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Purpose of an AR 15 Float Tube

Free float tubes increase the accuracy and stability of AR-15 rifles. A free float tube is an accessory that replaces the barrel heat shield of an AR-15 rifle. Like the barrel heat shield, the free float tube protects the barrel, but unlike the heat shield it makes no contact with the barrel.

Installation
- The free float tube is installed on the AR-15 by replacing the barrel nut (which holds the barrel in position). The tube is essentially a replacement nut with a tube attached. Specialized tools are required to install a free float tube.
Barrel Stability
- Since the free float tube is attached to the rifle by the barrel nut, it is free of barrel contact. Therefore any stressors (such as a sling or bipod) that could possibly influence the accuracy of the barrel are removed.
Barrel Cooling
- The free float tube provides better cooling to the barrel than a conventional heat shield can. Heat shields are secured around a barrel at both ends trapping the air around the barrel. Free float tubes are open at the end of the barrel allowing for better circulation.
Free Float Varieties
- Free float tubes are available in a variety of styles and are designed to accommodate attachments without influencing the barrel. Modern free float tubes are available fluted, knurled or plain, with newer designs coming out all the time.
Manufacturers
- Free float tubes are produced by a variety of manufactures including Colt, Bushmaster, Armalite and DPMS. Free float tubes are also available from custom designers.

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