- Treat every gun as loaded
- Point the muzzle in a safe direction
- Keep your finger off the trigger until you’re ready to shoot
- Know your target and what’s beyond
The right tools make the difference between a professional-quality build and a scratched-up mess. Whether you’re installing a barrel nut on an AR-15, pushing sights on a Glock, or torquing a scope mount to spec, gunsmithing tools are an investment that pays for itself the first time you avoid a trip to the gunsmith.
We compare gunsmithing tools from 80+ retailers. Browse armorer wrenches, punch sets, gun vises, sight tools, bench blocks, torque wrenches, and bench mats. Filter by brand and price.
[ugs_accessories category=”gunsmithing”]FAQ: Gunsmithing Tools
What tools do I need to build an AR-15?
At minimum: an armorer's wrench (for barrel nut and castle nut), a vise block or reaction rod, a set of roll pin punches and a brass hammer, a torque wrench (for barrel nut), and anti-seize grease. A bench vise is also strongly recommended. Budget $100 to $200 for a quality starter tool kit.
Do I need a sight pusher?
For dovetail sights (Glock, SIG, most handguns), a sight pusher is the safest and most effective tool. Brass punches and a hammer work but risk scratching the slide or damaging the sight. A universal sight pusher costs $40 to $80 and pays for itself after two or three sight installations.
What torque spec should I use for scope rings?
Most scope ring manufacturers specify 15 to 25 inch-pounds for ring screws and 25 to 65 inch-pounds for base screws. Always follow the manufacturer's specification. Over-torquing can crush the scope tube or strip threads. A FAT wrench (torque-limiting driver) from Wheeler costs about $35 and prevents this.
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