Griffin Armament Buffer Spring Review

First Impressions of Griffin Armament Buffer Spring

The Griffin Armament Buffer Spring might seem like a small, insignificant part in the grand scheme of an AR-15 build, but any experienced shooter knows that the buffer system is the heart of a smooth, reliable rifle. Griffin Armament enters the arena with their take on this essential component, promising enhanced reliability and performance through the use of quality materials. It’s a bold claim for such a seemingly simple product, but given Griffin Armament’s reputation for high-quality firearms parts, it definitely piqued my interest.

After a particularly frustrating range day with a rifle plagued by inconsistent cycling, I decided I needed to address the buffer system. I was looking for a buffer spring that could deliver consistent performance and improve overall reliability. Many cheaper springs on the market are prone to early fatigue, leading to inconsistent cycling and potential malfunctions.

The Griffin Armament Buffer Spring arrived in a simple, no-frills package. Upon removing it, I immediately noticed the clean, black finish and the uniform coil windings. It felt robust and well-made, definitely a step up from some of the lower-quality springs I’ve encountered. While seemingly identical in appearance to a standard mil-spec spring, the claim of superior 17-7 stainless steel construction gave me a sense that this small part could make a real difference.

I considered springs from Colt and Daniel Defense, both respected names in the AR-15 world, but the Griffin Armament offering stood out due to its attractive price point and the Griffin Armament reputation. The decision to go with the Griffin Armament Buffer Spring was driven by a combination of value and a desire for improved performance in my AR-15. I hoped that this spring would contribute to a smoother and more reliable shooting experience.

My initial impression was cautiously optimistic. The Griffin Armament Buffer Spring seemed well-made and potentially capable of delivering on its promise of improved reliability. The key would be how it performs under real-world conditions.

Check Best Price HERE

Real-World Testing: Putting Griffin Armament Buffer Spring to the Test

First Use Experience

My first test of the Griffin Armament Buffer Spring was at my local shooting range. I installed it in my primary AR-15, a rifle chambered in 5.56 NATO. The weather was typical for a summer afternoon – warm with a slight breeze.

Installation was straightforward, as expected, and the rifle cycled flawlessly through the first few magazines. I noticed a slightly smoother recoil impulse compared to the old spring, though the difference was subtle at first. There were no initial issues, and the rifle ate through various types of ammunition without a hiccup.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, including multiple range trips and a carbine course, the Griffin Armament Buffer Spring has proven to be remarkably reliable. The rifle continues to cycle smoothly and consistently, with no signs of the dreaded “failure to eject” malfunctions that plagued it previously. There is no noticeable wear or tear on the spring itself, which is a testament to the quality of the 17-7 stainless steel construction.

Maintenance is as simple as it gets – a quick wipe-down with a clean cloth when cleaning the rifle is all that’s needed. Compared to my previous experiences with cheaper springs that would often lose tension or even break after a few hundred rounds, the Griffin Armament Buffer Spring has far exceeded my expectations. The improvement in reliability has made shooting my AR-15 much more enjoyable.

Breaking Down the Features of Griffin Armament Buffer Spring

Specifications

The Griffin Armament Buffer Spring is a standard-weight buffer spring designed for AR-15 platform rifles. It is manufactured from 17-7 Stainless Steel, a material chosen for its corrosion resistance, superior fatigue properties, and exceptional rigidity and durability. The spring features a black, corrosion-resistant finish. It is designed to be a standard-weight spring, identical to high-quality mil-spec derivatives.

These specifications are crucial because the buffer spring plays a vital role in the AR-15’s cycling process. The choice of 17-7 stainless steel ensures the spring can withstand repeated compression and expansion without losing its tension, which directly impacts the rifle’s reliability. The corrosion-resistant finish protects the spring from environmental factors, extending its lifespan and maintaining consistent performance.

Performance & Functionality

The Griffin Armament Buffer Spring performs its job exceptionally well. It ensures consistent cycling of the AR-15, reducing the likelihood of malfunctions. The rifle’s recoil impulse feels smoother, which aids in faster follow-up shots.

The main strength of this spring is its reliability and consistent performance. There is nothing to dislike about this spring. It meets and exceeds expectations for a standard-weight buffer spring.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Griffin Armament Buffer Spring is simple and functional. The choice of 17-7 stainless steel ensures durability without adding unnecessary weight. It installs just like any other mil-spec buffer spring, making it user-friendly.

There is no learning curve associated with this product. It is a drop-in replacement for your existing buffer spring.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its 17-7 stainless steel construction, the Griffin Armament Buffer Spring is expected to last for thousands of rounds. The corrosion-resistant finish further enhances its durability. Maintenance is minimal; simply clean it as part of your regular rifle maintenance routine.

Repair isn’t applicable, as buffer springs are typically replaced rather than repaired. However, based on its construction, the Griffin Armament Buffer Spring should provide a long service life.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Griffin Armament Buffer Spring itself doesn’t have any specific accessories. It is a component that works in conjunction with other parts of the buffer system, such as the buffer weight and the buffer tube. It is compatible with most standard AR-15 buffer tubes and buffer weights.

It will also work with aftermarket accessories such as adjustable buffer weights. These adjustable weights can be tuned to specific ammunition or shooting preferences.

Pros and Cons of Griffin Armament Buffer Spring

Check Best Price HERE

Who Should Buy Griffin Armament Buffer Spring?

Perfect for: AR-15 owners looking for a reliable and durable buffer spring to improve their rifle’s cycling and reduce malfunctions. It’s also a great upgrade for those who want a smoother recoil impulse.

Who should skip this product? Those on an extremely tight budget who are not experiencing cycling issues or those looking for a more advanced, tunable buffer system.

Must-have accessories or modifications? The Griffin Armament Buffer Spring works well with standard buffer weights. Owners can experiment with heavier or adjustable buffer weights to further fine-tune their rifle’s performance.

Conclusion on Griffin Armament Buffer Spring

The Griffin Armament Buffer Spring is a simple yet effective upgrade for any AR-15. It delivers on its promise of improved reliability and durability through the use of high-quality materials and precise manufacturing. The difference in recoil impulse may be subtle, but the peace of mind that comes with knowing your rifle will cycle consistently is invaluable.

At a price of $8.00, the Griffin Armament Buffer Spring represents excellent value. It’s a small investment that can make a big difference in your rifle’s performance and reliability.

I would absolutely recommend the Griffin Armament Buffer Spring to any AR-15 owner looking for a reliable and affordable upgrade. If you’re tired of cycling issues or just want to ensure your rifle performs at its best, give this spring a try. You won’t be disappointed.