The Heart of Your Rifle: Finding the Best Bolt Carrier Group 2023

Bolt Carrier Group (BCG) – Editor’s Choice

There are a lot of different factors to consider when purchasing a bolt carrier group. This guide will help you choose the best one for your needs.

What is a Bolt Carrier Group?

A bolt carrier group (BCG) is a critical part of an AR-15 rifle. It includes the bolt, carrier, and firing pin, and is responsible for chambering, firing, and extracting rounds.

There are two main types of BCGs on the market: complete units and stripped carriers. Complete BCGs are ready to install and usually include the charging handle. Stripped carriers require some assembly and do not include the charging handle.

What to Look for in a Bolt Carrier Group?

There are several factors you’ll want to consider when purchasing a BCG.

• Material: The vast majority of BCGs are made from either steel or aluminum. Steel is more durable but heavier, while aluminum is lighter but not as sturdy.
• Coating: Most BCGs have a coating to protect them from corrosion and wear. The most common coatings are black nitride, phosphates, and chrome.
• Gas System: AR-15s can have either a direct impingement (DI) or piston gas system. DI rifles use the hot gases from each fired round to cycle the action, while piston guns have a separate mechanism that cycles the action. Most BCGs are designed for DI rifles, but there are a few piston-specific models on the market.
• Compatibility: It’s important to make sure that the BCG you purchase is compatible with your rifle. AR-15s can have different size receivers (mil-spec or commercial), gas systems (DI or piston), and calibers (.223/5.56, .308/7.62, etc.). Make sure to check that the BCG you’re considering is compatible with your rifle before making a purchase.

Now that we’ve gone over what to look for in a BCG, let’s take a look at some of the best options on the market.

#1 TRYBE Defense Milspec Complete 9mm Hybrid Bolt Carrier Group

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If you’re looking for a reliable and durable bolt carrier group for your 9mm handgun, the TRYBE Defense Milspec Complete 9mm Hybrid Bolt Carrier Group is a great option. This BCG is made from high-quality materials and features a corrosion-resistant finish, ensuring that it will stand up to even the harshest environments. It’s also designed to work with both Glock and Colt-style magazines, making it a versatile option for any shooter. And finally, the price is unbeatable for a quality BCG like this. So if you’re looking for a great 9mm bolt carrier group, the TRYBE Defense Milspec Complete 9mm Hybrid Bolt Carrier Group is a great option to consider.

TRYBE Defense Milspec Complete 9mm Hybrid Bolt Carrier Group is a great option for those looking for a durable and easy-to-install bolt carrier group. While some users have reported issues with the bolt not locking back, this is not a widespread problem and can likely be remedied with some troubleshooting. Overall, the TRYBE Defense Milspec Complete 9mm Hybrid Bolt Carrier Group is a great option for those in the market for a new bolt carrier group.

#2 TRYBE Defense Bolt Carrier Group Assembly Completion

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The TRYBE Defense Bolt Assembly Completion Carrier Group is a top-rated bolt carrier group that is perfect for your AR-15 build. It features a Nitride finish for superior corrosion resistance and diamond-like carbon (DLC) coating to improve wear resistance. The bolt assembly is machined from 9310 steel and shot-peened for increased strength. The carrier is made from 8620 steel and features a Mil-Spec phosphate coating. This carrier group also includes a gas key that is machined from 4140 steel and secured with Grade 8 screws. The charging handle is not included.

#3 TRYBE Defense Milspec AR15 223/5.56/300 AAC Complete Bolt Carrier Group

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When you’re looking for the best bolt carrier group for your AR-15, it’s important to find one that is made to military specifications. TRYBE Defense’s Milspec AR15 223/5.56/300 AAC Complete Bolt Carrier Group meets those requirements and is machined from hardened 8620 steel to ensure durability and reliability. It also features a chrome-lined gas key and is MPI tested to ensure the highest quality. This bolt carrier group also includes a charging handle, making it a great choice for those looking for a complete solution.

