When it comes to armorer’s tools, Real Avid is the best in the business. Obviously, that’s just my opinion, but they make high-quality tools for just about anything you can think of. When I first started to learn how to work on my AR-15 rifle, I didn’t have the right tools for the job. I didn’t even know some of those tools existed. I used screwdrivers, plyers, a pipe wrench, and whatever else I had in my toolbox.
Back in those days, I used a clevis pin and a large paper clip to remove the pivot pin, detent, and spring from the lower receiver. Now, companies like Real Avid make tools just for that task, and they’re lifesavers. If you have worked on an AR-15 before, you have probably sent a spring or two flying across the room. If you haven’t worked on one yet but plan to, check out these tools before you do.
Pivot Pin Tool
Real Avid is a creative company that keeps making new tools for just about every job. They stand out from others because most of their tools make difficult jobs much easier. One of these tools is the Pivot Pin Tool, and it’s a must-have if you plan to work on your AR-15. This is a small tool that is often overlooked, but it’s unbelievably handy. I used their standard one for more than a year before purchasing the Pivot Pin Tool Pro. The Pro is a little more expensive ($29.99) but made of metal.
This is not to say the standard plastic one doesn’t work great, but I like the Pro version better. This thing makes it easy to install the pivot pin, detent, and spring in seconds. For those who only need one from time to time, the plastic version is available for $11.99.
To use it, simply place the install tool over the lugs on the lower receiver. Insert the larger pin so the hole lines up for the spring and detent.
Insert the spring and detent through the hole in the large pin and push it in with the plunger. While pushing in with the plunger, Rotate the plunger and install the tool upwards. Now, you can remove the plunger and insert the pivot pin from the left side. Allow the pivot pin to push the large plunger out of the way until you hear it “click” in place.
Gun Vise – Master Grade
For those who plan to do some serious work on their AR and want an armorer station set up, this is a must-have. The Master Grade Gun Vise is heavy-duty and made just for Real Avid tools. I used a standard vise for a long time before upgrading to this one. I wish I had done it sooner. This vise takes up little room and is made to mount on the edge of your counter.
It has an integrated scope leveling system and Real Avid’s Gun-Fit Grip capability. The jaws that come with it slide over the vise to create a soft surface for the firearm. That means no more wrapping guns in rags to put them in the vise! These jaw covers have firm, rubbery padding on one side and textured plastic on the other, protecting your firearms from damages. When you don’t need them, simply pull them off, and you have a regular metal vise.
The Master Grade Vise uses a ball-and-socket joint, so it can move in any direction. This is great for working on handguns and rifles alike. If you really want to live in paradise, you can even use Real Avid’s new Smart Dock system. This system allows you to attach any Quick-Connect system to the vise, including the 180-lumen work light, 5-inch magnifying glass, and cell phone holder. Check back soon to see a full review of the Smart Connect system.
Smart-Fit AR15 Vise Block
Even if you don’t want to spend the money on the Master Gun Vise, you need the Smart Fit AR15 Vise block. This cheap little tool will work in any old vise, and it’s my most used tool. The top is shaped like an AR-15 mag and locks into place in the magwell of your rifle. The other end is made to fit in a vise so it can be tightened down.
Before I owned one of these, I clamped an old AR mag in the vise to hold my rifle still while I worked on it. This would kind of work, but I couldn’t get it tight enough without cracking the magazine. With the Smart Fit Vise Block, you can set your rifle on it, and it locks in place. This is perfect for just about any type of repair on your rifle. From cleaning to changing out the handguard, it holds the rifle in place without needing to clamp the gun into the vise. This tool only runs $39.99 at most retailers.
Have you tried any Real Avid Tools?
From Glock handguns to AR-15 rifles, Real Avid makes handy tools for just about every major firearm. I frequently use their 1911 Smart-Wrench, Armorers Hammer, Master Bench Block, and a slew of other tools. It’s hard to own an AR-15 without wanting to do something to it.
This could be upgrading the trigger, handguard, sights, safety selector, or other projects. No matter what your mission is, Real Avid makes a tool for it. Check out their tools and see which ones you need first. They’re easy to use, and they make every project hassle-free.
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