SPIKE'S AR BLOCK/MOUNTABLE GUN STAND

Elevating Your AR-15 Maintenance and Assembly: The Essential Guide to the Spike's Tactical AR Block/Mountable Gun Stand

For every AR-15 owner, enthusiast, and gunsmith, precision and stability are paramount when performing maintenance, cleaning, or light assembly tasks. Whether you're a seasoned builder meticulously crafting your next rifle or a responsible owner dedicated to keeping your firearm in peak condition, having the right tools makes all the difference. This comprehensive guide introduces you to an indispensable component of any AR-15 workbench: the Spike's Tactical AR Block, also known as a mountable gun stand. This purpose-built accessory is designed to transform your firearm upkeep experience, offering unparalleled support and convenience.

What is an AR Block and Why Do You Need One?

An AR block is a specialized tool engineered to securely hold the lower receiver of your AR-15 or M16 firearm. Unlike improvised solutions that can lead to scratches, instability, or even damage to your firearm, a dedicated AR block provides a stable, non-marring platform. The Spike's Tactical AR Block (SPK1016) specifically supports your lower receiver, preventing unwanted movement during critical operations.

Solving Common AR-15 Maintenance Challenges

Many firearm owners face challenges when working on their AR-15s. How do you hold the lower receiver steady while applying torque to a castle nut? What’s the safest way to clean the intricate components of your trigger group without damaging them? How do you ensure your lower receiver isn't scratched or marred while you're focused on assembly? The Spike's Tactical AR Block directly addresses these common dilemmas.

• Instability Issues: Without a proper support, working on a detached AR-15 lower receiver can be incredibly frustrating. It slides, tilts, and shifts, making precise work nearly impossible.
• Risk of Damage: Using vises directly on the receiver or improvised stands can lead to unsightly scratches, dings, or even structural damage to your firearm's finish or critical components.
• Inefficiency: Constantly re-adjusting your lower receiver wastes valuable time and energy, making routine maintenance feel like a chore.
• Safety Concerns: A wobbly firearm presents a safety hazard, increasing the risk of accidents during cleaning or assembly, especially when using solvents or tools.

The Spike's Tactical AR Block solves these problems by providing a firm, secure, and non-damaging grip on your AR-15 or M16 lower receiver. Its design ensures that your firearm remains rock-solid, allowing you to focus entirely on the task at hand with confidence and precision.

Key Features of the Spike's Tactical AR Block (SPK1016)

The Spike's Tactical AR Block is more than just a piece of plastic; it's a meticulously designed tool built for functionality and durability.

• Optimized for AR-15/M16 Lower Receivers: This block is specifically molded to fit the magazine well of standard AR-15 and M16 lower receivers, ensuring a snug and secure fit without play. This precise fit is critical for maintaining stability during operations.
• Ergonomic Support: The "Ergo Spike's Block Stand" nomenclature highlights its ergonomic design. It's shaped to provide comfortable and stable support, making it easier to manipulate the firearm from various angles.
• Mountable Design with 1/4" Holes: A standout feature is the inclusion of 1/4-inch mounting holes. These holes allow the block to be securely bolted or clamped to a workbench, a piece of wood, or even a custom fixture. This mountable capability transforms it from a simple stand into a fixed workstation, drastically increasing stability and making it ideal for heavier-duty tasks or repeated operations.
• Durable Black Construction: Crafted from robust materials, typically a high-strength polymer, the block is built to withstand the rigors of frequent use without deforming or breaking. Its black finish is resistant to common gun cleaning solvents and oils, ensuring longevity and maintaining its appearance over time.
• Versatile Applications: While often called a "stand," its utility extends far beyond mere storage. It's an active tool for:
  • Cleaning: Thoroughly clean the carbon fouling and debris from the lower receiver's intricate nooks and crannies.
  • Maintenance: Perform detailed inspections, lubricate components, and replace worn parts.
  • Light Assembly: Install trigger groups, pistol grips, buffer tubes, and stock assemblies with ease and stability.
  • Storage: Keep your disassembled lower receiver upright and organized on your workbench or in your safe, preventing it from rolling around or getting scratched.

Real-World Use Cases: How the Spike's Tactical AR Block Enhances Your Experience

Let's explore practical scenarios where the Spike's Tactical AR Block proves invaluable.

1. Comprehensive AR-15 Cleaning and Lubrication

One of the most common questions new AR-15 owners ask is, "What's the best way to thoroughly clean my AR-15 lower receiver?" The answer involves stability. After field stripping your rifle, the lower receiver often becomes the most challenging part to clean effectively.

• Secure Mounting: Insert the Spike's Tactical AR Block into the magazine well. If your workbench permits, use the 1/4" mounting holes to secure the block firmly. This ensures your lower receiver won't move an inch while you scrub, brush, and wipe.
• Detailed Access: With the lower receiver held steady, you gain unimpeded access to the fire control group, takedown pin detents, and other hard-to-reach areas. Apply solvents, use brushes, and wipe away carbon buildup without chasing the receiver across your workbench.
• Precise Lubrication: Once clean, you can precisely apply lubricants to all friction points, ensuring smooth operation of your trigger, hammer, and disconnector.

