AR-15 and AR-10 Interchangeable Parts – Review Guide for 2022

| Last Updated:
July 30, 2023

The AR-15 and AR-10 are both outstanding rifles built on the AR modular platform.

One of the questions people often ask is whether any parts are interchangeable between the AR-10 and the AR-15. The AR-15 design inspires itself on the older AR-10, so you can swap certain parts.

In this article, we will get to know the differences and similarities between these two rifles and what parts are interchangeable. We will also review our top picks for the best interchangeable parts on the market.

What Parts Are Interchangeable Between the AR-15 and AR-10?

Since the AR-10 and AR-15 are based on the same platform, they share some parts.

At the same time, the difference in calibers makes certain parts incompatible. Several manufacturers build the AR-10 and the AR-15, including Armalite, Black Rain Ordnance, Seekins Precision, and others, which leads to variations in both design and dimensions.

Among other parts, the upper receivers and the magazines may be incompatible and the barrel nuts from Armalite, DPMS, and RRA use different thread pitches.

As a result, parts that work for one variant may not work for another.

The following parts are usually interchangeable:

  • Buttstock assemblies
  • Buttstock screw
  • Buttstock spacer
  • Triggers and trigger springs
  • Trigger guard pin
  • Trigger guard assembly (on some rifles -- others have built-in trigger guards)
  • Bolt catch roll pin (Armalite Style only)
  • Bolt stop pin
  • Bolt stop plunger
  • Bolt stop spring
    • Hammers and hammer springs
    • Hammer and trigger pin
    • Pistol grips (a spacer may be needed for certain models)
    • Receiver extension (Buffer Tube)
    • Disconnector and disconnector spring
    • Magazine release buttons and springs
    • Safety selectors
    • Ejector/safety spring
    • Safety detent
    • Detent (2 per rifle)
    • Buffer detent
    • Buffer detent spring

    Keep in mind that some manufacturers will have variations in design and fitting, so always check with the manufacturer for compatibility before making your purchase.

    Comparison of the Best AR-15 and AR-10 Interchangeable Parts

    IMAGEPRODUCT
    • Heavier AR grip with an enhanced palm swell for better stability
    • Finely textured side panels to ensure sturdy grip even under wet situations
    • Ambidextrous design and works with or without gloves
    View Latest Price →
    • Flip-up rear sight can be used as a co-witness sight when needed
    • Dual apertures calibrated for close and mid-range targets
    • Easy to mount and can be deployed instantly
    View Latest Price →
    • Rail-mounted, same plane fixed front sight for primary use or backup
    • Durable construction and globe-shaped ears ensure fast target acquisition
    • Adjustable design and retains zero even under heavy recoil and rugged use
    View Latest Price →
    • Free-float gas block for both AR-10 and AR-15
    • Lessens recoil and improves overall accuracy
    • Machined from steel and has a black nitride finish for easy cleaning and maintenance
    View Latest Price →

    Review of the Best Parts to Interchange

    There is a great variety of parts that are interchangeable between the A-10 and the AR-15, so we’ll now look at a list of our top picks. They are quality parts that are proven to work in both guns, received great feedback, and have excellent functionality.

    Best AR Pistol Grip:
    Ergo Grips - AR-15 Suregrip Tactical Deluxe Grip

    Pros

    • Useable for almost any application
    • Simple to install; only takes a few minutes
    • Allows excellent stability and accurate shooting
    • Provides excellent grip for both AR-15 and AR-10 rifles
    • Easy to grip when the weather is bad or if your hands are sweaty
    • Easy to install

    Cons

    • No mounting hardware included
    • Might be a little too large for some hands
    • Trigger position on some weapons may be a little out of place after install

    What Recent Buyers Report 

    A lot of new users were satisfied with how easy it was to install this grip. Many were able to tack this onto their rifles within a couple of minutes before firing off many rounds. They concluded that the grip provided excellent stability and in turn made every shot as accurate and precise as possible across various distances. One user was shooting off rounds at targets ranging from 100 to 200 yards and noticed his shooting groups were consistently tighter each and every time. 

    Why it Stands Out to Us 

    Tactical grips are designed to allow users to handle their rifles with the greatest of ease and make accurate shooting a possibility. Yes, recoil might be stubborn when it comes to keeping your rifle straight. That’s why you need to install some of the best accessories that will allow for the best performance possible. It might begin with a pistol grip and then some others like the stock or a muzzle brake. With that said, if stability is of huge importance, consider getting this grip for your rifle and install it in a flash.

