Ever wondered what keeps a gunsmith’s workshop running smoothly? It’s often the unsung heroes – the tools that make precise work possible. For anyone who loves working on firearms, whether for a hobby or a profession, the right workbench setup is incredibly important. But when it comes to a gunsmithing bench block, choosing the perfect one can feel like a puzzle.
Many people find it tough to know which bench block is best for their needs. Do you need something soft to protect delicate parts? Or something hard for driving pins? The wrong choice can lead to frustration, damaged tools, or even harm to the firearm itself. It’s a common problem that can slow down your projects and make the whole experience less enjoyable.
This post is here to clear up the confusion. We’ll explore the different types of gunsmithing bench blocks available and explain what makes each one special. By the end, you’ll understand how to pick the ideal bench block that will make your gunsmithing tasks easier and more successful. Let’s dive into the world of these essential workbench companions!
Our Top 5 Gunsmithing Bench Block Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Gunsmithing Bench Block Detailed Reviews
1. Real Avid Smart Bench Block – Universal Armorers Block Made with Non-Marring Materials
Rating: 8.8/10
Working on your firearms just got a whole lot easier and safer with the Real Avid Smart Bench Block. This clever tool is designed to help you clean and maintain your guns without causing any damage. It’s a must-have for anyone who loves their firearms and wants to keep them in top shape.
What We Like:
- It works with many different guns, like Glocks and 1911s.
- The material won’t scratch or hurt your gun’s finish.
- It has a magnet to hold small pins so you don’t lose them.
- The surface is non-slip, so your gun stays put while you work.
- It even has a built-in wrench for taking apart your 1911.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it’s universal, some very specific or older gun models might not fit perfectly.
- For beginners, the 1911 bushing wrench might take a little practice to use.
The Real Avid Smart Bench Block is a smart investment for any gun owner. It makes gun maintenance less of a chore and more of a simple, safe task.
2. Armorer’s Bench Block Non-Slip Universal – Precision Tool for Gun Maintenance and Gunsmithing
Rating: 9.4/10
The Armorer’s Bench Block Non-Slip Universal is a handy tool for anyone who works on guns. It makes taking apart and putting back together firearms much easier. This block helps you handle small parts like pins and springs without them getting lost or rolling away. It’s designed to be used with many popular gun models, making it a great addition to your workbench.
What We Like:
- QUICK SETUP: It makes putting pins, springs, and detents into your gun super fast.
- MULTI FUNCTIONAL TOOL: You can use it for guns like the M1911, Glock, and 10/22. It works for many different jobs.
- VERSATILE DESIGN: It has special cuts and lines that help you take your gun apart and put it back together smoothly.
- COMPACT LIGHTWEIGHT: It only weighs 240 grams, so it’s easy to carry around. This is great if you need to work on guns away from home.
- PRECISION ENGINEERING: It’s made from good quality polyurethane. This material won’t scratch or damage your gun parts.
What Could Be Improved:
- While versatile, some very specific or older gun models might not fit perfectly in all the grooves.
- The non-slip surface is good, but for extremely greasy parts, an extra wipe might still be needed.
This bench block is a smart investment for gun owners. It helps you do your gun maintenance safely and efficiently.
3. Wheeler Universal Bench Block with Non-Marring Construction and Multiple Uses for Pistols
Rating: 9.4/10
The Wheeler Universal Bench Block is a handy tool for anyone who works on pistols or does gunsmithing. Its tough urethane construction means it won’t scratch your firearms. This block is designed to make taking apart and putting back together most handguns much easier. It’s a single tool that does the job of many, saving you time and effort.
What We Like:
- It’s made from non-marring urethane, so it protects your gun parts.
- The block has many different channels and holes for various tasks like removing pins and sights.
- It works for many popular firearms, including 1911s and 10/22s.
- It’s easy to use, even for beginners.
- Wheeler backs it with a limited lifetime warranty for peace of mind.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 4-inch diameter might be a bit large for some smaller work areas.
- While versatile, it might not have every single specialized channel for extremely rare or complex firearm models.
This bench block is a solid investment for gun owners and hobbyists. It simplifies many maintenance tasks and keeps your firearms looking their best.
4. SEDY Universal Bench Block with Non-Marring
Rating: 9.1/10
The SEDY Universal Bench Block is a handy tool for anyone who likes to keep their gear in top shape. It’s made to help you clean and fix things without causing any damage. Think of it as a safe, steady spot for your tools and parts.
What We Like:
- It’s made of tough, scratch-proof material, so it won’t hurt your tools.
- Magnets hold your small pieces, so you don’t lose them.
- It has different slots and holes for many jobs, like pushing out pins or dealing with springs.
- You can use both sides, and the holes fit lots of different parts.
- It’s small and easy to put away when you’re done.
- It gives you a stable surface for working.
What Could Be Improved:
- For very heavy-duty jobs, a larger, heavier block might be preferred.
- While it fits many parts, some extremely large or oddly shaped items might not be perfectly accommodated.
This bench block makes maintenance easier and safer. It’s a smart addition to any toolkit for keeping your equipment in good working order.
5. Pridefend Bench Block
Rating: 9.2/10
The Pridefend Bench Block is a must-have tool for any gun owner who likes to do their own maintenance. It’s designed to help you work on your guns without scratching or damaging them. This block works with many different types of handguns, including popular models like the Glock and 1911. It’s made from tough, non-marring polymer, so you can be sure your gun’s finish stays looking great.
What We Like:
- Universal Fit: Works with a wide range of handguns thanks to its universal pin hole sizes.
- Protects Your Guns: Made from non-marring, scratch-resistant polymer to keep your firearm’s finish safe.
- Stays Put: Features a non-slip pad that keeps the block steady while you work.
