Re: Proper Headspacing?
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: TonyAngel</div><div class="ubbcode-body">You really can't headspace an AR barrel yourself. All you can do is confirm that the headspace in within spec. The likelihood of getting a setup that is dangerous due to excessive headspace is highly unlikely, although it could happen.
I usually just check to make sure that there isn't excessive headspace using a field gauge. Getting the bolt with the barrel is a good idea, just so that you'll know that the headspace was checked. </div></div>
The only gage of any value is a Max/Reject. The headspace spec for COLT rifles and carbines is 1.4646 to 1.4706 inches.
Go 1.464
No-Go 1.476
Field 1.470
Max/Reject 1.4736
A little math will tell you that a COLT bolt will close on every gage except the Max/Reject gage and still be within spec. Unless you have access to a machine shop and a set of Rock Island Arsenal gages, head space is non-issue.
Buy a complete rifle or a bolt and barrel from a quality manufacturer and call it good.