ExLonghorn
October 26, 2008, 11:56 PM
Simple question...is it better to have a light or heavy bolt carrier? I'm guessing it depends on what issue a shooter is trying to address.
Proponents of heavy bolt carriers indicate that this is to improve accuracy by slowing down the unlocking of the bolt from the barrel.
Proponents of light bolt carriers indicate this is to reduce reciprocating mass, reducing felt recoil and improving second-shot target aquisition.
I use my AR in three-gun matches, and most shots are within 30 yards, so long-range extreme accuracy is not a concern. This is pushing me towards reducing bolt carrier mass to improve follow-up shot accuracy and speed. I've already added a compensator and adjustable gas block, but I'm still getting more scope wiggle than I'd like (I'm a thin guy, so even a little .223 creates sight picture movement)
I'd like to hear expereinces from those who have used either higher or lower mass carriers.
Proponents of heavy bolt carriers indicate that this is to improve accuracy by slowing down the unlocking of the bolt from the barrel.
Proponents of light bolt carriers indicate this is to reduce reciprocating mass, reducing felt recoil and improving second-shot target aquisition.
I use my AR in three-gun matches, and most shots are within 30 yards, so long-range extreme accuracy is not a concern. This is pushing me towards reducing bolt carrier mass to improve follow-up shot accuracy and speed. I've already added a compensator and adjustable gas block, but I'm still getting more scope wiggle than I'd like (I'm a thin guy, so even a little .223 creates sight picture movement)
I'd like to hear expereinces from those who have used either higher or lower mass carriers.