M14(M305) Castle Nut Set Screw

[macsailer]

I have been looking at other posts related to this subject, and have been having problems finding a definitive answer.

I have tried all sorts of different hex keys, and managed to get the set screw out with a 1.5mm hex key, believe it or not. When I went to put it back in, this key did not work. I changed the key to 1/16th, and was able to set it in a little bit further, but not all the way before it started to spin. Next I tried to use a hammer and drive a Torx #7 bit into it, and then but it in with a screwdriver. I managed a couple more turns, before it the screwdriver bit itself snapped off.

I am kind of fed up with this now, so (A)CAN I use the indefinitely without the set screw, and if not, what size screw should I find to retap this hole.

Thanks in advance!!

Mac

 

[Winz]

Blast it full of oil to cut any sealant used. Jam a suitable flat head in and turn.

Don't bother with trying to find or file down a specific allen key.

 

[Hungry]

Exactly what Winz said ! With some of the tight FS's on the Norc M14's, I would just cut the barrel and make yourself a cool carbine 18.5" and toss on a Smith Vortex FS. Good to go ! Upgrade time !!

 

[45ACPKING]

that pesky lil set screw hehehe
i have used nothing but a 1/16 allen key on every single castlenut set screw i have removed.... both norc and usgi and after countless rifles.... the same allen key.
It's all in the angle of the tool vs the screw head.... ya gotta feel it lock in properly..... if not ... the screw is so soft the head will deform and...... the problems begin

 

[Tehoke01]

I take the set screw out using a peened allen key, then use my dremel to cut a slot in the head of the set screw. This allows the screw to be inserted with a regular slotted screwdriver...

...No more worries about the correct size key or stipping the hex into a circle using an imperfectly sized (too small) key.

 

[powmia56]

Exactly what Winz said ! With some of the tight FS's on the Norc M14's, I would just cut the barrel and make yourself a cool carbine 18.5" and toss on a Smith Vortex FS. Good to go ! Upgrade time !!

And then send the old FS with the barrel stub to Misanthropist for his new business.