Smyth Busters: AR-10 vs AR-308 - What's the Difference?

Published on May 18, 2021
Duration: 5:25

This guide, based on expert instruction from Brownells' Steve and Caleb, details how to visually differentiate between the ArmaLite AR-10 and DPMS/LR-308 (AR-308) rifle patterns by examining the receiver's rear cut. Understanding this key difference is crucial for ensuring parts compatibility in .308 AR-style rifle builds.

Quick Summary

The key difference between an AR-10 and an AR-308 lies in their design patterns: AR-10 refers to the original ArmaLite design, while AR-308 typically denotes rifles based on the DPMS/LR-308 pattern. This distinction is crucial for parts compatibility, with the upper receiver's rear cut being a primary visual differentiator—straight for AR-10 and curved for AR-308.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to the AR-10 Myth
  2. 00:45Parts Interchangeability Issues
  3. 01:15Receiver Geometry Differences
  4. 01:40Handguards and Rail Heights
  5. 02:08Bolts, Barrels, and Gas Tubes
  6. 02:30Buffer System Differences
  7. 02:52Interchangeable Components
  8. 03:20Magazine Compatibility
  9. 04:20Conclusion and Industry Naming

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main difference between an AR-10 and an AR-308?

The primary distinction lies in their design patterns: the AR-10 specifically refers to the original ArmaLite design, while AR-308 commonly denotes rifles based on the DPMS/LR-308 pattern. This difference is most visually apparent in the receiver's rear cut—straight for AR-10 and curved for AR-308—which dictates parts compatibility.

Are AR-10 and AR-308 parts interchangeable?

No, critical components like the upper receiver, bolt, barrel extension, and gas tube are generally not interchangeable between the ArmaLite AR-10 pattern and the DPMS/LR-308 (AR-308) pattern due to differing dimensions and geometries, such as the receiver cut.

How can I visually identify an AR-10 versus an AR-308?

The easiest visual cue is the rear of the upper receiver. An ArmaLite AR-10 pattern will have a straight-back receiver cut, whereas a DPMS/LR-308 (AR-308) pattern will feature a curved-back receiver cut. This difference is fundamental to their design and parts compatibility.

Why is there confusion between AR-10 and AR-308 designations?

Confusion arises because 'AR-10' is often used generically by manufacturers and consumers to refer to any .308 caliber AR-style rifle. In reality, only rifles adhering to the original ArmaLite design are true AR-10s; most modern .308 ARs follow the DPMS/LR-308 pattern, leading to marketing and naming discrepancies.

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