If you’re into firearms, you’ve probably heard of the term ‘mil-spec’. But what exactly does it mean and why is it so important? In this article, we’ll explain what mil-spec means, and how you can tell if your buffer tube is mil-spec.
What is Mil-Spec?
Mil-spec stands for ‘Military Specification’ and it’s a term used to describe products that meet certain standards of quality and durability. In the firearms industry, mil-spec is used to refer to parts that are made to the highest standards and can withstand the rigors of military use.
What is a Buffer Tube?
A buffer tube is an important part of an AR-15 rifle. It’s a tube-shaped housing that contains the recoil spring and buffer. The buffer tube is connected to the receiver and is used to mount the stock of the rifle.
Why is it Important to Have a Mil-Spec Buffer Tube?
Having a mil-spec buffer tube is important because it ensures that your rifle is able to function reliably and accurately. Mil-spec buffer tubes are made to exacting standards and are designed to withstand the pressures of military use. Non-mil-spec buffer tubes may not be as durable or reliable, and could potentially lead to malfunctions or misfires.
How to Tell if Your Buffer Tube is Mil-Spec
There are a few ways to tell if your buffer tube is mil-spec or not. The easiest way to tell is by looking at the markings on the buffer tube. If the markings say ‘Mil-Spec’, then it is likely mil-spec. You can also check the diameter and length of the buffer tube. Mil-spec buffer tubes are typically 1.148 inches in diameter and 7.25 inches in length.
Another way to tell if your buffer tube is mil-spec is to look at the threads. Mil-spec buffer tubes have 1-3/16” x 16 TPI threads, while non-mil-spec buffer tubes typically have 1-1/8” x 16 TPI threads.
Finally, you can also check the finish of the buffer tube. Mil-spec buffer tubes have a hardcoat anodized finish that is corrosion-resistant and very durable.
Frequently Asked Questions about How to Tell if Your Buffer Tube is Mil-Spec
What does Mil-Spec mean?
Mil-spec stands for ‘Military Specification’ and it’s a term used to describe products that meet certain standards of quality and durability. In the firearms industry, mil-spec is used to refer to parts that are made to the highest standards and can withstand the rigors of military use.
What is a Buffer Tube?
A buffer tube is an important part of an AR-15 rifle. It’s a tube-shaped housing that contains the recoil spring and buffer. The buffer tube is connected to the receiver and is used to mount the stock of the rifle.
Why is it Important to Have a Mil-Spec Buffer Tube?
Having a mil-spec buffer tube is important because it ensures that your rifle is able to function reliably and accurately. Mil-spec buffer tubes are made to exacting standards and are designed to withstand the pressures of military use. Non-mil-spec buffer tubes may not be as durable or reliable, and could potentially lead to malfunctions or misfires.
How can I tell if my Buffer Tube is Mil-Spec?
There are a few ways to tell if your buffer tube is mil-spec or not. The easiest way to tell is by looking at the markings on the buffer tube. If the markings say ‘Mil-Spec’, then it is likely mil-spec. You can also check the diameter and length of the buffer tube. Mil-spec buffer tubes are typically 1.148 inches in diameter and 7.25 inches in length.
Another way to tell if your buffer tube is mil-spec is to look at the threads. Mil-spec buffer tubes have 1-3/16” x 16 TPI threads, while non-mil-spec buffer tubes typically have 1-1/8” x 16 TPI threads.
Finally, you can also check the finish of the buffer tube. Mil-spec buffer tubes have a hardcoat anodized finish that is corrosion-resistant and very durable.
Advantages of a Mil-Spec Buffer Tube
Mil-spec buffer tubes are designed to be more reliable and durable than non-mil-spec buffer tubes. The higher quality materials used in mil-spec buffer tubes make them more resistant to wear and tear, and they are less likely to experience malfunctions or misfires. Additionally, mil-spec buffer tubes are also easier to install and replace, since they are made to exacting standards.
Disadvantages of a Mil-Spec Buffer Tube
The main disadvantage of a mil-spec buffer tube is that they are usually more expensive than non-mil-spec buffer tubes. Additionally, mil-spec buffer tubes may also be heavier than non-mil-spec buffer tubes, which could potentially affect the balance of the rifle.
Conclusion
Mil-spec buffer tubes are designed to the highest standards and are designed to withstand the rigors of military use. Knowing how to tell if your buffer tube is mil-spec is important in order to ensure that your rifle is reliable and accurate. There are a few ways to tell if your buffer tube is mil-spec, such as looking at the markings, diameter, length, threads, and finish of the buffer tube. Mil-spec buffer tubes offer the advantage of being more reliable and durable, but they are usually more expensive and may be heavier than non-mil-spec buffer tubes.
