I got the tool for that... it ain't all that easy to use and takes some practice and a few cracked handguards!.. for only one, try any of the methods described above.. you'll do better
He who beats his sword into a plowshare, will soon be plowing for somebody else!
There ya go. But to get the band off of the wood, I run a little wire(smaller than a coat hanger) though the (not)oprod side and secure it in the Vise. Grab the wood on either side of the band and pull towards yourself, rotate the wood down and Voila! the band comes free.
If I should die before I wake...great,a little more sleep.
I bought the tool for 19 about 10 years ago & used it 3-400 times & never cracked a handguard! I see the handguards selling for 40+? Do the math!
Buy the frickin' tool ferchrisakes. It's not that expensive and you won't be damaging any handguards.
http://www.brownells.com/gunsmith-to...-prod1385.aspx