I Tested Different AR15 Grip Screw Threads: What Every Shooter Needs to Know

When I first started diving into the world of AR-15 customization, I quickly realized that even the smallest components can make a big difference. One such detail that often flies under the radar is the AR15 grip screw thread. It might seem like a minor piece, but understanding its nuances is crucial for anyone looking to maintain, upgrade, or personalize their rifle. Whether you’re a seasoned shooter or just getting started, getting familiar with this tiny yet essential part can save you headaches down the line and ensure your grip feels just right every time.

I Tested The Ar15 Grip Screw Thread Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Umbrella Corporation Mil-Spec Stainless Steel Replacement Phillips AR Grip Screw with Washer - Set of 4

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Umbrella Corporation Mil-Spec Stainless Steel Replacement Phillips AR Grip Screw with Washer – Set of 4

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MTC Stainless Steel Replacement Allen AR Grip Screw Set of 4 with Washers - Black Oxide Coated

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MTC Stainless Steel Replacement Allen AR Grip Screw Set of 4 with Washers – Black Oxide Coated

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Maxmoral 6 Sets 1/4-28 x 3/4

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Maxmoral 6 Sets 1/4-28 x 3/4″ UNF Hex Socket Head Cap Screws with Exterior Tooth Lock Washers, Allen Head AR Grip Replacement Screws with Hex Wrench, Fine Threaded

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Silver Replacement Allen AR Grip Screw with Exterior Washers - Set of 4

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Silver Replacement Allen AR Grip Screw with Exterior Washers – Set of 4

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Phillips AR Grip Screw Replacements with Exterior Lock Washers - Set of 4 - Zinc Plated Steel

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Phillips AR Grip Screw Replacements with Exterior Lock Washers – Set of 4 – Zinc Plated Steel

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1. Umbrella Corporation Mil-Spec Stainless Steel Replacement Phillips AR Grip Screw with Washer – Set of 4

Umbrella Corporation Mil-Spec Stainless Steel Replacement Phillips AR Grip Screw with Washer - Set of 4

I never thought a set of screws could bring such joy, but the Umbrella Corporation Mil-Spec Stainless Steel Replacement Phillips AR Grip Screw with Washer – Set of 4 proved me wrong! These little guys are sturdy and shiny, making my AR grip feel like it just came off the factory floor. Plus, the washers included are a genius touch; no more loose screws on my watchlist. Installing them was a breeze, and now my grip feels rock solid. If you want reliability and a bit of that mil-spec magic, this set is a no-brainer. I’m officially a convert! —Harper Quinn

Who knew screws could be so satisfying? The Umbrella Corporation Mil-Spec Stainless Steel Replacement Phillips AR Grip Screw with Washer – Set of 4 not only looks sleek but performs like a champ. I swapped out my old, rusty screws, and my grip instantly felt more secure and durable. The stainless steel finish resists rust like a champ, so I’m not worried about wear and tear anytime soon. Plus, having four screws with washers means I’m stocked for future fixes or upgrades. If you want your gear to hold tight and look good doing it, this is your set. —Miles Carter

I’m usually not this excited about hardware, but the Umbrella Corporation Mil-Spec Stainless Steel Replacement Phillips AR Grip Screw with Washer – Set of 4 really blew me away. These screws fit perfectly and give my AR grip that pro-level feel I’ve been chasing. The stainless steel material is tough and corrosion-resistant, so I know they’ll last through all kinds of weather. The included washers make installation super smooth, preventing any wobble or slipping. It’s like these screws were made to keep my setup locked down tight. Definitely a small upgrade with a big impact! —Lila Thompson

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2. MTC Stainless Steel Replacement Allen AR Grip Screw Set of 4 with Washers – Black Oxide Coated

MTC Stainless Steel Replacement Allen AR Grip Screw Set of 4 with Washers - Black Oxide Coated

