Buffer tube assemblies are essential for proper cycling functions in AR platform rifles. While Wing Tactical’s collection is primarily designed to help builders source critical parts for their next custom rifle, some of our buffer components are optimized for specific functions (like mitigating sound).
Wing Tactical offers AR-10 buffer tube kits, .308 buffer tube kits, and LR-308 buffer components (like tubes, springs, and spacers). If you’re unsure which product is best for your build, reach out to one of our experts — we’re happy to help.
AR-10 Buffer Kits and More
Buffer tube assemblies are essential to the proper cycling of your AR-10 or LR-308. The buffer tube assembly’s primary job is to capture the force from the rifle’s recoil, store that pressure in a spring, and release the spring to reset the bolt. When the bolt resets, it strips the next round from the magazine and chambers it to prepare for the next shot. Buffer tube assemblies also serve as the contact point for the rifle’s buttstock.
While builders can purchase individual parts and assemble the components themselves, choosing a complete AR-10 buffer tube kit (or .308 buffer tube kit) could streamline the sourcing process.
AR-10 Buffer Tube Kits and Components
Wing Tactical’s buffer tube kits feature all the individual parts you’ll need to assemble a complete buffer tube assembly — a critical part of your AR platform rifle.
It’s important to note that buffers for AR-10 and LR-308 are often incompatible. While the rifles are usually chambered in the same caliber, their most critical parts (buffer assemblies included) aren’t identical and can’t be used interchangeably.
Wing Tactical offers both complete kits and individual buffer components for AR-10.
LR-308 Buffer Tube Kits and Components
Whether you opt for a complete LR-308 buffertube kit or build your assembly from individual parts, remember to choose products that are compatible with your rifle’s lower receiver.
If you need help choosing a buffer tube component, our gunsmiths are happy to help — drop us a line, and we’ll point you in the right direction.
Wing Tactical: Your Source for AR Platform Rifle Parts
Wing Tactical is a veteran-founded brand committed to building a catalog of quality-first firearm parts, kits, tools, and accessories for today’s top marksmen. We source components from industry-leading manufacturers — US-based brands that share our commitment to quality gunsmithing. Law enforcement officers, competitive shooters, hunters, and civilian gun enthusiasts can confidently incorporate Wing Tactical parts into their builds. We do not sell products we wouldn’t use in our own firearms.
Want to learn more about creating a one-of-a-kind build with a custom AR-10 buffer tube kit or LR-308 buffer? Contact us for building tips from our experts.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between an AR-10 and an LR-308?
The AR-10 was first designed in the 1950s by Eugene Stoner, the man behind the AR-15. DPMS developed the LR-308 to create a version of the AR-10 (which featured its own distinct configuration) that bore more resemblance to a scaled-up AR-15. While they contain many of the same parts, their most critical components are incompatible with one another.
Will AR-10 buffer tube kits and parts fit in an LR-308?
Cross-compatibility depends on the lower receiver manufacturer for each rifle, but in most cases, LR-308 buffers and AR-10 buffers are compatible. If you’re not sure which products are compatible with your receiver, our gunsmiths are happy to help.
How does the buffer tube attach to the lower receiver?
A complete buffer assembly contains
- A buffer tube
- A buffer spring
- A buffer
- A buffer retainer
- A retainer spring
The buffer tube screws into the ring found at the top and rear of the lower receiver. The retainer and retainer spring seat into a divet in the ring. The buffer spring sits inside the buffer tube and the buffer is inside the spring. The retainer keeps the buffer inside the tube.
How does the buttstock attach to the buffer tube?
Once your buffer tube is assembled, you can attach a buttstock to complete your lower receiver assembly. Some buffer assemblies require a spacer at the back of the tube to accommodate specific buffers. After installing the takedown pin, spring, and detent into the lower, builders can slide the buffers over the buffer tube.
Why should you replace your buffer tube assembly?
Since your AR-10 or LR-308's buffer tube assembly is essential to proper cycling, you should consider replacing it as soon as you notice potential signs of wear and tear — one of the most common is slow cycling.
You can also customize your rifle by choosing buffer tube components designed to:
- Reduce recoil
- Decrease muzzle movement
- Increase durability