Upper Receiver Autopsy & SOLGW Scalper BCG Physical

Published on April 28, 2020
Duration: 64:02

This comprehensive guide details an in-depth autopsy of an AR-15 upper receiver and a SOLGW Scalper Bolt Carrier Group (BCG) to diagnose potential corrosion issues. The process involves detailed visual inspection, borescoping the barrel, and extensive gauging of BCG components. Key findings include worn gas rings, minor pitting on the bolt face, and potential light corrosion in the barrel's rifling, likely stemming from ammunition or environmental factors. The guide emphasizes thorough cleaning and inspection to ensure firearm reliability and longevity.

Quick Summary

An AR-15 upper receiver autopsy and SOLGW Scalper BCG inspection revealed potential light corrosion in the barrel's rifling and worn gas rings. The process involved borescoping, gauging components, and checking headspace to diagnose issues likely caused by ammunition or wear.

Chapters

  1. 00:00:00Introduction: Upper Receiver Autopsy
  2. 00:18:00Springco Spring Corrosion Issue
  3. 00:36:00Investigating Potential Corrosion Causes
  4. 00:49:00Muzzle Device Inspection
  5. 01:04:00Bolt Carrier Group (BCG) Inspection
  6. 01:46:00SOLGW Scalper BCG Details
  7. 02:58:00Upper Receiver Interior Inspection
  8. 04:02:00Barrel Inspection with Borescope
  9. 07:24:00Chamber and Throat Examination
  10. 08:32:00Rifling Erosion and Fouling
  11. 11:16:00Gas Port Erosion Analysis
  12. 12:00:00Barrel Cleaning Process
  13. 15:00:00BCG Internal Inspection
  14. 16:13:00Bolt Face Pitting Assessment
  15. 17:20:00Extractor and Cam Pin Gauging
  16. 19:03:00Firing Pin Protrusion Check
  17. 20:18:00Bolt Support Shoulder Measurement
  18. 21:15:00Gas Ring Test and Failure
  19. 23:22:00Gas Ring Wear Analysis
  20. 24:57:00Gas Ring Replacement
  21. 27:46:00Ejector Inspection
  22. 28:36:00Headspace Check
  23. 32:14:00Caskey Gauge Test
  24. 33:20:00Carrier Interior Cleaning and Gauging
  25. 44:46:00Throat Checker and Erosion Gauge
  26. 46:15:00Gas Tube Flare Check
  27. 46:56:00Barrel Straightness and Muzzle Erosion
  28. 51:03:00Post-Cleaning Barrel Re-inspection
  29. 56:05:00Final Barrel Corrosion Assessment
  30. 57:22:00Overall Assessment and Summary
  31. 57:45:00Fixing the Dust Cover
  32. 59:57:00Ejector Spring Inspection
  33. 62:22:00Conclusion: Ammunition and Wear Factors

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the signs of corrosion in an AR-15 barrel?

Signs of corrosion in an AR-15 barrel can include frosting on the rifling, dark discoloration in the grooves, pitting, or erosion, particularly around the chamber, throat, and gas port. Borescope inspection is crucial for identifying these subtle issues.

How do you check for worn gas rings in an AR-15 bolt carrier group?

Worn gas rings can be identified by a gas ring test where the bolt collapses under its own weight when pulled from the carrier. Visually, they may appear thinned, eroded, or even chipped, indicating a loss of seal and potential gas leakage.

What is the purpose of a headspace gauge test?

A headspace gauge test ensures the distance between the bolt face and the chamber's locking surface is within specified tolerances. Using GO and NO-GO gauges prevents the firearm from firing with excessive headspace (unsafe) or failing to chamber ammunition.

Can ammunition cause corrosion in an AR-15?

Yes, certain types of imported or older ammunition can contain corrosive primers or propellants that, if not properly cleaned, can lead to corrosion in the barrel and other internal components over time.

What are the common wear items in an AR-15 bolt carrier group?

Common wear items in an AR-15 BCG include gas rings, the cam pin (especially in the grooves), the bolt face, and extractor components. Regular inspection and replacement of these parts are vital for maintaining reliability.

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