Short answer: the two AR-10 "patterns" don't mix at the receivers, barrels or handguards. DPMS pattern (LR-308) is the common one: most aftermarket .308 AR parts, including Aero Precision's M5, are built to it, and it takes SR-25 style magazines such as Magpul's PMAG LR/SR. ArmaLite pattern means rifles built to ArmaLite's own AR-10 design, with their own barrel extension, barrel nut and handguards. Triggers, grips and most small lower parts usually cross over. Buy parts that name your pattern, and on DPMS uppers, whether it is high or low profile.
What crosses over
Receivers
DPMS-pattern uppers and lowers fit each other, and ArmaLite-pattern uppers fit ArmaLite lowers; don't plan on mixing them. Aero lists its M5 upper with DPMS-pattern takedown holes of .2795 inch, and says its M5 lower works with standard DPMS 308 components and magazines.
Barrels, bolts and barrel nuts
Barrel extensions differ between the patterns, so buy a barrel designated for yours and a bolt that matches the extension, then have headspace checked. Barrel nut threads and handguards are pattern-specific too: Aero lists the M5 upper's barrel nut thread as 1 7/16-16. In our catalog on 20 October 2026, 72 in-stock AR-10 handguards named the DPMS pattern against 6 naming ArmaLite.
DPMS high vs low profile
Within the DPMS pattern there are two upper heights. Aero lists its M5 upper as DPMS high profile, with a .210 inch tang, and handguards are sold to match one or the other, as in Midwest Industries' "DPMS High" handguards. Check yours before you buy a handguard.
Magazines
Magpul says its PMAG 20 LR/SR fits the ArmaLite AR-10A and older DPMS LR-308 rifles, is not optimized for bolt hold-open on newer DPMS GII-based models, and is not compatible with the ArmaLite AR-10B. ArmaLite also sells its own AR-10 magazines.
What usually swaps
Most AR-10 lowers use AR-15-size fire control parts, so triggers, safeties, grips and many small parts carry over. Buffer systems can differ by maker, so match those to the lower. See AR-10 vs AR-15 parts for the bigger picture.
AR-10 parts, with today's prices
Lowest price across the stores we track:
Aero Precision M5 .308 stripped lower
Pros
- DPMS pattern
- Works with standard DPMS 308 parts and magazines, per Aero
Cons
- Not for ArmaLite-pattern uppers
DPMS lower
Midwest Industries AR-308 12.625 in Combat Rail, DPMS High
Pros
- M-LOK handguard for DPMS high-profile uppers
Cons
- Not for low-profile or ArmaLite uppers
DPMS handguard
Magpul PMAG 20 LR/SR Gen M3
Pros
- Fits DPMS LR-308 (older) and ArmaLite AR-10A, per Magpul
Cons
- Not for the ArmaLite AR-10B
SR-25 style mag
ArmaLite AR-10 25-round magazine
Pros
- ArmaLite's own AR-10 magazine
Cons
- Check your ArmaLite model
ArmaLite mag
ODIN Works ArmaLite forend barrel nut
Pros
- Barrel nut for ODIN forends on ArmaLite-pattern uppers
Cons
- ArmaLite pattern only
ArmaLite nut
Compare AR-10 lower receivers, see our .308 explainer and .308 ballistics chart, or plan a build in the builder.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between DPMS and ArmaLite AR-10?
They are two incompatible designs for .308 AR receivers, barrels and handguards. DPMS pattern is the common aftermarket standard; ArmaLite pattern follows ArmaLite's own AR-10.
Will a DPMS upper fit an ArmaLite lower?
Don't count on it. Buy the upper and lower in the same pattern.
Do DPMS and ArmaLite use the same magazines?
DPMS LR-308 and the ArmaLite AR-10A take SR-25 style magazines such as the PMAG LR/SR; Magpul says those do not fit the ArmaLite AR-10B.
Is the Aero Precision M5 DPMS or ArmaLite pattern?
DPMS pattern, high profile, per Aero's listings.
What is DPMS high profile vs low profile?
Two DPMS upper heights. Handguards are made for one or the other, so match the handguard to your upper.
Do AR-15 triggers fit an AR-10?
Usually yes; most AR-10 lowers use AR-15-size fire control parts. Check the pin size.
