AR Sponsor
Posted: 9/1/2008 5:47:21 AM EDT
|
I have an RRA 20" rifle that needs the barrel replaced finally. The BCG has been working fine over well over 6000 rounds with no replaced parts. If I am getting it re barrelled, can I use the old bolt group or is it time to replace it? Thanks! |
|
Inquiring minds want to know.... I'm sure someone who knows for sure will respond soon.... I would say you would have to verify headspace is ok from the bolt head to mid of the brass neck angle....but I'm not sure what you would do from there if it's not right.... Other than that, if it doesn't show excessive wear and the bolt is fairly tight....should be ok. 
|
No. Get who ever is doing the barrel swap to check headspace with your old bolt. If it's out of spec, replace it, if it's not, keep using it. Most of the parts (I can't think of any that aren't) on an AR are replaced when they fail an inspection, not at a certain round count. BSW |
When I went through Armorer School, we were told that when the barrel is worn out, the other parts in the upper are going to be pretty close, and it's better off to change them all out together, especially if it's a duty weapon. |
| If the old bolt headspaces fine with the new barrel, keep using it. We've replaced a lot of barrels on training weapons that see over 6K rounds a year and haven't made a habit of swapping out bolts unless the headspace is incorrect or if there's an actual problem wtih the bolt itself. However, if a new bolt is what's going to let you sleep at night, have at it. |
After this: www.ar15.com/forums/topic.html?b=3&f=66&t=378710 and no response from RRA, I've decided to just replace the damn thing. I'm tired of my bullets coming out sideways. I'm going to have steve at ADCO replace the barrel and I'll have him check the bolt too. |
+1 I would add that the cam pin would be the first part I would replace. If the bolt looks ok and headspaces it's fine. If not then get a new one. You don't need a complete new BCG unless you want one. The carrier should outlast the rest of the rifle. 6000 rounds still seams like too soon to be replacing the barrel. Most can go for around 20,000 rounds. |
AR Sponsor
Win a FREE Membership!
Sign up for the ARFCOM weekly newsletter and be entered to win a free ARFCOM membership. One new winner* is announced every week!
You will receive an email every Friday morning featuring the latest chatter from the hottest topics, breaking news surrounding legislation, as well as exclusive deals only available to ARFCOM email subscribers.