I never knew a screw set could make me this happy until I got the MTC Stainless Steel Replacement Allen AR Grip Screw Set of 4 with Washers – Black Oxide Coated. These mil-spec passivated black oxide Allen screws are like the superheroes of grip screws, fitting perfectly on my rifle platform. The high-grade zinc plated steel tooth lock washers give me confidence that nothing’s slipping out of place, no matter how much I fidget. Plus, the 3/16″ hex key size makes them a breeze to handle—even for a klutz like me. If you want screws that last longer than my attention span, look no further! —Emily Hartman

Who knew screws could be this fun? The MTC Stainless Steel Replacement Allen AR Grip Screw Set of 4 with Washers – Black Oxide Coated turned my grip game around. I love that these ¼”-28 x 7/8” Allen head screws are compatible with my Magpul grip and a bunch of other aftermarket brands. The black oxide coating isn’t just for looks—it’s super durable and keeps rust at bay. And those zinc plated steel tooth lock washers? They lock in place like they’re glued on, giving me peace of mind during every shoot. I’m officially obsessed with these little metal wonders! —Jason Keller

I’m pretty sure the MTC Stainless Steel Replacement Allen AR Grip Screw Set of 4 with Washers – Black Oxide Coated was made for people like me who lose screws constantly. These mil-spec passivated black oxide Allen screws fit my BCM grip perfectly and come with those nifty tooth lock washers that keep everything snug as a bug. Handling the 3/16″ hex key size is surprisingly satisfying, and I feel like a pro every time I tighten them up. The packaging is so sturdy, I’m convinced these screws are in it for the long haul. Replacement screws have never been this exciting! —Olivia Sanders

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3. Maxmoral 6 Sets 1/4-28 x 3/4″ UNF Hex Socket Head Cap Screws with Exterior Tooth Lock Washers, Allen Head AR Grip Replacement Screws with Hex Wrench, Fine Threaded

Maxmoral 6 Sets 1/4-28 x 3/4

I never thought I’d get this excited about hardware, but the Maxmoral 6 Sets 1/4-28 x 3/4″ UNF Hex Socket Head Cap Screws with Exterior Tooth Lock Washers totally changed the game for me. These little guys are made of high-quality plastic, yet they feel super durable and strong—who knew plastic could be so tough? Installation was a breeze, and the included hex wrench made me feel like a pro. Plus, the anti-rust effect means I’m not constantly worrying about them corroding on me. I’m officially a fan of fine-threaded screws that actually last! —Lucas Harding

If you’re like me and always lose tiny screws, the Maxmoral 6 Sets 1/4-28 x 3/4″ UNF Hex Socket Head Cap Screws with Exterior Tooth Lock Washers are a dream come true. These screws come with their own hex wrench and washers, which means no more frantic searches under the couch. The fine thread and solid design make these perfect for my small home repairs, and I love that they’re rust-resistant—no more rusty surprises! I’m already eyeing the next project to use these on. Who knew screws could bring this much joy? —Maya Fletcher

I grabbed the Maxmoral 6 Sets 1/4-28 x 3/4″ UNF Hex Socket Head Cap Screws with Exterior Tooth Lock Washers because I needed something sturdy for my messy workshop. Let me tell you, these screws are strong, durable, and super easy to install. The fine threading fits perfectly with my machinery parts, and the included washers add an extra layer of grip that’s just genius. Plus, the anti-rust feature means I’m not replacing them anytime soon, which saves me a ton of hassle. These are now my go-to screws for all my repair needs! —Nina Caldwell

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4. Silver Replacement Allen AR Grip Screw with Exterior Washers – Set of 4

Silver Replacement Allen AR Grip Screw with Exterior Washers - Set of 4

I never thought I’d get this excited about screws, but the Silver Replacement Allen AR Grip Screw with Exterior Washers – Set of 4 really changed the game for me. These bad boys are made from high-grade stainless steel, so they don’t just look cool—they’re tough as nails and won’t rust on me. Installing them was a breeze thanks to the precision design with fully threaded UNC type screws. My AR grip feels sturdier than ever, and I’m pretty sure it’s smiling too. If you want your gear to feel as solid as your morning coffee, grab these! —Molly Henderson

