Let’s Dive into Bootleg Inc Bolt Completion Kit
The Bootleg Inc Bolt Completion Kit offers a cost-effective solution for completing an AR-15 bolt carrier group. Manufactured by Bootleg Inc, this kit includes the bolt, cam pin, firing pin, and firing pin retaining pin, essentially everything you need to get a stripped carrier up and running. I first learned about it while piecing together a budget-friendly AR build and was immediately drawn to the positive user feedback and reasonable price.
My primary motivation for purchasing this kit was to finish an otherwise incomplete bolt carrier assembly I already had. I was looking for a reliable and readily available option to avoid the hassle of sourcing individual components. Upon receiving the package, I was pleased with the simple, no-frills packaging and the apparent quality of the parts. The components felt solid and well-machined, and the phosphorus coating gave a professional and durable look.
Before settling on the Bootleg Inc Bolt Completion Kit, I considered parts from Brownells and Aero Precision. However, Bootleg Inc’s kit stood out because of its complete package at a competitive price, combined with user testimonials about its compatibility with various AR platforms. My initial impression was positive; I felt like I had received a quality product that would reliably complete my bolt carrier group without breaking the bank. It was exciting to finally have all the necessary pieces to finish my build.
Real-World Testing: Putting Bootleg Inc Bolt Completion Kit to the Test
First Use Experience
My first opportunity to test the Bootleg Inc Bolt Completion Kit was at my local outdoor shooting range. I installed the kit into a mil-spec bolt carrier and paired it with a 16-inch AR-15 chambered in 5.56 NATO. The weather was dry and sunny, providing ideal conditions for testing.
Installation was straightforward; all the components fit perfectly into the bolt carrier without any issues. The rifle cycled flawlessly through the first few magazines, with consistent ejection patterns. I didn’t experience any malfunctions or failures to extract, which immediately instilled confidence in the kit’s reliability.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several range trips and approximately 500 rounds fired, the Bootleg Inc Bolt Completion Kit has continued to perform admirably. There are no visible signs of excessive wear on any of the components. Cleaning and maintenance are simple, requiring only routine lubrication and occasional inspection.
Compared to a previous experience with a lower-quality bolt assembly, the Bootleg Inc kit is a significant improvement. The improved quality of materials and tighter tolerances result in smoother cycling and greater reliability. This has definitely exceeded my expectations, solidifying its place in my AR-15.
Breaking Down the Features of Bootleg Inc Bolt Completion Kit
Specifications
The Bootleg Inc Bolt Completion Kit includes:
- Bolt: Crafted from 9310 steel for strength and durability, with a phosphorus coating for corrosion resistance. This is a common material choice known for its ability to withstand high pressures and temperatures, critical in the AR-15 platform.
- Cam Pin: Machined from 4340 steel, providing excellent resistance to wear and deformation. The cam pin’s material is key to smooth cycling and locking/unlocking of the bolt.
- Firing Pin: Constructed from 4140 steel, ensuring reliable ignition of ammunition. 4140 steel provides the necessary hardness and impact resistance to reliably strike the primer.
- Firing Pin Retaining Pin: Made from 1038 steel wire, securely holding the firing pin in place. This pin’s material needs to be strong enough to withstand constant movement and prevent accidental firing pin disengagement.
- Finish: Features a black phosphorus finish for enhanced corrosion resistance and lubricity. This finish helps to reduce friction and improve the overall performance of the bolt assembly.
These specifications are crucial because they directly affect the rifle’s reliability and longevity. Higher-quality steel and coatings lead to fewer malfunctions and extended service life.
Performance & Functionality
The Bootleg Inc Bolt Completion Kit excels in providing reliable and consistent performance. Its components work seamlessly together, ensuring smooth cycling and reliable extraction. The kit’s strengths lie in its high-quality materials and precise machining, resulting in a bolt assembly that can withstand heavy use.
The only potential improvement would be offering the bolt with Magnetic Particle Inspection (MPI) certification for extra assurance of its structural integrity. However, for its price point, its performance is outstanding. It definitely meets expectations, delivering the reliability needed for a dependable AR-15.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Bootleg Inc Bolt Completion Kit is evident in its precise machining and durable materials. The weight is standard for an AR-15 bolt assembly. It ensures proper balance within the rifle.
The kit is incredibly user-friendly; installation requires no special tools or gunsmithing skills. There is no learning curve associated with this product.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experience and the materials used, the Bootleg Inc Bolt Completion Kit is designed to last thousands of rounds. Proper maintenance, including regular cleaning and lubrication, is crucial for prolonging its lifespan. Fortunately, cleaning is straightforward.
Replacement parts are readily available if needed, further extending the kit’s usability. The Bootleg Inc Bolt Completion Kit shows every indication of being a long-lasting component of my AR-15.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Bootleg Inc Bolt Completion Kit is designed to work seamlessly with any mil-spec AR-15 bolt carrier. It is compatible with a wide array of aftermarket accessories. This includes various bolt carrier groups and enhanced firing pins.
While the kit itself doesn’t come with any accessories beyond the essential components, its compatibility with existing AR-15 platforms makes it easily customizable. There are no limitations on customization as it fits seamlessly with the existing platform.
Pros and Cons of Bootleg Inc Bolt Completion Kit
Pros
- High-Quality Materials: Constructed from 9310 steel, 4340 steel, and 4140 steel for superior strength and durability. This ensures a long service life and reliable performance.
- Complete Kit: Includes all necessary components (bolt, cam pin, firing pin, and firing pin retaining pin) to complete a stripped bolt carrier. This eliminates the need to source individual parts, saving time and effort.
- Affordable Price: Offers excellent value for the money compared to other bolt completion kits on the market. This makes it an accessible option for budget-conscious builders.
- Easy Installation: Designed for drop-in installation into any mil-spec bolt carrier. Requiring no specialized tools or skills.
- Reliable Performance: Provides smooth cycling and consistent extraction. This helps to ensure optimal functioning of the AR-15 platform.
Cons
- No MPI Certification: Lacks Magnetic Particle Inspection (MPI) certification.
- Basic Packaging: Comes in basic, no-frills packaging.
Who Should Buy Bootleg Inc Bolt Completion Kit?
The Bootleg Inc Bolt Completion Kit is perfect for:
- AR-15 builders looking for a reliable and affordable way to complete their bolt carrier group.
- Gun owners who want to keep spare parts on hand for maintenance or repairs.
- Hobbyists and DIY enthusiasts who enjoy assembling their own firearms.
This product might not be ideal for:
- Competitive shooters who require the absolute highest level of precision and quality.
- Those who prefer bolt assemblies with pre-existing MPI certification.
A must-have accessory to complement this kit is a quality bolt carrier group.
Conclusion on Bootleg Inc Bolt Completion Kit
The Bootleg Inc Bolt Completion Kit is a solid and dependable choice for anyone looking to complete their AR-15 bolt carrier group without breaking the bank. Its high-quality materials, ease of installation, and reliable performance make it an excellent value proposition. The Bootleg Inc Bolt Completion Kit justifies its price point.
I would definitely recommend this product to anyone building or maintaining an AR-15. It offers a balance of quality and affordability that is hard to beat. Don’t hesitate to invest in this kit if you need a reliable bolt completion solution for your AR-15!