[SubNine]

I am wanting to swap the A2 gas block on my M&P15 with one that has a flip up front sight. I am curious as to how difficult this is and what tools I will need to do the job right without damaging anything. I mounted an EOtech 512 on it and I don't really like having the front sight in line with the red dot.

Thanks in advance!

 

[matiki]

You need to remove the two pins that hold the front sight/gas block (they're tapered on most guns so only remove one direction), and the gas tube roll pin after removing the flash hider.

You'll need:

Action Block to hold your receiver in your vise
A wrench for the FH
A poly or wood block with holes in it to back your FH while you pound out the pins
A set of short, high quality steel punches for the FH pins (brass, or long punches will bend, but will work fine for the gas tube roll-pin)
A big hammer

IMO the barrel is the hardest part to install correctly for a newb, and an A2 gas block is the hardest part to remove.

ETA: You should check out ar15.com, they have a step by step assembly guide.

 

[Exodus]

Brownells has an excellent free video series that details building an AR from the ground up. It's very informative, and I think it's a must-watch for any AR owner. Even if you aren't going to build one - it helps to see how they are put together!

Brownell’s Offers AR15 Assembly Videos Online AccurateShooter.com Bulletin