At a Glance: Best Buffers & Buffer Springs
- BEST OVERALL: Aero Precision – AR-15 Carbine Buffer Kits
- OUR TOP PICK: Bravo Company – AR-15/M16 Mil-spec Buffer Tube Assembly
- RUNNER UP: Brownells – AR-15 Rifle Buffer Tube Kit
Comparison of Best Buffers & Buffer Springs
| PRODUCT | DETAILS | ||
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Best Overall
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Aero Precision – AR-15 Carbine Buffer Kits |
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View Latest Price |
Our Top Pick
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Bravo Company – AR-15/M16 Mil-spec Buffer Tube Assembly |
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View Latest Price |
Our Top Pick
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Brownells – AR-15 Rifle Buffer Tube Kit |
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View Latest Price |
Best AR-15 Buffer And Buffer Spring Kits In 2024
Choosing the best AR-15 buffer and buffer spring kits can be difficult, especially for novices. Research is necessary to make sure you’re getting the best kit for your AR-15 rifle. I’ve tested a lot of buffer and buffer spring kits in my time and compiled a list of the best ones currently on the market. Use this guide to help you buy the right buffer and buffer spring for your AR-15.
The buffer and buffer spring are often overlooked. Don’t make the mistake of ignoring these essential components of your AR-15 rifle. When you fire, gas is fed into the bolt carrier group (BCG), which pushes it back into the buffer. The buffer and buffer spring absorb this force and push the BCG back to eject the spent round from the chamber.
A poorly maintained buffer and buffer spring kits will result in more recoil, less accuracy, and even blockages. You need to use ones tuned to your rifle and cartridge choice.
Aero Precision – AR-15 Carbine Buffer Kits
Short-barrel rifles (SBRs) and carbines have grown in popularity over the years. The shorter barrels have led to an uptake in over-gassing, which can cause wear on the buffer and the BCG over time. Aero Precision hasn’t let the crisis go to waste. The company was quick to release its lineup AR-15 Carbine Buffer Kits to improve the resilience of SBRs and carbines against wear and tear.
The Aero Precision buffer and buffer spring kits come in a variety of weights to suit assorted needs. There are Carbine, H (Heavy), H2, and H3 kits available that weigh in at 3, 4, 4.6, and 5 ounces, respectively.
The kits also include a Mil-spec buffer tube made from 7075-T6 aluminum with slots for a six-position buttstock. There’s also a buffer spring, end plate, and castle-lock nutц meaning you have everything you need to install this sturdy upgrade to your AR-15 rifle.
This relatively affordable kit is enough to noticeably enhance the performance of your rifle. The variety of options available means that it’s ideal for everyone from recreational to competitive shooters.
Pros
- Purpose-built for SBRs and carbines
- Sturdy and reliable
- Includes buffer tube, spring, castle-lock nut, and end plate
- Variety of weights available
- Great value for money
- Will reduce recoil
- Easy to install
Cons
- Can’t be used on long-barrel rifles
Bravo Company – AR-15/M16 Mil-spec Buffer Tube Assembly
Bravo Company has entered the market with another buffer tube assembly specifically designed to fit carbine rifles. The assembly supports collapsible stocks, giving you more flexibility with the design of your AR-15.
This buffer assembly meets military standards so you can be sure it’ll stand plenty of abuse while out in the field. The AR-15/M16 Mil-spec Buffer Tube Assembly kit has everything you need to attach a stock to your lower receiver, making this an excellent choice for anyone building their own AR-15 from scratch.
The kit includes a standard 3 oz carbine buffer, as well as a carbine action spring, both made from high-quality steel. The castle-lock is machined from high carbon steel and has been given a phosphate finish to ensure maximum durability. There is also a buffer tube made from 7075-T6 aluminum with an anodized finish. You could throw this assembly under a bus and it’d still fit onto your rifle comfortably and function just fine afterward.
