Let’s Talk About Faxon Firearms 5.56 Gunner Lightweight Bolt Carrier Complete
The Faxon Firearms 5.56 Gunner Lightweight Bolt Carrier Complete is a meticulously crafted component designed to enhance the performance and reduce the weight of your AR-15. Manufactured by Faxon Firearms, this BCG promises improved cycling, especially in suppressed or short-barreled configurations, making it an attractive upgrade for serious shooters.
My journey to finding the Faxon Firearms 5.56 Gunner Lightweight Bolt Carrier Complete began with a desire to optimize my .300 Blackout pistol for suppressed use. I was experiencing inconsistent cycling and excessive gas blowback, a common issue with direct impingement systems when running subsonic ammunition with a suppressor.
Upon unboxing, the first thing I noticed was the Gold Nitride finish; it’s not just aesthetically pleasing, but also provides enhanced corrosion resistance. The superfinished carrier felt incredibly smooth to the touch, suggesting a high level of attention to detail and a commitment to reducing friction during operation. The lightweight nature of the carrier was immediately apparent compared to a standard mil-spec BCG.
I was also considering the Brownells Lightweight Bolt Carrier Group and the JP Enterprises EnhancedBolt Assembly. Ultimately, I chose the Faxon Firearms 5.56 Gunner Lightweight Bolt Carrier Complete due to its reputation for reliability in suppressed .300 Blackout builds and the positive user feedback I found online.
My initial excitement was tempered with a healthy dose of skepticism. Lightweight BCGs can sometimes compromise reliability in certain AR-15 configurations, but I was optimistic that the Faxon Firearms offering would deliver on its promises.
Real-World Testing: Putting Faxon Firearms 5.56 Gunner Lightweight Bolt Carrier Complete to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Faxon Firearms 5.56 Gunner Lightweight Bolt Carrier Complete extensively at my local shooting range, primarily focusing on its performance in my .300 Blackout pistol with both supersonic and subsonic ammunition, suppressed and unsuppressed. Testing occurred during a relatively dry day with temperatures around 70 degrees Fahrenheit.
The difference in cycling was immediately noticeable. The Faxon Firearms BCG exhibited smoother and more consistent operation, particularly with subsonic rounds and my suppressor attached. There was a significant reduction in felt recoil and muzzle rise.
The only initial issue I encountered was a slight increase in gas blowback to the face when shooting unsuppressed, which is a common trade-off with lightweight BCGs as they allow more gas to escape the chamber.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Faxon Firearms 5.56 Gunner Lightweight Bolt Carrier Complete has proven to be remarkably reliable. I’ve put roughly 1,000 rounds through it in various conditions, including a couple of dusty range days and one particularly wet outing.
The Nitride finish has held up exceptionally well, showing no signs of wear or corrosion. Cleaning has been a breeze, with carbon fouling easily wiped away.
Previously, I had used a standard mil-spec BCG in the same .300 Blackout pistol, and the Faxon Firearms BCG significantly outperformed it in terms of smoothness, recoil management, and overall reliability, especially when suppressed. It has exceeded my expectations.
Breaking Down the Features of Faxon Firearms 5.56 Gunner Lightweight Bolt Carrier Complete
Specifications
- The Faxon Firearms 5.56 Gunner Lightweight Bolt Carrier Complete is designed for 5.56x45mm NATO and .300 AAC Blackout calibers. This provides versatility across multiple AR-15 platforms.
- The bolt is constructed from 9310 Tool Steel, which is stronger than C158 steel and known for its excellent impact resistance. This ensures longevity and reliability under stress.
- The carrier is made from 8620 Steel, a durable and commonly used material in AR-15 bolt carriers. This provides a balance of strength and weight savings.
- The finish is a Nitride coating, which provides exceptional corrosion resistance and reduces friction. This enhances both the lifespan and the smooth operation of the BCG.
- The weight of the carrier with the key (without the bolt or pins) is 6.32 ounces, making it significantly lighter than a standard mil-spec carrier. This leads to reduced recoil and faster cycling.
- It features forward assist serrations, allowing for compatibility with AR-15 uppers that have a forward assist. This feature is standard and useful in certain situations.
