Tools You Twist (Drivers, Bits, and Keys)
There are lots of screws and bolts in the AR platform.
R: Required
r: Recommended
O: Optional
Torque Driver (R)
Several screws require specific amounts of torque. You have a couple of options here.
The most common torque driver is the Wheeler F.A.T. torque driver. This is an adjustable torque driver with a torque range of 10-65 in. lbs. We recommend checking the torque calibration regularly and ensuring that you return the dial to 0 when not in use. It is a good all around option for the typical consumer.
We prefer dedicated torque bits and a t-handle torque wrench; this eliminates user error and minimizes the drift that occurs with adjustable drivers. Fix It Sticks are the best options out there. We use the 20 in. lbs. (for gas block set screws wetted with Rocksett) and 25 in. lbs. (for the Aero Precision Enhanced Handguard set screws) torque limiters. In our experience, these limiters are very consistent and are very robust. We use the Fix It Sticks Ratcheting T-Way Drive Handle with these torque limiters.
Bits (R)
For our routine usage, we only need a couple of bits. These include:
- 3/32″ Hex Bit: Gas block set screws
- T15 Torx Bit: Aero Precision Enhanced Handguard screws
Hex Keys (R)
While we recommend having a full set of high quality hex keys, there are only a few that we routinely use:
- 1/16″ Long Reach: This is required for threaded roll pins (bolt catch) on the Aero Precision Enhanced platforms
- 3/32″: Required for set screw gas blocks and the Odin Works XMR3 extended magazine release button
- 3/16″: Pistol grip screw/bolt (note that we use a dedicated T-handle kex hey)
3/16" T-Handle Hex Driver
While you can use any 3/16″ hex key for the pistol grip screw/bolt, we use a T-handle driver because it allows quicker installation and better torque.
Screwdrivers (R)
Its is always wise to have a quality screwdriver set available. Common uses include:
- Pistol Grip Screw: Some pistol grip screws (e.g. Magpul) require a large flathead screwdriver (at least 3.5″ long)
- Rifle Buttstock Screw: Most rifle buttstocks (installing on a rifle receiver extension) are secured using a flathead screw. A wide flathead screwdriver will be required.
You can use whatever you have around the house or can pick up at a local hardware store. Or you can use a quality gunsmithing screwdriver set, which will likely last you a lifetime.
Torx Screwdrivers (O)
We recommend a quality set of Torx screwdrivers. We always start Torx screws with a Torx screwdriver and then finish with a torque driver. Common needs include:
- Aero Precision Enhanced Handguard screws
- Scope mounts/rings
- Optics/sights
A Torx driver set can be picked up at your local hardware store.
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