Bravo Company makes all of its kits right here in the USA and offers them at an affordable price, giving you great value for money. Whether you’re making an AR-15 from scratch or simply upgrading your existing one, this buffer assembly will serve your right.
Pros
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- Hardcore durability
- Supports collapsible stocks
- Purpose-built for carbine rifles
- Made in the USA
- Includes buffer tube and castle-lock nut
- Great value for money
Cons
- Only one weight variant
- 3 oz could be too light for some shooters
- Can’t be used on long-barrel rifles
Brownells – AR-15 Rifle Buffer Tube Kit
The Brownells AR-15 Rifle Buffer Tube Kit is meant for shooters rocking rifle length barrels. Coming from one of the industry’s most reputable names, the Brownells kit is a durable and easy-to-install collection of parts that will upgrade the performance of your AR-15.
The kit includes a buffer and buffer spring that will fit any standard AR-15 lower-receiver and a rifle-length buttstock. It’s also more affordable than many of the other options on the market, leaving you more money to put towards your next upgrade.
The buffer has a matte black finish and is machined from Mil-spec 7075-T6 aluminum with a hardcoat anodized finish. You want reliability and durability in your buffer, right? Well, here you have it. The Brownells AR-15 Rifle Buffer Tube Kit is a no-thrills upgrade to boost the performance of your rifle by reducing recoil.
The kit is ideal for anyone building their own AR-15 or for those of you upgrading or replacing your current buffer.
Pros
- Affordable
- No thrills upgrade
- Reliable
- Less recoil
- Reliable brand
- Made in the USA
Cons
- Doesn’t include castle-lock nut, or end plate
Advanced Technology – AR-15 Mil-Spec Buffer Tube Assembly Package
Advanced Technology’s buffer tube assembly package is perfect if you’re looking to sort your whole buffer assembly in one go. It’s affordable, Mil-spec, and it’s made in the USA. The kit includes a 6-position Mil-spec buffer tube made of Type III anodized 6061-T6 aluminum that supports collapsible carbine stocks, as well as a 3-ounce buffer, buffer spring, castle-lock butл, and locking ring.
It has everything you need to get up and running before attaching a stock to your AR-15. This affordable kit is perfect for the frequent recreation or competition shooter who wants something that will withstand a lot of abuse in the field or at the range.
The sturdy and reliable assembly comes with a limited lifetime warranty, so even if you somehow manage to break it, you’ll be able to get a new one so long as you haven’t violated the terms of the guarantee.
Pros
- Ultra-durable
- Carbine length 6-position buffer tube supports collapsible stocks
- Limited lifetime warranty
- Affordable
- Made in the USA
- Includes full buffer tube assembly
Cons
- Lighter buffer not ideal for overgassing
Luth-AR Commercial Carbine Buffer Assembly Package
Luth-ar’s specialized carbine buffer tube assembly is perfect for anyone looking to turn their AR-15 into a carbine or simply as an affordable and effective parts replacement kit.
The Ar-15 Commercial Carbine Buffer Assembly Package includes a Mil-spec 6-position.carbine buffer tube made from 6061-T6 aluminum with a hard coat anodized finish. It also has a 3.2 ounce buffer and a .223 buffer spring, a castle-lock nut and a latch plate.
All of the components are made from high-quality materials to ensure extra durability and protection against wear, even after firing thousands of rounds. This is one of the most affordable buffer assembly kits on the market right now that provides a simple, no-thrills solution to rifle recoil.
It’s perfect for anyone looking for a carbine buffer kit that supports collapsible stocks without breaking the bank.
Don’t think that the affordable price means Luth-ar has sacrificed quality. They haven’t. All the components are built from durable materials to ensure they can take a beating.
Pros
- Durable
- Affordable
- Supports collapsible stocks
- Includes everything you need for your buffer assembly
- Made in the USA
Cons
- 3.2 ounce weight too light for overgassing
CMMG – AR-15 Receiver Extension Kit
CMMG has got your back when you’re building or upgrading your AR-15. The AR-15 Receiver Extension Kit has everything you need to install a buffer and tube before attaching your stock.
