what buffer should I use?

James Deen · Dec 27, 2019

I am building a 10.5 inch ar rifle. and was wondering what buffer I should use. as I understand it sometimes the 10.5" can be picky. so any experience, recommended buffers would be appreciated.

Daezee · Dec 27, 2019

Recommend starting with a standard carbine buffer (and it's the cheapest). If your BCG is going back too fast, too soon, and the extractor is ripping off the rim of the case, then go to a heavier buffer to slow down the BCG and give the chamber pressure more time to go down before extraction. And be sure to install an O-ring over the extractor spring. A #60 will do. Buy a 10 pack of them at Lowes in the plumbing supply area for around $2.00.

Little Jack · Dec 27, 2019

Daezee said:
Recommend starting with a standard carbine buffer (and it's the cheapest). If your BCG is going back too fast, too soon, and the extractor is ripping off the rim of the case, then go to a heavier buffer to slow down the BCG and give the chamber pressure more time to go down before extraction. And be sure to install an O-ring over the extractor spring. A #60 will do. Buy a 10 pack of them at Lowes in the plumbing supply area for around $2.00.

Daezee has been around for awhile and has lots of experience but I'll add my more limited experience.

Standard buffer is probably fine but you can probably go heavier without ill effects and it should help with some recoil and slow down the system a little. There's lots of variables to consider. The buffer works with the spring and the ammo and gas port size play a factor as well. I've always started with an H2 and never had issue but others have had short stroking with an H2. If you've got the option, try someone else's before you commit.

WRT the O-ring. Your bolt may not need it. I've seen bolts that were so tight after the addition of the o-ring that it wouldn't let the round go. If you're having issues with extraction, it should help.

donr101395 · Dec 27, 2019

I would start at an H with a 10.5, I have yet to see one that didn't need either an H or H2 to run correctly. Depending on the barrel maker it's more than likely over gassed to run cheaper ammo.

James Deen · Dec 28, 2019

Thanks for all the wisdom, have built a couple of normal length rifles, but am going to try something new.

kidsoncoffee · Dec 29, 2019

Running a spikes T2 which is basically a H1 carbine buffer in my 10.5" and haven't had a single issue. You could probably run a H2 and not see a difference. I have a few different ones on hand from my build as I didn't want to not have the proper buffer and have to wait on shipping while I dialed my gun in. I've run a H2 in it and didn't notice a difference. I like the spikes T buffers since there's no weights clanking around inside the buffer.

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what buffer should I use?

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