BRN AR-15/M16 Colt 5.56x45 NATO Headspace Gauge 1.4736"
BRN AR-15/M16 Colt 5.56x45 NATO Headspace Gauge 1.4736"
BRN AR-15/M16 Colt 5.56x45 NATO Headspace Gauge 1.4736"
BRN AR-15/M16 Colt 5.56x45 NATO Headspace Gauge 1.4736"
BRN AR-15/M16 Colt 5.56x45 NATO Headspace Gauge 1.4736"
BRN AR-15/M16 Colt 5.56x45 NATO Headspace Gauge 1.4736"
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BROWNELLS - BRN AR-15/M16 Colt 5.56x45 NATO Headspace Gauge 1.4736"

9 Reviews
BRN AR-15/M16 Colt 5.56x45 NATO Headspace Gauge 1.4736"
Brownells #
319418033
MFR #
COLT 5.56MM H'SPACE GAUGE FIEL
UPC
757253992421
$46.45
Coupon Code
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Estimated delivery: Oct 30
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Specifications
Cartridge:
5.56x45 NATO
Item Length (Inches):
1.650
Color:
Silver
Headspace Gauge Type:
Field
Make Model Fit:
AR-15.Universal;M16.Universal
Quantity:
1
Material:
Steel
Restriction
Gun Tool Restriction:
Yes
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What is the BROWNELLS - BRN AR-15/M16 Colt 5.56x45 NATO Headspace Gauge 1.4736"?

BROWNELLS BRN 5.56MM MAXIMUM HEADSPACE GAUGE

The Brownells BRN 5.56mm Maximum Headspace Gauge is a precision inspection tool designed to verify maximum allowable headspace in 5.56 NATO M16 and AR-15 rifles. Manufactured to the special dimensions used by the Colt factory, this gauge provides an essential safety and serviceability check for rifles that have experienced heavy use, undergone rebarreling, or received bolt and barrel component replacements.

Unlike standard GO and NO-GO gauges, this gauge measures the maximum factory-acceptable headspace limit, helping armorers and gunsmiths determine whether a rifle remains within serviceable specifications. Excessive headspace can contribute to reliability issues, accelerated component wear, and potential cartridge case problems, making routine inspection an important part of firearm maintenance.

Constructed from hardened, ground steel for long-term accuracy and durability, this gauge is a valuable addition to any AR-15 armorer's toolkit.

FEATURES

  • Designed specifically for 5.56 NATO M16 and AR-15 platforms
  • Manufactured to Colt factory maximum headspace dimensions
  • Checks maximum allowable service headspace
  • Ideal for inspecting heavily used rifles
  • Useful after barrel, bolt, or upper receiver replacement
  • Precision-ground for accurate measurements
  • Hardened steel construction for durability and wear resistance
  • Essential tool for armorers, gunsmiths, and serious AR owners

SPECIFICATIONS

  • Manufacturer: Brownells
  • Gauge Type: Maximum Headspace Gauge
  • Caliber: 5.56 NATO
  • Maximum Headspace Measurement: 1.4736"
  • Material: Hardened Ground Steel
  • Overall Length: 1.65" (4.2 cm)
  • Length is not the headspace dimension
  • Diameter: 0.3655" (9.3 mm)

CUSTOMER INSIGHTS

AR-15 builders and armorers frequently use maximum headspace gauges when evaluating rifles with high round counts or when mixing bolts and barrels from different manufacturers. Customers appreciate having a dedicated maximum-specification gauge because it allows them to quickly determine whether a firearm remains within acceptable service limits. Many consider it a critical diagnostic tool for inspecting duty rifles, training carbines, and surplus firearms.

The Brownells BRN 5.56mm Maximum Headspace Gauge is a precision-built inspection tool that verifies whether a 5.56 NATO AR-15 or M16 remains within Colt's maximum acceptable headspace specification of 1.4736 inches. Made from hardened ground steel and intended for serviceability checks on heavily used or reconfigured rifles, it is an essential tool for maintaining the safety, reliability, and longevity of the AR platform.

See all of our AR15s and AR15 parts here.

Gun Tool Restriction
Gun Tools have restricted shipping to CA.

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BRN 5.56MM MAXIMUM HEADSPACE GAUGE REVIEWS

4.8
9 Reviews
5 Stars
89%
4 Stars
0%
3 Stars
11%
2 Stars
0%
1 Stars
0%
Reviews Summary
Overall, the Forster 5.56MM Maximum Headspace Gauge receives significant praise for its quality and functionality. Many users find it essential for ensuring safety in their AR builds. Some concerns arise regarding the lack of a relief groove for ejectors, which may require modifications. Despite minor drawbacks, the gauge is seen as a worthwhile investment for AR-15 enthusiasts.
What Reviewers Are Saying
Product Quality
65%
Reviewers are impressed with the build quality of the Forster headspace gauge, noting it is well made and reliable for verifying safety in AR builds. Many express confidence in Forster's reputation.
Functionality and Usefulness
70%
Multiple reviews highlight the gauge's effectiveness in checking headspace, particularly for AR-15 platforms. Users appreciate its role in confirming safety and mil-spec compliance during rifle assembly.
Modifications Required
25%
A few reviewers mention the necessity for modifications, specifically referencing the lack of a relief groove for the plunger ejector. This raises concerns about usability without further adjustments.
Safety Assurance
60%
Several users emphasize the importance of using the gauge to ensure their rifles are safe to fire. The investment is viewed as minimal when considering the potential risks of unsafe headspace.
Price-Value Ratio
50%
Many customers find the price of the gauge reasonable for the peace of mind it provides. They consider it a small cost relative to ensuring firearm safety.
5
5.56 field gauge
I bought this along with a set of go/no go gauges....just to have all 3. I just feel better knowing that if I mix and match bolts to barrels between my set ups that they'll be safe....and function properly.
Would you recommend this? Yes, I would recommend to a friend
5
The only one I need
I just need to know it’s good to go right now. I know of no one that checks headspace daily.
5
Perfect For What I Needed!
This was perfect for what I needed. I just assembled an AR from an existing built lower I had, a new upper, and a new BCG I had purchased separately. Being the BCG didn't come with the upper, I wanted to make sure everything was within safe tolerances, and this fit the bill.
5
ATTENTION COLT RE-BARREL DIY
Save yourself the time researching why your no go gauge goes in a brand new colt barrel. GET THIS for the MAXIMUM headspace NO GO gauge for COLT barrels. Colt barrels are DIFFERENT than all others and all other no go gauges aren't correct.
5
5.56 NATO Max H.S. gauge
This gauge is made by Forster which is great because I love their stuff. Very well made and marked perfectly.
Customer Questions
0 Questions