Replace FSB Or Not to Replace

[Dorky_D 8]

I am trying to decide whether to replace the FSB with an AK-74 style FSB.

 

-Reasons to replace-

I am planning on putting a AK-74 brake on there.

I am thinking of replacing the handguards.

I would like to to be able to put a cleaning rod under the barrel.

It would have a bayonet lug (not a huge reason, other than looks and bragging rights)

 

Reasons not to replace-

It is expensive

I am not sure I can do it myself. Taking the old off would not be a big deal, but putting one on scares me a bit with wanting to drill the pins straight.

I can thread the barrel, put on an adaptor, and still place on the 74 brake.

 

 

Will a cleaning rod stay put without a different FSB?

[gunguy98 5]

Changing out the FSB is really not that difficult. Here is a pic of my 5.45, making sure everything is straight takes the most time but is not all that scary. Best way to drill is with a press. I did this one with a hand drill and went very slow to make sure I was straight, I drilled from both sides and met in the middle.

I wanted to make sure the drill bit was sharp so I changed it out about 4 times and they cut like a hot knife threw butter. I believe it took me about 35 minutes total to drill the pins this way. When I did my 2 other .223's I used a drill press which made it a little quicker, but you really need to take your time and make sure your drill bits are sharp.