Great way to avoid damage when working on upper receiver components - Midwest Industries Upper Receiver Rod

I purchased the AR-15 version of this tool because it provides alignment support to the upper receiver and barrel during maintenance. This tool relieves the barrel locating pin to upper receiver alignment notch from taking the rotational force generated as the barrel nut or muzzle device is tightened or loosened. It also can be used as a gauge to see if a previously assembled upper receiver and barrel are properly aligned. Some have complained that the tool won't slide into the upper receiver and into the barrel extension, this is most likely an indication of an alignment issue and not a fault in the tool. I have used this tool with two 1980's vintage Colt A2 uppers. One upper was the dual push pin style while the other was the Sporter version with the double screw head. The tool worked properly with both of those uppers with no problem. One barrel was a Colt while the other was a Bushmaster and again no problem. FYI, I also tried this AR-15 sized tool in my Rugar SFAR in 7.62 NATO and it fits that rifle as well. While certainly costly for only occasional use by a hobbyist, this is a well made and finished professional grade tool that can prevent damage that is more costly than it's price.