Fudd myth behind the Commercial Spec Buffer tube?

Hey folks,

Regarding the old oversize Commercial spec buffer tubes, my understanding was always that they first were introduced to save on machining costs, as a commercial size tube can have the threads cut into the tube (threads are same diameter as tube) whereas a milspec tube has to be done in the reverse way (threads are larger diameter than tube).

However, I keep seeing people talk about how the Commercial spec tube was an AWB or legislation related thing, done to evade a ban or comply with some obscure state regulation. Something about it not being an assault weapon or whatever. I saw someone blame Clinton for it today.

To me the legislative angle sounds like a story some fudd made up at a gun counter to sound smart, but I keep hearing about it. Is there any real reason for the Commercial spec tube other than machining costs?

If anyone knows for sure, I would appreciate the clarification so I can talk shit to these people. Thanks