DELTAC AR-15 Hollow End Roll Pin Set Review

Let’s Talk About DELTAC AR-15 Hollow End Roll Pin Set

The AR-15 is a Lego set for adults, or so the saying goes. And just like any intricate build, having the right tools makes all the difference. Enter the DELTAC AR-15 Hollow End Roll Pin Set, a seemingly simple collection of punches designed to ease the installation of those notoriously fiddly roll pins. I’ve spent years wrestling with these tiny metal cylinders, often resorting to makeshift solutions with varying degrees of success (and frustration!).

What truly led me to explore this particular set was a recent build where I rounded off the edges of a gas tube retaining pin, rendering it useless. I needed a reliable solution to prevent future mishaps and make the process less stressful. I remember thinking there must be a better way than the hammer-and-hope method.

Upon receiving the DELTAC AR-15 Hollow End Roll Pin Set, I immediately noted its compact size and the seemingly durable stainless steel construction. The punches felt substantial in my hand, not flimsy like some cheaper sets I’ve encountered. My initial thought was, “Finally, maybe I can stop marring my receivers.”

While I also considered a dedicated roll pin installation tool with a spring-loaded hammer, those can be quite expensive. I have also experimented with using regular punches and masking tape, which provides some protection, but is still unreliable. This DELTAC set seemed like a reasonable and budget-friendly compromise. My first impression was cautiously optimistic. I was eager to put these punches through their paces and see if they lived up to the promise of easier roll pin installation.

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Real-World Testing: Putting DELTAC AR-15 Hollow End Roll Pin Set to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing ground was a new AR-15 build, specifically the gas block installation. This is a task where the proper alignment and insertion of a roll pin is critical. I tested the DELTAC AR-15 Hollow End Roll Pin Set both indoors at my workbench and, later, in a field maintenance scenario during a training exercise.

I found that the hollow ends of the punches did indeed help to keep the roll pins aligned during the initial hammering process. The 3/16″ punch was particularly useful for the gas tube retaining pin. This significantly reduced the risk of bending or damaging the pin. Working in the dusty environment of the training exercise, the DELTAC punches still performed admirably, providing a solid and controlled starting point for pin insertion.

However, I quickly discovered that the stainless steel, while appearing durable, might be a little too hard. This became apparent when one of the punches showed signs of chipping after a few uses.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of using the DELTAC AR-15 Hollow End Roll Pin Set on various projects, I’ve observed some pros and cons. The punches have proven useful for starting roll pins, especially in tight spaces. The set’s 1/8″, 5/32″, 3/16″, and 7/32″ sizes cover most AR-15 roll pin applications.

Signs of wear and tear became noticeable on the 3/16″ punch, which I use most frequently. The tip started to mushroom slightly, requiring occasional filing to maintain its shape. Cleaning is straightforward. A quick wipe down with a CLP-soaked cloth keeps them rust-free.

Compared to using standard punches, the DELTAC set definitely offers a more controlled start to roll pin installation. The hollow ends prevent the punch from slipping off the pin head. However, I have noticed the stainless steel might not be as durable as I initially hoped. A high-quality tool steel would likely be a better choice for longevity.

Breaking Down the Features of DELTAC AR-15 Hollow End Roll Pin Set

Specifications

The DELTAC AR-15 Hollow End Roll Pin Set includes four punches designed for starting AR-15 roll pins. Each punch has a hollow tip to help align and prevent damage to the pins during installation. The set includes the following sizes: 1/8″, 5/32″, 3/16″, and 7/32″.

The punches are made from 303 Stainless Steel. They have an approximate length of 2.72 inches. These specifications are important because they determine the range of roll pin sizes the set can accommodate and the overall durability of the tools. The stainless steel construction aims to resist corrosion.

Performance & Functionality

The primary function of the DELTAC AR-15 Hollow End Roll Pin Set is to facilitate the installation of roll pins in AR-15 firearms. The hollow tips of the punches are designed to hold the roll pin in place while tapping it into the desired location. This helps prevent the pin from bending or deforming during the installation process.

The set performs its job reasonably well, especially for starting roll pins in hard-to-reach areas. However, the relatively soft stainless steel can be a weakness, leading to chipping or mushrooming of the punch tips with repeated use. The set is most effective for initial pin placement, and a separate, more robust punch may be needed to fully seat the pin. It meets expectations for basic roll pin starting but doesn’t exceed them due to durability concerns.

Design & Ergonomics

The DELTAC AR-15 Hollow End Roll Pin Set features a simple, functional design. The punches are relatively short. They measure at approximately 2.72 inches in length. The stainless steel construction provides a decent weight and feel in the hand.

The hollow tips are precisely sized to fit over common AR-15 roll pins. There is no learning curve involved. The punches are easy to use for anyone familiar with basic firearm assembly. The knurled handles provide a decent grip.

Durability & Maintenance

As previously mentioned, the durability of the DELTAC AR-15 Hollow End Roll Pin Set is a potential concern. The 303 stainless steel, while corrosion-resistant, is not as hard as tool steel. This can lead to the punch tips deforming or chipping with repeated use.

Maintenance is simple. A quick cleaning with a solvent or CLP after each use will prevent rust and buildup. Filing the punch tips occasionally may be necessary to remove any mushrooming.

Accessories and Customization Options

The DELTAC AR-15 Hollow End Roll Pin Set does not come with any additional accessories. There are no customization options available for this product. The simplicity of the set is both a strength and a limitation.

The set is intended to be used in conjunction with other standard AR-15 tools, such as a hammer, roll pin holders, and punches for fully seating the pins. While not customizable, the DELTAC set can be used with a wide range of AR-15 components and accessories from various brands.

Pros and Cons of DELTAC AR-15 Hollow End Roll Pin Set

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Who Should Buy DELTAC AR-15 Hollow End Roll Pin Set?

The DELTAC AR-15 Hollow End Roll Pin Set is perfect for:

• Beginner AR-15 builders who are new to assembling and disassembling firearms. The hollow tips provide added stability and reduce the risk of damaging pins.
• Budget-conscious gun owners who want a basic set of roll pin punches without breaking the bank.
• Those who need a compact and portable set of punches for field maintenance or range repairs.

Who should skip this product?

• Professional gunsmiths or high-volume builders who require more durable and specialized tools.
• Individuals who prefer to invest in higher-quality, longer-lasting tools from the outset.

A must-have accessory is a good roll pin holder. This will help further stabilize the roll pin during installation. Upgrading to a set of punches made from high-quality tool steel would be a beneficial modification for increased durability.

Conclusion on DELTAC AR-15 Hollow End Roll Pin Set

The DELTAC AR-15 Hollow End Roll Pin Set offers a decent value proposition for beginner AR-15 builders and those on a budget. The hollow tip design aids in starting roll pins. The cost is minimal.

However, the durability of the stainless steel is a concern, and the set may not be suitable for heavy or professional use. For occasional use and careful handling, this set can be a helpful addition to your AR-15 toolkit.

I would recommend it to those just starting out or needing a backup set. Just be aware of its limitations. If you are serious about building and maintaining AR-15s, investing in a higher-quality set of tool steel punches is ultimately a better long-term investment. So, give it a try, but keep your expectations realistic.