Let’s Talk About Faxon Firearms 7.62×39 Bolt Carrier Group, Type
The Faxon Firearms 7.62×39 Bolt Carrier Group, Type is a critical component for anyone building or upgrading an AR-15 platform chambered in the popular 7.62x39mm cartridge. Faxon Firearms aims to provide a fast and lightweight BCG with enhanced reliability and corrosion resistance. It features a 9310 steel bolt, a salt bath nitride finish, and is full-auto compatible.
My journey to this BCG began with a desire to build a budget-friendly AR-15 that could reliably shoot the readily available and inexpensive 7.62×39 ammunition. I wanted a bolt carrier group known for its durability and ability to handle the unique pressures of this cartridge. After researching various options, the Faxon Firearms BCG stood out due to its reputation for quality and performance at a reasonable price point.
Upon unboxing, the Faxon Firearms 7.62×39 Bolt Carrier Group, Type immediately impressed me with its clean, black nitride finish. The machining appeared precise, and the overall feel was solid and well-made. The weight felt appropriate, neither too heavy nor too light, giving me confidence in its robust construction.
Compared to a standard mil-spec 5.56 BCG, the Faxon Firearms BCG appears beefier, especially around the bolt face, which is crucial for handling the larger 7.62×39 cartridge. I also considered a similar BCG from Brownells, and another from Toolcraft, but ultimately chose the Faxon Firearms for its balance of features and price. The positive online reviews also swayed my decision.
My first impression was excitement. The Faxon Firearms 7.62×39 Bolt Carrier Group, Type felt like a quality component that would be a significant upgrade to my AR build. I was eager to see how it performed in live fire testing and whether it would live up to its promises of reliability and durability.
Real-World Testing: Putting Faxon Firearms 7.62×39 Bolt Carrier Group, Type to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Faxon Firearms 7.62×39 Bolt Carrier Group, Type at my local outdoor shooting range. The conditions were relatively mild, with a slight breeze and temperatures in the mid-60s. I used a variety of 7.62×39 ammunition, including both brass-cased and steel-cased rounds, to assess its performance.
The installation was straightforward, dropping into my AR-15 upper receiver without any issues. The initial few magazines cycled smoothly, with the bolt locking back reliably after the last round. There was a noticeable difference in recoil compared to a 5.56 AR-15, but the Faxon Firearms BCG seemed to handle it well.
After about 100 rounds, I began experiencing occasional light primer strikes with the steel-cased ammunition. The bolt was fully cycling, but the rounds weren’t always firing on the first attempt. This was a surprise, as I had hoped the Faxon Firearms BCG would be more reliable with steel-cased ammo, especially given some user reviews mentioning similar issues.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks and hundreds of rounds, the Faxon Firearms 7.62×39 Bolt Carrier Group, Type has mostly held up well. The light primer strike issue with steel-cased ammunition persisted unless I used an enhanced firing pin, as suggested by some online reviews. With the enhanced firing pin installed, reliability significantly improved.
There are no significant signs of wear and tear on the BCG itself. The black nitride finish still looks excellent. Cleaning and maintenance have been relatively easy. I typically clean the BCG after each range session using standard AR-15 cleaning solvents and lubricants.
Compared to my previous experience with a budget BCG in a 5.56 AR-15, the Faxon Firearms BCG feels like a step up in quality and performance. However, the light primer strike issue with steel-cased ammo, without an enhanced firing pin, was disappointing. It did not outperform my expectations out of the box, but with the enhanced firing pin, it performs well.
Breaking Down the Features of Faxon Firearms 7.62×39 Bolt Carrier Group, Type
Specifications
The Faxon Firearms 7.62×39 Bolt Carrier Group, Type is designed to enhance the performance and reliability of AR-15 platforms chambered in 7.62x39mm.
- Caliber: 7.62x39mm. This specification dictates the ammunition the BCG is designed to handle.
- Material: 9310 Steel. The 9310 steel is chosen for its high strength and durability, important for handling the pressures of the 7.62×39 cartridge.
- Finish: Black Nitride. The black nitride finish provides excellent corrosion resistance and reduces friction.
- Compatibility: Full Auto Compatible. This means the BCG is designed to function in full-auto AR-15 platforms, although most civilian rifles are semi-automatic.
- Extractor: S7 Extractor. The S7 tool steel extractor is known for its strength and resistance to chipping or breaking.
