HOW-TO CHOOSE // The Best BCG (Bolt Carrier Group) for Your AR 15

Published on September 13, 2018
Duration: 21:05

This guide, presented by the Tactical Toolbox host, details how to select the best Bolt Carrier Group (BCG) for an AR-15. It covers essential considerations like steel types (8620, Carpenter 158, 9310, S7), coatings (Phosphate, NiB, DLC), quality control (HP/MPI), and critical maintenance like gas key staking. The host emphasizes understanding M16 vs. AR-15 profiles and highlights advanced features in premium models, offering practical advice for builders and owners.

Quick Summary

Choosing the best AR-15 Bolt Carrier Group (BCG) involves understanding steel types (8620, Carpenter 158, 9310, S7), coatings (Phosphate, NiB, DLC), and quality control (MPI/HP). Critical features include M16 vs. AR-15 profiles and proper gas key staking for reliability. Advanced designs offer reduced friction and wear.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to BCGs
  2. 01:26Steel Types & Stag Arms
  3. 02:26Sharps Rifle Company & S7 Steel
  4. 02:52Aero Precision & 9310 Steel
  5. 03:22FailZero & Lantac Materials
  6. 04:34M16 vs. AR-15 Profiles
  7. 05:26BCG Coatings Explained
  8. 07:08HP and MPI Testing Importance
  9. 08:07Critical Gas Key Staking
  10. 10:15Advanced Features & Design
  11. 11:55Pricing & Recommendations
  12. 13:36Cleaning & Maintenance Tools

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key factors to consider when choosing an AR-15 Bolt Carrier Group (BCG)?

When selecting an AR-15 BCG, consider the steel types used (8620 for carriers, Carpenter 158, 9310, or S7 for bolts), the coating (Phosphate, Nickel Boron, DLC), and quality control measures like MPI and HP testing. Also, evaluate M16 vs. AR-15 profiles and critical features like gas key staking.

What is the difference between M16 and AR-15 Bolt Carrier Groups?

M16 BCGs have a heavier profile at the rear, providing more mass to ensure reliable extraction and ejection during full-auto fire. AR-15 BCGs are typically lighter and designed for semi-automatic function, though many AR-15 builds utilize M16 BCGs for their added robustness.

Which BCG coatings are best for an AR-15?

Phosphate is Mil-Spec and durable. Nickel Boron (NiB) and Diamond-Like Carbon (DLC) offer superior lubricity and corrosion resistance, making the BCG easier to clean and requiring less lubrication, which is beneficial for high-round-count scenarios or suppressed use.

Why is gas key staking so important on an AR-15 BCG?

Proper gas key staking is critical because it secures the gas key screws, preventing them from backing out due to vibration and heat. If the screws loosen, the gas key can detach, causing gas leaks, cycling failures, and potentially damaging the firearm.

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