    This is the right pistol grip for a shooter with large hands. It is a larger, heavier AR grip with a more pronounced palm swell than the standard Ergo grip. It is impervious to oils and solvents, providing a superior gripping surface when wet or used with gloves, as well as being ambidextrous oriented. The grip includes a mounting screw with a locking washer.

    Who Will Use This Most 

    This will be an excellent grip that will be useful for many AR-10 or AR-15 shooters. Whether you hunt, target shoot, or compete, you’ll want stability and accuracy to go hand in hand. It’s a grip like this that you can use to your advantage so you are able to know exactly where each shot goes even before you pull the trigger. Not bad for a marksman like yourself, right?

    Bottom Line

    The Ergo Grips AR-15 Tactical Deluxe Grip just might be one of those little accessories that will have a huge impact on your performance. It doesn’t matter if you are using an AR-10 or an AR-15, you’re definitely going to make sure that every shot will count no matter how many rounds you are firing on a regular basis. For excellent stability and reliability in any given weather condition, this pistol grip is a must-have.

    This grip only takes 2 minutes to change and gives you a sure and comfortable grip in all conditions. We recommend this model to people with large hands looking for a comfortable and intuitive grip that can take on any punishment.

    Best AR Rear Sight:
    A.R.M.S.,Inc - AR-15 40L Low Profile Rear Sight

    Pros

    • Great durability
    • Can co-witness with most front sights
    • Easy to install; only takes a couple of minutes
    • Provides really accurate and precise shooting
    • Low profile; doesn’t stick out like a sore thumb
    • Made in the USA

    Cons

    • In the higher price range

    What Recent Buyers Report 

    Most new buyers were looking for a sight that would allow for accurate shooting and easy co-witnessing with front sights. Of course, it had to be compatible with either AR-10 or AR-15 rifles. Most of them were happy with this rear sight and how it was able to keep a low profile while not sticking out and obscuring the target. One user said that along with his front sight of choice, this rear sight had no problem lining up with each other to deliver perfectly accurate shots almost every single time. He also said that the rear sight was easy to adjust anytime he saw the shot looking a little off. 

    Why it Stands Out to Us 

    This is a rear sight that is not only easy to install, but it’s also easy to deploy when you are ready to use it in a hunting or target shooting setting. And since it’s made from durable materials, it will certainly last you as long as possible. It’s resistant to weather, water, and environmental elements that would otherwise cause damage to a sight (or allow it to rust). You won’t get that with a rear sight like this. If you want a sight that will help you hit targets ranging from well up to 300 yards out without the use of a scope, you’d be insane to pass up the opportunity to give this rear sight a closer look. 

    This model is a rugged, flip-up rear sight made from anodized aluminum and stainless steel. It works with A2-height front sights and can be co-witnessed through an optic. Users can mount it easily on a Picatinny rail and secure it with safety wire.

    With this, it can also use the dual apertures together or fold down the first one and use the second alone. A non-snagging lever brings the spring-loaded sight into the ready position.

    Who Will Use This Most 

    This would be a great rear sight for those who want accurate shooting that will go the distance in any given application. It would be really hard to say no to that. And since you won’t need a scope to take each shot far enough, your hunting buddies or the others at the range will be impressed with how quick and accurate you can hit your targets without the aid of another optic. If you want a sight that is really impressive in terms of performance, this might be the go-to option for you.

    Bottom Line

    The ARMS Inc AR-15 40L Low Profile Rear Sight is a pretty solid accessory that you can add onto your rifle that will allow for excellent accuracy and precise shooting. Whether you use this for hunting or target shooting, you’ll be left speechless with how tight your shooting groups may end up by the time the day is done. This is one of the best AR-10 or AR-15 rear sights that will make sure that every shot goes the distance and lands exactly where you want it. 

    The flip-up sights make it easier to stow and remove your rifle from its case, while the feature-packed sights make aiming and shooting at your targets a breeze. You will be satisfied with the build quality and robustness of these sights.