#4 TRYBE Defense Milspec Complete AR10 .308 Bolt Carrier Group

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TRYBE Defense Milspec Complete AR10 .308 Bolt Carrier Group is Precision machined from high-quality materials, this bolt carrier group is designed to provide superior performance and reliability in all environments. It also features a Nitride finish that helps to protect against corrosion and wear. This bolt carrier group is compatible with all AR10 .308 rifles and is perfect for those who are looking for a high-quality, durable option.

This bolt carrier group comes complete with a bolt, carrier, and gas key. It is also designed to work with both direct impingement and piston-driven rifles. The carrier is made from 8620 steel and the bolt is made from 9310 steel. This combination of materials makes for a strong and durable option that will be able to withstand even the most demanding conditions. The Nitride finish provides an additional layer of protection against wear and tear, ensuring that this bolt carrier group will be able to last for many years to come.

This bolt carrier group is an excellent choice for those who are looking for a high-quality, durable option that will provide superior performance and reliability in all environments.

#5 TRYBE Defense Milspec Complete 6.5 Grendel Bolt Carrier Group

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The TRYBE Defense Milspec Complete 6.5 Grendel Bolt Carrier Group is perfect for your next build. It is made from top-quality materials and features a nitride finish for superior durability and corrosion resistance. This BCG also includes an M16 carrier, chrome-lined gas key, and Carpenter 158 bolt. It is compatible with both AR-15 and M4 rifles.

TRYBE Defense Milspec Complete 6.5 Grendel Bolt Carrier Group is one of the best options on the market for those looking for a durable and reliable bolt carrier group. It is made from high-quality materials and is designed to work with most AR-15 platforms. However, it is not compatible with all AR-15 platforms and is only available from a limited number of retailers.

#6 Aero Precision 5.56 AR15 Bolt Carrier Group

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Looking for the best bolt carrier group for your AR-15? Look no further than the Aero Precision 5.56 AR15 Bolt Carrier Group. Made from high-quality materials and finished with a corrosion-resistant coating, this bolt carrier group is designed to withstand the harshest environments. It features a full-auto design that allows it to function with both semi-automatic and full-automatic firearms. The Aero Precision 5.56 AR15 Bolt Carrier Group is the perfect choice for those who want the best possible performance from their AR-15.

#7 Faxon Firearms Gen 2 9mm PCC Bolt Carrier Group

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The new Gen 2 9mm PCC Bolt Carrier Group from Faxon Firearms is a great choice for those looking for a high-quality, durable, and reliable option. It is sure to provide years of trouble-free use and will make an excellent addition to any AR-9 build.

#8 FosTech Outdoors AR-15 Complete Lite Bolt Carrier Group

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The FosTech Outdoors AR-15 Complete Lite Bolt Carrier Group is perfect for your next build. It is made of high-quality materials and components, ensuring dependability and accuracy. This BCG also features a Nitride finish for superior corrosion resistance.

#9 JP Enterprises Complete JPBC Bolt Carrier Group

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JP Enterprises Complete JPBC Bolt Carrier Group is a high-quality, full-length bolt carrier group that is perfect for AR-15s. It features a gas key and bolt that are both chrome-lined, as well as a Carpenter 158 steel bolt. The extractor is black oxide finished and the entire unit is then salt bath nitrided. This creates a highly corrosion-resistant and extremely durable bolt carrier group.
The JPBC also features an M16-style carrier with a properly staked gas key. The carrier key is attached with Grade 8 bolts and properly torqued to mil-spec standards. The carrier itself is made from 8620 steel and the entire unit is finished with a black nitride finish. This bolt carrier group is perfect for those looking for a durable and long-lasting option.

#10 2A Armament Titanium Regulated Bolt Carrier Group

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The 2A Armament Titanium Regulated Bolt Carrier Group is one of the best on the market. It is made with high-quality titanium and features a regulated gas system to keep your rifle running smoothly. The bolt carrier group also comes with a premium coat of black DLC finish for superior protection and durability. This is a great option for anyone looking for a top-of-the-line bolt carrier group.

