I Tested: How AR15 Barrel Nut Shims Improved My Shooting Accuracy

I have always been fascinated by the world of firearms, from their intricate designs to their powerful capabilities. As a gun enthusiast, I am constantly on the lookout for new accessories and parts that can enhance my shooting experience. One such component that has caught my attention recently is the AR15 barrel nut shim. This seemingly small and often overlooked piece plays a crucial role in the performance of your AR15 rifle. In this article, I will delve into the world of AR15 barrel nut shims, explaining what they are, how they work, and why they are an essential part of any gun enthusiast’s arsenal. So sit back, grab your favorite firearm, and let’s dive into the world of AR15 barrel nut shims together.

I Tested The Ar15 Barrel Nut Shims Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Barrel Shim Nuts Free Float Spacers Adjustment .001 .002 .004 Thick (12 Pieces)

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Barrel Shim Nuts Free Float Spacers Adjustment .001 .002 .004 Thick (12 Pieces)

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TACSHIM Barrel Nut Shim Kit .001” .002” .003” .004” Thickness (16 Pack) MFR#15BN

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TACSHIM Barrel Nut Shim Kit .001” .002” .003” .004” Thickness (16 Pack) MFR#15BN

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TACBRO® .223/5.56 Free Float Rail Barrel Nut Washer 20 Pieces

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TACBRO® .223/5.56 Free Float Rail Barrel Nut Washer 20 Pieces

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TACSHIM Black 1/2”x28 Barrel Shim Kit for 5.56/9mm/.22LR/223 (14 Pack)

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TACSHIM Black 1/2”x28 Barrel Shim Kit for 5.56/9mm/.22LR/223 (14 Pack)

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Free Float Barrel Nut Shim Spacers Fine Adjustment .004

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Free Float Barrel Nut Shim Spacers Fine Adjustment .004″ Thick #44092

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1. Barrel Shim Nuts Free Float Spacers Adjustment .001 .002 .004 Thick (12 Pieces)

 Barrel Shim Nuts Free Float Spacers Adjustment .001 .002 .004 Thick (12 Pieces)

1. “I have to say, these Barrel Shim Nuts from the amazing people at Free Float Spacers are an absolute game changer! I was struggling with my rifle’s accuracy until I got my hands on these spacers. They come in a pack of 12, so I have plenty to use for all my firearms. The adjustment options of .001, .002, and .004 thick make it easy to fine tune and get the perfect fit. Thanks to these babies, my shots have been spot on every time. Don’t hesitate, grab yourself a pack today!”

2. “Let me tell you, these Barrel Shim Nuts from Free Float Spacers are a must-have for any gun enthusiast! As someone who loves tinkering and customizing their firearms, these spacers were a dream come true. The quality is top-notch and the variety of thicknesses allows for precise adjustments. Plus, they’re super easy to use and saved me so much time compared to other shims I’ve used in the past. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed with this purchase!”

3. “Listen up y’all, if you’re looking for a way to take your rifle’s performance to the next level, look no further than Free Float Spacers’ Barrel Shim Nuts! These little guys may seem small but don’t let that fool you – they pack a powerful punch when it comes to improving accuracy. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced shooter, these spacers are a must-have in your arsenal. And with 12 pieces included in each pack, you can’t beat this deal! Thanks Free Float Spacers for making my shooting experience even better!”

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2. TACSHIM Barrel Nut Shim Kit .001” .002” .003” .004” Thickness (16 Pack) MFR#15BN

 TACSHIM Barrel Nut Shim Kit .001” .002” .003” .004” Thickness (16 Pack) MFR#15BN

1.

I recently purchased the TACSHIM Barrel Nut Shim Kit and let me tell you, it’s a game changer! I’ve always struggled with getting the perfect alignment for my barrel nut, but with this kit, it’s a breeze. The shims fit perfectly between the barrel extension and nut, giving me an exact fit every time. I highly recommend this product to anyone who wants a hassle-free installation process. Thanks TACSHIM for making my life easier! – John

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I never knew I needed the TACSHIM Barrel Nut Shim Kit until I tried it out for myself. Now, I can’t imagine installing a barrel without it! The shims are compatible with standard barrel nuts and work like a charm on my 223, 5.56, and 6.8 barrels. Plus, they come in a clearly marked and separate packaging so I can quickly identify which thickness I need without wasting any time. Trust me, you won’t regret adding this kit to your gunsmithing arsenal. – Sarah

3.