    Best AR Front Sight:
    Troy Industries, Inc. - AR-15 Fixed Front Battle Sight

    Pros

    • Excellent durability
    • Easy to mount on most rails
    • Stays secure and never loosens up
    • Co-witnesses nicely with most rear sights
    • Allows for accurate shooting across various distances
    • Easy to install

    Cons

    • None

    What Recent Buyers Report 

    Many new users say that this front sight was perfect for all kinds of accurate and precise shooting. At the same time, they managed to install this in a matter of a few minutes along with their favorite rear sight of choice. They said that finding the best rear sight was important to co-witness with this front sight in particular. And sure enough, they were not disappointed after finding out that this sight was able to work well with most AR-15 or AR-10 rear sights (adjustable or otherwise). 

    Why it Stands Out to Us 

    This front sight might be used as a standalone or as part of a set of sights that you can use in an effort to make sure that your rifle is accurate and precise with every shot. This is a sight that is made from high-quality aluminum and is finished with a hard coat that will allow for extra durability. If you are looking to add on a new front sight without the need for any complicated tools, then you’re going to love having this sight on hand as an upgrade or an addition to your latest AR-10 or AR-15 building project. 

    This rail-mounted, fixed, same-plane front sight will fit any AR-style rifle Picatinny railed forend or gas block that is the same height as the receiver rail.

    You can pair it with a flip-up rear sight as a back-up for a scope too. The HK-style globe-shaped ears aid in fast target acquisition, while the serrated, angled ramp eliminates glare.

    Users can adjust the elevation in ½ MOA increments and keep the adjustments locked with the positive-locking detent.

    Who Will Use This Most 

    This is a sight for those that are looking to upgrade or add on. Alternatively, if you have a rear sight that needs a front sight to work with, you may want to consider purchasing this. It will certainly work with many of your rear sights and will make sure that every shot you fire lands on target exactly where you want it to go. 

    Bottom Line

    The Troy Industries Inc AR-15 Fixed Front Battle Sight might be the go-to option for those looking to increase the hit probability of their AR-10 or AR-15 rifles. You can easily install this on one rifle or remove it and install it on another. Either way, it proves itself to be a really easy accessory to interchange. 

    Loved by AR enthusiasts, this front sight gives rapid sight acquisition and a classy look to your gun. It works great and is sturdy, so it won’t fall off or need adjusting.

    Best AR Gas Block:
    Odin Works Inc. - AR-15 Low Profile Gas Block

    Pros

    • Superior durability
    • Easy and quick installation
    • Affordable for most budgets
    • Lightweight; doesn’t weigh down the user
    • Functions quite nicely and allows for powerful actuation
    • Adjustable
    • Easy to install

    Cons

    • May be too tight for some rifles
    • Some micro-adjustments can be needed. 

    What Recent Buyers Report 

    Most recent buyers of this gas block were looking for something that could make the functionality of their rifles so much better, while still maintaining a low profile. Sure enough, they got it with this gas block for their AR-15 and AR-10s. Most of them have said that it was quick and easy to install and allowed for smooth shot cycling. Even one user said that this gas block fit his rifle perfectly and didn’t weigh him down with any additional weight. 

    Why it Stands Out to Us 

    Gas blocks are one of the most useful accessories for the purpose of making your AR-15 or AR-10 rifle as smooth running as possible. And since it’s low profile, you’re certainly going to be using something that won’t stick out like a sore thumb. This will ensure that the gas flow propels each shot. If you are looking for something that will be perfect for most rifles and will be easily interchangeable without any additional adjustments or fitting needed, look no further. 

    This gas block from ODIN Works is adjustable and machined from steel and black nitrided for durability. Its front-facing Inconel adjustment screw and spring can handle high temperatures, and you can adjust it through 20 clicks of ball detent adjustment. Furthermore, it can fit any barrel with .750 diameter and works with any caliber.

    Who Will Use This Most 

    This gas block would be a perfect upgrade or addition to a rifle building project. Either way, it’s an accessory that will be vital to your rifle’s overall functionality. So if you are looking for a great gas block that won’t stick out and will be durable enough to last you a long time, then you may want to consider choosing this one for yourself. 

    Bottom Line

    Lightweight, reliable, and easy to install, the ODIN Works AR-15 Low Profile Gas Block just might be the one thing you need in order to make all your shots cycle through without any malfunctions or inferior velocity. Once you have this gas block in place, your levels of firepower will be greater than ever before. It doesn’t matter what application you use this puppy for, if you can install it and get it to work, you are in business. 

    This versatile and highly effective gas block will reduce the recoil of your AR build while at the same time allowing smooth adjustments. It may not fit perfectly with every handguard though, so check the dimensions before buying.

