FYI...
For those of you that want to build a MRA Renegade, or .308Win Maverick (when they become available), and want to use your exist factory Front Sight Base (FSB) or Low Profile Gas Block...
Tactical Ordnance, Inc. ("TacOrd", Newmarket, ON) is now producing a Solid Pin that will replace the factory Gas Tube to effectively stop gas escape - for consistent accuracy.
The TacOrd Solid Pin is made of "01" Tool Steel, and is cross-drilled to receive your factory 5/64" Cross Pin that secures the Gas Tube/Solid Pin in place - so you can use your supplied 5/64" Roll/Coil Pin.
The TacOrd Pin is a snug fit, which is what you want - very precise.
The great thing about the TacOrd Solid Pin is you can use your existing Front Sight Base (FSB) or aftermarket Low Profile Gas Block on your AR-15 conversion to Renegade or Maverick Receiver parts.
The other great thing is you DO NOT have to remove/punch out the tapered pins of a factory FSB, or remove the existing Low Profile gas Block. All you need to do is punch out the existing 5/64" Roll/Coil Pin, and remove the factory Gas Tube.
Then you can use the proper wrenches/blocks to remove the Barrel from the evil Upper Receiver.
Then it's a matter of inserting the new TacOrd Solid Pin, and using the existing 5/64" pin to secure it in place.
Originally, on my first two conversions to MRA Renegade platforms, I reversed the factory Gas Tube to "plug" the Gas Hole in the Barrel, and that works fine.
However, while I haven't shot the carbines much (winter is here!), I'm assuming that exiting gas pressure may eventually erode through the factory Gas Tube.
Accuracy-wise...the guns shoot every bit as accurate as if they had the AR-15 Gas System - even better since there are less moving parts!
I'm happy...this allows me to shoot my "AR-15" platforms, but in a slower, precision manner. But, hey...we've had a ban on Hi-Cap Mags for over 20 years, so what was the enjoyment on blasting off 5 fast rounds??
And...if you desire to hunt with a true "varmint" cartridge in a firearm that has an "AR" feel, the MRA Renegade Bolt Action System allows that.
I know there are other "conversion" platforms out there - I don't know if they allow for use of all AR-15 parts other than the Upper and Lower Receivers. But if they allow for use of the existing factory Gas Block/FSB, obviously they will work on their systems.
The price from Tactical Ordnance for the Solid Pin is $10.00, plus Shipping/Handling/Taxes, if necessary.
The 5/64" Cross/Securing Roll Pin is NOT included, as it is assumed you will be using your existing pin. However, I'm sure TacOrd can supply if you need another pin.
I know this sounds like an add, but I've always been very happy with TacOrd's products, precision work, and service, and this TacOrd produced "MRA Renegade Gas Block Pin" has solved my problems ahead of time.
Tactical Ordnance, Inc., can be contacted at:
Office/Work: (905) 775-1666
Email: contact Casey at:
casey@tacord.com, or
info@tacord.com
Below are a couple of pictures showing the TacOrd Solid Pin, and showing them installed on assorted Gas Blocks and FSB's.
The one Gas Block is for an Armalite AR-10 SASS Barrel Assembly - just waiting for the release of the MRA "Maverick" Upper.