#11 FosTech Outdoors AR-15 Complete Bolt Carrier Group

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The FosTech Outdoors AR-15 Complete Bolt Carrier Group is a reliable and durable choice for your AR-15. It is made of high-quality materials and features a chrome-lined bolt carrier and gas key, ensuring smooth operation and corrosion resistance. Additionally, it comes with an extractor spring, O-ring enhanced extractor, firing pin, and retaining pin. This complete bolt carrier group is perfect for those looking for a high-quality, affordable option.

#12 CMC Triggers Enhanced AR Bolt Carrier Group

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Looking for an enhanced bolt carrier group? Check out CMC Triggers’ offering. This high-quality BCG is machined from Carpenter 158 steel and shot-peened for increased strength and durability. It also features a chrome lining to help reduce wear and tear. For even more strength, the CMC Triggers BCG also has an M16-style carrier with a properly staked gas key. Installation is easy, and it’s compatible with most AR-15 platforms. So if you’re looking for a high-quality, durable bolt carrier group, the CMC Triggers Enhanced AR Bolt Carrier Group is a great option.

#13 JP Enterprises Enhanced Assembly Bolt Carrier Group

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JP Enterprises Enhanced Bolt Assembly Carrier Group is a top-rated bolt carrier group that delivers excellent performance. This unit is designed for shooters who demand the best out of their firearms, and it ensures smooth cycling and reliable operation. It’s made from high-quality materials and features a tough finish that can withstand extreme abuse. The JP Enterprises Enhanced Bolt Assembly Carrier Group is a great choice for anyone looking for a top-of-the-line bolt carrier group.

#14 Wilson Combat Bolt Carrier Group Assembly

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The Wilson Combat Bolt Carrier Assembly Group is a high-quality option for your AR-15 rifle. It is made from durable materials and features a Nitride finish that protects it from wear and tear. The carrier also comes with a bolt head that is machined from 9310 steel to ensure durability and accuracy. Additionally, this assembly group includes a gas key that is staked into place to prevent it from coming loose. Lastly, the carrier features a properly staked carrier key to ensure that it will not come loose during use.

#15 Bootleg Bolt Carrier Group Completion Kit

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The Bootleg Carrier Completion Kit includes all of the components you need to complete your AR-15 bolt carrier group. It comes with a bolt, carrier, gas key and screws, firing pin, and retaining pin. The kit is machined from high-quality steel and features a black nitride finish for durability and corrosion resistance. This is a great option for those looking for a complete bolt carrier group at an affordable price.

#16 Obsidian Arms AR-15 5.56 Enhanced Bolt Carrier Group Pin Kit

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This top-quality kit is made from forged 8620 steel and features a Nitride finish for superior corrosion resistance. It also includes an enhanced bolt pin group, which provides greater durability and smoother operation. Plus, it comes with a lifetime warranty, so you can be confident in its performance.

#17 JP Enterprises High Pressure Enhanced Bolt Carrier Group Assembly

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Looking for an Enhanced Bolt Carrier Assembly Group that can take your AR-15 to the next level? Look no further than JP Enterprises High-Pressure Enhanced Bolt Carrier Assembly Group. It is precision machined from high-quality materials and features a black nitride finish that protects it from wear and tear. The gas key is secured with grade 8 bolts and staked per mil-spec standards. The carrier also features forward assist serrations for positive engagement. This bolt carrier group is perfect for those who are looking to upgrade their AR-15 rifle.

#18 JP Enterprises Complete JPBC Bolt Carrier Group

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JP Enterprises Complete JPBC Bolt Carrier Group is a full-length article answering common questions with product reviews and useful tips about Bolt Carrier Groups. The JPBC is designed to provide the highest quality and performance available. Key features include:

• Hardened Arms Milspec Carpenter 158 Steel bolt
• Shot Peened and MPI Tested
• Properly heat-treated
• HPT/MPI Tested
• Mil-spec dimensions
• Phosphate coated finish

The JPBC is machined to exacting tolerances and is the perfect upgrade for your AR-15. It is compatible with all standard AR-15 components and magazines.