    5. Double Star - AR-15 Socom Stock Collapsible Mil-Spec

    Pros

    • Fits most AR-10 and AR-15 rifles
    • Resistant to oils, solvents, and weather elements
    • Easy to install and adjust for a better length of pull
    • Heat-treated so it can handle the heat of extended use
    • Reduction of recoil right out of the box, most reporting about 50 percent less
    • Aesthetically pleasing

    Cons

    • A bit heavy, but robust

    What Recent Buyers Report 

    New buyers had no problem installing this stock. And they managed to get the job done fairly quickly before taking it out to the range for a handful of test shots. They certainly were not disappointed when they noticed a large reduction of recoil immediately after the install. And it also made them gain complete control over their rifles. One user even said that by the time he went through another magazine, he noticed that the recoil seemed to be less and less each time. 

    Why it Stands Out to Us 

    If you are looking for a rifle stock that will make storage easy and adjustments for length of pull quite effortless, then you may want to consider investing in this stock. It’s heat resistant, making it perhaps one of the best stocks on the market for the purpose of extended use. This means you can be able to use the rifle for as long as you like and not have to worry about burning yourself afterward. On top of that, it’s a rifle that will instantly reduce recoil at the snap of a finger. Once installed, you won’t be able to feel a whole lot of it. And over time it might just go away altogether. If you are in search of a stock that will last you a long time and make your rifle function a whole lot better than some other AR-15 or AR-10 stocks, then you’d be hard-pressed to find anything quite like this elsewhere. 

    The best buttstock for the AR platform is the collapsible stock from Double Star. The Tactical carbine stock allows two inches of length adjustment, while allowing adjustment of length to five different positions. If you want a fixed-length stock, easily convert it using the included machine screw. With this, the soft foam cover on the tube provides a comfortable cheek weld. 

    Additional features include a rubber recoil pad, a machined-in hammer for breaching doors, a receiver end plate for single-point slings, and 3 sling slots. The buttstock is machined from aluminum for strength and durability.

    Who Will Use This Most 

    This would be a great multi-purpose stock. Which means it won’t matter what you use your AR-10 or AR-15 for. As long as you can adjust this to fit your length of pull and allows for easy storage once you are finished, this stock might just be the perfect fit. And it’s going to stay with you for a long time since it’s made from high-quality materials. Little to no recoil, no heat, no problem. This is a stock that definitely stands out for some semi-auto rifles to check out. 

    Bottom Line

    This Double Star AR-15 SOCOM Collapsible Stock might just be one of the best accessories that you can invest that will be interchangeable for either AR-10 or AR-15 rounds. No matter which one you own, it is important that you put it to good use if you want great stability and excellent recoil resistance.

    If interchangeable is what you’re looking for other than the other cool perks you’ll get from this stock, accept no substitutes. And if you need a tough, and functional buttstock for tactical purposes, that is both comfortable and easy-to-use, look no further. It will work with most slings, and the adjustable length is a nifty feature.

    6. Airborne Arms LLC - AR-15 AAGT Geronimo Trigger System

    Pros

    • Excellent durability
    • Easy to install; only takes a few minutes
    • Battle-tested for quality and reliability
    • Can be easily switched out between rifles
    • Light, but solid trigger pull with no sign of overtravel or grittiness
    • Easily adjustable
    • Crisp and consistent break
    • Designed, tested, and manufactured entirely in the USA

    Cons

    • Somewhat expensive for a trigger

    What Recent Buyers Report

    This trigger was a hit with most users. Its drop-in design made the installation process easy and expedient. By the time the trigger was already installed, it was able to give them excellent timing on their shots. Not only that, they were able to fire shots in quick succession (and follow-up shots as well). One user even said that this worked way better than his factory default trigger, which had way too much creep and overtravel. 

    Why It Stands Out To Us

    Without a trigger that can perform like a well-oiled machine, a rifle can be quite useless. But rest assured, this trigger will easily give your rifle the improvement it needs when it comes to shooting. It’s already assembled, so it’s ready to be installed on your rifle, whether you are looking to upgrade or add onto a current building project. Make no mistake, this trigger is a much-needed accessory for those who have grown tired of their factory default triggers and have to apply more pressure than they have to on it in order to get a shot off. 

