Originally Posted by
mlberry
Ok. Why is mil spec not mil spec? Either a part is manufactured to military specifications or it is not. And it follows that if Colt manufactures a part that is up to military specifications and Company x manufactures the same part to military specifications then one part is as good as the other. That's the whole point of military specifications. That's the whole point of interchangeability of parts. When the Army rebuilds a rifle it does so from parts meeting military specifications regardless of the manufacturer of that part.
One problem is that "mil spec" means different things to different people. When most people/companies use the term "mil spec", it usually does not mean 100% mil spec, just sort of mil spec.
One example is buffer tubes. The term mil spec buffer tube is used frequently, but it usually just means it has a mil spec diameter. As many people have seen, there are a lot of different "mil spec" buffer tubes being sold.
I agree that there is a significant difference in the quality of many small (and large) AR parts. When I find something I like, I try to stock up on it if it's not too expensive.
One very frustrating thing is buying the same part from the same retailer at different times, and getting slightly (but noticeably) different parts.
Joe Mamma
"Reliability above all else"
NRA Certified Pistol and Rifle Instructor, Life Member
Glock Certified Armorer
Beretta & Sig Sauer Certified Pistol Armorer
Colt Certified 1911 & AR-15/M16/M4 Law Enforcement Armorer
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