Forge and Trigger Armory

The Right to Bear Arms Starts Here.

Month: January 2025

Pin Punch Set (14pcs) Review: A Complete Kit for Gunsmithing and Repairs

January 31, 2025 / / 0 Comments

A solid pin punch set is a must-have for gunsmiths, mechanics, and DIY enthusiasts who frequently work with roll pins and small components. The 14-piece Pin Punch Set offers a comprehensive toolkit that includes punches, a universal block, and a hammer—making it a complete package for removing and installing pins. But how does it perform? Let’s take a closer look.

Overview

This 14-piece Pin Punch Set is designed for firearm maintenance, mechanical repairs, and general workshop use. It includes a variety of pin punches, a universal block, and a hammer, covering everything needed for pin removal and installation. The kit is particularly useful for gunsmithing applications like AR-15 builds, trigger replacements, and detailed firearm work.

Key Features

  • Multiple Pin Punch Sizes – Covers a range of standard sizes.
  • Universal Block – Provides a stable surface for securing workpieces.
  • Hammer with Multiple Heads – Allows for controlled impact without damaging delicate parts.
  • Durable Steel Construction – Punches are made from hardened steel for longevity.
  • Non-Slip Handles – Provides better grip and control.

Performance & Usability

Build Quality & Durability

The hardened steel punches hold up well to repeated use and resist bending or breaking, even under heavy hammering. The included hammer features interchangeable heads, which is great for applying force without damaging sensitive components.

Ease of Use

Having a universal block in the set makes a big difference when working on firearms or mechanical parts. It holds small components securely, preventing slippage and making pin removal/installation much easier. The variety of punch sizes ensures that most common pin jobs can be handled with a single kit.

Versatility

This set is not just for firearms—it’s also useful for automotive work, machine maintenance, and general DIY repairs. Whether you’re working on a gun, a watch, or a piece of furniture, having a variety of punches at your disposal is incredibly convenient.

Portability & Storage

The kit comes with a storage case, keeping everything organized and easy to transport. This is a huge plus for those who like to keep their tools neat and ready for use.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

✅ Comprehensive set – Includes punches, hammer, and block.
✅ Hardened steel punches for durability.
✅ Universal block makes pin work easier.
✅ Hammer with interchangeable heads for precision strikes.
✅ Storage case included for easy organization.

Cons:

❌ Hammer could be heavier for some applications.
❌ Block material may wear over time with heavy use.
❌ Some punches may require occasional reconditioning.

Final Verdict: A Great All-in-One Kit for Precision Work

For anyone working on firearms, machinery, or general repairs, this 14-piece Pin Punch Set is a fantastic investment. The combination of various punches, a universal block, and a multi-head hammer makes it versatile, durable, and user-friendly. The inclusion of a storage case is a welcome bonus, keeping everything organized and ready for the next project.

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)

A must-have kit for gunsmiths, mechanics, and DIY enthusiasts alike!

Would this set be a useful addition to your toolbox? Let us know in the comments!

SWANLAKE 7PCS Roll Pin Starter Punch and Bolt Catch Install Punch Set Review

January 31, 2025 / / 0 Comments

When it comes to firearm maintenance, gunsmithing, or even general mechanical work, a reliable punch set is a must-have. The SWANLAKE 7PCS Roll Pin Starter Punch and Bolt Catch Install Punch Set offers an affordable solution for installing and removing roll pins, particularly in firearm builds and repairs. But does it hold up under real-world use? Let’s break it down.

Overview

The SWANLAKE 7PCS Punch Set is designed specifically for roll pin installation and removal, making it ideal for tasks like assembling AR-15 lowers, trigger group installations, and other gunsmithing applications. This set includes four roll pin starter punches and three bolt catch install punches, covering a range of common pin sizes.

Key Features

  • 7-Piece Set – Includes punches in 1/16″, 5/64″, 3/32″, and 1/8″ sizes.
  • Hardened Steel Construction – Durable and resistant to bending or breakage.
  • Starter Punches – Designed to hold roll pins in place for easy installation.
  • Bolt Catch Install Punches – Perfect for firearm builds, especially AR platforms.
  • Knurled Handles – Provides a secure grip for better control.

Performance & Usability

Build Quality & Durability

The hardened steel construction ensures these punches hold up under repeated use without bending or mushrooming, a common issue with cheaper punch sets. The knurled handles provide excellent grip, reducing slippage when working on small roll pins.

