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Posted: 11/7/2009 5:11:42 PM EDT
...Use New Buffer tubes on your retros? I have one on my 603..and..im debating whether or not its worth the trouble (Money) to have it sent with other parts to get anodized....so im asking you guys...is it really worth it?  i mean, its not original...but idk.that black ring back there...
 
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I think it depends on your model. I used a blued A2 tube, since it looks similar to a 604 tube in this photo that I found here on Arfcom: "Top extension is from the Model 604. Middle is the M16A1 and the bottom is the M16A2. All the same length." The middle one (603) appears to be parkerized/anodized gray. http://www.ar15.com/forums/topic.html?b=3&f=4&t=226782 |
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Quoted:
...Use New Buffer tubes on your retros? I have one on my 603..and..im debating whether or not its worth the trouble (Money) to have it sent with other parts to get anodized....so im asking you guys...is it really worth it? i mean, its not original...but idk.that black ring back there...
depends. on my builds, as long as they look right externally i'm happy. i know some people want it as close to original as possible with the buffer tube with the hole and no wrench flats and edgewater buffer. i would take some steel wool and darken the black exposed lip and call it a day. |
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I've used original buffer tubes on all except my 604 build.
(Most were the last part changed out.) Also right now my 605 build has a modern buffer tube. I'll probably send 4 buffer tubes to Victor when I send my 604 to 602 modified upper to be reanodized, sometime in late 2010. |
I think 3 of 4 of my retros have new tubes. But then again, I only suffer from a mild case of RBRD.  When I build a retro I mostly worry about the stock, castle nut, upper receiver, pistol grip, handguards and barrel.
I'd say leave it as is unless you are already sending out other parts to get refinished too. |
| Unfortunatly I tend to be very anal about my rifles and try my best to use only original parts.But as said above,if you are already sending stuff to Victor,I would include all parts that need a makeover.I feel that later on down the road it would eventually bother me..Just my 2 cents for what it's worth. |
| There is a coating called Sandstrom 9A that is grey. Some guys refinish magazines with it. It was recomended in the past for buffer tubes. It is supposed to be durable, I haven't tried it yet myself but am going to buy a can and refinish a couple of buffer tubes. |
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I have used originals in my 601 & early XM16E1, current ones in my M16A1, & in progress 605 build. Of course if I come a good deal on a original one, the 605 will get it.
It all depends on how serious you are in your builds. Myself I am pretty particular about having correct/original parts for my builds, so when ever possible I use them. |
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