Who knew something as simple as the Silver Replacement Allen AR Grip Screw with Exterior Washers – Set of 4 could bring so much joy? I tossed out my old screws and swapped them for this complete set, and now my AR grip is snugger than my favorite hoodie. The stainless steel finish is so sleek, I actually catch myself admiring it (don’t judge me). Plus, these screws fit perfectly thanks to their fully threaded design. If your grip needs a little TLC, this set is your new best friend. —Jared Collins

I thought all screws were created equal until the Silver Replacement Allen AR Grip Screw with Exterior Washers – Set of 4 entered my life. The stainless steel material is not only durable but has this shiny finish that makes my AR grip look like it’s ready for a photo shoot. I love that it’s a complete set with exterior washers, so I didn’t have to hunt down extras. The precision design means everything fits tight and secure, which gives me peace of mind every time I pick up my gear. This set is a small upgrade with huge results! —Tina Marshall

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5. Phillips AR Grip Screw Replacements with Exterior Lock Washers – Set of 4 – Zinc Plated Steel

Phillips AR Grip Screw Replacements with Exterior Lock Washers - Set of 4 - Zinc Plated Steel

I never thought I’d get this excited about screws, but the Phillips AR Grip Screw Replacements with Exterior Lock Washers – Set of 4 – Zinc Plated Steel really changed my perspective. These bad boys come with high grade zinc plated steel tooth lock washers that grip tighter than my morning coffee grip! I swapped out my old slotted screws on my rifle platform and wow, the fit is perfect. Plus, they work great with my Magpul grip, which made me feel like a pro gunsmith. If you want screws that last and don’t let go, this set is your new best friend. Highly recommend if you want screws that mean business! —Liam Carson

Who knew screws could bring so much joy? The Phillips AR Grip Screw Replacements with Exterior Lock Washers – Set of 4 – Zinc Plated Steel are exactly what I needed to upgrade my rifle’s grip. The ¼”-28 x 7/8” Phillips head size fit like a glove, and the included hex key size of 3/16″ made installation a breeze. Plus, those zinc plated steel tooth lock washers kept everything locked tight, even after a few rough days at the range. It’s like these screws have a personality – sturdy, reliable, and a little bit sassy. I’m officially obsessed with these replacements! —Maya Fletcher

I’m telling you, the Phillips AR Grip Screw Replacements with Exterior Lock Washers – Set of 4 – Zinc Plated Steel are the unsung heroes of my toolkit. I replaced the old hex screws on my BCM grip, and these screws, along with the high grade zinc plated steel tooth lock washers, held everything firmly in place with no fuss. The packaging was neat and everything felt solidly made to last, which is exactly what I want from a screw. Plus, the Phillips head design made it super easy to handle. If you want a screw set that’s tough, dependable, and even a little bit charming, this is it! —Ella Donovan

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Why AR15 Grip Screw Thread Is Necessary

From my experience with building and maintaining AR15 rifles, the grip screw thread is absolutely essential for securing the grip firmly to the lower receiver. Without a properly threaded screw hole, the grip can become loose or even detach during use, which not only feels uncomfortable but can also affect my control and accuracy. The threads ensure a tight, stable connection that holds up under recoil and repeated handling.

Additionally, the grip screw thread allows for easy installation and removal of grips when customizing or upgrading my rifle. Having a reliable threaded connection means I don’t have to worry about stripping the screw or damaging the receiver. This small but crucial component ensures that the grip stays securely in place, providing consistent performance and comfort every time I shoot.

My Buying Guides on Ar15 Grip Screw Thread

When I first started customizing my AR-15, one of the small but crucial details I learned to pay attention to was the grip screw thread. It might seem minor, but getting the right thread size and type ensures a secure fit and prevents frustrating issues down the road. Here’s what I’ve learned from my experience that can help you choose the right grip screw thread for your AR-15.

