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Can a AR carbine upper be mated w/ a rifle lower

hughes1
Can a carbine length AR upper be used with a regualr rifle length ar lower, i.e. will the standard rifle buffer operate correctly with the carbine upper or do you have to use a carbine buffer if using a carbine upper?
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5 comments

Date Votes
  • MrM1A1
    The only reason you would need to use a different buffer tube is if you changed your stock from A1/A2 fixed to carbine collapsable, or vice versa. As long as you don't change the stock, most any AR upper will work with any lower, regardless of configuration, with a few exceptions. So in your case, yes you should be fine with swapping uppers.

    EDIT: shoff14, I stand corrected. I meant to say "buffer" istead of "buffer tube", but they go hand in hand with regard to the buffer type matching the stock type. Either way it seems that unless you change the stock on the lower, you shouldn't really need to change the buffer, in most applications. You could get a heavier buffer for use with the carbine upper, but in my experience, I've swapped carbine and rifle uppers and lowers without changing buffers with no significant changes in performance. Just my two cents...
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  • shoff14
    MrM1A1,

    He didn't ask about the buffer "tube". He asked about the buffer.

    Hughes,

    You may need to change it out, you may not. Usually for carbine uppers you have to run a heavier buffer then what you would in a rifle length gas system.

    Personally, I would try the types of ammo that you use. If you have some issues swap the buffer out to an "H" or heavier. It is a quick, easy, cheap job, and if you have an A2 stock, the only tool you need is a screw driver. If you decide to put the rifle length gas system upper back on, you won't have to worry about changing the buffer.
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  • Pelican
    This method usually works with these.

    Hold the lower in a shop vise. Lay the uppen on the lower and secure with a large 'c' clamp. Now, using a Lincoln MIG welder...............

    [:D]Pel
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  • v35
    I didn't have any functioning problem between 20"rifle and 16"carbine uppers and the fixed stock lower.
    The collapsible stock took a different buffer.
    No big deal either way with an AR Armorers' Tool.
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  • quickmajik
    I dont think you will have any problems that will damage the gun, I think the heavier buffer/stronger spring for carbines is to stop "bolt bounce" and whatnot. My advice is to get a mid lenght carbine upper like this one as it is a very smooth operating setup..
    14.5 inch Government Profile Mid-Length w/Permanent Phantom flash hider

    found here.

    http://cmmginc.secure-mall.com/shop/index.php?shop=1&cat=93
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