This seems to be the only place I can get an answer to a technical question.

Will an extruded buffer tube be as strong as a forged buffer tube?  I'm referring specifically to an Vltor tube vs. a Colt tube.

Just what the hell are you planning on butt rubbing with the rifle/butt plate to even ask the question?

My thought would be if you really need to do some damage, then the old Phantom FS with the lips does the best damage.  Hell, sharpen them up and you don't even need a bayonet.

Quoted: Just what the hell are you planning on butt rubbing with the rifle/butt plate to even ask the question? My thought would be if you really need to do some damage, then the old Phantom FS with the lips does the best damage.  Hell, sharpen them up and you don't even need a bayonet.

I was just talking about a general purpose field rifle and any abuse it might encounter (i.e. a drop or smack).  Is an extruded tube as good as a forged tube?  Can it handle the abuse?

Ask the guys using the VLTOR tubes in the sandbox.  They hold up just as well as your Colt parts.

Quoted: Ask the guys using the VLTOR tubes in the sandbox.  They hold up just as well as your Colt parts.

Are they using Vltor tubes or are they just putting Vltor stocks on their Colt tubes?

I have both Colt and Vltor tubes.  I'm just wondering if the Vltor can hang on a combat weapon because it really is a nice tube and I like the 5 position adjustability versus 4.

forgings are stronger than extrusions

Quoted: forgings are stronger than extrusions

In a general sense, yes they are.  Is the difference enough in this particular application to even worry about; probably not.

Two sources to ask:

Ask Colt, they'd know.

Ask Eric from VLTOR, he'd probably know also.

While you are at it, ask MSTN about his builds.  He uses VLTOR stocks alot and he would tell you if he uses VLTOR tubes, Colt tubes or a mix.

Here's some pics for your viewing pleasure:

MSTN Customers

Hope you don't lose sleep worrying about stuff like this.