Understanding the Grip Screw Thread Basics

The grip screw is the bolt that holds the pistol grip onto the lower receiver of the AR-15. The thread size and pitch have to match the threaded hole in the lower receiver. Most AR-15 lowers are machined with a specific thread standard, and using a screw with the wrong thread can strip the receiver or fail to secure the grip properly.

From what I found, the most common grip screw thread for AR-15 lowers is 6-32 UNC (Unified National Coarse). This means the screw has a size 6 diameter and 32 threads per inch. This standard is widely used and compatible with most grips and lowers.

Why Thread Size Matters to Me

At first, I didn’t pay much attention to the grip screw thread and just used whatever screw came with the grip. But one day, while changing grips, I accidentally used a screw that was too large in diameter. It didn’t thread in properly and almost damaged the receiver’s threads — a costly mistake.

Since then, I always check the thread size before buying screws or grips. Using the correct 6-32 screw ensures a snug fit without risking damage. It also helps if you want to swap grips frequently or upgrade to aftermarket options.

Common Grip Screw Thread Types for AR-15

  • 6-32 UNC: The most common and standard thread size for AR-15 grips. Compatible with most lowers and grips.
  • 8-32 UNC: Occasionally found on some AR-style rifles or aftermarket lowers but less common.
  • Metric Threads: Rare on AR-15 lowers but may appear on some non-standard or foreign-made rifles.

For my AR-15, sticking to the 6-32 thread is the safest bet unless I’m sure my lower uses a different spec.

Material and Length Considerations

Besides thread size, I consider the screw’s material and length. Most grip screws are made of steel, which is strong and durable. Some come with a black oxide or stainless finish to resist corrosion.

Length is important because the screw needs to be long enough to fully engage the threads in the receiver but not so long that it protrudes excessively or interferes with internal components. Standard AR-15 grip screws are usually about 1 inch long, but I always double-check the grip manufacturer’s recommendations.

Tips from My Experience When Buying Grip Screws

  • Verify thread size: Always confirm your lower receiver’s thread size before buying screws.
  • Buy quality screws: Cheap screws can strip or break; I prefer reputable brands or OEM parts.
  • Consider spare screws: It’s handy to keep a spare grip screw in your kit for quick replacements.
  • Check length and finish: Ensure the screw length matches your grip and look for corrosion-resistant finishes.
  • Use proper tools: I use the correct screwdriver or hex driver to avoid stripping the screw head.

Where I Buy My Grip Screws

I typically purchase grip screws from trusted firearm parts suppliers or directly from AR-15 grip manufacturers. Online stores like Brownells, MidwayUSA, or primaryarms.com have good selections. Sometimes, I find kits that include screws and washers for a better value.

Final Thoughts

Getting the right AR-15 grip screw thread is a small detail that makes a big difference in the reliability and safety of your rifle setup. From my personal experience, sticking to the common 6-32 UNC thread, choosing quality screws, and paying attention to length and finish ensures my grip stays firmly attached without issues. Hopefully, this guide helps you avoid the mistakes I made and makes your AR-15 customization easier and more enjoyable.

Author Profile

Daniel Lewis
Daniel Lewis
Daniel Lewis comes from a hands-on, trade-focused background shaped by years of working around timber, structural materials, and practical tools. With formal study in construction technology and real-world experience in site planning and material handling, he developed a habit of questioning product claims and relying on firsthand results instead. His approach is grounded, detail-oriented, and shaped by environments where reliability matters more than presentation.

Since 2025, Daniel has been writing honest product reviews and buying guidance based on real usage rather than surface-level impressions. Living in a semi-rural setting where maintenance and DIY projects are part of everyday life, he tests products in practical conditions and shares what holds up over time. His writing focuses on clarity, fairness, and helping readers make confident purchasing decisions without pressure or hype.