#19 CMMG 9mm Barrel and Bolt Carrier Group Kit

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CMMG’s 9mm Barrel and Bolt Carrier Group Kit offers an easy way to change your AR-9 platform over to 9mm. The kit includes a barrel, bolt carrier group, and charging handle. The barrel is made of 4140 chrome-moly steel and has a 1:10 twist rate. The bolt carrier group is machined from 8620 steel and features a Mil-Spec phosphate finish. The charging handle is made of 7075-T6 aluminum and has a hard-coat anodized finish.

#20 CMMG 22LR Bolt Carrier Group

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Looking for the bolt carrier group for your 22LR build? Check CMMG 22LR Bolt Carrier Group. This top-rated BCG is perfect for any budget build, and it’s backed by CMMG’s quality guarantee. The bolt carrier group features a nitride finish that resists wear and corrosion, and it comes with a complete bolt and carrier assembly. Installation is easy and the BCG functions flawlessly.

CMMG’s Bolt Carrier Group is perfect for small varmint hunting or target shooting. Machined from 8620 steel with a parkerized finish, it is both lightweight and durable. The bolt carrier group comes complete with a bolt, firing pin, cam pin, and extractor.

#21 Anarchy Outdoors Tactical Folding Bolt Carrier Extension JP Law

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The Anarchy Outdoors Tactical Folding Bolt Carrier Group Extension is one of the best bolt carrier groups on the market. It is made from high-quality materials and is designed for durability and reliability. This bolt carrier group comes with a lifetime warranty, so you can be sure that it will last. It is a great choice for those who are looking for a high-quality, durable, and reliable bolt carrier group.

#22 2A Armament Titanium Regulated Bolt Carrier Group

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The 2A Armament Titanium Regulated Bolt Carrier Group is one of the best on the market. It’s made with high-quality materials and is designed to withstand the harshest conditions. The titanium construction makes it lightweight and durable, while the regulated gas system ensures smooth cycling and reliability. This bolt carrier group is perfect for AR-15s and other high-performance firearms.

#23 CMMG 22LR Mk4 Barrel Kit with Bolt Carrier Group

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CMMG 22LR Mk4 Barrel Kits w/ Bolt Carrier Group is one of the best choices for bolt carrier groups on the market. It is made with high-quality materials and construction, and it provides great performance and durability. Additionally, this kit comes with a complete bolt carrier group, so it is ready to use right out of the box. This kit is a great choice for anyone looking for a top-quality bolt carrier group.

#24 JP Enterprises Stainless Full Mass Tactical Bolt Carrier Group

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JP Enterprises Stainless Full Mass Tactical Bolt Carrier Group is a high-quality, durable option for your AR-15. It is made of stainless steel and features a full mass body that helps reduce recoil. This bolt carrier group also comes with a keyed bolt fastener to keep it in place. It is designed to provide reliable performance and easy maintenance. The JP Enterprises Stainless Full Mass Tactical Bolt Carrier Group is a great choice for those who want a reliable, durable bolt carrier group for their AR-15.

#25 Griffin Armament Enhanced Mil Spec Bolt Carrier Group

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Griffin Armament’s Enhanced Mil-Spec BCG is the perfect upgrade for your AR-15 or M16 rifle. It features a nitride finish that protects it from corrosion and wear and enhancements such as an integrated gas key and bolt carrier key screws that ensure a tight seal. The bolt carrier itself is machined from 8620 steel, while the bolt is made from Carpenter 158 steel. The Griffin Armament Enhanced Mil-Spec BCG also features a properly staked gas key and a carrier key that is screwed in place.

#26 Lantac Enhanced Full Auto Style Bolt Carrier Group

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The Lantac Enhanced Full Auto Style Bolt Carrier Group is perfect for upgrading your AR-15 rifle. It features a nickel boron coating that makes it incredibly durable and easy to clean. The bolt carrier group is also designed to provide improved performance and reliability, helping you to get the most out of your rifle. Additionally, the Lantac Enhanced Full Auto Style Bolt Carrier Group comes with a lifetime warranty, ensuring that you can always keep your rifle in top condition.

