Been looking around on the threads trying to figure out how to remove a M4 stock but leave the buffer tube. Was thinking about changing out the “OEM” LMT stock to a Magpul, but didn’t want to fool with the staked castle nut if at all possible. Any links to other threads or postings?
- Extend the stock all the way out.
- Pull the lever down, directly away from the “buffer tube”.
- Slide the stock off the back of the “buffer tube” while holding the lever as indicated above.
It should come off all in one motion, leaving the tube in place and removing the stock.
I’m not sure I understand your question.
When the buttstock is removed the receiver extension (buffer tube) is still in place. The only way to remove the receiver extension is to unscrew the castle nut, pull the plate back and unscrew the extension.
Just in case you don’t know, to remove the M4 stock just pull the adjusting lever away from the stock (opposite of the method to adjust the LOP where the lever is pushed into the stock) and slide the stock off.
Yeah I just wanted to take the original buttstock off but leave the buffer tube. So all I have to do is pull down the adjusting lever vertical from the buttstock at it’s max’ed position and it will come off? Never tried that…
Yeah. I can remember thinking I had to disassemble the latch and all this nonsense years ago. Then this mechanic guy grabbed it from me and pulled it right off! 
Sometimes the mind won’t allow you to see the obvious.
Yes, it should come off if you pull down on the locking tab. If it doesn’t come off after pulling it completely down, then the shoulder pin (which locks into the holes in the buffer tube) was screwed in too far during assy. The few times that I have seen this was with Bushies and guys who slapped their own parts together.
See that’s what I’m saying I just tried it and it came right off! I was hoping I didn’t have to get out the brass hammer and co to get it off! Thanks for your help!
I remember years ago when I DID junk up the latch trying to get the roll pin out because I did not have punches and I just thought it had to all be removed to get the thing off and then I found out the easy way, but it was too late!
Good thing it was a Bushmaster!
I have been a user of the AR/M platform for 21 years, since I first joined the Army. I have used the platform for 14 years as a LEO. Two minutes ago when I first read this thread, was the first time I had ever heard of this. I thought to change buttstocks you had to remove the extension.
Don’t I feel like a dumbarse now. :eek:
I wanted to say that it happens to the best of us … BUT for 35 YEARS!!! Mannnnn …
I drove about 35 minutes to G&R tactical to have them take it off. I felt pretty stupid when Grant showed me how it came off. Duh! I still feel stupid.