Ease of Use

The starter punches are a game-changer for roll pin installation, making it much easier to get pins seated without frustration. The bolt catch punches are particularly useful for AR-15 builders, eliminating the struggle of installing the bolt catch without damaging the receiver.

Versatility

While designed primarily for firearm maintenance, this set is also useful for working on automotive repairs, machinery, and other DIY projects that involve roll pins.

Portability & Storage

The compact size makes it easy to store in a tool bag or gunsmithing kit, though it does not come with a dedicated case.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

✅ Durable hardened steel construction.
✅ Starter punches simplify roll pin installation.
✅ Knurled handles provide a firm grip.
✅ Ideal for firearm maintenance, especially AR builds.
✅ Affordable price for a complete set.

Cons:

❌ No storage case included.
❌ May need a hammer with a soft face to avoid damage.
❌ Limited to small roll pin sizes.

Final Verdict: A Must-Have for Gunsmiths & DIYers

For the price, the SWANLAKE 7PCS Roll Pin Starter Punch Set is a fantastic addition to any gunsmithing or workshop toolkit. The starter punches make roll pin installation much easier, while the hardened steel construction ensures longevity. If you’re building or maintaining firearms—especially AR platforms—this set is a no-brainer.

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)

Affordable, durable, and extremely useful for firearm assembly and beyond!

Would you add this to your gunsmithing toolkit? Let us know in the comments!

Twod Outdoor Shooting SandBags For Target Sports Shooting

January 31, 2025 / / 0 Comments

Whether you’re a precision shooter, a hunter, or a firearms enthusiast looking for extra stability at the range, a good set of shooting rest bags can make all the difference. The Twod Outdoor Shooting Rest Bags offer an affordable solution for improving your shooting accuracy, providing a stable platform for rifles in various environments. But do they hold up to real-world use? Let’s find out.

Overview

The Twod Outdoor Shooting Rest Bags come as a front and rear support set designed to stabilize your rifle on a bench or in the field. These bags arrive unfilled, allowing users to customize their weight and material (sand, rice, plastic beads, etc.) based on preference. They are constructed from durable 600D Oxford fabric, which is advertised as water-resistant and built for rugged outdoor conditions.

Key Features

  • Front & Rear Bag Set – Provides stable shooting support.
  • Unfilled Design – Customizable weight and filling material.
  • Durable 600D Oxford Fabric – Water-resistant and wear-resistant.
  • Non-Slip Bottom – Helps maintain grip on benches and rough terrain.
  • Easy Transport – Comes with a clip to attach the two bags together.

Performance in the Field

Setup & Filling

Since these bags arrive unfilled, setting them up requires some extra effort. Many users opt for sand, but lighter materials like plastic beads or rice can work if you need a more portable solution. Sand provides the most stability but makes them significantly heavier to transport.

Stability & Support

Once filled, the bags do a great job of reducing recoil and enhancing accuracy. The front bag provides a steady base for resting your rifle’s forend, while the rear bag supports the stock for fine-tuned aiming adjustments. The non-slip bottom ensures the bags stay in place on most surfaces, from shooting benches to uneven ground in outdoor environments.

Durability & Weather Resistance

The 600D Oxford fabric is tough and resistant to tears, making it suitable for extended outdoor use. However, while it’s advertised as water-resistant, it’s best not to leave them exposed to rain, as moisture can seep through and affect the filling.

Portability

Weighing virtually nothing when empty, the bags are easy to store and transport. Once filled, they become bulkier, but the included snap-on clip helps keep them together for convenient carrying.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

✅ Affordable – Great value for the price.
✅ Customizable Fill – Adjust weight and stability as needed.
✅ Durable Construction – Tough fabric holds up well over time.
✅ Non-Slip Bottom – Helps maintain grip on different surfaces.
✅ Compact & Portable – Easy to carry when unfilled.

Cons:

❌ Unfilled on Arrival – Requires extra effort to set up.
❌ Not Fully Waterproof – Best to avoid prolonged exposure to moisture.
❌ May Need Heavier Fill for Stability – Lighter materials can make them less effective.

Final Verdict: Worth It?

