Just got a helluva deal on a Bushmaster LE fully accessorized with my preference of furniture and finish. Anyways this gun has all the factory Bushmaster BCG and buffer. I have read Bushmaster BCGs are garbage and was skeptical of the deal I made, and had planned on purchasing a Bravo Co. BCG along with an H buffer. But after everything working so well today should I replace the innards? This rifle as always must be 100 percent reliable. Thanks for the input.
My Bushmaster worked as designed !?
- Thread starter Mags
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Z-Michigan
Member
If it must be 100% reliable, I would get a BCM bolt or even a complete carrier group.
For most of us who aren't LE (I don't know whether you are), the stock bolt is likely just fine for most uses.
For most of us who aren't LE (I don't know whether you are), the stock bolt is likely just fine for most uses.
Nugilum
Member
^^ Then get the BCM BCG.
Have you shot it enough that you feel that it's reliable?
If it's working, I really don't see how going with a BCM BCG is going to make it more reliable. There's nothing, that I know of, wrong with Bushmaster equipment. It's good stuff. If you just want a bit of insurance, you could replace the ejector/spring and extractor/spring with "mil spec" parts from BCM. Those are what usually cause a rifle to malfunction. That is, weak springs and extractor/ejector. You might also want to get a couple of extra cam pins, just in case the one you have wears more quickly than it should. You should change those regularly anyway. They're cheap enough. Lastly, check out the gas key and make sure that the screws are properly staked in. Other than those things, I can't see the bolt or carrier themselves failing. I'd think that if they were going to, it would have happened in the first 1K rounds.
As a side note, I do keep a spare bolt assembly and firing pin, but that's something that everyone should have because any bolt assembly could give you trouble at the worst time and having a complete spare makes fixing the problem less time consuming.
If it's working, I really don't see how going with a BCM BCG is going to make it more reliable. There's nothing, that I know of, wrong with Bushmaster equipment. It's good stuff. If you just want a bit of insurance, you could replace the ejector/spring and extractor/spring with "mil spec" parts from BCM. Those are what usually cause a rifle to malfunction. That is, weak springs and extractor/ejector. You might also want to get a couple of extra cam pins, just in case the one you have wears more quickly than it should. You should change those regularly anyway. They're cheap enough. Lastly, check out the gas key and make sure that the screws are properly staked in. Other than those things, I can't see the bolt or carrier themselves failing. I'd think that if they were going to, it would have happened in the first 1K rounds.
As a side note, I do keep a spare bolt assembly and firing pin, but that's something that everyone should have because any bolt assembly could give you trouble at the worst time and having a complete spare makes fixing the problem less time consuming.
Z-Michigan
Member
The bolt itself often fails at some point, either a lug shearing off or the bolt cracking at the cam pin hole. The BCM bolt is advertised as being the correct truly mil-spec steel and being shot peened, both of which help strength and durability. The Bushmaster bolts aren't so advertised and are not believed to be shot peened (per "the chart"). They may or may not be the mil-spec steel.
Having said all that, I am completely unaware of any known or reputed issues with Bushmaster bolts.
Having said all that, I am completely unaware of any known or reputed issues with Bushmaster bolts.
StarDust1
Member
Dump the stock BCG and replace it with a DD BCG, then have the stock unit properly staked and keep it for a back up(Bushmaster BCG are still batch tested as opposed to magnetic particle tested)BCG!
DD is the best BCG available for the money, you could also replace the buffer but this is IMO not a big deal. I'd also consider replacing the barrel with a 1:7 twist so you can rely on it with the heavier weight bullets, aside from that I'd also consider replacing the trigger assembly.
DD is the best BCG available for the money, you could also replace the buffer but this is IMO not a big deal. I'd also consider replacing the barrel with a 1:7 twist so you can rely on it with the heavier weight bullets, aside from that I'd also consider replacing the trigger assembly.
rskent
Member
Just go shoot the thing. If you wanted a Colt, maybe you should have bought a Colt. No, you bought a Bushmaster.
Don’t waste your money replacing parts that aren’t broken. Start saving for the Colt you should have bought in the first place.
Having got that off my chest, Bushmaster rifles are not garbage. Bushmaster bolt carrier groups and bolts are not garbage.
I have put a lot of rounds through my Bushmaster. Many thousands of rounds without a single part failure. I do have to
admit the firing pin retaining pin is looking a little weak.
Now, post a picture of your new rifle. Then go shoot the snot out of it.
Let us know how that carrier group holds up.
Steve
Don’t waste your money replacing parts that aren’t broken. Start saving for the Colt you should have bought in the first place.
Having got that off my chest, Bushmaster rifles are not garbage. Bushmaster bolt carrier groups and bolts are not garbage.
I have put a lot of rounds through my Bushmaster. Many thousands of rounds without a single part failure. I do have to
admit the firing pin retaining pin is looking a little weak.
