
AR-15 End Plate - Best Sling Mount Plates & Upgrades
High-Performance AR-15 End Plates for Every Rifle
An often overlooked but critical upgrade, the AR-15 End Plate ensures your rifle’s buffer tube stays locked in place while providing sling attachment points essential for tactical mobility and control.
At Mounts Plus, we offer a wide range of mil-spec, QD sling mount, and ambidextrous AR-15 end plates — trusted by tactical shooters, hunters, law enforcement, and competition builders. Whether you're building your dream AR-15 or refreshing a battle-worn rifle, our premium end plates give you the strength, reliability, and functionality your setup demands.
What Does an AR-15 End Plate Do?
The AR-15 end plate is a small yet vital component that serves two major roles:
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Secures the Buffer Tube:
Prevents the buffer tube from loosening during recoil, maintaining rifle integrity. -
Provides Sling Attachment Points:
Offers mounting solutions for single-point or two-point slings, enhancing weapon control and maneuverability.
Choosing the right end plate can dramatically improve your rifle’s handling, comfort, and reliability in real-world conditions.
Types of AR-15 End Plates Available
Standard Mil-Spec End Plates
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Simple, durable, no-frills design
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Perfect for basic builds and budget-conscious upgrades
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Fits most mil-spec AR-15 lower receivers
QD Sling Mount End Plates
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Built-in QD (Quick Detach) sockets for fast sling attachment
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Allows rapid transition between sling setups
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Rotation-limited designs available for better sling control
Ambidextrous Sling Mount End Plates
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Loops or sockets accessible from both sides of the rifle
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Ideal for left- or right-handed shooters
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Enhances flexibility in tactical transitions
▶ Pro Tip: A QD end plate with rotation limits is the best choice for dynamic shooting environments, reducing sling tangling.
Why Upgrade Your AR-15 End Plate?
Upgrading your end plate isn’t just for aesthetics — it improves:
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Weapon Retention: Better sling control keeps your rifle secure.
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Tactical Versatility: Easily switch between one-point and two-point slings.
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Durability: Enhanced materials (steel, anodized aluminum) resist wear, rust, and stress.
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User Comfort: Ergonomic designs reduce snag points and enhance rifle handling.
A $15–$30 upgrade can significantly improve your AR-15’s performance and reliability in critical situations.
Best AR-15 End Plates at Mounts Plus
MSP QD End Plate for AR-15/AR-10
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Steel construction with phosphate coating
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Rotation-limited QD socket
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Designed for maximum durability in field conditions
Magpul ASAP QD Ambidextrous Sling Attachment
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Ambidextrous QD sling compatibility
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Heat-treated steel for longevity
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Works with both commercial and mil-spec receiver extensions
Timber Creek Outdoors QD End Plate
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CNC-machined lightweight aluminum
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Color anodized options for custom builds
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Smooth snag-free QD socket
How to Choose the Right AR-15 End Plate
Type of Build | Recommended End Plate |
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Basic Carbine | Standard Mil-Spec End Plate |
Tactical/Competition Rifle | Ambidextrous or QD Sling Mount Plate |
Duty/Defense Rifle | QD End Plate with Rotation-Limit Feature |
▶ Pro Tip: Always verify compatibility with your lower receiver (mil-spec vs billet) before purchasing.
FAQs About AR-15 End Plates
What does an AR-15 end plate do?
It secures the buffer tube to the lower receiver and often provides a mounting point for slings to enhance weapon retention.
Can I install a QD sling on a standard AR-15 end plate?
No. Standard plates do not have QD sockets. You’ll need a specialized QD End Plate designed for quick-detach slings.
Is it hard to replace an AR-15 end plate?
No. With basic armorer’s tools (punch set, wrench, small hammer) and some care, it’s a straightforward DIY project.
Are billet receivers compatible with standard end plates?
Sometimes yes, sometimes no. Always verify — billet lowers can have non-standard dimensions.
Shop Premium AR-15 End Plates at Mounts Plus
Whether you're optimizing your AR-15 for tactical use, competition shooting, or duty carry, Mounts Plus has the best AR-15 end plates to complete your build.
From rugged mil-spec plates to advanced QD designs, our components deliver the strength and functionality you can trust in any environment.