Buffer Tube Insert With Set-Screw Gunstock Locking

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional firearms with collapsible gunstocks may violate regional regulations, necessitating a mechanism to convert them into fixed gunstocks conveniently.

Innovation Solution

A buffer tube insert with an elongated portion and projections, configured for insertion into notches on the buffer tube, and secured with a set screw to restrict gunstock movement, converting collapsible gunstocks to fixed configurations.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a collapsible gunstock is used, then the firearm can be adjusted for different lengths, but it may violate regional regulations requiring fixed gunstocks

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvegunstock adjustabilityVSAvoidregulatory compliance
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The buffer tube insert enables dynamic conversion between collapsible and fixed gunstock configurations. By inserting or removing the buffer tube insert, the gunstock can switch between adjustable (collapsible) and fixed states, allowing the firearm to adapt to different regulatory requirements while maintaining functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The buffer tube insert acts as an intermediary component that mediates between the collapsible gunstock mechanism and the buffer tube. When installed, it restricts the buffer tube's movement, thereby preventing gunstock collapse and ensuring regulatory compliance without permanently modifying the gunstock's collapsible mechanism.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If a mechanism is added to convert collapsible gunstock to fixed, then regulatory compliance is achieved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveregulatory complianceVSAvoidconversion mechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The conversion mechanism is segmented into separate, modular components: the buffer tube insert and the set screw. This segmentation allows the compliance mechanism to be easily installed and removed without permanently modifying the firearm, reducing overall system complexity while ensuring regulatory compliance when needed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The buffer tube insert serves as a simple intermediary component that interfaces with the existing buffer tube and gunstock mechanism. Rather than redesigning the entire gunstock system, this intermediary element provides the necessary restriction with minimal added complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Stability of the object's composition

If the buffer tube movement is restricted, then gunstock stability is improved, but the ease of operation for conversion is compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvegunstock stabilityVSAvoidconversion ease
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The set screw is pre-configured to engage with the buffer tube insert, creating a ready-to-secure mechanism. The threaded engagement is designed in advance to allow quick tightening and loosening, enabling easy conversion between collapsible and fixed states while ensuring stable gunstock configuration when secured.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The buffer tube insert features self-aligning projections that automatically engage with corresponding notches in the buffer tube when inserted. This self-alignment eliminates the need for precise manual positioning, making the conversion process simple and intuitive while ensuring reliable stability when the set screw is tightened.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

Enables easy conversion of collapsible gunstocks to fixed gunstocks, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements while maintaining firearm functionality.

Implementation Method 1

one or more or all of the projections including a threaded interior. One or more or all of the projections are configured for insertion into one or more corresponding notches on the buffer tube

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectThreading: Screw

Data Source

PatentUS12366427B2Buffer tube insert and method of using the same
Publication Date: 2025.07.22 HEMPHILL W SCOTT
  • US12366427B2 patent drawing
  • US12366427B2 patent drawing
  • US12366427B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A buffer tube insert includes an elongated portion and one or more projections extending from the elongated portion. The one or more projections are configured for insertion into one or more corresponding notches on a buffer tube. Each projection includes a connection arrangement such as, but not limited to, a threaded interior for receiving a connection member such as, but not limited to, a set screw that can facilitate the restriction of movement between the buffer tube and a gunstock.