So I’m hoping this is a stupid question but is the buffer tube on an ar10 different than one on an ar15 I want switch the stocks on my guns and the one off my ar15 won’t fit on my ar10 even though the tubes look identical
Posted Apr 24, 2018, 7:49 PM UTC
if the stock doesnt fit there is a difference between milspec stocks and commercial stocks (and buffer tubes).
Take the stocks off both. looking at the buffer tube from the side, the rear face is either a right angle compared to the tube, or it's at an angle. Right angle=mil spec
otherwise, commercial
Tube is the same on DPMS platform 308's.
But - you need to ensure you use a 308-length buffer, which is shorter than a 223. Mix it up and you risk some strange stuff happening.
Also, some stocks (like older PRS) will not work properly with 308 AR's, as the charging handle pull will hit the riser.
So if I already have a 308 buffer can I swap the tubes so I can switch the stocks over or would that lead to an issue?
The tubes are the same. The springs are not, and the buffers are not.
If you have the right buffer and spring, you can move the tube and the stock over without issue (unless, as mentioned, the stock is one of a type that is incompatible with the 308 charging handle).
Hijacking your reply.
I built a 6.5cm AR-10 with an Aero M5E1 receiver set, and aero buffer tube kit. However it has always been a bitch to charge. I’m a reasonably strong guy... and it takes >50 lb force to charge it most of the time. It’s nearly impossible with one hand, which has led me to suspect that either the spring is too long, tube is too short, or buffer is too big. Any thoughts?
I'd check the following:
Is the buffer tube true? While unlikely, it is possible to bend a buffer tube. If you've got a machinist's ruler (something with a true edge), check a few spots on the tube.
Is there anything in the tube? Separate lower and upper as you normally would, then depress the buffer retaining pin and shine a light down the buffer tube. I've seen some bizarre stuff - quarters, excess grease, doubled-up springs, etc. in there depending on whose bad advice the owner decided to follow
-Are you using the right parts? IE, 308 buffer suitable for the tube (rifle or carbine).
I'm not surprised it takes fifty pounds to cycle a 6.5 cm gun. That's huge!
In seriousness, it does sound like something is wrong. Does it make awful metal grinding sounds? Does it close smoothly?