AR-15 Buffer Weights

Published on March 14, 2017
Duration: 2:20

This guide, drawing on the expertise of Brownells, details the function and selection of AR-15 buffers. It explains the components of standard, H, H2, and pistol buffers, highlighting how tungsten carbide weights in heavier buffers manage bolt carrier group speed. The guide provides specific recommendations for buffer selection based on firearm type, caliber, and operational characteristics like full-auto fire or short barrels, emphasizing their role in smoothing recoil impulse and ensuring reliable cycling in direct blowback systems.

Quick Summary

AR-15 buffers control the bolt carrier group's speed. Standard carbine buffers have steel weights, while H and H2 buffers use denser tungsten carbide for increased mass. H buffers are for violent carbines, H2 for full-auto or high-pressure rounds. Pistol buffers are heaviest, designed for direct blowback systems (9mm, .40 S&W, .45 ACP) to ensure proper timing and prevent case ruptures. Heavier buffers smooth recoil impulse.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to AR-15 Buffers
  2. 00:08Standard Carbine Buffer Internals
  3. 00:22H and H2 Buffer Weights
  4. 00:44Benefits of Heavier Buffers
  5. 01:05Pistol Buffers for Blowback Systems
  6. 01:29Buffer Selection Guide

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between an H buffer and an H2 buffer for an AR-15?

An H buffer contains one tungsten carbide weight, while an H2 buffer contains two tungsten carbide weights. Both are heavier than standard carbine buffers and are used to slow the bolt carrier group, with the H2 offering even more mass for applications like full-auto fire or high-pressure rounds.

Why are pistol buffers used in AR-15 platforms?

Pistol buffers are the heaviest buffer type and are essential for direct blowback systems (common in 9mm, .40 S&W, .45 ACP AR-15s). Their increased mass ensures the bolt opens at the correct time, preventing malfunctions like blown-out case rims and ensuring reliable cycling.

How do heavier AR-15 buffers improve performance?

Heavier buffers, like the H and H2, increase the mass that the bolt carrier group must move. This slows down the cycling speed, smooths out the recoil impulse by spreading it over a longer period, and can prevent issues like violent extraction or bolt bounce.

When should I consider using an H buffer instead of a standard carbine buffer?

An H buffer is recommended for AR-15 carbines that exhibit signs of over-gassing or excessive bolt speed, such as violent extraction or ejection. It provides more mass to counteract these issues, leading to smoother operation.

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