Wallace's , I am confused about the "clamp on" gas block discussion as the original question didn't mention it, unless I missed something. I would also say that not all OEMs dimple, as there are other acceptable and proven methods, including just the use of the flush cup set screws. As I stated above, I also routinely dimple, but not necessarily for any grip advantage as much as just for proper alignment. Read what Faxon says, and why they don't dimple.
https://faxonfirearms.com/blog/frequently-asked-questions-does-faxon-dimple-their-barrels/
WinstonSmith - I could easily see the pin so I am guessing that almost half was visible, whick made it easy to snap it off, allowing the two pieces to drop. Again, after buying the dimpling jig, I now routinely dimple mainly for the ease of alignment and not having to continue buying/replacing the break-off pins.
Damn. I had half showing in the barrel and as it turned it back and forth it would slide half in and out easily. It just looked so off center I didnt think there was any way it could be right. I called hb and they said it should go almost all the way into the gas block and, because my gas port was the size of the smallest pin which had now already been broken in half, they are sending me another kit free of charge. Very nice of them I think. When I get the next kit, and I ordered a new gas tube just for ****s and giggles, I'll see how it works. I'd actually like a bore scope but I dont do this often enough to drop that kind of coin. Hopefully this all goes smoothly as I am excited to get this thing up and running. Thanks for your experience with it.