Let’s Talk About Black Rain Ordnance Gas Block
The Black Rain Ordnance Gas Block promises a simple solution to regulating gas flow in your AR-15. Black Rain Ordnance is known for producing quality AR components, and I was eager to see if this gas block lived up to their reputation. I was looking for a cost-effective, reliable gas block to tame the over-gassing on my newly built AR-15 pistol.
The packaging was simple, just the gas block itself. My initial impression was that it was a no-frills, functional piece of equipment. The black finish looked decent, and the overall build seemed solid, albeit basic.
Compared to other adjustable gas blocks I’ve used, like those from Superlative Arms or even some of the higher-end offerings from Seekins Precision, the Black Rain Ordnance Gas Block is noticeably simpler. I chose it for this particular build because I didn’t need all the bells and whistles and wanted something affordable. I was cautiously optimistic; the price point made me wonder about long-term durability, but the Black Rain Ordnance name gave me some confidence.
Real-World Testing: Putting Black Rain Ordnance Gas Block to the Test
First Use Experience
I installed the Black Rain Ordnance Gas Block on my AR-15 pistol and took it to my local range. I needed to tune it to cycle reliably with a variety of ammunition. The conditions were dry and sunny, a typical California range day.
Adjusting the gas block required a bit of trial and error. The single adjustment screw, lacking a locking mechanism, meant I had to carefully tighten it after finding the sweet spot. After about an hour of adjusting and testing, I got it running reliably with both 55-grain and 62-grain ammunition. There were no initial failures once properly tuned.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several range trips and roughly 500 rounds fired, the Black Rain Ordnance Gas Block is still functioning. I haven’t noticed any degradation in performance or any changes in the gas regulation. There are no visible signs of wear and tear beyond some minor carbon buildup.
Cleaning is relatively straightforward, requiring just a quick wipe-down with a solvent-soaked cloth. Compared to a more premium adjustable gas block I have on my AR-15 rifle, this one definitely requires more frequent checking to ensure the adjustment screw hasn’t moved due to vibration. It does the job, but it’s not as “set it and forget it” as some other options.
Breaking Down the Features of Black Rain Ordnance Gas Block
Specifications
The Black Rain Ordnance Gas Block is a set screw-type adjustable gas block designed for AR-15 platforms. It is finished in black. It features a single adjustment screw for regulating gas flow.
The key specifications include its compatibility with standard AR-15 barrels and its steel construction. While lacking fancy features, these specs are functional for a budget-friendly build.
Performance & Functionality
The Black Rain Ordnance Gas Block performs its core function adequately: regulating gas flow to allow for reliable cycling. Its simplicity is both a strength and a weakness. The single adjustment screw is easy to use, but the lack of a locking mechanism means it’s prone to shifting under recoil.
For the price, it meets expectations. It’s not the most precise or feature-rich gas block, but it allows you to fine-tune your AR-15’s gas system without breaking the bank.
Design & Ergonomics
The Black Rain Ordnance Gas Block has a straightforward design. The materials appear to be decent quality steel with a matte black finish. While lightweight, it doesn’t feel flimsy.
The user-friendliness is acceptable, although the absence of a locking mechanism on the adjustment screw might be frustrating for some. There’s a slight learning curve in finding the optimal setting.
Durability & Maintenance
The steel construction suggests decent durability, though only time will tell. Maintenance is simple, requiring only periodic cleaning to remove carbon buildup. Proper installation is key to prevent any long-term issues.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Black Rain Ordnance Gas Block doesn’t come with any accessories. It’s a standalone component designed to be compatible with standard AR-15 barrels and gas tubes. There are no real customization options beyond adjusting the gas flow.
Pros and Cons of Black Rain Ordnance Gas Block
Pros
- Affordable price makes it a budget-friendly option.
- Simple design makes it easy to install and adjust.
- Effective for basic gas regulation on AR-15 platforms.
- Compatible with standard AR-15 components.
- Lightweight construction doesn’t add unnecessary weight to the firearm.
Cons
- Single adjustment screw without locking mechanism can lead to settings shifting under recoil.
- Potentially lower long-term durability compared to premium gas blocks.
Who Should Buy Black Rain Ordnance Gas Block?
The Black Rain Ordnance Gas Block is perfect for budget-conscious builders or those looking for a simple adjustable gas block for their AR-15. It’s ideal for casual range shooters or those who want to experiment with gas regulation without spending a fortune. If you just need something that will function, this will work.
Competitive shooters or those demanding the highest level of precision and reliability should probably look at higher-end options with more robust features and locking mechanisms.
Must-have accessories would include a quality set of Allen wrenches and possibly some thread locker to help secure the adjustment screw.
Conclusion on Black Rain Ordnance Gas Block
The Black Rain Ordnance Gas Block is a functional and affordable option for those seeking basic gas regulation on their AR-15. While it lacks the bells and whistles of premium gas blocks, it performs its core function adequately. At $25.99, the price is certainly justified for what you get.
I would recommend it for budget-conscious builders or casual shooters who don’t need the absolute best. It’s a no-frills, straightforward solution that gets the job done. If you’re looking for a simple and inexpensive way to tame your AR-15’s gas system, give the Black Rain Ordnance Gas Block a try.