AR-15 Handguard removal?

[TomCat3367]

I recently received my 24 inch upper and it did not have the swivel stud I ordered so I will need to install one myself. Is it as easy as it seems to just remove the gas block and slide the one piece handguard off? Thank you for your assistance with any advice and suggestions.
T.

 

[mpryne]

It really depends on the type of handgaurd that is currently installed. Is it free float? How many piece? Indexable? Or is it a old style with the delta ring? gas blocks are easier if they are screwed on instead of pinned. Pinned blocks have a tapered pin that only goes one way out. If you take your time it should be relatively easy if you are proficient with hand tools. take your time and you should be ok.

 

[djones]

A handguard installation tool can make the job a lot easier. These are available from Fulton Armory,see my note below about the site) or from Sinclair, http://www.sinclairintl.com/ ) or from Brownells, http://www.brownells.com/aspx/NS/store/catsearch.aspx?k=handguard%20removal&ps=10&si=True )

Also I'd really recommend these two books if you don't already have them.
The AR-15 Complete Assembly Guide - Walt Kuleck with Clint McKee
The AR-15 Owner's Guide by Walk Kuleck and Scott Duff

Available from Fulton Armory, http://www.fulton-armory.com/ Note: this site is extremely difficult to navigate. Click on 'Find it fast? Search HERE!' on the right-hand side of the page then scroll down until you see 'Product Search' and a large arrow. Type in the word book then click on the 'Product Search button)
or from Brownells, http://www.brownells.com/aspx/NS/store/catsearch.aspx?k=Complete%20Assembly%20Guide&ps=10&si=True )

 

[jmpen]

depending on the tube, you might be better off just tapping it with the tube still on, or fishing the backer through. I use mostly vtac tubes so its just a matter of screwing the stud in. I cant see it being that hard to tap it with the tube still on the gun though.

 

[people]

I have a solid aluminum tube and I just drilled a hole in it and using a bent paper clip to hold the nut inplace I then screwed in the swivel. Sounds like a pain and it was but far easier than taking off the tube and gas block.