AR Lower-Receiver Build: Trigger Guard Installation

by
posted on October 20, 2015
dsc_0240.jpg
The necessary parts and tools are listed below:

Parts
Trigger Guard
Trigger Guard Roll Pin

Tools
Small hammer. (Plastic and brass-tipped preferred.)
4S Pin-holding starter punch (optional)
1/8-inch Roll-pin punch 1/8 inch pin punch (optional)
Bench block

The front of the trigger guard should have a spring-loaded detent already installed. Compress this and insert the trigger guard into the front, making sure the detent is on the same side as the hole. Put the receiver on a bench block to support it. A block of wood will work.

Alas, more dreaded roll-pin manipulation!
Use the roll pin-holding starter punch to start the roll pin, or hold it with needle nose pliers as you start it. It’s usually a tight fit and it’s easy to damage the end of the roll pin. It is easier to use a slave pin as you gently start the pin through the receiver and into the trigger guard. Carefully use the roll pin punch and hammer to drive the roll pin into the receiver. Check to see it is of equal depth on both sides.

Function Check
Depress the detent on trigger guard and make sure the trigger guard will pivot open. (The Blackhawk model I used had a second roll pin instead of a detent.)

An ideal choice for a hunting rifle, the Blackhawk Oversized Trigger Guard offers easy access for gloved fingers.
Unparsimonious Potential Upgrade
Despite its straight design and narrow opening the standard trigger guard will suffice under most conditions. But, when you consider my rifle is designed with hunting mind, the addition of Blackhawk’s AR-15 Oversized Trigger guard just makes better sense because it allows quicker access to the trigger with gloved hands.

The next entry will cover installing the buttstock.

Latest

 S&W M&P 10 M2.0
 S&W M&P 10 M2.0

First Look: M&P 10 M2.0 State-Compliant 10mm Pistols

Now even more gun owners can enjoy the power of the 10mm round.

First Look: 22LR HK G36 Rifle

A rimfire version of HK's groundbreaking rifle.

How To: Avoid One Tax this Month

Tax (stamp) relief is available right now.

Review: Caldwell Velociradar Chronograph

Definitely not a dinosaur…

First Look: Guncrafter Industries Polara 1911

Available in Government and Commander sizes.

First Look: G-Force Arms 12 Hammer Shotgun

An AR-pattern shotgun that handles just about any ammunition. 

Interests



Get the best of Shooting Illustrated delivered to your inbox.