AR Gas Tubes

Shop gas tubes at No Boring Guns for AR-15 platforms and compatible rifle systems. These essential components direct propellant gases from the barrel back through the operating system, cycling the action for semi-automatic fire.

Gas tubes represent critical functional components that directly affect reliability, cycling speed, and overall system performance. When building a custom rifle or replacing worn parts, selecting the correct gas tube length and quality level ensures proper function across different ammunition types and environmental conditions. Quality tubes withstand extreme heat cycles and corrosive gases while maintaining dimensional stability over thousands of rounds.

Selecting the Right Gas Tube

Length Compatibility

Matching gas tube length to barrel configuration represents the primary selection criterion. Pistol-length tubes suit barrels under 10 inches, carbine-length tubes fit most 14.5 to 16-inch barrels with front sight base or low-profile gas blocks, mid-length tubes work with 14.5 to 18-inch barrels offering reduced gas pressure, and rifle-length tubes pair with barrels 18 inches and longer. Installing incorrect lengths prevents the tube from reaching between gas port and gas key, causing complete system failure. Measuring from gas port to upper receiver face confirms proper length requirements.

Material Quality

Construction quality affects longevity under sustained fire schedules. Military-specification stainless steel tubes resist heat erosion and corrosive primer compounds found in various ammunition types. Premium tubes feature consistent wall thickness and precise dimensional tolerances, ensuring proper alignment between gas block and gas key. Budget options function adequately for recreational shooting but may show accelerated wear under competition or training use. Surface finish quality indicates manufacturing precision – smooth internal surfaces resist carbon buildup.

Gas Block Integration

Gas tube diameter must match gas block journal dimensions for proper sealing and alignment. Standard AR-15 gas tubes maintain consistent outer diameter, but gas block quality affects the seal where tube enters the block. Low-profile gas blocks require tubes with standard roll pin holes, while adjustable gas blocks allow tuning gas flow without tube replacement. Set screw gas blocks demand careful tube alignment during installation to prevent binding or dimensional stress that could cause premature failure.