Are there are any recommendations of gunsmiths on Oahu that can do this type of work damaging the barrel and existing muzzle device?

If it was pinned and welded properly, I believe your existing muzzle device is toast.

Wayne at Pacific Custom Rifles changed the muzzle device on my AR that was pinned and welded and I was happy with the end result.  It's not a precision AR, but I didn't notice any detrimental effects.   

If it was pinned and welded properly, I believe your existing muzzle device is toast.

Wayne at Pacific Custom Rifles changed the muzzle device on my AR that was pinned and welded and I was happy with the end result.  It's not a precision AR, but I didn't notice any detrimental effects.   

Thanks for the reply.  Although I’d like to be able to sell off the existing device, I guess the main thing for me would be that the barrel doesn’t get affected with the removal and new installation.

Thanks for the reply.  Although I’d like to be able to sell off the existing device, I guess the main thing for me would be that the barrel doesn’t get affected with the removal and new installation.

Try ask Wayne. Maybe he can save it. I’ve heard folks say that they have drilled out the weld and pin and reused the device, but that wasn’t my experience.

Try ask Wayne. Maybe he can save it. I’ve heard folks say that they have drilled out the weld and pin and reused the device, but that wasn’t my experience.

Sounds good, thanks! 

If it was done right there should be a hardened rod pinning the threads.  If it was a snug fit, cutting the weld off will not release the rod.  Will probably will have to split the muzzle device in half to get it off. 

Might be able to relieve around the pin, tack weld an extension on it and pull it out.  lot of work...

I was able to drill out the welded pin then used a thread file and die to clean up and repair the threads

Thanks for the input all!