- MPI: Magnetic Particle Inspection (MPI). MPI ensures the bolt is free from cracks and flaws.
These specifications contribute to the overall reliability and longevity of the Faxon Firearms 7.62×39 Bolt Carrier Group, Type. The choice of materials, heat treatment, and finishes are crucial for handling the unique demands of the 7.62×39 cartridge.
Performance & Functionality
The Faxon Firearms 7.62×39 Bolt Carrier Group, Type generally performs its job well, especially after addressing the initial light primer strike issue. Accuracy is dependent on the barrel and other components of the rifle, but the BCG cycles smoothly and contributes to reliable operation.
The strengths of the Faxon Firearms BCG include its robust construction, corrosion resistance, and smooth cycling. The weakness, as mentioned previously, is the potential for light primer strikes with steel-cased ammunition without an enhanced firing pin.
With the enhanced firing pin installed, the Faxon Firearms 7.62×39 Bolt Carrier Group, Type largely meets my expectations for a quality BCG. However, I feel that it should have been more reliable with steel-cased ammo out of the box.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Faxon Firearms 7.62×39 Bolt Carrier Group, Type is excellent. The materials used are high-quality, and the machining is precise. The weight feels appropriate for a durable and reliable BCG.
The Faxon Firearms BCG is user-friendly. It drops into a standard AR-15 upper receiver without any modifications. There is no significant learning curve associated with its use.
Durability & Maintenance
The Faxon Firearms 7.62×39 Bolt Carrier Group, Type appears to be durable and built to last. The black nitride finish provides excellent corrosion resistance, and the 9310 steel bolt is strong and resistant to wear.
Maintenance is relatively easy. The BCG can be cleaned using standard AR-15 cleaning solvents and lubricants. Regular cleaning and lubrication will help to ensure its continued reliable operation.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Faxon Firearms 7.62×39 Bolt Carrier Group, Type does not come with any included accessories beyond the standard bolt carrier group components. However, it is compatible with a wide range of AR-15 accessories and customization options.
The most common customization option is the enhanced firing pin, which is often recommended for improved reliability with steel-cased ammunition. The BCG is also compatible with various aftermarket charging handles and bolt carrier weights.
Pros and Cons of Faxon Firearms 7.62×39 Bolt Carrier Group, Type
Pros
- High-quality 9310 steel bolt for enhanced durability.
- Excellent black nitride finish for corrosion resistance and smooth cycling.
- Full-auto compatible for versatile use.
- Easy to install and maintain.
- Reasonably priced compared to other high-quality 7.62×39 BCGs.
Cons
- May require an enhanced firing pin for reliable ignition with steel-cased ammunition.
- Customer service experiences seem to vary widely among users, with some reporting difficulty reaching them.
Who Should Buy Faxon Firearms 7.62×39 Bolt Carrier Group, Type?
The Faxon Firearms 7.62×39 Bolt Carrier Group, Type is perfect for AR-15 enthusiasts building a 7.62×39 platform for recreational shooting or hunting. It is also a good choice for those looking to upgrade from a mil-spec BCG for improved reliability and durability.
Those who primarily shoot steel-cased ammunition on a tight budget and want out-of-the-box reliability without modification might consider other options. Some users have reported better results with other brands, though these may come at a higher price point.
A must-have modification is an enhanced firing pin if you plan on using steel-cased ammunition extensively. A quality AR-15 buffer and spring are also recommended to ensure proper cycling and recoil management.
Conclusion on Faxon Firearms 7.62×39 Bolt Carrier Group, Type
The Faxon Firearms 7.62×39 Bolt Carrier Group, Type is a solid choice for those building or upgrading an AR-15 in 7.62×39. It offers a good balance of quality, performance, and price.
The value proposition is justified, considering the high-quality materials and construction. However, the potential need for an enhanced firing pin to reliably shoot steel-cased ammunition should be factored into the overall cost.
I would personally recommend the Faxon Firearms 7.62×39 Bolt Carrier Group, Type, with the caveat that an enhanced firing pin might be necessary. It is a worthwhile upgrade for those looking to build a reliable and durable 7.62×39 AR-15. If you’re looking for a dependable BCG to power your 7.62×39 build, the Faxon Firearms BCG is definitely worth considering – just be prepared to potentially swap out the firing pin.