- It is compatible with dust covers, protecting the internal components from debris and maintaining reliability. This is crucial in harsh environments.
- The cam pin is made from 4140 Pre-Hardened Steel and also features a Nitride finish. This enhances its durability and resistance to wear.
Performance & Functionality
The Faxon Firearms 5.56 Gunner Lightweight Bolt Carrier Complete excels in its primary function: improving the cycling and reducing the recoil of AR-15 rifles, especially those chambered in .300 Blackout. It provides a noticeable difference in the smoothness of operation, and it’s particularly beneficial when shooting suppressed.
Its strength lies in its ability to enhance performance without sacrificing reliability. Some users might experience increased gas blowback when unsuppressed, but this is a common trade-off.
The Faxon Firearms 5.56 Gunner Lightweight Bolt Carrier Complete meets and, in some aspects, exceeds expectations, especially in optimized builds focused on suppressed or short-barreled configurations.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is exceptional, with high-quality materials and precise machining evident throughout the entire Faxon Firearms 5.56 Gunner Lightweight Bolt Carrier Complete. The weight reduction is significant, yet it doesn’t feel flimsy or fragile.
The installation is straightforward, requiring no special tools or modifications to the rifle. It is a drop-in replacement for a standard BCG.
Durability & Maintenance
The Nitride finish provides excellent corrosion resistance. The high-quality materials and construction suggest a long service life.
The smooth finish makes cleaning relatively easy. Standard AR-15 cleaning procedures are sufficient.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Faxon Firearms 5.56 Gunner Lightweight Bolt Carrier Complete is designed to work seamlessly with standard AR-15 components. It doesn’t require any proprietary accessories or modifications.
It is compatible with aftermarket triggers, buffer springs, and other common AR-15 upgrades. Users can further fine-tune their rifle’s performance by pairing this BCG with an adjustable gas block.
Pros and Cons of Faxon Firearms 5.56 Gunner Lightweight Bolt Carrier Complete
Pros
- Significantly reduces recoil, improving control and accuracy.
- Enhances cycling reliability, especially with suppressed .300 Blackout rifles.
- High-quality materials and construction ensure durability.
- The Nitride finish provides excellent corrosion resistance and reduces friction.
- Noticeably lighter than a standard mil-spec BCG, leading to faster cycling.
Cons
- May increase gas blowback when shooting unsuppressed.
- Higher price point compared to standard mil-spec BCGs.
Who Should Buy Faxon Firearms 5.56 Gunner Lightweight Bolt Carrier Complete?
The Faxon Firearms 5.56 Gunner Lightweight Bolt Carrier Complete is perfect for:
- AR-15 owners looking to reduce recoil and improve control.
- .300 Blackout shooters who frequently use suppressors.
- Those building lightweight AR-15s focused on maneuverability.
- Anyone seeking a high-quality, reliable BCG with enhanced performance.
Those who should skip this product:
- Shooters on a tight budget.
- Individuals primarily concerned with mil-spec authenticity over performance enhancements.
- Those who primarily shoot unsuppressed and prioritize minimizing gas blowback above all else.
A must-have modification to pair with the Faxon Firearms 5.56 Gunner Lightweight Bolt Carrier Complete is an adjustable gas block, especially for .300 Blackout builds. This allows fine-tuning of the gas system to optimize performance with various ammunition types and suppressor configurations.
Conclusion on Faxon Firearms 5.56 Gunner Lightweight Bolt Carrier Complete
The Faxon Firearms 5.56 Gunner Lightweight Bolt Carrier Complete is a worthwhile upgrade for AR-15 owners seeking enhanced performance, particularly in suppressed or short-barreled configurations. Its high-quality construction, reduced weight, and smooth operation make it a standout choice.
While the price point is higher than a standard mil-spec BCG, the performance benefits and improved reliability, especially for .300 Blackout shooters, justify the cost. It’s an investment in a smoother shooting experience.
I would definitely recommend the Faxon Firearms 5.56 Gunner Lightweight Bolt Carrier Complete to anyone looking to optimize their AR-15’s performance and reliability. Consider adding this to your build and feel the difference for yourself!