The lightweight billet aluminum standard castle nut is an essential part of the AR-15 carbine receiver extension buffer tube lock ring assembly. The castle nut-lock ring features standard cuts for proper use with an armorer’s wrench, as well as smaller cuts for staking the castle nut. It is designed to fit any standard mil-spec or commercial buffer tubes. The castle nut is machined from a solid piece of billet aircraft-grade aluminum and is Type III hard coat anodized with a black matte finish. This castle nut is ideal for new AR builds or for replacing worn parts, and it will not rust.
What's an AR-15 castle nut? An AR-15 castle nut is a key part of putting together an AR-15 rifle. It's used to secure the end plate to the buffer tube, which holds the recoil spring and buffer. This nut has notches to allow for adjustment with a spanner castle nut wrench, and setting the right torque ensures your rifle works well.
Why torque your AR-15 castle nut? Torquing the castle nut keeps it from getting loose during use, preventing malfunctions or safety issues when firing. The right torque also ensures each part is snug, helping with accuracy.
What's the right torque for my AR-15 castle nut? Generally, the torque for an AR-15 castle nut is between 30 and 80 ft-lbs. But this can vary based on manufacturer specs, ammo type, and whether you're using a carbine or rifle-length system. Always check with the manufacturer for exact requirements.
How do I install my castle nut on the buffer tube? Start by cleaning any debris off all the parts. Check for all your components on your rifle's buffer tube before getting started, making sure they are free from defects. Use gloves if needed. Once you're ready, use a castle nut wrench or spanner nut wrench to tighten the nut in place, making sure that it is flush against the end plate. Follow manufacturer instructions for torque specs.
Can I overtighten my AR-15 castle nut? Yes, and it can damage the buffer tube and the nut itself, affecting your rifle's reliability and accuracy. Over-torquing can strip threads, rendering parts unusable. It's crucial to stick to the recommended torque range to avoid these issues.