LBE Unlimited AR15/M16 Carbine Length H2 Heavy Buffer Review

Let’s Talk About LBE Unlimited AR15/M16 Carbine Length H2 Heavy Buffer

The LBE Unlimited AR15/M16 Carbine Length H2 Heavy Buffer is a crucial component for any AR-15 platform, particularly those chambered in 5.56 NATO or .223 Wylde. It is manufactured by LBE Unlimited, a brand known for producing functional, albeit no-frills, AR-15 parts. This buffer aims to tame recoil and improve cycling reliability, especially in carbine-length systems known for their potentially harsh recoil impulse.

I was experiencing excessive recoil and noticeable muzzle rise with my lightweight AR-15 carbine. I hoped an upgraded buffer would smooth out the cycling and improve my accuracy during rapid follow-up shots. I knew a heavier buffer could potentially solve these issues.

Upon unboxing, the LBE Unlimited AR15/M16 Carbine Length H2 Heavy Buffer felt solid and well-made. The gold finish, while purely aesthetic, does give it a slightly more premium look compared to a standard mil-spec buffer. The weight was noticeably heavier than the standard carbine buffer I removed, inspiring initial confidence.

I considered a few other options, including buffers from companies like Bravo Company Manufacturing (BCM) and Spike’s Tactical. Ultimately, I opted for the LBE Unlimited buffer because it offered a similar weight at a more budget-friendly price point. I decided to start with a more affordable option to see if it addressed my issues before investing in a premium buffer.

My initial impression was cautiously optimistic. The weight felt right, and the construction seemed adequate, but I reserved final judgment until I could put it through its paces at the range. I was excited to see if this simple upgrade could significantly improve my shooting experience.

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Real-World Testing: Putting LBE Unlimited AR15/M16 Carbine Length H2 Heavy Buffer to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the LBE Unlimited AR15/M16 Carbine Length H2 Heavy Buffer at my local outdoor shooting range on a sunny afternoon. I used a mix of .223 Remington and 5.56 NATO ammunition to get a feel for how it performed with different loads. The environment was dry and relatively clean.

The difference was immediately noticeable. Recoil was significantly reduced, and muzzle climb was much more manageable than with the original buffer. The rifle felt more stable during rapid firing sequences, allowing for faster and more accurate follow-up shots.

Installation was simple and straightforward, requiring no special tools. After a few magazines, I noticed a slight improvement in the rifle’s overall smoothness. There were no malfunctions or cycling issues of any kind.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several range trips and approximately 500 rounds through the rifle with the LBE Unlimited AR15/M16 Carbine Length H2 Heavy Buffer, it continues to perform flawlessly. There are no signs of wear and tear. The gold finish has held up well.

Cleaning the buffer requires minimal effort. It’s simply a matter of wiping it down with a clean cloth after each shooting session. The internal components appear to be well-sealed and protected from fouling.

Previously, I had only used standard mil-spec carbine buffers. The LBE Unlimited H2 Heavy Buffer is a significant improvement in terms of recoil mitigation and overall shooting comfort. It makes a noticeable difference, especially during longer shooting sessions.

Breaking Down the Features of LBE Unlimited AR15/M16 Carbine Length H2 Heavy Buffer

Specifications

The LBE Unlimited AR15/M16 Carbine Length H2 Heavy Buffer is designed for AR-15 platform rifles and carbines chambered in 5.56 NATO and .223 Remington. It is considered an “H2” weight buffer, typically weighing between 4.6 and 4.7 ounces. This added weight is crucial for slowing down the bolt carrier group’s movement.

The buffer is designed to fit standard carbine-length buffer tubes. The gold finish is purely cosmetic and doesn’t affect performance. Its dimensions are standard for AR-15 carbine buffers, ensuring compatibility with most AR-15 rifles.

These specifications are important because the added weight of the H2 buffer helps to reduce felt recoil, improve cycling reliability, and decrease wear and tear on internal components. Using a heavier buffer can also help to mitigate the effects of over-gassing in AR-15s.

Performance & Functionality

The LBE Unlimited AR15/M16 Carbine Length H2 Heavy Buffer excels at its primary task: reducing recoil and improving cycling smoothness. The added weight dampens the impact of the bolt carrier group against the receiver extension, resulting in less muzzle rise and faster follow-up shots. The reduction in recoil is substantial.

The buffer does exactly what it is intended to do and is very reliable. It smooths out the action, reduces felt recoil, and improves the rifle’s overall shootability. There are no significant weaknesses to report.

The LBE Unlimited H2 Heavy Buffer meets and slightly exceeds my expectations. It’s a simple, cost-effective upgrade that delivers tangible benefits in terms of recoil management and shooting comfort.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the LBE Unlimited AR15/M16 Carbine Length H2 Heavy Buffer is solid and functional. The materials appear to be durable, and the construction is robust enough to withstand the rigors of repeated use. While it lacks the flashy aesthetics of some higher-end buffers, it gets the job done effectively.

There is no real learning curve. Installation is quick and easy. Anyone familiar with AR-15 assembly will find this an effortless modification.

Durability & Maintenance

The LBE Unlimited AR15/M16 Carbine Length H2 Heavy Buffer appears to be built to last. The materials seem durable. The design is simple, minimizing the chances of internal failure.

Maintenance is minimal. Regular cleaning with a dry cloth is sufficient to keep it functioning properly. No special tools or procedures are required.

Accessories and Customization Options

The LBE Unlimited AR15/M16 Carbine Length H2 Heavy Buffer itself doesn’t require any accessories. It works with standard AR-15 buffer springs and buffer tubes. It is compatible with virtually all AR-15 platforms that accept a carbine length buffer.

While there are no specific customization options directly related to the buffer itself, its performance can be further enhanced by pairing it with other aftermarket components such as enhanced buffer springs or adjustable gas blocks. Using a heavier buffer can improve the performance and reliability of your AR-15. The buffer is compatible with all standard AR-15 accessories.

Pros and Cons of LBE Unlimited AR15/M16 Carbine Length H2 Heavy Buffer