This mil-spec extension kit is machined from high-quality materials that will take thousands of shots worth of abuse before they even begin to wear. The kit is ideal for casual and professional shooters alike and will fit on any standard carbine AR-15.
The kit includes an H buffer, a buffer spring, and a buffer tube with a castle-lock but and a latch plate. In other words, it has everything you need to complete your buffer assembly without any hassle. It’s easy to install and great value for money.
The standard H weight on this buffer will suit most shooters who aren’t cranking the gas up too much on their rifle.
CMMG makes their parts in the USA and you’ll have a limited lifetime warranty on them. If you’re looking to reduce recoil when shooting and keep your AR-15 sharp and performing like a beast, then this is for you.
Pros
- Includes full buffer assembly
- Great value for money
- Solid construction
- Easy to install
- Made in the USA
- Reduces recoil
- Fits most carbine rifles
- Good warranty
Cons
- A bit more expensive than the competition
Best AR-15 Buffer and Buffer Spring Kits
The AR-15 is one of the most widely used firearms in the world. It’s a versatile platform that can be customized to fit a variety of needs, from home defense to competition shooting. One of the most important components of the AR-15 is the buffer and buffer spring kit, which helps to control the recoil and cycling of the weapon.
There are many different types of AR-15 buffer and buffer spring kits available on the market, but not all of them are created equal. In this article, we will review six of the best options available, as well as provide information on the key components of buffer and buffer spring kits, and how to choose the right one for your needs.
Key Components of AR-15 Buffer and Buffer Spring Kits
Before we get into the specifics of the top six buffer and buffer spring kits, let’s first take a look at the key components that make up these kits. There are several necessary parts that come in a buffer and buffer spring kit:
- Buffer – The buffer is a weight that sits at the back of the buffer tube assembly. The weight of the buffer plays a crucial role in controlling the cycling of the bolt carrier group.
- Buffer Tube Assembly – The buffer tube assembly is the metal tube that houses the buffer and buffer spring. It connects to the lower receiver of the AR-15 and provides a place for the buffer and buffer spring to rest.
- Buffer Spring – The buffer spring sits on top of the buffer and is responsible for pushing the buffer forward, which then cycles the bolt carrier group.
- Castle Nut – The castle nut is used to secure the buffer tube assembly to the lower receiver of the AR-15.
Choosing the Right Buffer and Buffer Spring Kit
When it comes to choosing the right buffer and buffer spring kit, there are several factors to consider. One of the most important is the weight of the buffer. A heavier buffer can help reduce felt recoil and cycling issues, while a lighter buffer can help with faster cycling times. The weight of the buffer can range from as low as 1.5 ounces to as high as 8.5 ounces.
Another important factor to consider is the length of the buffer spring. Different buffer spring lengths are available for different types of AR-15 builds, including rifle-length, carbine-length, and pistol-length gas systems. The length of the buffer spring affects the amount of force required to cycle the bolt carrier group.
Additionally, the buffer tube kit can come in different lengths, such as rifle or carbine-length, and may be mil-spec or commercial. It’s important to choose the right length and specification for your AR-15 build, as well as to consider the type of collapsible stock that you plan to use.
Now that we’ve covered the key components of buffer and buffer spring kits and what to consider when choosing the right one, let’s take a look at our top picks.
Top Picks for Best AR-15 Buffer and Buffer Spring Kits
Aero Precision – AR-15 Carbine Buffer Kits (Top Pick)
Aero Precision is a well-known brand in the AR-15 world, and their carbine buffer kits are a top pick for many shooters. The Aero Precision buffer kit comes with a standard carbine buffer and carbine springs, making it the perfect complement for a variety of different AR-15 builds. The kit is affordable and includes all the necessary parts for installation, making it an excellent option for those on a budget.
