Field Tested: Real Avid's AR-15 Armorer's Master Kit

by
posted on October 11, 2019
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
ra_001_ftpp_raak_-w-cover_01s.jpg

While building an AR-15 rifle for the first time a few years ago, I ended up investing too much in the tool set. Some of it was learning curve and some was experimentation to find which tools I liked best. But a solid chunk of the investment (around $700 when the dust settled), was due to the fact I couldn't find just one kit that covered most build and repair angles. In the end I had to mix and match pieces from various sets with tools acquired individually in order to get the job done.





To save folks the trouble of searching for the right tools, Real Avid has released the AR15 Armorer's Master Kit. The kit arrives in a durable, portable storage case. While some tools provide just one function, like the handguard removal tool and torque wrench, others have been redesigned to fill multiple roles. The chamber safety flag can also be used to illuminate the bore. The multi-purpose Armorer’s wrench can be used as three different types of hammers. The interchangeable brass, polymer and rubber hammer heads are stored right in the wrench's handle (so you don't have to hunt around for them) with a complete replacement set of heads provided in the storage case. 

The aluminum LUG-LOC upper vice block supports the upper receiver from the inside, instead of clamping around the outside, for a secure fit that protects the receiver from damage. The Smart Fit lower receiver vice block has an adjustable tension screw to ensure the lower does not fall of during maintenance. The Master Bench Block supports the bolt, charging handle and A2 front sights so that working on these components is much easier. In particular, I appreciate the complete pin punch set that provides just the flat tip and roll pin punches you need along with a set of roll pin tweezers.  


Additional tools found in the Real Avid AR15 Armorer's Master Kit include a pivot pin installation tool, pivot lock, a front sight adjustment tool and a set of polymer cleaning picks. The company also provides a manual to walk home builders through 18 of the most popular modifications for the AR platform. This handy kit has a suggested retail price of $249.99. For more information, visit realavid.com.

 

Latest

North South Skirmish Association 1
North South Skirmish Association 1

Roar of the Muskets: The North-South Skirmish Association

The North-South Skirmish Association keeps Civil War history alive through competition shoots using Civil War-era arms at its Fort Shenandoah home base, as well as at regional shoots across the country.

Interest in Gunsmithing Grows as Potential AI Safe Haven

We’re told AI could eventually eliminate every job, and the trades will just be the last to go. But a pair of experts dedicated to training gunsmiths have a different opinion on the fate of their graduates.

Pietta Re-Introduces Starr Revolver Models

Late last year, Pietta announced it would be re-introducing their Starr revolver in both its double-action and single-action form, and now, the guns are finally arriving stateside.

Why the Murder Rate Quickly Fell to a Likely Historic Low

If the gun-control Left is to be believed, then the murder rate in the U.S. should be going up. After all, gun sales and ownership rates have been rising for the last few decades and anti-gun groups claim that gun ownership is the cause of violent crime. This, of course, is nonsense.

16 New Bolt-Action Rifles for 2026

From cutting-edge precision rifles designed for competition or hunting to traditionally styled guns that emulate designs from yesteryear, 2026 saw the introduction of an incredible array of bolt-action rifles.

Review: Chiappa Rhino 60DS 10 mm Auto

The Italian-designed-and-manufactured Chiappa Rhino remains unique today as the only current revolver with the barrel mounted at the bottom of the frame, firing from the chamber at the 6-o’clock position.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.