Shaving Down an FSB or replace with LPG

[JET 5.45x39]

So I’m in a dilemma. I recently picked up a 12.5 barrel but it’s got an FSB. I’m wanting to put a DDM4 rail on the rifle, which has an interior diameter of 1.08”. Does anyone run this setup or know if it will fit/ have clearance or will I not be able to machine the FSB down enough.
I’m not opposed to paying for a low pro but Because of where the set screws would go I’m afraid one of them wouldn’t be able to get snug on the barrel. Plus using the shaved FSB = having a twin pinned GB
I’ll also entertain rail suggestions that will work if they are similar in quality/ specs

 

[CTS Tactical]

I prefer cutting the front sight base down. It can be done and made to look quite nice. I normally use a metal cutting blade in a Sawzall and then clean it up on a grinder. You can touch it up quite nicely with some cold blue.

 

[palmettomoon]

I got @ItBeMe to do one for me.

 

[atljetmech]

Not sure about that particular handguard but I'm running a Troy M-Lok handguard (15" iirc) on a 16" carbine that I shaved the FSB down to fit. Had to shave quite a bit and took my time so as to not heat it too much. Ended up requiring much more removal than expected due to inner diameter of Troy. I cold blued it and its hidden anyway and works great.
I couldn't see paying for a low-pro and sacrificing the strength of the dual pin FSB at the same time like mentioned.

 

[JET 5.45x39]

I prefer cutting the front sight base down. It can be done and made to look quite nice.

That’s my preference as well but it appears I would have to completely remove the “flats” on the bottom to clear my rail as in remove the bayonet lugs and machine it to the point the bottom of the FSB was almost round if that makes sense

 

[CTS Tactical]

That’s my preference as well but it appears I would have to completely remove the “flats” on the bottom to clear my rail as in remove the bayonet lugs and machine it to the point the bottom of the FSB was almost round if that makes sense

Yes, as long as there is plenty of metal left to hold the pins.

 

[CTS Tactical]

I don't know about 1.08", that is pretty tight. I have a YHM low profile block here that is 1.39.

 

[JET 5.45x39]

Yes, as long as there is plenty of metal left to hold the pins.

Define “plenty”

 

[CTS Tactical]

You just don't want to go so thin that you crack the block when you drive the tapered pins in.

 

[cmshoot]

Cut it down and shape it. I’ve done a bunch of them.