Bravo Company – AR-15/M16 Mil-spec Buffer Tube Assembly (Top Pick)
The Bravo Company AR-15/M16 Mil-spec Buffer Tube Assembly is another top pick for those looking for a reliable and high-quality buffer and buffer spring kit. The kit includes a mil-spec buffer tube, castle nut, and buffer spring. The buffer tube is made from high-quality materials and has a matte black finish that will match any AR-15 upper and lower receiver. This kit is an excellent choice for those looking for a mil-spec buffer tube assembly that is built to last.
Brownells – AR-15 Rifle Buffer Tube Kit (Top Pick)
The Brownells AR-15 Rifle Buffer Tube Kit is a top pick for those looking for a buffer and buffer spring kit for a rifle build. This kit includes a rifle buffer and rifle buffer spring, which are designed to work with the longer buffer tube found on rifle-length gas systems. The kit also includes a castle nut and end plate, which are necessary parts for installing the buffer tube assembly.
Advanced Technology – AR-15 Mil-Spec Buffer Tube Assembly Package
The Advanced Technology AR-15 Mil-Spec Buffer Tube Assembly Package is an affordable option for those looking for a mil-spec buffer tube assembly. The kit includes a mil-spec buffer tube, castle nut, and end plate, as well as a standard carbine buffer and carbine buffer spring. This kit is a great choice for those on a budget who still want a high-quality buffer and buffer spring kit.
Luth-AR Commercial Carbine Buffer Assembly Package
The Luth-AR Commercial Carbine Buffer Assembly Package is a great option for those looking for a buffer and buffer spring kit for a commercial buffer tube. This kit includes a commercial carbine buffer and carbine buffer spring, as well as a castle nut and end plate. The Luth-AR buffer assembly is made from high-quality materials and is designed to withstand extreme conditions, making it a great choice for law enforcement and military applications.
CMMG – AR-15 Receiver Extension Kit
CMMG is a well-known manufacturer of AR-15 parts and accessories, and their AR-15 Receiver Extension Kit is a great option for those looking for a high-quality buffer and buffer spring kit. This kit includes a mil-spec buffer tube, castle nut, and end plate, as well as a standard carbine buffer and carbine buffer spring. The CMMG buffer assembly is made from high-quality materials and is designed to work with a variety of AR platforms.
Types of AR-15 Buffers
AR-15 buffers come in different weights and types. The most widely used buffer is the standard carbine buffer, which weighs around 3 ounces. However, heavier buffers, such as the H buffer, can help reduce felt recoil and cycling issues, while lighter buffers can help with faster cycling times.
Heavier H buffers are a great option for short barrel rifles and competition shooters who want to reduce felt recoil and improve cycling times. The H buffer is around 3.8 ounces and can be used in conjunction with an adjustable gas block to fine-tune the gas system for optimal performance.
AR-15 buffers are also made from different materials, such as stainless steel. Stainless steel buffers are more durable and can withstand extreme conditions, making them a great choice for law enforcement and military applications.
Types of AR-15 Buffer Tube Kits
AR-15 buffer tube kits also come in different lengths and types. The two most common types of buffer tube kits are mil-spec and commercial. Mil-spec buffer tubes are the standard for most AR-15 rifle builds and are made to strict military specifications. Commercial buffer tubes are slightly larger in diameter and can be used with commercial-spec collapsible stocks.
Buffer tube kits also come in different lengths, such as rifle or carbine-length. Rifle-length buffer tube kits are longer and are designed for use with rifle-length gas systems. Carbine-length buffer tube kits are shorter and are designed for use with carbine-length gas systems. Pistol-length buffer tube kits are the shortest and are designed for use with AR-15 pistols.
Buffer and Spring Combinations
When it comes to buffer and spring combinations, there are several different options available. The most common buffer spring types are carbine springs and rifle springs. Carbine springs are shorter and are designed for use with carbine-length buffer tubes, while rifle springs are longer and are designed for use with rifle-length buffer tubes.
