bsiks

One problem is the diameter of the barrel behind the front sight is thicker than the front sight location. You would either have to ream the sight to a larger size or turn the barrel in a lathe which would require complete removal of barrel and barrel parts. ...or locate a fsb/gb combo of same diameter of your gas block and go from there.

I think it says 5.56 in the owner's manual. I'll have to check but I remember asking myself the .223 or 5.56 question and found my answer there.

Thanks man! I will certainly keep that in mind. Do you know if any of the heating will affect the chrome inside?

I agree with rob-cubed. Though what route you take is dependent on what equipment you have available. If you have a press, I recommend removing the pins and pressing off the original front sight block and putting a 74 block on. But if you don't and don't want to invest in one then cut it and thread it but make sure you get a thread alignment tool. Can't stress that enough. Be sure of your depth as well. Muzzle devices have varying length of threaded portion.

I also use an open end wrench with plates that came with the press but then I bought a barrel press kit from akbuilder.com that came with a set of bars and they haven't left the press since no matter what part I'm installing/removing. They're little more than 2 pieces of keystock ( 3/4 in perhaps) with holes in the ends and long bolts to help hold alignment. The bars from akbuilder are most likely heat treated, however, using them in addition to the plates, already available, their strength is improved.

Try looking on gunbroker.com

I have questions. Has it affected the chrome lining on the inside (caused it to flake off or affect it in any way)? Also, have you experienced any cracking in the weld area after repeated use of the firearm after welding? I'm looking to weld sights onto my .308 and while I have no problem welding on parts that can easily be replaced (gas tube and receiver cover), I do not want to adversely affect a part that is harder to get and replace. Thank you. Btw, this is my first post ever, so... Hi guys! ...and sorry if this has been posted before.