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Brownells

Firing Pin Protrusion Gauge - Ar-15/M16 Firing/Pin Gauge

Our editorial team reviews specifications, product data, and field-use information to keep pages accurate.

Measures Firing

Pin protrusion through the bolt

Helps Verify

Protrusion is within proper range

Steel Construction

Compact 2-inch

Length for easy bench use

1/4-inch Width

$28.99
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SKU: 080216013

Overview

For AR-15/M16 maintenance and inspection, this gauge provides a straightforward way to check firing pin protrusion through the bolt. It is intended to help identify conditions that can lead to misfires or pierced primers before they become a problem. Made of steel and sized at 2 inches long by 1/4 inch wide, it is a compact bench tool for careful diagnostic work. This is a practical choice for shooters who want a simple measurement aid during armorer-level checks and troubleshooting.

Why Hunters Choose the Brownells

Helps Measure

Firing pin protrusion through the

Addresses Both

Under-protrusion and over-protrusion concerns during

Compact 2-inch

Gauge is easy to store

Steel Construction

Straightforward, durable tool format

Simple, Purpose-built

Design for checking firing pin

Key Features

  • Measures firing pin protrusion through the bolt for AR-15/M16 use.
  • Helps verify protrusion is within proper range to avoid misfires or pierced primers.
  • Steel construction.
  • Compact 2-inch length for easy bench use.
  • 1/4-inch width.

Best Used For

  • AR-15/M16 owners checking firing pin protrusion during routine maintenance or troubleshooting
  • Armorers verifying bolt setup when diagnosing misfires or pierced primers
  • Bench users who want a simple gauge for precise firing pin projection measurement
  • Serious shooters maintaining AR-platform reliability with a dedicated inspection tool

Specifications

Length2 in (5.1 cm)
MaterialSteel
Width1/4 in (6.3 mm)

Pros

  • Helps measure firing pin protrusion through the bolt for AR-15/M16 maintenance
  • Addresses both under-protrusion and over-protrusion concerns during inspection
  • Compact 2-inch gauge is easy to store in a bench kit
  • Steel construction provides a straightforward, durable tool format
  • Simple, purpose-built design for checking firing pin projection

Considerations & Trade-offs

  • Designed for a specific AR-15/M16 measurement task, so it is not a general-purpose gunsmithing gauge.
  • Its use is limited to checking firing pin protrusion through the bolt; it does not diagnose every cause of ignition problems.
  • The compact 2-inch steel form is practical for bench work, but it is a specialized tool rather than a multi-function maintenance accessory.

Suggested Comparisons

  • AR-15/M16 armorer tools
  • Firing pin gauges
  • Bolt inspection tools
  • Rifle maintenance tools

Suggested Accessories

  • Armorer's tool kit
  • Gunsmithing bench block
  • Cleaning mat
  • Small parts tray

Frequently Asked Questions

What is this gauge used for on an AR-15/M16 bolt?

It is used to measure how much the firing pin projects through the bolt.

Why would a hunter or shooter check firing pin protrusion?

The product description says too little protrusion can cause misfires, while too much can pierce primers.

What material is the gauge made from?

The provided specifications list it as steel.

What are the listed dimensions of the gauge?

It is listed as 2 inches (5.1 cm) long and 1/4 inch (6.3 mm) wide.

Who makes this gauge?

The manufacturer listed in the product data is Brownells.