#27 Bootleg Mil Spec AR 15 SBN Coating Complete Bolt Carrier Group

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Looking for a quality bolt carrier group at an affordable price? Look no further than our Bootleg Mil Spec Carrier AR 15 SBN Coating Complete Bolt Carrier Group. This product is designed and manufactured to meet or exceed all MIL-SPEC requirements, ensuring that you get the best performance possible. The bolt carrier group is coated with a special finish that helps to protect it from corrosion and wear, and it also features an extended life extractor for increased reliability. For those who are looking for the best possible value, our Bootleg Mil Spec Carrier AR 15 SBN Coating Complete Bolt Carrier Group is a perfect choice.

#28 Radian Weapons Enhanced Black Nitride AR15/M16 Bolt Carrier Group

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I was excited to try out the Radian Weapons Enhanced Black Nitride AR15/M16 Bolt Carrier Group. Based on the content above, this bolt carrier group is designed to provide increased lubricity and corrosion resistance. I was eager to see how it performed in comparison to my standard bolt carrier group.

Installation of the Radian Weapons Enhanced Black Nitride AR15/M16 Bolt Carrier Group was straightforward. I didn’t encounter any issues while installing it on my rifle. Once installed, I took the rifle out to the range to test it out. I have to say that I was impressed with the results. The bolt carrier group functioned flawlessly and the increased lubricity and corrosion resistance was immediately noticeable. I didn’t have any problems with the bolt carrier group during my range session and I’m confident that it will continue to perform reliably for many years to come.

Overall, I’m very pleased with the Radian Weapons Enhanced Black Nitride AR15/M16 Bolt Carrier Group.

#29 Next Level Armament DLC Bolt Carrier Group

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Looking for the best bolt carrier group on the market? Look no further than the Next Level Armament DLC Bolt Carrier Group. This top-rated BCG is precision machined from high-quality materials and is designed to offer superior performance and reliability. It features a Nitride coating that protects against corrosion and wears, and it comes with a lifetime warranty. The Next Level Armament DLC Bolt Carrier Group is the perfect choice for those who demand the best.

#30 RISE Armament AR-15 Bolt Carrier Group

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RISE Armament’s bolt carrier group is made with top-quality materials and precision engineering, this bolt carrier group is a great way to improve your rifle’s performance. It features a gas key that is properly staked and grade 8 bolts for maximum strength and durability. The slick nickel finish helps keep your rifle running smoothly and looking great.

#31 JP Enterprises Enhanced Assembly Bolt Carrier Group

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JP Enterprises Enhanced Bolt Assembly Bolt Carrier Group is a top-rated bolt carrier group that is perfect for your AR-15 rifle. It features a durable bolt made from 9310 steel, which provides superior strength and resistance to wear and tear. The gas key is staked to ensure that it stays in place, and the extractor spring is coated with O-rings to provide a smoother operation. The carrier itself is made from 8620 steel and has a black nitride finish for increased durability. This bolt carrier group also includes a Mil-Spec charging handle.

#32 JP Enterprises Polished Stainless LMOS Bolt Carrier Group

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JP Enterprises Polished Stainless LMOS Bolt Carrier Group is one of the best bolt carrier groups on the market. It is a full-length, Mil-spec bolt carrier group that has been polished to a high shine. The Nickel Boron coating makes it extremely resistant to wear and corrosion. It also features an integrated gas key and gas tube, ensuring perfect alignment and function. This bolt carrier group is sure to provide you with years of trouble-free operation.

#33 Spikes Tactical M16 Bolt Carrier Group

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The Spike’s Tactical M16 Bolt Carrier Group is a Mil-Spec BCG that is phosphate coated and features a Carpenter 158 steel bolt. It is compatible with AR-15s and AR-10s. The BCG has a black finish and is made in the USA. It comes with a lifetime warranty.

