One of the most frequently asked questions we receive at Veriforce Tactical is: “What threads are on my AR-15 barrel?” Knowing the correct thread pitch is essential for selecting compatible muzzle brakes, flash hiders, and suppressors.
Below is a comprehensive reference list of the most common AR-15 barrel thread pitches by caliber:
Common AR Barrel Thread Pitches by Caliber
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5.56 NATO – 1/2×28 (always)
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.223 Remington – 1/2×28 (always)
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.308 Winchester – 5/8×24 (always)
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7.62×51 NATO – 5/8×24 (always)
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.300 Blackout – 5/8×24 (usually, rarely 1/2×28)
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6.5 Grendel – 5/8×24 (usually, sometimes 1/2×36 or 9/16×24)
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6.5 Creedmoor – 5/8×24 (always)
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6.8 SPC – 5/8×24 (always)
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.224 Valkyrie – 1/2×28 (always)
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9mm – 1/2×36 (usually, sometimes 1/2×28)
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7.62×39 – 5/8×24 (usually, sometimes 1/2×36)
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.50 Beowulf – 49/64×20 (always)
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.458 SOCOM – 5/8×32 (usually, sometimes 5/8×24 or rarely 11/16×24)
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.450 Bushmaster – 11/16×24 (always)
This list reflects standard barrel thread patterns per caliber. However, exceptions exist. Some manufacturers choose non-standard thread pitches due to leftover inventory of muzzle devices or cost-saving reasons such as avoiding retooling. When in doubt, always confirm with your barrel manufacturer.
How to Test for 1/2×36 Threads (Without Buying First)
If you suspect your barrel is threaded at 1/2×36 but want to test it without purchasing a device:
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Use a known 1/2×28 muzzle device (commonly found on 5.56/.223 rifles).
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Thread it onto your barrel by hand.
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If it threads about 1.5 turns and stops, your barrel is likely 1/2×36.
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If it threads all the way on, you likely have 1/2×28.
This method helps avoid costly mistakes when buying muzzle devices.
Why Do Some Manufacturers Use the Wrong Thread Pitch?
We’ve seen .30 caliber barrels threaded with 1/2×28, a spec typically for .22 caliber projectiles. Why? Often it’s because a manufacturer has excess 1/2×28 flash hiders in stock or wants to avoid purchasing new tooling.
While this may seem like a shortcut, it can be risky.
Is It Dangerous to Use Undersized Threads?
Yes and no.
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If you’re using flash hiders, you’re generally safe. These devices are open-ended and don’t redirect gases.
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However, muzzle brakes and compensators with undersized bores can be dangerous. If not correctly drilled to accommodate the caliber, they may cause baffle strikes or other malfunctions.
At Veriforce Tactical, we take this seriously and design our muzzle devices with generous bore openings to account for these variances—enhancing both safety and compatibility.
22 Responses
Finally somebody lays it out clearly. Thank you!
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What do you think ?
I think you’re a troll
Likely a foreign one.
What about th 22lr Ar15. Thanks…
Most common is 1/2×28, but there are some odd ball manufactures like CZ and Colt that use their own unique threads.
Is there a way i can tell the threading on my barrel without any markings?
The first number is the outside diameter and the second number is threads per inch. For example, in 1/2″ x 28 the 1/2″ is the outside diameter and the 28 means threads per inch. So it is possible to tell without any markings.
funny, my 450 bushmaster is a 5/8×32 , I learned the hard way when I bought a 11/16×24 flash can
I have been searching for this information for a while now. Thank you very much for explaining the different thread pitches and why they are the way they are!
How do you know if it’s 1/2-28 unf or unef?
Huge help, this explains it all. Just bought a AR-15 Mini Slip Over Fake Suppressor through you, thank you!
I’m building my first AR and recently purchased the V Seven micro brake 1/2 x 28 the opening at the end of the brake looks a little small for 5.56. Is there any thing I can try/ you recommend before firing?
Buy a thread gauge at lowes or home depo
You guys are the best! Anyone wanting custom firearms work and living in AZ should go to Veriforce!
My BCA 450 BM also has a 5/8 x 32 thread.
I’m an old shooter, but new to suppressors. I just bought my first can, a Banish 22 for rim-fire applications. Now I’m in the market for something that will fit both a Sig 9mm pistol, a 5.56 rifle, and a 7.62 rifle. But they all have different thread pitches. Between retail costs and DOJ fees, I can’t afford three separate suppressors. Are there silencer thread adapters that would allow me to buy just one suppressor for multiple applications?
Absolutely. I’m not converse with the American market, but there must be lots. Just make sure the can has a large enough hole for the biggest round you want to squeeze through it.
Here in Europe, we have B&T as well as Roedale Precision, just to name two, who both offer an adapter.
I came here, btw, to decide which thread pattern I was going to cut into my mini 14, in case I buy an AR-15 in order to stick with the same adapter. I also have an 1/2×28 on another rifle, so good news all round.
Thank you, this was very helpful!
Thank you
No one said it threads are left-or-right handed.
Everything is right hand threads.
Is the 5.7 the same thread count as a 5.56?