from a spring kit. Here are the specs: OD 4.57 mm (0.180 in.), 23.87 mm
(0.940 in.) nom free lg.
 
A good spare parts bin for your AR is a must. Any of the site sponsors will have or can get what you need. I've had luck getting stuff from Armseast and Wolverine. Stuff like this can also be found in the EE parts section. Badboybeeson has first aid kits for AR's from time to time. Sorry for your luck. I've been looking for a detent spring on my second floor for 3+ years. ;):D
 
ok - I'll follow up a careless act with a dumb question.

How important is it that this spring be spec? I did find a spring that appears to do the job (fits snug inside the buffer retainer and pushes it up forcefully, more than enough to have the buffer retainer retain the buffer). But it obviously didn't come from an AR LPK.

On first glance I donèt see alot that could fail. But then again, I have no idea what Ièm looking at ;)
 
Use the spring from a bic ball point pen. It's about the same diameter and a little less strong but it will work just fine.

Scott
 
GSoD said:
ok - I'll follow up a careless act with a dumb question.

How important is it that this spring be spec? I did find a spring that appears to do the job (fits snug inside the buffer retainer and pushes it up forcefully, more than enough to have the buffer retainer retain the buffer). But it obviously didn't come from an AR LPK.

On first glance I donèt see alot that could fail. But then again, I have no idea what Ièm looking at ;)
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Just use that. I've done the same thing as you before. I've used a spring that I had on hand (cut down slightly) to replace it with no problems. It came from a retractable ball point pen.

The other one that always goes flying is the rear takedown pin detent spring- a spring from a Bic lighter is just the right size for that.

Do it the CRB way. There are springs in all sorts of stuff that will work. No point on spending money on anything but ammo...
 
reid134 said:
i have that same fear for i am about to start my first lower. :)
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I wouldn't sweat it.

It was quite easy and was done in under an hour without the assistance of a vice, or a parts list, or a sound card or even a proper work area.

Only had to use a punch and hammer once or twice. Everything pretty much clicked into place. Didn't put a scratch on it - whew.

I thought I could do everything from the videos on Brownells. But I actually found this video much more helpful: http://www.wonderhowto.com/how-to/video/how-to-build-a-stripped-ar-15-rifle-lower-assembly-255593/

I'm sure there are a tonne of good videos the more experienced could recommend.

My problem with the Brownells videos was that they did some stuff with special tools I didn't have, didn't explain/show the small parts and obscured the installation procedure with their hands sometimes.

PS - the wife found the spring. Now to put the bic pen back together!
 
Sproing, what was that sound again,,,
Been there, done that.

Building does get addictive. Consider yourself warned and welcome.
 
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