Enhanced carbine buffer springs are also available, and are designed to provide extra power and smoother cycling. These springs are a great choice for those looking to reduce felt recoil and improve cycling times.
Buffer Combo Kits
Buffer combo kits are also available, and are designed to provide a complete buffer and buffer spring kit in one package. These kits typically include a buffer, buffer spring, and buffer tube assembly, and are an excellent choice for those who want to make sure they have all necessary parts for their AR-15 build.
Substituting Parts
While it’s important to choose the right buffer and buffer spring kit for your AR-15 build, it’s also possible to substitute different parts to achieve the desired performance. For example, an adjustable gas block can be used in conjunction with a heavier buffer to fine-tune the gas system for optimal performance.
Different weights and styles of buffers can also be used to achieve the desired performance. The right buffer can help reduce felt recoil and cycling issues, while a lighter buffer can help with faster cycling times.
Buffer Tube Kits for Lower Receivers
Buffer tube kits are essential components of the AR-15 lower receiver, providing the proper housing for the buffer and buffer spring. When choosing a buffer tube kit, it’s important to select the right size and type of buffer tube for your lower receiver.
The best way to choose the right buffer tube kit for your AR-15 lower receiver is to determine the length and style of your gas system. For instance, if you have a carbine-length gas system, you will need a carbine buffer tube kit, while a rifle-length gas system will require a rifle buffer tube kit.
Heavy Buffers and Carrier Groups
Heavy buffers are an excellent choice for reducing felt recoil and cycling issues in your AR-15 rifle. These buffers can be used with an adjustable gas block to fine-tune the gas system for optimal performance.
The right buffer weight will depend on the style of your carbine build, so it’s essential to select the best option for your rifle. Heavy buffers are especially useful for AR-15 rifles with a carbine-length gas system and a standard carbine buffer tube.
Carrier groups are also an essential component of any AR-15 rifle, and choosing the right carrier group can help improve the performance of your rifle.
Lower Parts Kits
Lower parts kits are a great way to ensure that you have all necessary parts for your AR-15 build. These kits typically include all the essential components for your lower receiver, including the buffer tube kit, trigger assembly, and other necessary parts.
When choosing a lower parts kit, it’s important to select one that matches the style and length of your buffer tube. This will help ensure that you have all the necessary components for your build.
Carbine Buffer Kits
Carbine buffer kits are an essential component of the AR-15 rifle, providing the proper housing and weight for the buffer and buffer spring. When choosing a carbine buffer kit, it’s important to select the right combination of buffer weight and buffer spring length to ensure optimal performance.
A standard carbine recoil buffer is a common choice for most AR-15 builds, but different weights and styles of buffers are also available. The Vltor A5 buffer system, for example, provides an enhanced carbine buffer tube and buffer system, which can help reduce felt recoil and improve cycling times.
Gas Systems and Buffer Tubes
The AR-15 gas system is an essential component of the rifle, and the buffer tube plays a crucial role in its proper function. When choosing a buffer tube for your AR-15, it’s important to select one that matches the length and style of your gas system.
For carbine-length gas systems, a standard carbine buffer tube is the most common choice, while rifle-length gas systems require a rifle buffer tube. An adjustable gas block can be used in conjunction with a heavier buffer to fine-tune the gas system for optimal performance.
Action Springs and Lock Nuts
Action springs and lock nuts are important components of any buffer tube kit. These springs provide the necessary tension for the buffer and buffer spring, ensuring smooth and reliable cycling.
When selecting a lock nut, it’s important to choose one that is compatible with your buffer tube and is made from high-quality materials. LBE Unlimited and Strike Industries are two manufacturers that produce high-quality lock nuts and buffer tube kits at an affordable price.
Upper Receivers and Buffer Tubes
When building an AR-15, it’s important to consider the compatibility between the upper receiver and buffer tube. For example, a short-barreled rifle may require a heavier buffer weight or different buffer tube to achieve optimal performance.