- Multi-Functional: Has various channels and holes for tasks like removing pins, working on sights, and general maintenance.
- Quality Assurance: Each block is checked for quality to ensure it performs well.
What Could Be Improved:
- While universal, some very specialized or uncommon firearm models might not have perfectly matching pin hole sizes.
- The “other guns” mentioned are quite broad; more specific examples beyond Glock and 1911 would be helpful for potential buyers.
This bench block makes gun maintenance easier and safer for your firearms. It’s a reliable tool that helps you keep your guns in top condition.
Choosing the Right Gunsmithing Bench Block: Your Essential Guide
Gunsmithing requires precision and the right tools. A gunsmithing bench block is a simple but vital piece of equipment. It protects your firearm and your workbench. This guide will help you pick the best one for your needs.
1. Key Features to Look For
Size and Shape
Bench blocks come in different sizes. Some are small and fit in your hand. Others are larger and cover more surface area. Think about the types of firearms you work on. Smaller blocks are good for handguns. Larger blocks work well for rifles and shotguns.
Notches and Cutouts
Many bench blocks have special notches. These are designed to hold specific gun parts. They help you support pins, springs, and other small pieces. Look for blocks with a variety of notches. This makes them more versatile.
Material Durability
The material matters a lot. It should be tough enough to withstand hammer strikes. It also needs to be soft enough not to scratch your gun parts. We will talk more about materials next.
Non-Slip Surface
A good bench block will stay put. Some have a rubber or textured bottom. This prevents it from sliding around while you work. This is important for safety and accuracy.
2. Important Materials
Delrin (Acetal)
Delrin is a very popular choice. It is a hard plastic. It is tough and durable. It won’t mar or scratch your firearm parts. It also resists solvents and oils. Many gunsmiths prefer Delrin.
Nylon
Nylon is another good plastic. It is strong and impact-resistant. Like Delrin, it is gentle on gun finishes. It’s a cost-effective option.
Aluminum
Some bench blocks are made of aluminum. Aluminum is strong. It can handle heavy hammer blows. However, it is a metal. It can potentially scratch or damage softer firearm finishes if you’re not careful. It is best for pushing out pins.
Rubber
Rubber is often used for the base of bench blocks. It provides grip. It keeps the block from moving. Some blocks are made entirely of rubber, but these are usually for very light work.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Precision Machining
Well-made bench blocks have smooth, precise edges and cutouts. This means they fit parts correctly. Poorly made blocks might have rough edges. These can snag or damage your firearm.
Material Purity
High-quality plastics are made from pure materials. This makes them stronger and more consistent. Cheaper plastics might have fillers. These can make the block brittle.
Design Versatility
A block with many different sized notches and holes is better. It can be used for more types of guns and tasks. A block with only one or two small cutouts is less useful.
Weight and Stability
A block with some weight will be more stable. It is less likely to tip over. However, it shouldn’t be so heavy that it’s hard to handle.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
Protecting Your Work Surface
The main job of a bench block is to protect your workbench. When you are tapping out pins or working on small parts, you might hit the bench. The block takes the impact instead.
Supporting Firearm Components
Bench blocks have specific cutouts. You can place a slide, frame, or barrel on these. This holds the part steady. It lets you work on it without it moving. This is crucial for tasks like removing pins or springs.
Preventing Damage to Parts
When you tap a pin out, you use a punch and hammer. A bench block supports the area around the pin. This stops the surrounding metal from bending or deforming. It also stops the punch from slipping.
Disassembly and Reassembly
Gunsmiths use bench blocks for both taking guns apart and putting them back together. They are helpful for aligning parts and supporting them during assembly.
A good bench block is an investment. It makes gunsmithing easier and safer. It helps you maintain your firearms and your tools.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is a gunsmithing bench block used for?
A: A gunsmithing bench block is used to protect your workbench and firearm parts. It provides a stable surface for disassembly and reassembly. It helps support parts while you work on them.
Q: What are the most common materials for bench blocks?
A: The most common materials are Delrin (a hard plastic) and Nylon. Some are also made of aluminum. Rubber is often used for the base for grip.
Q: Why is Delrin a good material for bench blocks?
A: Delrin is a hard plastic that is very durable. It will not scratch or damage your gun parts. It also resists common gun cleaning chemicals.
Q: Do bench blocks come in different sizes?
A: Yes, they come in various sizes. Smaller blocks are good for handguns. Larger blocks are better for rifles and shotguns.
Q: What do the notches and cutouts on a bench block do?
A: The notches and cutouts are designed to hold specific firearm parts. They help you support pins, springs, and other small pieces while you work.
Q: Can an aluminum bench block damage my gun?
A: Aluminum is a metal. It can potentially scratch softer firearm finishes if you are not careful. It is best used for pushing out pins where less contact is made.
Q: How does a bench block improve my gunsmithing work?
A: It provides a stable platform. This helps you work more precisely. It also prevents damage to your firearm and your workbench.
Q: Should I look for a non-slip bottom on a bench block?
A: Yes, a non-slip bottom is a good feature. It keeps the block from sliding around on your workbench. This makes your work safer and more stable.
Q: Are there universal bench blocks?
A: Some bench blocks are designed to be universal. They have many different types of notches and cutouts. This allows them to work with a wider range of firearms.
Q: How do I clean a gunsmithing bench block?
A: Most plastic bench blocks can be cleaned with soap and water or a mild solvent. For aluminum, you can use a degreaser.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
I’m the recipe developer and food photographer behind Air Fryer at Tiffany’s. I’m also a wife, mom to two adventurous little boys, registered nurse, and live in the great Midwest. Join me as I show you new ways to use your air fryer that you never knew possible.