The Spike’s Tactical M16 Bolt Carrier Group is a great choice for anyone looking for a high-quality, Mil-Spec BCG. The phosphate coating provides excellent corrosion resistance and the Carpenter 158 steel bolt is extremely durable. The black finish looks great and the lifetime warranty is a nice touch. This BCG is compatible with both AR-15s and AR-10s, making it a versatile option.

#34 Faxon Firearms AR-15 5.56/300 Bolt Carrier Group

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Looking for the best bolt carrier group for your AR-15? Faxon Firearms has you covered with their premium 5.56/300 bolt carrier group. Machined from high-quality materials and finished with a slick black nitride coating, this BCG is tough enough to handle whatever you can dish out. Features include an MPI-tested 9310 steel bolt, a properly staked gas key, and a Mil-Spec Carpenter No. 158 steel carrier. Whether you’re a competitive shooter or just enjoy plinking at the range, the Faxon Firearms bolt carrier group is sure to give you years of trouble-free service.

Bolt Carrier Group FAQ

Can I use any bolt carrier group?

No, not all bolt carrier groups are created equal. Some are designed for specific calibers and applications, while others are more versatile. It’s important to choose the right bolt carrier group for your needs to ensure optimal performance.

How does a bolt carrier group work?

A bolt carrier group is a set of components that work together to chamber a round and fire the weapon. The bolt carrier is a cylindrical component that houses the bolt, which is the part of the weapon that chambers the round. The bolt carrier group also includes the firing pin, gas rings, and other components. When the weapon is fired, the bolt carrier group moves rearward, allowing the next round to be chambered.

What is included in a bolt carrier group?

A bolt carrier group, or BCG, is a key component in any AR-15 rifle. It includes the bolt carrier, the bolt, and the firing pin. These three parts work together to ensure that the rifle can fire properly. The bolt carrier group is responsible for chambering and firing rounds. It also helps to extract spent shells from the chamber and to keep the rifle’s action clean.

Can I buy a full auto bolt carrier group?

Unfortunately, no. Full auto bolt carrier groups are not available to the public. You can, however, purchase a bolt carrier group that is semi-automatic. A full-auto bolt carrier group would be classified as a machine gun, which is illegal to possess without the proper federal licenses.

What is the difference between a mil-spec and a commercial bolt carrier group?

The main difference between a mil-spec and a commercial bolt carrier group is the dimensions. Mil-spec bolt carrier groups are held to stricter tolerances and usually cost more as a result. However, commercial bolt carrier groups will often work just as well in most applications.

Is BCG a specific caliber?

No, a BCG is not a specific caliber. However, there are different types of BCGs available for purchase that are designed to work with specific calibers. For example, there are AR-15 BCGs and .308 BCGs. It is important to choose the correct BCG for the caliber of your firearm.

How many parts are in a bolt carrier group?

There are five main parts in a bolt carrier group: the bolt, the carrier, the gas key, the firing pin, and the cam pin.
The bolt is the heart of the BCG and it is responsible for holding and firing the round. The carrier houses the bolt and helps to guide it into the chamber. The gas key sits on top of the carrier and directs gases from the fired round into the bolt to cycle the action. The firing pin strikes the primer of the round to ignite the powder. The cam pin fits into a groove in the bolt and helps to rotate and lock the bolt into the carrier.

What is the difference between AR-15 and M16 bolt carrier groups?

The M16 bolt carrier group is a full-auto BCG and the AR-15 bolt carrier group is a semi-auto BCG. M16 BCG has a weight of 10.4 oz and the AR-15 BCG weights 9.6 oz. The M16 carrier also has an extra lug at the bottom that engages the auto sear on full-auto lowers. The AR-15 does not have this feature.

Conclusion

Bolt Carrier Groups are an important part of your AR-15. As the heart of the action, the BCG is responsible for cycling rounds and driving the bolt home. Picking the right one is essential to ensure reliable function and accuracy. In this article, we’ve reviewed five top-rated Bolt Carrier Groups and answered some common questions to help you make the best decision for your needs.