Different barrel lengths also require different buffer weights and buffer tube lengths. For example, a rifle-length buffer tube is generally recommended for AR-15 rifles with a 20-inch barrel or longer.
AR-15 Buffer Weights
The standard buffer weight for an AR-15 is 3.0 ounces, and it’s important to select the right weight for your build. Lighter buffers are ideal for faster cycling times, while heavier buffers are useful for reducing felt recoil and cycling issues.
Adding weight to your buffer tube can also help improve the overall performance of your rifle. When building an AR-15, it’s important to consider the added weight of your buffer and carrier group to ensure that your rifle functions at its best.
LBE Unlimited AR Parts
LBE Unlimited is a manufacturer of high-quality AR parts and accessories, including buffer tubes, action springs, and lock nuts. Their AR-15 buffer tube kits and carbine action springs are a great choice for those looking for reliable and affordable AR parts.
Stock Kits and Mil-Spec AR-15 Stocks
Stock kits are another essential component of any AR-15 rifle, providing the necessary housing for the buffer tube and buffer spring. Mil-spec AR-15 stocks are the most common choice, providing a reliable and durable housing for your buffer tube.
When selecting a stock kit, it’s important to choose one that matches the length and style of your buffer tube. This will help ensure that you have all necessary components for your build.
Primary Arms Weapon Systems
Primary Arms Weapon Systems is a manufacturer of high-quality AR parts and accessories, including buffer tubes, buffer springs, and lock nuts. Their AR-15 buffer and buffer spring kits are a great choice for those looking for reliable and durable components for their rifle.
Heaviest Buffer Weight
The heaviest buffer weight for an AR-15 is typically around 5.4 ounces, and it’s important to choose the right buffer weight for your build. Heavy buffers are an excellent choice for reducing felt recoil and cycling issues, but they can also affect the overall performance of your rifle.
When selecting a buffer weight, it’s important to consider the style and length of your carbine build, as well as your personal preferences for felt recoil.
AR Pistol Buffer and Buffer Spring Kits
AR pistol buffer and buffer spring kits are an excellent choice for those looking to build a compact and lightweight AR-15 pistol. These kits typically include a shorter buffer and buffer spring, as well as a smaller buffer tube to match the shorter barrel length.
Smoothest Rifles
To achieve the smoothest possible cycling and reduced felt recoil in your AR-15 rifle, it’s important to choose the right combination of buffer weight and buffer spring length. The right buffer tube kit, action spring, and lock nut can also help ensure that your rifle functions at its best.
CMMG Manufactures Buffer and Buffer Spring Kits
CMMG is a well-known manufacturer of AR parts and accessories, including buffer tubes, buffer springs, and lock nuts. Their buffer and buffer spring kits are a great choice for those looking for high-quality and reliable components for their AR-15 rifle.
Most Common Buffer Springs
The most common buffer springs for AR-15 rifles are carbine springs and rifle springs. Carbine springs are shorter and are designed for use with carbine-length buffer tubes, while rifle springs are longer and are designed for use with rifle-length buffer tubes.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, choosing the right buffer and buffer spring kit is an important component of any AR-15 rifle build. The weight of the buffer, the length of the buffer spring, and the type of buffer tube kit you choose can all affect the performance of your rifle.
Our top picks for the best AR-15 buffer and buffer spring kits include the Aero Precision AR-15 Carbine Buffer Kits, the Bravo Company AR-15/M16 Mil-spec Buffer Tube Assembly, and the Brownells AR-15 Rifle Buffer Tube Kit. Other great options include the Advanced Technology AR-15 Mil-Spec Buffer Tube Assembly Package, the Luth-AR Commercial Carbine Buffer Assembly Package, and the CMMG AR-15 Receiver Extension Kit.
No matter which kit you choose, make sure to select the right combination of buffer weight and buffer spring length to ensure that your AR-15 functions at its best. With the right buffer and buffer spring kit, you can create one of the smoothest and most reliable rifles on the market.
