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If you’ve ever built an AR-15 or AR-10 from tip to tail, you’re probably familiar with Milspec buffer tubes, castle nuts and endplates. These parts haven’t changed much since the 1950’s, but the engineers at PWS saw room to improve upon the classic design. Primarily: simplifying the installation process, strengthening materials and improving the lockup.

The PWS Enhanced Buffer Tube is manufactured with fluting to dramatically increase strength while reducing the overall weight. It’s quite the improvement over the classic buffer tubes being used across the AR15 market. The Extended Carrier Support Lip promotes consistent operation even during intense firing sessions. The finish was chosen to hold up to rigorous use, as it is anodized to MIL-A-8625 F, Type III, Class 2 specs. One of the highest quality coating specs available for this type of use.

The PWS Ratchet Lock Castle Nut utilizes ratcheting teeth eliminating the need for staking your buffer tube. Staking involves deforming material from the endplate into a notch of a milspec castle nut, creating a mechanical lock that prevents the castle nut from loosening. It requires the right tools, and carries the risk of damaging your parts if done incorrectly. With Ratchet Lock, there is no risk of damage and makes your buffer tube easily serviceable without the need of extra tools.

If your rifle doesn’t have a staked castle nut, don’t worry! You can easily upgrade to the PWS Ratchet Lock Castle Nut and Endplate. All you need is an armorer’s wrench, which is readily available at most gun stores.

If you are completing a build, take a look at the PWS Enhanced Buffer Tube + RLCN+EP Carbine Length Kit. or the Enhanced Pistol Buffer Tube version.