Low Pro Gas Block

[Black slide]

I have been watching videos where guys are cutting down the triangle front sight assembly to create a low profile Gas block.

I am going to be installing a 12" quad rail on my carbine and am wondering, is it worth the time - will it create even more room to cut down my front sight or should I just spend the $40 and buy a NEA / S&J low pro gas block?

I do not mind taking the time to cut down the sight, what I really want to know if will it create more free space to install a rail?

Thank you for any feedback.

 

[Stevo]

No, it won't create more free space, but trimmed properly, it's not any larger than an aftermarket low-pro gas block.

IMHO, a cut-down pinned gas block is superior to a clamp-on or set-screw low-pro gas block.

Edit: Here's a pic of a cut-down block on my Armalite. It's under a 11" Samson rail these days.

 

[pbr streetgang]

if its a cheap AR, then get out the Dremel and fly at her.... but if your looking at resale on a higher end AR, get the low-pro gas block... it helps to mark and dimple your barrel where the screws on your low-pro hold it in place ( just a very very small dimple will suffice)

 

[badboybeeson]

The best gas block is normanly the factory one.
Myself. If the gun runs good a chop mod is the best way to do it. Based on the fact you cab install the rail without removing the gas block.
If you have to hammer out the pins. May as well go with a low pro.
Myself. I like stuff to look good but I never think about resale of the guns I use as I shoot to much and know they will be beaten by the time I sell or rebuild it.
If u plany to sell it or even think you may. Then buy a low pro.
I've seen factory colt guns with the chop mod done and it takes away from the value even when done at the factory.
Last thing, not all gas blocks are equal. Do look around.
Gas system,bbl and bolt are the heart of an AR15.

 

[CanAR15]

I chopped the factory FSB on my Bushmaster carbine so it would fit under my Daniel Defense AR15 lite rail. I actually had to do it twice because I originally didn't make it low profile enough to fit in/under the extremely tight DD rail. I cold blued it when I was finished and I think it looks great for a couple hours of my time.

 

[M14.CA]

I plan to finish grinding this gas block (notice the bayonet lug? ) I doubt it will take long too do so I would say go for it. I'll end up blueing it. The one on the right of the chopped block is a steel Troy low profile gas block.