Quick answer
Installing an AR QD sling mount on your buffer tube end plate is a straightforward swap that gives you a secure, low-profile attachment point for a single-point or two-point sling. You can complete the job in under 15 minutes with basic tools.
Why swap the stock end plate?
The factory buffer tube end plate on most AR-15s has no sling attachment point. Adding a QD sling mount like the AR QD Sling Mount - Buffer Tube End Plate replaces that part entirely, giving you a flush, low-profile socket for QD swivels. This avoids bulky adapters that can snag on gear or shift your sling attachment point forward.
What you need
You will need a punch or small screwdriver to depress the buffer retainer detent, a castle nut wrench (or armorer's wrench), a torque wrench (optional but recommended), and your new QD sling mount end plate. Most AR buffer tube nuts are torqued to 35-40 ft-lbs from the factory, so a breaker bar may help if the nut is stubborn.
Installation steps
- Remove the stock end plate: Clear the weapon and separate the upper and lower receivers. Use a castle nut wrench to loosen and remove the castle nut. Slide off the buffer tube retainer, the stock end plate, and the buffer tube spring. Keep the buffer retainer detent and spring—they are small and easy to lose. Place a rag over the lower receiver opening to catch the detent and spring when they pop free.
- Install the QD sling mount end plate: Slide the new AR QD Sling Mount - Buffer Tube End Plate onto the buffer tube in the same orientation as the old plate. Reinstall the buffer tube retainer, spring, and castle nut. Tighten the castle nut to 35-40 ft-lbs, then stake the nut to prevent loosening under recoil. Verify the QD socket faces the correct direction (usually rearward) before tightening the castle nut.
- Test the QD attachment: Insert your QD swivel into the new socket. It should click in firmly and rotate freely without wobble. Attach your sling and cycle the charging handle to confirm there is no interference with the buffer tube or receiver extension. If the QD swivel does not lock in, check that the socket is fully seated and that the swivel is compatible with standard 1-inch QD cups.
Product facts
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AR QD Sling Mount - Buffer Tube End Plate: Our AR buffer tube end plate sling mount for QD Swivels swaps out the stock AR buffer tube end plate. This direct replacement means you don't need any extra adapters—the QD socket is built into the plate itself, keeping your sling attachment point tight against the receiver.
AR QD Sling Mount - Buffer Tube End Plate
