Lower flex when torquing buffer tube

**Stickman** · 09-01-21, 13:58

I'm lazy, I install a pistol grip, then stand on it or put it in a vise so that there is as little room for movement when locking the castle nut in place.

**markm** · 09-01-21, 14:25

Originally Posted by Stickman

I'm lazy, I install a pistol grip, then stand on it or put it in a vise so that there is as little room for movement when locking the castle nut in place.

This. Just snug it down to the exact spec of "pretty damned tight" and stake it. I've NEVER dragged out the torque wrench for this.

**Superhero** · 09-02-21, 12:02

Thanks for all the responses guys!

**1_click_off** · 09-04-21, 06:01

I usually pin the upper on it so it has some more support while tightening it. I guess you could even throw a old BCG in there to offer even more support.

**bamashooter** · 09-04-21, 06:29

No doubt I've never taken one to 40 or staked any. Better to flex than to shatter.

**556Cliff** · 09-04-21, 08:29

Originally Posted by 1_click_off

I usually pin the upper on it so it has some more support while tightening it. I guess you could even throw a old BCG in there to offer even more support.

That wouldn't help in the least.

**556Cliff** · 09-04-21, 08:37

There should be no problem with going to the correct 38-42 Ft-Lb torque spec and there should be minimal flexing of the lower IF the lower is supported correctly. However, there is nothing correct about using a mag well vise block for the task... Those are merely to be used as a third hand to aid in installing things like triggers, mag catches, pistol grips and pivot pins.