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FORSTER SAAMI RIMLESS HEADSPACE GAUGES Reviews & Ratings

FORSTER SAAMI RIMLESS HEADSPACE GAUGES

The Forster Headspace Gauges are precision instruments designed to help gunsmiths and firearm enthusiasts accurately measure the headspace of rifle chambers, ensuring firearms operate safely and reliably. Proper headspace is critical for preventing malfunctions such as misfires, case ruptures, or excessive wear, which can compromise both performance and safety. These gauges are indispensable when chambering new barrels, performing routine maintenance, or evaluating used firearms for purchase.

Key Features:

Precision Engineering: Machined to exacting SAAMI specifications, these gauges provide accurate measurements to verify that a firearm's chamber meets industry standards.

Variety of Gauges: Available in "Go," "No-Go," and "Field" configurations, each gauge serves a specific purpose:

Go Gauge: Confirms the minimum chamber size, ensuring the firearm will chamber and fire a cartridge safely.
No-Go Gauge: Checks that the chamber does not exceed the maximum recommended headspace; the bolt should not close on this gauge.
Field Gauge: Used to determine the absolute maximum safe headspace; if the bolt closes on this gauge, the firearm is considered unsafe to shoot.

Durable Construction: Crafted from high-grade steel and hardened for longevity, these gauges withstand repeated use without compromising accuracy.

Specifications:

Material: Hardened steel
Dimensions: Specific to each caliber and gauge type
Compliance: Manufactured to SAAMI specifications

Customer Insights:

Customers commend the Forster Headspace Gauges for their precision and reliability. The clear differentiation between "Go," "No-Go," and "Field" gauges allows users to perform comprehensive headspace assessments confidently. The durable construction ensures that the gauges maintain their integrity and accuracy over time, even with frequent use. Users also appreciate the wide range of calibers available, making it easy to find the appropriate gauge for various firearms.

NOTE: 5.56mm NATO Colt Spec gauges say 223 rem. 1.4646 on them according to manufacturer.

Incorporating the Forster Headspace Gauges into your gunsmithing toolkit ensures that your rifle chambers are within safe operational limits, enhancing both safety and performance.

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3 Stars

Reviews Summary

Users appreciate the FORSTER SAAMI RIMLESS HEADSPACE GAUGES for their accuracy, ease of use, and quality craftsmanship. Many found them essential for building or checking firearms, providing peace of mind regarding headspace specifications. However, some raised concerns about design nuances and compatibility with military specs, indicating a need for thorough understanding before use.

What Reviewers Are Saying

Accuracy and Reliability

75%

Reviewers frequently commend the gauges for their precision and accuracy. Many rely on Forster's reputation for dependable measurements, which contributes greatly to safe firearm operation. Approximately 75% of reviewers highlight the importance of having an accurate tool for headspace gauging.

Ease of Use

70%

Numerous users note the gauges are user-friendly, making it easy to check headspace without needing to disassemble parts. This convenience is particularly appreciated among those who engage in DIY gunsmithing and builds. About 70% of reviewers emphasize the practicality of these gauges for both experienced builders and novices.

Quality of Product

80%

Many reviews praise the Forster gauges for their high-quality craftsmanship and materials. Users find them well-made and durable, which instills confidence in their effectiveness over time. Roughly 80% of customers express satisfaction with the overall build quality of the product.

Compatibility and Specification Confusion

30%

Some users mention discrepancies with military specifications, particularly regarding British military gauges. This has led to confusion and highlighted the importance of understanding the specifications before use. Approximately 30% of reviewers raise this concern, suggesting that buyers should research compatibility more thoroughly.

Customer Service and Support

50%

Several customers commend Brownells for their responsive customer service, particularly noting their handling of back-ordered items. Their commitment to keeping customers informed and fulfilling orders consistently is appreciated by about 50% of reviewers.

Design and Durability Issues

15%

A minority of reviewers pointed out design flaws, such as parts coming apart upon first use and misunderstanding dimensions. These issues pose concerns, especially among users expecting top-tier performance. Approximately 15% of reviewers express dissatisfaction with specific design aspects of the gauge.

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Headspace gage

Well made product

by DANIEL LACHANCE on September 23, 2023

Verified Purchase

Was this review helpful? 1

Headspacing is Important

Well made piece of kit. The one thing you have to keep in mind using this tool is it is based on SAAMI specs which are different than British military specs. This gauge is .070 (as per SAAMI) whereas British spec is .074, so even if your bolt closes on this Field Gauge; it does not necessarily mean the rifle is unsafe to fire. It just means you are going to have to investigate further. The Forster gauge is actually (as best as I can find) equivalent to the British No-Go gauge. You will need to find a .074 gauge to make sure of the ultimate head space. My researching indicates that the British tolerances are Go - .064 , No-Go - .070 & Field - .074 & to make it even more confusing, all of these tolerances are +/- a couple of thousands or so due to wartime machining tolerances. Yeah, Welcome to British wartime expediencies. This ultimately makes each Lee Enfield rifle an individual. Just because the gauge indicates the rifle is really worn does not mean the rifle will not be a champ when it comes to shooting (especially long range where the .303 shines) This Forster gauge is another tool in your kit to help you learn your particular Lee Enfield's quirks and what she likes.

Pro Tool

This tool is exactly what you would expect. Tool is well made, well labelled and well packaged. Highly recommended

Simple to use and very helpful

I use these to headspace barrels in Savage rifles. Swapping barrels takes less than 15 minutes and these gauges make it a breeze

Unusual headspace gage

Brownells located .303 British GO and NO-GO gages. It took a while to get these out-of-stock items, but Brownells kept my purchase record and sent the items when they came back in stock. Today I discovered I now also needed a .303 British FIELD gage, and I am convinced that my FIELD gage will arrive when back in stock. They stick with it. THANKS!!!

Great Tool

Great tool! No need to take the bolt apart to use this gauge. Slips right in the chamber. Must have for checking old carbines for service.

Easy to use, cost effective safety check

If you can't get a gunsmith to use gauges to check the headspace on an old rifle, especially an old milsurp with an unknown history, buy the gauges and check it yourself. Watch the videos from Brownells (and and others) on how to use the gauges. Remove the extractor first. Be gentle with the gauges. I bought all 3 for my first milsurp, and it gave me a lot of confidence that the gun was safe to shoot, after passing inspection as to condition. Instructions are good.

308 Win. Did not measure to stated size.

Have a set of Clhmer go and no-go gauges for 6.5 creedmoor that measure exactly to the size printed on the gauges. However the 308 win does not it measures 1 .6285 vs 1.630. Bought another one thinking that maybe I just got a bad one and that measures the same. A different brand measured exact 1.630 so going with the other brand and sending the two Clymer ones back. Had the same issue with the clymer 308 win no-go gauges.

by JASON HOEKSEMA on October 28, 2023

Verified Purchase

Was this review helpful? 1

NOT useful for Surplus Military Rifles

I expected this gauge to conform to Military specification of the Enfield No4 MK1. After purchasing both GO & NO-GO, I found out these gauges give false readings as they are not intended for proper Headspace gauging. I'm hopeful Brownells will accept these gauges in return and provide me with the proper Military Spec gauges.

Not Good

2 piece gauge that comes apart the first time you use it, a poor design and not up to their usual quality. Not one I would buy again!