Undersized Bolt Face - Leitner Wise Long Advance Bolt, Daniel Defense Bolt, Triarc Bolt, & Colt Bolt

Published on January 21, 2024
Duration: 2:36

This video demonstrates a critical quality control check for AR-15 bolt carrier groups: the bolt face diameter. Using a specialized notched gauge, the instructor highlights how undersized bolt faces can lead to cartridge base wedging, preventing clean ejection. Several popular manufacturers' BCGs are shown failing this check, emphasizing the importance of verifying this spec, especially with certain ammunition types.

Quick Summary

An undersized bolt face on an AR-15 bolt carrier group can cause cartridge bases to wedge, leading to extraction and ejection failures. A notched bolt face gauge is used to check the diameter; it should drop freely. Leitner Wise, Daniel Defense, Triarc, and Colt BCGs were shown to have this issue.

Chapters

  1. 00:01Introduction to Bolt Face Inspection
  2. 00:14Bolt Face Gauge Explained
  3. 00:20Consequences of Undersized Bolt Faces
  4. 00:39Using the Notched Gauge
  5. 00:50Triarc Bolt Face Check
  6. 01:08Colt Bolt Face Check
  7. 01:23Daniel Defense Bolt Face Check
  8. 01:35Leitner Wise Bolt Face Check
  9. 01:53Summary of Findings
  10. 02:03Importance of Bolt Face Inspection
  11. 02:21Ammunition Compatibility Testing

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary problem caused by an undersized bolt face on an AR-15 bolt carrier group?

An undersized bolt face can cause the base of a cartridge to wedge into it, preventing clean ejection. This is a critical issue that can lead to firearm malfunctions during operation.

How can you check if an AR-15 bolt face is undersized?

A specialized bolt face gauge, notched to clear the ejector, is used. The gauge should drop freely all the way to the bolt face. If it doesn't, the bolt face is likely undersized.

Which AR-15 bolt carrier group manufacturers were shown to have undersized bolt faces in the video?

The video demonstrated issues with undersized bolt faces on bolt carrier groups from Leitner Wise, Daniel Defense, Triarc Systems, and Colt. This highlights that the problem can occur across various manufacturers.

Does ammunition type affect whether an undersized bolt face causes problems?

Yes, the problem is dependent on the diameter of the cartridge base. Some ammunition types may not present an issue with a slightly undersized bolt face, while others will.

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