AR15 Dummy magazine vise blocks

[Rembrandt]

Been thinking for some time about getting a AR15 magazine vise block for some builds. Checked out Brownells and they have them for about $50. But the reviews were not complimentary regarding the fit. Many found them to be snug or too tight to work. If that's the case maybe I'll just make my own.

So I decided to make one from aluminum billet. Wanted a tight fit with little to no play when inserted. Came out nice and does exactly what I wanted it to do.....until I tried it in three other AR receivers. Some were too tight to insert, others went in partially and a third worked perfect.

Is there that big of difference in mag well specs from one supplier to another? Or are all my lowers not Mil-spec?

 

[FL-NC]

If you put actual mags in your receivers, you will likely find play and different levels of tension. I use the block- don't remember paying that much for it though.

 

[Driftertank]

I put a block of wood into an old bent milspec mag to use as a vice block. Works pretty well. Cost: free-fifty.

 

[rskent]

I made mine out of UHMW. They work well. One of them goes up through the mag well and has a button so the hammer can fall without hitting the lower. Great for adjusting triggers. And the cost was free as well.

 

[BigBL87]

There is a little variation between manufacturers, as some brands seem to be really tight with P-Mags for example.

I personally went with a BEV Block from Magpul, works fine for my PSA lower.