Tools and resources for parts replacement and minor tinkering?

[sigcurious]

I have a 22/45 that I'd like to turn into a project gun. I don't want to do anything too extensive, my goal is mag safety removal, LCI disabling and a VQ trigger kit. From what I've gathered if I take a slow and methodical approach, I should be able to learn the skills to do these things without messing up.

My more specific questions would be: What are the pros/cons of steel punches vs brass punches, and what would be a good set to start with? What are some good reading and video(dvd and/or youtube) resources to get, so I can be more familiar with the tools and basics before I try anything? I understand I would need a plastic mallet also, but what other items are useful and/or needed to do this kind of tinkering? And lastly, should I even be attempting this or is this level of tinkering generally not recommended for someone without any formal training?

I understand that I may have to take it to a gun smith if I mess things up. However with the 22/45 being a relatively inexpensive and frequently modified platform I figure its a good place to start learning more about the internal workings of my firearms and being more capable to keep them in running order/do minor fixes myself.

 

[1SOW]

Brass punches will work on most anything. Steel punches can damage most anything. Brass punches to fit your needs can be expensive. Some pins require steel to 'start'.

One thing I recently found is 1/4" x 12" brass rod on Amazon for $1.69 ea. Shipping is not cheap, but if you buy a few, it's a good deal.
I now have a good squib rod and make my own punches. Either a drill press or hand-held drill can be used to shape the the punch "tip" to any size you need up to 1/4". I start with small files and finish with sandpaper.

 

[Jerry45]

I thought I was the only one that made his own punches.

 

[ClydeFrog]

Gunsmiths, American Pistolsmiths Guild, Brownells...

For any kind of gunsmith work or new parts/training videos/guides/etc I'd check these sources;

www.gunvideo.com www.paladin-press.com www.NRA.org www.midwayusa.com www.Natchezss.com www.Brownells.com www.americanpistol.com .

Brownells is a standard any serious gun owner, armed professional, shooting sports industry member, or gunsmith should know about or use.
The American Pistolsmiths Guild is a highly rated group too.
These resources may help.
CF

 

[sigcurious]

thanks clydefrog, I'll have to starting looking around on those and what I can find to suit my needs. Hopefully with enough preparation I won't make a mess of my 22/45