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7/22/2012 8:22:59 AM EDT
I recently picked up a LMT 16" upper.  I haven't yet bought a new lower for it, so I've been swapping it onto my S&W15 lower.

For some reason, the bolt won't lock open on an empty mag.  I've cleaned and lubed it several times, and cleaned the lower. It's a new bolt, lightly used upper (approx 500 rounds), and headspace checked out with go and no-go gauges.  I've used Federal M855 and PMC X-tac 55gr ammo only.  Mags have been Brownell's, Tapco and the newer Lancer mags (all work fine in the original rifle)  Any ideas?

If it matters, the original S&W upper still operates fine when I swap it back over.
7/22/2012 8:33:08 AM EDT
[#1]
may need a lighter buffer.
7/22/2012 8:38:38 AM EDT
[#2]
Sounds like it is under gassed.
7/22/2012 8:40:53 AM EDT
[#3]
First check that the bolt will lock back manually.
If yes, and you're using a standard buffer check your entire gas system from front to rear for leaks, misalignment etc.

Also test fire with the BCG from the working rig to isolate that aspect.
7/22/2012 8:45:42 AM EDT
[#4]
have you had a 22lr conversion bcg on it?

If so, your gas tube could be clogged up.

Otherwise, make sure gas tube is clean, make sure gas rings are still in good shape.
7/22/2012 8:50:00 AM EDT
[#5]
Check carrierkey..possible gas loss...very worn gas rings..start there.
7/22/2012 3:16:43 PM EDT
[#6]
new bolt and BCG, so pretty sure the rings are OK. Plus, it passes the "hold the bolt and the BCG doesn't drop" test.

I have run a .22, but on a CMMG dedicated upper.  Also on the same lower.  I did clean the lower afterwards, and the original upper is still GTG.  The new one is still problematic.  

I'll check the gas key.  I'll wait til I get a dedicated upper before I fool with the buffer, since it's working fine as originally configured.
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