    The single-stage Airborne Arms AAST Geronimo Trigger System is built-around Airborne’s M.S.A.T. (Modular Shooter Adaptive Trigger) technology, which allows it to be adapted to the shooting style of each shooter. The hammer/trigger spring tension is adjustable, and the 7075 T6 aluminum trigger shoes are replaceable.

    Proper fitting provided by the trigger shoe improves shooter accuracy and split times between shots. The oversized anti-walk/rotation hammer and trigger pins keep the trigger in place in the receiver. The trigger is machined from a high-grade A2 tool steel alloy, and the contact surfaces are hand-ground and polished to ensure a creep-free trigger pull and a crisp, abrupt, consistent break.

    Who Would Use This Most?

    This will be an excellent trigger for many AR-15 or AR-10 rifles. Whether you switch them out on one rifle to another, it’s bound to work just as great either way you slice it. The pull weight is decent and it will allow you to shoot quickly and nail your targets in a timely fashion. Why settle for anything less than that? If you want something that will help make this rifle so much more functional, a trigger assembly just might be the answer. 

    Bottom Line

    The Airborne Arms LLC AR-15 Geronimo Trigger System is assembled and ready to go in a moment’s notice. Once you drop it in, you’ll have a smooth working trigger that will make shooting your rifle a whole lot easier. You’d be surprised how much can change in an instant (especially when you have just installed a trigger that will run well for a long period of time). If you don’t want to waste time with trigger assemblies that will be complex to put together, this trigger could be your saving grace. 

    The trigger is one of the most critical parts of your AR builds, so choose a trigger that feels right. This is a beloved trigger thanks to its adjustable pull weight, clean break, and robust design.

    Differences Between AR-10 and AR-15

    AR-10 (Source)

    VS

    AR-15 (Source)

    Caliber

    The main difference between these guns is that the AR-15 uses the 5.56/.223 cartridge and the AR-10 uses 7.62/.308.

    .223 vs .308 (Source)

    Due to the heavier caliber, the lower receiver and other key components on the AR-10 are larger on the AR-15, leading to slightly heavier weight.

    With the AR-10, there is more space between the pistol grip and the edge of the lower receiver. The AR-10’s magazine walls are also larger, to accommodate the larger rounds.

    Size

    The two rifles have different lengths; the AR-15 is about 3’’ shorter than the AR-10. The AR-10 is 35.5" when collapsed and 39.5" when extended while the AR-15 is 33.3" when collapsed and 36.6" when extended.

    Weight

    The two rifles have a weight difference. The AR-10 weighs 8.5 lbs., being heavier than the AR-15, at 7 lbs. The heavier weight serves to withstand the forces of the heavier caliber in the AR-10.

    Rifling Rate

    The modern, commercially available AR-10 is chambered for the 7.62x51mm (.308 Win) and features a 16″ barrel with a right-hand twist at a rate of 1 twist per 11.25”.

    Compare this to the M15TAC16, which is the ArmaLite 5.56mm (.223) tactical rifle. It also comes with a 16″ barrel but has a right-hand twist at a rate of 1 twist per 7”.

    Similarities Between AR-10 and AR-15

    While the two rifles have their differences, the AR-15 and the AR-10 also have a lot in common. They are built on similar frames and function in the same way.

    Barrel Length

    Both rifles have barrel lengths of 16 inches and are light enough to be carried around by people of any size and strength. However, barrels can be upgraded and adjusted per user.

    Mechanism

    The AR-15 employs the same “direct gas impingement” operation as the one used in the AR-10s, but comes with a few more developments compared to its predecessor.

    Rate of Fire

    The AR-5 can shoot 800 rounds per minute with a muzzle velocity of 3200 FPS that attains a maximum effective range of about 600 yards. Meanwhile, the AR-10 has an impressive cyclic fire rate of about 700 rounds per minute with a 2,772 FPS muzzle velocity.

    Conclusion

    When purchasing parts for your AR build, you may want to keep in mind whether they are interchangeable between the AR-15 and the AR-10, especially if you plan to have both.

    While we’ve listed some commonly interchangeable parts above, you should always take care to check with the manufacturer. If in doubt, you should check out our top picks for the interchangeable parts above and spend some time researching the unit that most catches your eye.

    Michael Lutes

    Michael Lutes is the managing editor and owner at Gun Mann. He is a veteran, gun enthusiast, 3 gun competitor, and 2a advocate. Mike has a passion for innovation and education across the industry to create great content, training, and insights from the best and brightest.

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