The barrel extension HAS to be headspaced! Knowing that, I do not want to spend the extra money on headspace gauges and the barrel extension socket/wrench adaptor, I don't fool with it. Realistically there are to my knowledge only three other kinds of barrel extensions in .223:
TiN
Chrome
M4
Assuming you are changing the "standard" barrel extension. In my opinion, if what you have works, don't fool with it. You could cause same pretty serious issues with taking that on and off. However, it can be easily done with the proper tools and you'll should never have an issue. Good luck......