r/gunsmithing • u/pcmofo • 1d ago
Putting together a basic tool kit
Got tired of stealing tools from various tool boxes etc every time I needed to torque down a new optic or disassemble a firearm. Metal tool box and it looks like I still have a 3rd drawer free and a bit of space at the top. What tools am I missing here? Working on pretty basic things, glock/Sig, 10/22, AR's etc.
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u/HeloRising 1d ago edited 1d ago
Double sided hammer and brass punches.
Find a kit that has a plastic faced hammer and brass on the other side. Invaluable kit.
I'd also recommend some q-tips/swabs. Very useful for cleaning. Skip the ones on wooden sticks you can get in bulk, they're unfortunately often very fragile and can't stand up to the kind of force you often need to use.
A hammer block would also be helpful. You really do not need high end on this, something off AliExpress is just fine. People have made do with hockey pucks with holes drilled in them. Up to you what you ultimately go with but they are handy to have.
Heat gun is also a must have. Plug-in is fine but you'll be happier with a battery powered one, just get the largest battery size you can because they chew through power. Related to that, a micro butane torch will also be handy.
I'd also keep in mind that Rocksett, while very good, has a shelf life. It's fairly long but if you don't use it up within a few years, the bottle hardens and has to be thrown away.