2. Effortless AR-15 Lower Receiver Assembly

For those venturing into building their own AR-15, the lower receiver is the foundation. Installing components like the trigger guard, pivot pin, takedown pin, magazine catch, bolt catch, buffer tube, and stock requires careful alignment and often significant force.

• Trigger Group Installation: Aligning the hammer, trigger, and disconnector with their respective pins can be tricky. With the lower receiver held firmly by the Spike's Tactical AR Block, you can use both hands to maneuver the tiny springs and pins, reducing frustration and the risk of components flying off.
• Buffer Tube and Castle Nut: Attaching the buffer tube and tightening the castle nut requires considerable torque. Without a stable base, your lower receiver will spin. The mountable nature of the Spike's Tactical block allows you to apply the necessary force without damaging your firearm or your workbench.
• Pin Installation: Takedown and pivot pins, along with their detents and springs, can be notoriously difficult to install. The stable platform provided by this block gives you the leverage and control needed to push pins into place accurately.

3. Light Gunsmithing and Customization

Beyond basic assembly, many owners choose to upgrade or customize their AR-15s. This might involve replacing the pistol grip, changing out the trigger, or installing ambidextrous controls.

• Pistol Grip Swaps: Removing or installing a pistol grip is straightforward with a stable base. You can easily access the grip screw and spring without the lower receiver wiggling.
• Trigger Upgrades: Swapping out a mil-spec trigger for an aftermarket precision trigger requires meticulous work. The AR block provides the steady platform needed to manage the small parts and achieve correct installation.
• Optics and Accessories: While primarily for the lower, a stable lower receiver can also aid in initial zeroing setups or attaching certain lower-mounted accessories by providing a consistent base.

4. Organized and Safe Storage

When your AR-15 is disassembled, or you simply need to store your lower receiver separately, the Spike's Tactical AR Block offers an excellent solution.

• Vertical Storage: The block allows the lower receiver to stand upright, saving space in your gun safe or on a shelf.
• Protection: It keeps the lower receiver off potentially abrasive surfaces, protecting its finish from scratches and dings during storage or transport to the workbench.
• Accessibility: Your lower receiver is always ready for its next cleaning or assembly task, neatly organized and easily accessible.

Who Benefits from the Spike's Tactical AR Block?

This versatile tool is ideal for a broad spectrum of firearm enthusiasts:

• First-Time AR-15 Owners: Simplify the often intimidating process of initial cleaning and basic maintenance.
• DIY Gunsmiths and Builders: Essential for anyone assembling their own AR-15 from a stripped lower receiver.
• Experienced Shooters: Maintain peak performance of their firearms through consistent, professional-level cleaning and upkeep.
• Firearm Collectors: Ensure their prized AR-15s are handled with care during display or light cleaning.
• Range Officers and Instructors: A useful tool for quick inspections or demonstrations.

Why Choose Spike's Tactical? A Mark of Quality and Trust

Spike's Tactical is a highly respected name in the firearm industry, renowned for producing high-quality AR-15 components and accessories. When you choose a Spike's Tactical product, you're investing in reliability and precision. Their commitment to manufacturing durable, functional, and aesthetically pleasing firearm parts extends to their AR Block.

The SPK1016 AR Block embodies this dedication. It's not just a generic plastic block; it's designed with the end-user in mind, incorporating features like ergonomic support and versatile mounting options that speak to Spike's Tactical's understanding of a gun owner's needs. This attention to detail ensures that the block will serve you reliably for years to come, standing up to the rigors of frequent use and exposure to solvents.

When searching for the best tools for AR-15 maintenance or how to safely work on your firearm, choosing reputable brands like Spike's Tactical ensures you're getting a product that meets industry standards and delivers on its promises.

Availability: Find Your Spike's Tactical AR Block at DEGuns

Ready to upgrade your AR-15 maintenance and assembly setup? The Spike's Tactical AR Block (SPK1016) is a highly recommended and widely available tool. For a reliable source, you can find this essential AR-15 accessory and a vast selection of other firearm-related products at DEGuns. DEGuns offers a comprehensive inventory of firearms, parts, and accessories, ensuring you can equip your workshop with everything you need for efficient and effective gun care. Visit deguns.com to explore their offerings and add this invaluable tool to your collection.

Conclusion: An Indispensable Tool for Every AR-15 Owner

In the world of AR-15 ownership, proactive maintenance and careful assembly are key to ensuring longevity, reliability, and optimal performance of your firearm. The Spike's Tactical AR Block/Mountable Gun Stand (SPK1016) emerges as an essential tool that simplifies complex tasks, prevents damage, and enhances your overall experience. By providing unparalleled stability, versatile mounting options, and a robust design, it empowers you to approach cleaning, maintenance, and light assembly with confidence and precision. Investing in this dedicated AR block is not just about convenience; it's about safeguarding your firearm and mastering your craft.