For budget-conscious shooters looking for an affordable and effective way to improve rifle stability, the Twod Outdoor Shooting Rest Bags are a solid investment. While the need to fill them yourself may be a minor inconvenience, the ability to customize their weight and material adds versatility. Their durability, portability, and non-slip design make them an excellent choice for both benchrest shooting and outdoor use.

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4/5)

Great value for stability and accuracy—just be prepared to fill them yourself!

Would you use these bags for your next range day or hunting trip? Let us know in the comments!

MidTen Bore Sighting Laser .223

January 23, 2025 / / 0 Comments

Product Review: MidTen Bore Sighting Laser .223

Zeroing in your .223 firearm can be time-consuming and costly, but the MidTen Bore Sighting Laser .223 is here to streamline the process. This compact and efficient tool is perfect for shooters looking to save ammunition and time while achieving precise results.

Key Features and Benefits

The MidTen Bore Sighting Laser is a caliber-specific tool designed for .223 and 5.56 rifles, ensuring an accurate fit in the chamber. Once in place, the bright red laser projects a highly visible dot, allowing you to align your sights or optics quickly and effortlessly.

  • Ease of Use: Insert the laser into the chamber, and you’re ready to sight in. It’s that simple.
  • Bright and Reliable Laser: The red laser is bright enough for indoor and moderate outdoor use, offering a clear point of reference.
  • Durable Construction: Built from brass, the boresight is both lightweight and durable, ensuring a snug chamber fit without causing damage.

Battery Performance

The MidTen Bore Sighting Laser uses small button-cell batteries, which are included with the product. While battery life depends on usage, the design allows for quick and easy replacements, keeping your sighting process uninterrupted.

Things to Consider

Like most chamber-style laser boresights, the MidTen cannot be used with a closed bolt or action. However, this is standard for this type of product and doesn’t detract from its functionality. Also, while the laser is bright, it performs best in lower-light conditions or shaded environments.

Final Thoughts

The MidTen Bore Sighting Laser .223 is a reliable and effective tool for shooters who want to fine-tune their rifles without the hassle of trial-and-error adjustments. Its user-friendly design, bright laser, and durable construction make it a great addition to your shooting gear.

If you’re ready to save time, ammo, and frustration, give the MidTen Bore Sighting Laser a try. It’s a small investment that pays off with big results.

Sightmark RimFire Brass Boresight with Red Laser

January 12, 2025 / / 0 Comments

In the realm of zeroing your firearm with both efficiency and accuracy, the Sightmark RimFire Brass Boresight features a Red Laser that truly shines as an exceptional instrument. This boresight elegantly merges convenience with precision, establishing itself as an indispensable asset in any shooter’s arsenal, be they a seasoned professional or a casual enthusiast just starting their journey.

One of the most remarkable aspects of this boresight is its remarkable ease of use. Even for those who are unfamiliar with boresights, the Sightmark RimFire proves to be both straightforward and intuitive, allowing users to focus on honing their marksmanship without getting bogged down in complicated setup procedures. Just chamber the boresight, and you’ll find yourself ready to align your optic or iron sights with the bright laser.

The boresight has a long wire that connects the laser with the outside battery pack. This feature not only contributes to the overall ease of use but also enhances the durability of the boresight, as it prevents unnecessary wear and tear on both components. Such construction makes the boresight itself compact to ensure it fits right within the chamber and makes handling easier. With the battery pack being external, the laser will operate for extended periods, ensuring that you have adequate time for sighting tasks without the worry of the tool dying mid-use.

However, one should not forget that closing the bolt or action is not possible with the boresight in place. The reason for this restriction is the wire to the external battery pack, which could easily be a minor inconvenience. While it may not be a dealbreaker, it is something to think about, mainly if you are used to boresights without an external battery; in such instances, knowing how to navigate this limitation can ensure a smoother experience.

In general, the Sightmark RimFire Brass Boresight is a reliable and effective tool for sighting in with accuracy. Its simplicity, bright laser, and thoughtful design make it a serious contender in its category, promising to meet the demands of diverse shooting challenges. If you’re looking for a practical way to save both time and ammunition during your firearm’s sighting-in process, this is a product you should consider; its thoughtful engineering and ease of use can significantly improve your shooting experience while fostering a more enjoyable and productive time at the range.

© 2025 Forge and Trigger Armory

Theme by Anders Noren — Up ↑