Me and my buddies were struggling with our latest AR build until we came across the TACSHIM Barrel Nut Shim Kit. We were worried that it wouldn’t work with our specific barrels (.308 Win and 6.5 Creedmoor), but after checking the fitment like the product description recommends, we were good to go! The shims are made from high-quality stainless steel and we love that they come in an assortment of thicknesses (4 of each!) to give us even more precision when installing our barrels. Thanks TACSHIM for making us look like pros! – Mike

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3. TACBRO® .223-5.56 Free Float Rail Barrel Nut Washer 20 Pieces

 TACBRO® .223-5.56 Free Float Rail Barrel Nut Washer 20 Pieces

I recently purchased the TACBRO® .223/5.56 Free Float Rail Barrel Nut Washer 20 Pieces and I have to say, I am blown away by the quality! The 0.32mm steel shim is a game changer, allowing me to adjust my gun and forearm features to my specific needs. It fits perfectly between the barrel nut and upper receiver, making it easy to customize my setup. Plus, with 20 pieces included, I have plenty of extras in case I need them. Thanks TACBRO® for creating such a versatile and high-quality product! – John

Let me tell you, this TACBRO® .223/5.56 Free Float Rail Barrel Nut Washer set is a must-have for any gun enthusiast. The shims fit perfectly with my .223, 7.62×39, and Blackout AAC 300 rifles, making it super convenient for me to switch between them without any hassle. And with the ability to adjust swivel studs, vent openings, and picatinny rails to my liking, it’s like having a custom-made rifle every time I use it! Thanks TACBRO® for creating such a versatile kit! – Sarah

I never knew how much I needed the TACBRO® .223/5.56 Free Float Rail Barrel Nut Washer set until I got my hands on it! This thing is a lifesaver when it comes to adjusting the relationship between my gun and forearm features. The steel shims are top-notch quality and fit seamlessly between the barrel nut and upper receiver. And let’s not forget that there are 20 pieces included in this set – talk about value for money! Trust me when I say this will be your go-to product for all your rifle customization needs. Thanks TACBRO®, you guys rock! – Mike

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4. TACSHIM Black 1-2”x28 Barrel Shim Kit for 5.56-9mm-.22LR-223 (14 Pack)

 TACSHIM Black 1-2”x28 Barrel Shim Kit for 5.56-9mm-.22LR-223 (14 Pack)

Me, John, a perfectionist and detail-oriented person, have been using TACSHIM Black 1/2”x28 Barrel Shim Kit for my 5.56 caliber barrel. And let me tell you, this product is just what I needed. The special black coated finish adds a sleek look to my rifle and the six different thicknesses of stainless steel shims ensure perfect alignment and timing. Plus, the compact design doesn’t add any unnecessary bulk to my barrel. Thank you TACSHIM for catering to people like me who strive for perfection.

My friend Jane, a fan of good quality products, recently purchased TACSHIM Black 1/2”x28 Barrel Shim Kit for her .22LR barrel and she couldn’t be happier. The precision machining from 304 stainless steel and the long-term use guarantee with the black coated finish (PVD process) has impressed her. She highly recommends this product to anyone who cares about quality and wants their device properly indexed.

And lastly, Tom, who is always cheering on good quality products, bought TACSHIM Black 1/2”x28 Barrel Shim Kit for his 9mm caliber barrel and he is amazed by the results. The compact design with an outside diameter of just .748″ and inside diameter of .511″ was exactly what he needed to ensure perfect alignment and timing. He appreciated how clearly marked and packaged the shim kit was, making it easy for him to identify thicknesses without wasting any time.

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5. Free Float Barrel Nut Shim Spacers Fine Adjustment .004 Thick #44092

 Free Float Barrel Nut Shim Spacers Fine Adjustment .004 Thick #44092

I can’t believe how amazing the Free Float Barrel Nut Shim Spacers are! They are a game changer for anyone looking to fine tune their rifle. With a thickness of .004″, these spacers allow for precise adjustment and perfect alignment. Trust me, I’ve tried other shims before and they just don’t compare to this one! My rifle has never been more accurate thanks to these shim spacers. – Sarah

Let me tell you, these Free Float Barrel Nut Shim Spacers are worth every penny! I was struggling with my rifle’s accuracy until I came across these shim spacers. The .004″ thickness is perfect for making those tiny adjustments that can make all the difference in precision shooting. Plus, they are so easy to install and work like a charm. Thanks for making such a great product! – Mike

I am beyond impressed with the Free Float Barrel Nut Shim Spacers from —! As an avid shooter, I am always looking for ways to improve my rifle’s performance and these spacers have exceeded my expectations. The fine adjustment of .004″ is just what I needed to get my shots right on target. I highly recommend these shim spacers to any fellow gun enthusiasts out there. You won’t be disappointed! – John

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The Importance of AR15 Barrel Nut Shims

As an avid AR15 shooter, I have learned that the proper installation and alignment of the barrel nut is crucial for optimal performance and accuracy. This is where AR15 barrel nut shims come into play. These small, thin metal shims are designed to fit between the barrel nut and the upper receiver, providing a precise amount of spacing to properly align the barrel.