Now, post a picture of your new rifle. Then go shoot the snot out of it.
Let us know how that carrier group holds up.
Steve
jimmyraythomason
Member
Mags,just remember,when someone uses that term to describe a firearm or accessory they are usually just parroting hearsay(usually obtained from the internet). I ALWAYS ignore all "are garbage" accessments especially if they conflict with my own experience.
DMK
Member
I agree with the poster that said replace the bolt and keep the original for a backup. Test/break in the new bolt thoroughly at the range.
Bartholomew Roberts
Member
Bushmaster BCG's are not garbage. They are not first rate either; but they are a long way from being made out of egg cartons. I would recommend buying a spare bolt and making sure your bolt carrier group is properly staked.
A spare bolt is good to have on hand regardless of what brand you buy because it is a quick fix for all of the following problems:
1. Broken bolt/lugs
2. Bad gas rings
3. Worn extractor
4. Weak extractor springs
5. Extractor lift
6. Bound ejector/weak ejector spring
7. Excessive firing pin protrusion
When you can address all of those issues in a single, quick swap it saves you diagnostic time and down time when you are training. Besides that, the bolt is a common failure point as you put a lot of rounds through the rifle, so you are planning for the future.
As far as the H-buffer, it will depend on your gas system. My preference is H-buffer for carbines and carbine buffer for midlengths (unless you are using suppressors, then you need to kick up to an H2 and H respectively).
FWIW, I've got around 14k rounds on three different Bushmaster BCGs (all improperly staked by the way) and so far, no loose gas keys or broken bolts. I have seen Bushmasters shoot loose their gas key, so it does happen; but staking them properly is a cheap and easy fix. I've also seen broken bolts firsthand; but only two and both DPMS chromed bolts circa 2001.
A spare bolt is good to have on hand regardless of what brand you buy because it is a quick fix for all of the following problems:
1. Broken bolt/lugs
2. Bad gas rings
3. Worn extractor
4. Weak extractor springs
5. Extractor lift
6. Bound ejector/weak ejector spring
7. Excessive firing pin protrusion
When you can address all of those issues in a single, quick swap it saves you diagnostic time and down time when you are training. Besides that, the bolt is a common failure point as you put a lot of rounds through the rifle, so you are planning for the future.
As far as the H-buffer, it will depend on your gas system. My preference is H-buffer for carbines and carbine buffer for midlengths (unless you are using suppressors, then you need to kick up to an H2 and H respectively).
FWIW, I've got around 14k rounds on three different Bushmaster BCGs (all improperly staked by the way) and so far, no loose gas keys or broken bolts. I have seen Bushmasters shoot loose their gas key, so it does happen; but staking them properly is a cheap and easy fix. I've also seen broken bolts firsthand; but only two and both DPMS chromed bolts circa 2001.
Z-Michigan
Member
How dare you bring personal, first-hand real-world knowledge into this debate! This is the internet!
I have two Bushmasters, far lower round count, no problems with mine either. One has a properly staked carrier key, other does not.
I don't see anywhere that he's asking about Colt or indicating he wanted one. Colt is not generally considered the best any more, at least not any better than certain other brands that cost less. They thrive based on advertising, fanboys, and a military contract that is based entirely on politics.
While Daniel Defense is another quality make, where do you get the idea that they are the best for the money? They tend to cost $10-20 more than a BCM group, and the very best reviews I've read are of BCM. Assuming, of course, that there is actually any difference in quality between the two, which there may not be.
One of my local carbine instructors and rangemaster checked that the Bushy bolt is properly staked and it is, I also checked myself and it looked good. Probably going to replace the BCG with a BCM and keep the BM BCG for spare.
RSVP2RIP
Member
Well a new BCG is a relatively inexpensive thing when you think about it. A spare bolt is even cheaper. I'd keep the bolt carrier and just grab an extra bolt, your choice of makers. Keep it in one of Magpuls grips, along with a spare firing pin and don't ever worry again. Is peace of mind worth $40 or $150?
StarDust1
Member
Nice try, the DD BCG is the exact same one marketed by BCM...How dare you bring personal, first-hand real-world knowledge into this debate! This is the internet!
I have two Bushmasters, far lower round count, no problems with mine either. One has a properly staked carrier key, other does not.
I don't see anywhere that he's asking about Colt or indicating he wanted one. Colt is not generally considered the best any more, at least not any better than certain other brands that cost less. They thrive based on advertising, fanboys, and a military contract that is based entirely on politics.
While Daniel Defense is another quality make, where do you get the idea that they are the best for the money? They tend to cost $10-20 more than a BCM group, and the very best reviews I've read are of BCM. Assuming, of course, that there is actually any difference in quality between the two, which there may not be.
12131
Member
Shoot the heck out of it, then see for yourself. If it ain't broke, leave it alone. Wouldn't lose too much sleep over the-best-this-the-crap-that you see so much on the net.
