Let’s Dive into Faxon Firearms .308 9310 Bolt Carrier Complete
I’ve built a fair number of AR-10 and DPMS LR-308 pattern rifles over the years, and the bolt carrier group (BCG) is one area where I never skimp. A reliable BCG is the heart of the rifle, and a failure there can turn a fun range day into a frustrating and potentially dangerous experience. That’s why the Faxon Firearms .308 9310 Bolt Carrier Complete caught my eye; promising enhanced materials and features over a standard MIL-SPEC unit.
My main motivation was to find a BCG that could handle the increased pressures of some of my hotter handloads, while also providing smoother cycling for faster follow-up shots. I was experiencing some inconsistencies with my existing BCGs, particularly with primer flow-back, and wanted a more robust solution. Upon unboxing, the Faxon Firearms .308 9310 Bolt Carrier Complete immediately impressed me with its deep black nitride finish and the overall feeling of quality. The nitride finish looks and feels much slicker than a standard phosphate coating.
I considered other options like the JP Enterprises FMOS .308 BCG and the Lantac Enhanced .308 BCG. Ultimately, I chose the Faxon Firearms .308 9310 Bolt Carrier Complete because it seemed to strike a balance between enhanced features and a reasonable price point. The JP and Lantac are phenomenal, but carry a premium price tag. My first impression was definitely positive; the Faxon Firearms .308 9310 Bolt Carrier Complete felt like a significant upgrade over a standard BCG.
Real-World Testing: Putting Faxon Firearms .308 9310 Bolt Carrier Complete to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Faxon Firearms .308 9310 Bolt Carrier Complete at my local shooting range, in my AR-10 build with a Faxon 18″ match-grade barrel chambered in .308 Winchester. The weather was typical for late spring – slightly humid, with temperatures in the mid-60s. The BCG cycled flawlessly through the first 100 rounds.
I ran a mix of factory ammunition and my own handloads, including some pushing the upper limits of .308 pressure. There were no failures to feed, fire, or eject. The action felt noticeably smoother compared to my rifle with a standard, phosphate-coated BCG.
The only minor issue I encountered was a slightly stiffer extractor spring initially, but this smoothed out after a few magazines. I was impressed with the initial performance.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months and over 500 rounds, the Faxon Firearms .308 9310 Bolt Carrier Complete has proven to be exceptionally reliable. I’ve used it in a variety of conditions, from dry and dusty days at the range to damp and slightly muddy conditions during a hunting trip. There are minimal signs of wear, primarily some slight discoloration on the bolt face from consistent use.
Cleaning and maintenance have been straightforward. The nitride finish makes it easier to wipe away carbon buildup than phosphate coatings. Compared to my previous experiences with standard BCGs, the Faxon Firearms .308 9310 Bolt Carrier Complete has noticeably reduced the frequency of malfunctions and has proven easier to keep clean.
Breaking Down the Features of Faxon Firearms .308 9310 Bolt Carrier Complete
Specifications
Bolt Material: 9310 Tool Steel. This is a stronger material than the more common C158 steel, providing increased resistance to cracking and failure under high stress.
Carrier Material: 8620 Steel. This is a standard material for carriers, known for its toughness and wear resistance.
Finish: Salt Bath Nitride. The nitride finish increases surface hardness, reduces friction, and provides excellent corrosion resistance compared to chrome or phosphate coatings.
Caliber Compatibility: .308 Winchester, 6.5mm Creedmoor. This makes it a versatile choice for AR-10 platform builds.
MPI Tested: Magnetic Particle Inspection. This ensures that the bolt is free from micro-cracks and other defects that could lead to failure.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the reliability, durability, and performance of the rifle. The use of high-quality materials and finishes translates to a longer lifespan and smoother operation, especially under demanding conditions.
Performance & Functionality
The Faxon Firearms .308 9310 Bolt Carrier Complete performs exceptionally well in its primary function: reliably cycling the action of an AR-10 or DPMS LR-308 rifle. Accuracy is enhanced due to the consistent lockup provided by the precisely machined bolt. Reliability is high, as the robust construction and nitride finish minimize friction and reduce the likelihood of malfunctions.
The main strength is its ability to handle high-pressure loads without issue, providing consistent and reliable performance. One potential area for improvement might be the extractor spring tension; some users might find it initially stiff, as I did. Overall, it meets and exceeds expectations for a high-quality .308 BCG.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent, with tight tolerances and a smooth, even finish. The Faxon Firearms .308 9310 Bolt Carrier Complete feels solid and well-made, with a weight that is comparable to other .308 BCGs. The design is user-friendly, with no sharp edges or rough spots that could impede operation.
There is no significant learning curve associated with installing and using this BCG; it is a drop-in replacement for most .308 AR platforms.
Durability & Maintenance
The Faxon Firearms .308 9310 Bolt Carrier Complete is built to last, thanks to the high-quality materials and nitride finish. With proper care, it should provide many years of reliable service. Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only regular cleaning and lubrication.
The nitride finish makes it easy to wipe away carbon and fouling, reducing the need for harsh solvents.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Faxon Firearms .308 9310 Bolt Carrier Complete doesn’t come with any specific accessories, as it is a complete bolt carrier group ready to install. It is compatible with a wide range of .308 AR platform accessories, including various triggers, buffer systems, and charging handles. The BCG is designed to work with standard AR-10/LR-308 components.
Pros and Cons of Faxon Firearms .308 9310 Bolt Carrier Complete
Pros
- Enhanced Durability: The 9310 tool steel bolt is significantly stronger than standard C158 bolts, offering greater resistance to breakage.
Cons
- Stiff Extractor Spring: Some users may find the extractor spring initially stiff, requiring a break-in period.
Smoother Operation: The nitride finish and superfinished carrier reduce friction, leading to smoother cycling and faster follow-up shots.
Improved Corrosion Resistance: The nitride finish provides superior protection against rust and corrosion compared to phosphate coatings, making it ideal for harsh environments.
Reliable Performance: The MPI testing and careful construction ensure consistent and reliable performance, even with high-pressure loads.
Drop-In Replacement: Easy to install as a direct replacement for most .308 AR platform rifles.
Potential for Overgassing: In some rifles, the enhanced gas seal could lead to slight overgassing, requiring an adjustable gas block for optimal performance.
Who Should Buy Faxon Firearms .308 9310 Bolt Carrier Complete?
The Faxon Firearms .308 9310 Bolt Carrier Complete is perfect for AR-10 enthusiasts, hunters, and competitive shooters who demand the highest levels of reliability and performance from their rifles. It’s also an excellent upgrade for anyone looking to improve the durability and longevity of their existing .308 AR platform. Those building a new .308 AR platform will be well served by this BCG.
Those who primarily shoot low-pressure loads and are on a very tight budget might find a standard MIL-SPEC BCG sufficient for their needs. Those individuals should skip this product. A must-have modification, depending on your specific rifle and ammunition, might be an adjustable gas block to fine-tune the gas system.
Conclusion on Faxon Firearms .308 9310 Bolt Carrier Complete
The Faxon Firearms .308 9310 Bolt Carrier Complete is a significant upgrade over standard .308 BCGs, offering enhanced durability, smoother operation, and improved corrosion resistance. The price is justified by the quality of materials, construction, and performance. I would highly recommend it to anyone looking to build a reliable and high-performing .308 AR platform, or upgrade an existing one.
If you’re ready to take your .308 AR to the next level, invest in the Faxon Firearms .308 9310 Bolt Carrier Complete – you won’t be disappointed!