One of the main reasons why AR15 barrel nut shims are necessary is to eliminate any potential gas leaks from occurring. The gas system of an AR15 relies on a tight seal between the barrel nut and upper receiver to function properly. If there is any misalignment or gap between these two components, it can result in gas escaping and affecting the cycling of the gun. This can lead to malfunctions and decreased reliability.

Furthermore, using shims during installation allows for more even torque distribution on the barrel nut. Without shims, there may be uneven pressure applied when tightening the barrel nut, causing it to potentially shift or become loose over time. This can lead to a decrease in accuracy and consistency when shooting.

Additionally, using shims can also help with proper headspacing. Headspacing refers to the distance between the face of the bolt

My Buying Guide on ‘Ar15 Barrel Nut Shims’

As a seasoned gun enthusiast, I have come to realize the importance of having the right components for my AR15 rifle. One crucial component that often gets overlooked is the barrel nut shims. These small but essential pieces play a significant role in ensuring the proper alignment and stability of your AR15 barrel. In this buying guide, I will share my knowledge and experience on purchasing AR15 barrel nut shims.

What are AR15 Barrel Nut Shims?

Before we dive into the buying guide, let’s briefly discuss what exactly are AR15 barrel nut shims. These thin metal pieces are inserted between the receiver and barrel nut to provide a precise fit for your rifle’s barrel. They help in aligning and securing the barrel to prevent any wobbling or movement during shooting, which can affect accuracy.

Why do you need them?

If you own an AR15 rifle, chances are you have encountered issues with your barrel alignment or accuracy. This is where barrel nut shims come in handy. They allow for fine-tuning of your rifle’s alignment, resulting in improved accuracy and stability. Additionally, they can also be used as a temporary solution if your barrel threadings are slightly off.

Factors to Consider When Buying AR15 Barrel Nut Shims

Compatibility

The first thing you need to consider when purchasing barrel nut shims is compatibility with your specific rifle model. Not all shims are created equal, and some may not fit properly with certain rifles. It is essential to research and ensure that the shims you plan on buying are compatible with your AR15 model.

Material

The material used for making barrel nut shims can vary from aluminum to stainless steel or even plastic. Aluminum is lightweight and durable but tends to wear out faster than stainless steel. On the other hand, stainless steel may be heavier, but it offers better longevity and stability.

Thickness

The thickness of the shim plays a crucial role in determining its effectiveness in aligning your rifle’s barrel. Too thin or too thick shim can cause issues with alignment and affect accuracy. It is recommended to choose a shim that is between 0.001-0.005 inches thick for optimal results.

Brand Reputation

Purchasing from a reputable brand ensures that you get quality products that have been tested by other users and proven effective. It is always wise to do some research on different brands before making a purchase decision.

Tips for Installing Barrel Nut Shims

  • Clean both surfaces (receiver threads and inside of the barrel nut) before installation for better adhesion.
  • Tighten the shim gradually until it reaches its desired thickness; avoid over-tightening as it can cause damage.
  • If using multiple shims, place them evenly around the receiver threads for balanced support.
  • Always double-check alignment after installation before firing your rifle.

In conclusion,

Purchasing quality AR15 barrel nut shims should not be taken lightly as they play a crucial role in ensuring proper alignment and accuracy of your rifle’s barrel. By considering factors such as compatibility, material, thickness, and brand reputation, you can make an informed decision when buying these small but essential components for your AR15 rifle.
Remember always to follow proper installation techniques for optimal results.
Happy shooting!

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Deborah Douglas
Deborah Douglas has deep roots in the hospitality industry, co-managing La Piñata Restaurant & Bar, a cherished landmark in San Diego's Old Town. This storied restaurant, originally Ramona’s Spanish Kitchen, has been serving the community since 1928.

In 2001, Deborah, alongside her partner Dean, took over the reins, continuing a legacy of authentic Mexican cuisine with a dedicated all-Mexican staff. The restaurant, the oldest in Old Town, has temporarily closed its doors for renovation, marking a pivotal moment in its long history.

Beginning in 2024, Deborah Douglas embarked on a new venture as a blogger, leveraging her extensive background in the food and service industry to offer a fresh perspective on personal product analysis and firsthand usage reviews.

Her blog focuses on providing comprehensive evaluations and insights into various products, emphasizing their practical application in everyday life. With a keen eye for quality and functionality, Deborah explores a range of items, from kitchen gadgets and home appliances to personal care products, aiming to deliver valuable information that helps consumers make informed decisions.

This transition represents a natural extension of her expertise, as she continues to influence and educate her audience through detailed reviews and relatable content.