Let’s Dive into Faxon Firearms .308 9310 Bolt Complete
The Faxon Firearms .308 9310 Bolt Complete promises to be a reliable heart for your AR-10 build. Faxon Firearms is known for its quality components, and this bolt assembly aims to deliver dependable cycling in the demanding .308/6.5 Creedmoor platform. The advertised corrosion resistance and enhanced reliability made it a tempting upgrade for my aging AR-10.
My primary rifle, built on a DPMS LR-308 pattern, had started exhibiting occasional failures to extract after several thousand rounds. I needed a trustworthy replacement bolt, preferably one that wouldn’t break the bank. I was looking for something more robust than a standard mil-spec bolt but didn’t necessarily need a full high-end BCG.
The Faxon Firearms .308 9310 Bolt Complete arrived well-packaged, and my initial impression was positive. The nitride finish looked clean and even, and the bolt felt solid in my hand. The weight seemed appropriate, and there were no visible machining flaws.
I was considering a few other options at the time. A complete bolt carrier group from a different manufacturer was one option. I ultimately chose the Faxon Firearms .308 9310 Bolt Complete due to Faxon’s reputation for quality and the appealing price point.
My first impression was a mix of excitement and anticipation. I was eager to get it installed and see if it would solve my rifle’s extraction issues, and I was reasonably confident that it would. The positive user feedback on Faxon products gave me peace of mind.
Real-World Testing: Putting Faxon Firearms .308 9310 Bolt Complete to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Faxon Firearms .308 9310 Bolt Complete at my local shooting range. The conditions were mild and sunny, a typical day for dialing in a rifle. I used a variety of .308 ammunition, ranging from standard 147-grain FMJ to heavier 168-grain match loads.
The bolt installed easily and cycled smoothly by hand. I experienced immediate frustration when I fired the first round. The rifle failed to fire due to the bolt’s small firing pin hole being incompatible with my rifle’s standard firing pin.
Extended Use & Reliability
After acquiring a compatible small-diameter firing pin, I returned to the range. The rifle performed flawlessly after the correct firing pin was installed. I fired over 200 rounds without a single failure to feed, fire, or extract.
After several range sessions, the nitride finish still looks great, with no visible wear. Cleaning has been straightforward, and the bolt wipes down easily. Compared to my previous bolt, the Faxon Firearms .308 9310 Bolt Complete seems to offer smoother cycling and more consistent extraction.
Breaking Down the Features of Faxon Firearms .308 9310 Bolt Complete
Specifications
The Faxon Firearms .308 9310 Bolt Complete is chambered in 7mm-08 Remington, making it compatible with DPMS LR-308 and AR-10 platforms. It is designed for rifles, with an ambidextrous design. The bolt is constructed from 9310 tool steel, known for its strength and durability.
The bolt undergoes full MIL-SPEC heat treatment and is shot-peened to MIL-SPEC. It also features magnetic particle inspection (MPI) to ensure it’s free from defects. The specifications matter because they directly impact the bolt’s reliability and lifespan under heavy use.
Performance & Functionality
When paired with the correct firing pin, the Faxon Firearms .308 9310 Bolt Complete performs exceptionally well. It cycles smoothly, extracts reliably, and contributes to overall rifle accuracy. Its strengths lie in its robust construction and smooth nitride finish.
The main weakness is the lack of clear communication regarding the small firing pin hole. Faxon Firearms should make this a prominent detail in the product description. The bolt meets expectations for a high-quality AR-10 component but falls short due to the firing pin incompatibility issue.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent, with precise machining and a durable nitride finish. The weight is appropriate for an AR-10 bolt, contributing to overall rifle balance. The design is standard AR-10, with 45-degree chamfered lugs for enhanced reliability.
The bolt is user-friendly, assuming compatibility with the firing pin. There’s no learning curve if you’re familiar with AR-10 platforms. The design is functional and practical, prioritizing reliability and durability.
Durability & Maintenance
The 9310 tool steel construction and nitride finish suggest excellent long-term durability. With proper care, the Faxon Firearms .308 9310 Bolt Complete should last for thousands of rounds. Maintenance is simple, requiring only routine cleaning and lubrication.
Disassembly for cleaning is straightforward, similar to any standard AR-10 bolt. The nitride finish makes cleaning carbon buildup easier. The bolt seems designed for longevity, emphasizing the use of high-quality materials and durable coatings.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Faxon Firearms .308 9310 Bolt Complete is essentially a standalone component, so it doesn’t come with accessories. Customization is limited to the firing pin selection. It’s compatible with standard AR-10 extractors and other bolt components.
You can easily swap out the extractor or ejector if needed. The bolt interfaces seamlessly with standard AR-10 bolt carriers. The bolt itself offers limited customization options but integrates well with existing AR-10 platforms.
Pros and Cons of Faxon Firearms .308 9310 Bolt Complete
Pros
- The 9310 tool steel provides exceptional strength and durability.
- The smooth nitride finish ensures reliable cycling and easy cleaning.
- The 45-degree chamfered lugs enhance reliability and reduce the risk of malfunctions.
- It is DPMS Gen 1 compatible, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of AR-10 rifles.
- It features MIL-SPEC heat treatment and MPI testing, guaranteeing quality and reliability.
Cons
- The small firing pin hole is not clearly advertised, potentially leading to compatibility issues.
- It requires the user to verify firing pin compatibility, adding an extra step to the installation process.
Who Should Buy Faxon Firearms .308 9310 Bolt Complete?
The Faxon Firearms .308 9310 Bolt Complete is perfect for AR-10 owners seeking a reliable bolt upgrade. It’s especially suitable for those building a new AR-10 or replacing a worn-out bolt. It’s a good choice for target shooters, hunters, and anyone who relies on their AR-10 for serious use.
This product isn’t ideal for those unfamiliar with AR-10 platforms or unwilling to verify firing pin compatibility. Anyone seeking a drop-in solution without potential compatibility concerns should avoid it. A compatible small-diameter firing pin is a must-have accessory.
Conclusion on Faxon Firearms .308 9310 Bolt Complete
The Faxon Firearms .308 9310 Bolt Complete offers impressive performance and durability at a reasonable price. The primary drawback is the lack of clarity regarding the small firing pin hole, which can cause frustration. Once the correct firing pin is installed, the bolt performs flawlessly.
The price is justified considering the quality of materials and construction. I would recommend it with the caveat that buyers should confirm firing pin compatibility beforehand. Despite the initial hiccup, the Faxon Firearms .308 9310 Bolt Complete is a solid upgrade that inspires confidence.