AR-15 - The Truth About Buffers

Published on May 20, 2014
Duration: 11:29

This video delves into the critical role of AR-15 buffers in rifle operation, explaining how buffer weight affects cycling and reliability. It details the principle of selecting the heaviest buffer that still allows bolt lock-back on an empty magazine. The content compares various buffer weights and discusses how heavier buffers can compensate for overgassing, preventing extraction issues like ripped casings or double feeds by slowing bolt carrier group velocity.

Quick Summary

The best AR-15 buffer is the heaviest one that allows the bolt to reliably lock back on an empty magazine after firing. This optimizes cycling speed, reduces wear, and minimizes felt recoil. Heavier buffers can also compensate for overgassing by slowing the bolt carrier group.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Intro: AR-15 Buffer Importance
  2. 01:16How to Choose the Right Buffer Weight
  3. 02:51Buffer Weight Comparisons (Carbine, H, H2, H3)
  4. 04:01Understanding Dwell Time & Gas Systems
  5. 05:09Problems with Overgassing
  6. 07:41Using Heavier Buffers to Compensate
  7. 09:10Bolt Bounce & Buffer Internals

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the general rule for selecting an AR-15 buffer weight?

The general rule is to use the heaviest buffer that still allows the bolt to lock back reliably on an empty magazine after firing a single round. This ensures proper cycling while minimizing wear and felt recoil.

How does buffer weight affect AR-15 operation?

Buffer weight significantly impacts the rifle's operation by controlling the speed of the bolt carrier group's rearward movement. Heavier buffers slow this movement, which can prevent over-cycling and extraction issues, especially in overgassed systems.

What causes overgassing in an AR-15?

Overgassing occurs when the gas port in the barrel is too large for the system. This allows too much gas pressure to travel back, causing the bolt carrier group to cycle too quickly, leading to potential malfunctions.

Can a heavier buffer fix overgassing issues?

Yes, a heavier buffer can help compensate for an overgassed AR-15. By adding mass, it slows down the bolt carrier's rearward travel, giving the extractor more time to grip the casing and preventing it from being ripped out.

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