Are you looking to build an AR-15 lower? Building the butt stock and buffer tube assembly can be a daunting task, especially if you’re new to building guns. Fortunately, you don’t need to be a gunsmith to get the job done right. In this blog post, we’ll provide some expert tips to help you build a butt stock and buffer tube assembly on your AR-15 lower with ease. Read on to get started!

Why Build Your Own Butt Stock and Buffer Tube Assembly?
Building your own butt stock and buffer tube assembly for your AR-15 lower can provide several advantages. Firstly, it allows you to customize your rifle to suit your preferences and shooting style. Whether you want a collapsible stock for enhanced maneuverability or a fixed stock for increased stability, gun builder your own assembly gives you the freedom to choose. Secondly, it can be a rewarding and educational experience. By assembling the parts yourself, you gain a deeper understanding of how your firearm works, which can be valuable knowledge for troubleshooting or future upgrades. Lastly, building your own assembly can save you money. Purchasing individual components and assembling them yourself can often be more cost-effective than buying pre-assembled options. Overall, building your own butt stock and buffer tube assembly is a worthwhile endeavor that allows you to personalize your AR-15 and gain valuable knowledge in the process.
Understanding the Parts of the Kit
When building your own butt stock and buffer tube assembly for your AR-15 lower, it’s crucial to understand the various components included in the kit. The kit typically includes a butt stock, buffer tube, buffer spring, and buffer.
The butt stock is the part of the rifle that rests against your shoulder and provides stability during shooting. It comes in different styles, including fixed or collapsible, and can be adjustable to fit your comfort.
The buffer tube, also known as the receiver extension, is the cylindrical tube that houses the buffer and buffer spring. It connects the butt stock to the lower receiver and absorbs the recoil during firing.
The buffer spring and buffer work together to control the recoil and ensure smooth operation of the firearm. The buffer spring provides the necessary tension to push the buffer back into place after each shot, while the buffer absorbs the energy and reduces the recoil felt by the shooter.
Tools You’ll Need to Get Started
Building a butt stock and buffer tube assembly for your AR-15 lower requires a few essential tools. Don’t worry, you don’t need a full workshop to get started. Here are the tools you’ll need to successfully complete your build:
- Armorer’s Wrench: This versatile tool is a must-have for any AR-15 build. It’s used for tightening castle nuts, installing barrel nuts, and more.
- Punch Set: A punch set will come in handy for driving out roll pins and other small parts during the assembly process.
- Vise and Vise Block: These tools will hold your lower receiver securely while you work on it. A vise block is designed to fit the shape of the lower receiver and prevent damage during assembly.
- Torque Wrench: It’s crucial to tighten certain components to the correct torque specification. A torque wrench will ensure proper installation and prevent damage to your firearm.
- Screwdriver Set: You’ll need a set of screwdrivers, both flathead and Phillips, for various parts and adjustments.
- Mallet: A rubber or nylon mallet will help you gently tap in roll pins and other tight-fitting parts without damaging the finish.
- Threadlocker: Applying threadlocker to certain screws and bolts will prevent them from coming loose during shooting.
Common Mistakes to Avoid During the Build Process
Building a butt stock and buffer tube assembly for your AR-15 lower can be a rewarding experience, but it’s important to avoid common mistakes that can hinder your progress. One common mistake is not properly lubricating the buffer tube and buffer spring. This can lead to increased friction and potentially affect the reliability of your firearm. Another mistake to avoid is over-tightening the castle nut on the buffer tube. Over-tightening can cause damage to the threads and prevent proper installation of the butt stock. Additionally, make sure to double-check all connections and screws for proper torque to ensure a secure and safe assembly. By being mindful of these common mistakes, you can ensure a smooth and successful build process for your butt stock and buffer tube assembly.
Tips for Fine-Tuning Your Finished Product
Now that you’ve successfully built your butt stock and buffer tube assembly, it’s time to fine-tune your finished product. Here are some expert tips to help you get the most out of your AR-15 lower:
- Test for Functionality: Before taking your rifle out to the range, it’s crucial to ensure that everything is functioning properly. Double-check all the connections, screws, and pins to make sure they are secure. Test the action and cycling of the firearm to ensure smooth operation.
- Check for Fit and Comfort: Your butt stock should fit snugly against your shoulder and provide a comfortable shooting position. Take the time to adjust the length of pull and cheek weld to your liking. Experiment with different positions and make adjustments as needed.
- Fine-Tune the Recoil: If you find that the recoil is too harsh or uncomfortable, there are a few adjustments you can make. Consider changing the weight of the buffer to reduce felt recoil. You can also experiment with different buffer spring tensions to find the sweet spot for your shooting style.
- Lubrication: Proper lubrication is essential for the smooth functioning of your firearm. Make sure to apply a high-quality gun oil or grease to all moving parts, including the buffer tube, buffer spring, and buffer. Regularly clean and lubricate these components to maintain optimal performance.
- Take it to the Range: Once you’ve fine-tuned your butt stock and buffer tube assembly, it’s time to put it to the test. Take your rifle to the range and spend some time familiarizing yourself with its performance. Pay attention to how it handles, the recoil, and any adjustments you might need to make.