Let’s Talk About Aero Precision AR15 BAR Shim Pack
The Aero Precision AR15 BAR Shim Pack is a simple, yet crucial component for achieving proper alignment of your AR-15’s barrel nut, especially when using the Aero Precision BAR (Barrel Attachment Receiver) system. These small stainless steel shims are designed to fine-tune the barrel nut’s position, ensuring that the gas tube aligns correctly and your handguard installs securely. They’re the unsung heroes of a smooth and reliable AR-15 build.
What led me to this product was the frustrating experience of trying to install an Aero Precision handguard on an Aero Precision M4E1 upper. I was encountering difficulty in properly timing the barrel nut. It was off by just a hair, preventing secure handguard installation.
Upon receiving the Aero Precision AR15 BAR Shim Pack, I was impressed by the simplicity and the clean machining of the shims. Each shim appeared consistently sized and free of burrs. Their stainless steel construction inspired confidence; they feel durable enough to withstand repeated installations without deforming.
I’ve used similar shim sets from other manufacturers, like those included with some Midwest Industries handguards. The Aero Precision shims felt slightly more robust than some of the thinner, almost flimsy shims I’ve encountered in the past. This difference made me confident in their ability to maintain the correct timing under pressure.
My first impression was a mix of relief and slight annoyance. Relief that a solution was readily available, and annoyance that I needed to purchase a separate pack to solve a common fitment issue. Still, I knew proper shimming was essential, and having a dedicated set from Aero Precision was reassuring.
Real-World Testing: Putting Aero Precision AR15 BAR Shim Pack to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Aero Precision AR15 BAR Shim Pack during a recent AR-15 build at my workbench. The build involved an Aero Precision M4E1 upper receiver and an Aero Precision handguard, a combination designed to work seamlessly. Initial attempts to align the barrel nut using only the shims included with the barrel nut proved unsuccessful.
Using the Aero Precision AR15 BAR Shim Pack, I was able to incrementally adjust the barrel nut’s position. This enabled perfect gas tube alignment and a rock-solid handguard installation. The shims were tested in normal indoor conditions, providing ample lighting and a stable workspace.
The process was relatively easy. I only needed basic hand tools like a torque wrench and an AR-15 armorers wrench. By experimenting with different shim combinations, I quickly found the optimal setup.
The only slight issue was the initial frustration of needing extra shims in the first place, but this was quickly overshadowed by the satisfaction of achieving perfect alignment.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use and multiple barrel and handguard swaps, the Aero Precision AR15 BAR Shim Pack continues to perform flawlessly. The shims show no signs of wear or deformation, despite being repeatedly torqued and loosened. They continue to provide consistent results.
The stainless steel material has proven to be highly durable, resisting corrosion and maintaining its shape under pressure. Maintaining the shims is straightforward. A simple wipe-down with a clean cloth is sufficient to remove any grease or debris.
In comparison to past experiences with less durable shims, the Aero Precision shims have greatly exceeded my expectations. They deliver a consistent, reliable solution that I now consider essential for any AR-15 build using the Aero Precision BAR system.
Breaking Down the Features of Aero Precision AR15 BAR Shim Pack
Specifications
The Aero Precision AR15 BAR Shim Pack contains eight shims, meticulously crafted to provide precise adjustments for AR-15 barrel nut timing. These shims are specifically designed to work with AR-15 BAR barrel nuts. They will not work with .308 Win and 6.5 Creedmoor barrels or barrel nuts.
Each shim is made from high-quality stainless steel, chosen for its excellent corrosion resistance and durability. The pack contains shims of varying thicknesses, allowing for fine-tuning of barrel nut alignment. The use of stainless steel ensures the shims won’t rust or degrade over time, even under harsh conditions.
The Manufacturer is Aero Precision, a well-respected name in the AR-15 industry known for producing high-quality components. The shims are brand new when purchased. Their stainless steel color makes them easily identifiable.
Each pack contains a quantity of one, referring to a single pack of eight shims. The country of origin is the USA, reflecting Aero Precision’s commitment to American manufacturing. The precise dimensions of each shim are crucial for ensuring correct timing, a specification that Aero Precision maintains to a high standard.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of the Aero Precision AR15 BAR Shim Pack is to allow for proper alignment of the AR-15 barrel nut. This ensures that the gas tube can pass freely and that the handguard can be securely installed. This is vital for the reliable function of the AR-15.