DoubleTapDrew
Member
So what do you get for the extra $ of the DD one? I can't find anything done incorrectly on my BCM BCG.
Z-Michigan
Member
Clarity helps, especially when you're trying to say something. What are you trying to say? That DD manufactures the BCG that is sold by BCM under the BCM name? Or that BCM manufactures the BCG that is sold by DD under the DD name? Or that both companies are putting their names on a BCG made by some third party? It's not at all clear.
And what benefit do you get for the extra $10-20 cost of the DD-marked group?
rskent
Member
Z - Relax man, I was just poken a little fun at Mags
Mags – I still would like to get a look at your new rifle.
Steve
Mags – I still would like to get a look at your new rifle.
Steve
jonboynumba1
Member
Here's what I have seen...some BM bolt carriers gas keys are not properly staked....most all of the newer rifles are...because of customer feedback (and forums like this) they know people look for that now and that the lack of that diminishes customer satisfaction.
The thing is...properly staking one that is not takes like 30 seconds...it's NOT a big deal. You can even take one not or improperly staked and put the screws in with loctite RED and be GTG...you'll have to heat them up to change them...but when do you really EVER change a gas key on an AR? I know a dude that has assembled his bolt carriers that way and never had a problem (would not be my choice...because...well...properly staking them takes 30 seconds on the bench!
I know a guy who's department bought a bunch of earlier BM rifles years ago and upon putting them through the ringer a FEW had problems in that area....he tightened back down and staked them nice and heavy like an older Colt...Worst case senario you break or strip or lose a screw or two...but again...it takes 30 seconds to correct in the time one of these internet threads takes to read you could properly stake every AR any of us has ever owned (assuming any of them need it...and most will NOT)
Parts for AR's....stay major manufacturer...and you'll likely be OK! Mags stay USGI or Colt that drop fre from your lower and that you've loaded 4-6 rounds and shot empty a few times each to check function...and you'll be OK...shoot US made quallity brass cased ammo...and you'll be OK...Buy a quallity rifle....feed it quallity ammo from decent mags and it's as reliable a rifle as anything out there....buy rifles or parts from century and/or model1sales or SGN and parts from parts unknown=jamo-o-matic
That is everything you need to know about the AR except how to clean service zero and use one properly. FWIW I sell AR's of various manufacture...I look them over before they leave the shop...I think I've re-staked ONE BM in the last 5 years that needed it. It's not a big deal anywhere but the internet! And no...I don't even own a BM so I don't have a poney in these threads...Colt and RRA are my prefference...though RRA's customer service really seems to suck these days and I no longer sell them unless somebody just has to have one...thankfully LOTS of people are making decent AR's these days.
FWIW I wouldn't replace anything in a working rifle because of something I read on the internet...if it works run it...if you think you'll break it...buy spares...no big deal...spare parts are always a good idea! As long as they come from a quallity US manufacturer I wouldn't worry about what they are or are not stamped.
The thing is...properly staking one that is not takes like 30 seconds...it's NOT a big deal. You can even take one not or improperly staked and put the screws in with loctite RED and be GTG...you'll have to heat them up to change them...but when do you really EVER change a gas key on an AR? I know a dude that has assembled his bolt carriers that way and never had a problem (would not be my choice...because...well...properly staking them takes 30 seconds on the bench!
I know a guy who's department bought a bunch of earlier BM rifles years ago and upon putting them through the ringer a FEW had problems in that area....he tightened back down and staked them nice and heavy like an older Colt...Worst case senario you break or strip or lose a screw or two...but again...it takes 30 seconds to correct in the time one of these internet threads takes to read you could properly stake every AR any of us has ever owned (assuming any of them need it...and most will NOT)
Parts for AR's....stay major manufacturer...and you'll likely be OK! Mags stay USGI or Colt that drop fre from your lower and that you've loaded 4-6 rounds and shot empty a few times each to check function...and you'll be OK...shoot US made quallity brass cased ammo...and you'll be OK...Buy a quallity rifle....feed it quallity ammo from decent mags and it's as reliable a rifle as anything out there....buy rifles or parts from century and/or model1sales or SGN and parts from parts unknown=jamo-o-matic
That is everything you need to know about the AR except how to clean service zero and use one properly. FWIW I sell AR's of various manufacture...I look them over before they leave the shop...I think I've re-staked ONE BM in the last 5 years that needed it. It's not a big deal anywhere but the internet! And no...I don't even own a BM so I don't have a poney in these threads...Colt and RRA are my prefference...though RRA's customer service really seems to suck these days and I no longer sell them unless somebody just has to have one...thankfully LOTS of people are making decent AR's these days.
FWIW I wouldn't replace anything in a working rifle because of something I read on the internet...if it works run it...if you think you'll break it...buy spares...no big deal...spare parts are always a good idea! As long as they come from a quallity US manufacturer I wouldn't worry about what they are or are not stamped.
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