The shims perform this function exceedingly well. They allow for small, incremental adjustments, ensuring perfect timing. The varying thicknesses of the shims provide flexibility in achieving the optimal alignment.
The pack’s main strength lies in its ability to solve timing issues that can arise during an AR-15 build. A potential area for improvement might be to include more shims in the initial barrel nut kit, reducing the need for separate purchases. Overall, it meets and exceeds expectations, providing a reliable solution to a common problem.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Aero Precision AR15 BAR Shim Pack is simple and functional. The shims are small, lightweight, and easy to handle. Their stainless steel construction gives them a quality feel.
The shims are user-friendly, requiring no special tools or skills to install. The only learning curve involves understanding how to adjust the barrel nut for proper timing. Even novice AR-15 builders should find them easy to use.
Durability & Maintenance
The stainless steel construction of the Aero Precision AR15 BAR Shim Pack ensures excellent durability. They are designed to withstand repeated use and exposure to harsh conditions. With proper care, they should last for many years.
Maintaining the shims is straightforward. A simple wipe-down with a clean cloth is generally sufficient. Their corrosion-resistant properties minimize the need for special cleaning products.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Aero Precision AR15 BAR Shim Pack does not come with accessories, as it is a standalone product designed to complement existing AR-15 components. There are no customization options for the shims themselves. However, they facilitate the customization of the AR-15 by ensuring proper fitment of handguards and other accessories.
The shims are compatible with any AR-15 build using an Aero Precision BAR barrel nut or any other barrel nut requiring shimming for proper timing. Their universal design makes them compatible with a wide range of AR-15 accessories.
Pros and Cons of Aero Precision AR15 BAR Shim Pack
Pros
- Enables precise barrel nut timing, ensuring proper gas tube alignment and handguard installation.
- Durable stainless steel construction resists corrosion and wear, ensuring long-lasting performance.
- Easy to use for both novice and experienced AR-15 builders.
- Affordable solution to a common AR-15 build problem.
- Made in the USA by Aero Precision, a reputable manufacturer known for quality products.
Cons
- Not compatible with .308 Win and 6.5 Creedmoor barrels or barrel nuts.
- Shims do not come standard with the BAR barrel nut, requiring an additional purchase.
Who Should Buy Aero Precision AR15 BAR Shim Pack?
The Aero Precision AR15 BAR Shim Pack is perfect for AR-15 builders using an Aero Precision BAR barrel nut who need to fine-tune the barrel nut’s timing. This is especially useful for those who have encountered gas tube alignment issues or are having difficulty securing their handguard. It is also a great addition to the toolkit of any serious AR-15 enthusiast who likes to tinker and customize their rifles.
Those who should skip this product are individuals building AR-15s with a standard delta ring assembly, or those who are not using an Aero Precision BAR barrel nut. Shooters who are already satisfied with their barrel nut timing and handguard fitment may not need this product.
A must-have accessory to go along with this would be a quality torque wrench to ensure the barrel nut is properly installed and torqued to spec. AR-15 armorers wrenches are also essential for tightening and loosening the barrel nut during the shimming process.
Conclusion on Aero Precision AR15 BAR Shim Pack
The Aero Precision AR15 BAR Shim Pack is a small but mighty component that plays a crucial role in ensuring the proper function and reliable performance of your AR-15. While the need to purchase it separately might be a minor inconvenience, the benefits it provides in terms of achieving perfect barrel nut timing far outweigh the cost. Its durable construction and ease of use make it a worthwhile investment for any AR-15 builder or enthusiast.
The price of $9.99 is absolutely justified. When considering the frustration and potential issues that can arise from improper barrel nut timing, this pack is a small price to pay for peace of mind. I wholeheartedly recommend the Aero Precision AR15 BAR Shim Pack to anyone building or customizing an AR-15 using the Aero Precision BAR system.
Don’t let a misaligned barrel nut ruin your build! Invest in the Aero Precision AR15 BAR Shim Pack and ensure a smooth, reliable, and perfectly aligned AR-15. It’s a small addition that makes a big difference.