Let’s Talk About Obsidian Arms Enhanced AR-15 Bolt Carrier Pin Kit
The Obsidian Arms Enhanced AR-15 Bolt Carrier Pin Kit promises improved performance and reliability for your AR-15. This kit, manufactured by Obsidian Arms, includes an enhanced firing pin, retainer pin, and cam pin, all crafted from durable materials and finished for smooth operation. As someone who has spent countless hours building, modifying, and troubleshooting AR platforms, I was eager to see if this kit lived up to its claims and offered a tangible upgrade over standard mil-spec components.
I was experiencing inconsistent primer strikes with a newly built AR-15 chambered in 7.62×39. I suspected the bolt carrier group might be the culprit, and rather than replacing the entire BCG, I decided to start with the Obsidian Arms Enhanced AR-15 Bolt Carrier Pin Kit. I hoped a tighter tolerance and enhanced firing pin would solve my issues without breaking the bank.
Upon receiving the kit, I was immediately impressed by the fit and finish of the components. The stainless steel parts, coated in a nickel finish, looked significantly more refined than the parkerized steel parts I’m accustomed to. The machining appeared precise, and the pieces felt substantial in hand, suggesting a high level of build quality.
I considered other similar kits from brands like Bravo Company Manufacturing (BCM) and Daniel Defense, but the price point of the Obsidian Arms kit made it an attractive option for initial testing. Furthermore, the user reviews mentioning success in 7.62×39 builds swayed my decision.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The kit looked promising, but I knew the real test would be how it performed under the stress of live fire.
Real-World Testing: Putting Obsidian Arms Enhanced AR-15 Bolt Carrier Pin Kit to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Obsidian Arms Enhanced AR-15 Bolt Carrier Pin Kit at my local outdoor shooting range. The day was partly cloudy with a slight breeze, providing relatively stable shooting conditions. I installed the kit into my 7.62×39 AR-15 build and ran a variety of ammunition through it, including both brass and steel-cased rounds.
The initial results were positive. I experienced no failures to fire or other malfunctions during the first 100 rounds. The rifle cycled smoothly, and the primer strikes appeared consistent across all ammunition types.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several range trips and approximately 500 rounds fired, the Obsidian Arms Enhanced AR-15 Bolt Carrier Pin Kit has proven to be exceptionally reliable. There are no signs of excessive wear or damage to any of the components. Cleaning the bolt carrier group has been noticeably easier due to the slick nickel finish.
The enhanced firing pin has consistently delivered positive primer strikes, regardless of the ammunition used. This contrasts sharply with my previous experience of inconsistent ignition with steel-cased ammunition. The kit has outperformed my expectations, providing a noticeable improvement in reliability compared to the original mil-spec components.
Breaking Down the Features of Obsidian Arms Enhanced AR-15 Bolt Carrier Pin Kit
Specifications
Manufacturer: Obsidian Arms.
Color: Stainless Steel.
Finish: Nickel.
Fabric/Material: 4340 Alloy Steel.
Caliber: Universal.
Gun Make: AR Platform.
Gun Model: AR-15.
Gun Type: Rifle.
Hand: Ambidextrous.
Country of Origin: USA.
These specifications highlight several key aspects of the kit. The use of 4340 alloy steel, known for its high strength and toughness, ensures the components can withstand the stresses of repeated firing. The nickel finish provides enhanced corrosion resistance and reduces friction, contributing to smoother operation and easier cleaning.
Performance & Functionality
The Obsidian Arms Enhanced AR-15 Bolt Carrier Pin Kit excels in its primary function: ensuring reliable ignition and smooth cycling of the AR-15 bolt carrier group. The enhanced firing pin delivers consistent primer strikes, even with notoriously hard primers found in some surplus ammunition. The smoother finish on all components reduces friction, which can improve cycling speed and reduce wear.
A minor weakness is the cotter pin (retainer pin), which some users have reported being slightly fussy to install. However, this is a minor issue that can be easily addressed with a little patience. The kit exceeds expectations, particularly in its ability to improve the reliability of AR-15 builds that may be experiencing ignition issues.
Design & Ergonomics
The kit features a simple, functional design. The components are well-machined and finished, resulting in a professional appearance and smooth operation. The enhanced firing pin is designed to deliver a more forceful strike, while the nickel finish enhances corrosion resistance and reduces friction.
There is no significant learning curve associated with installing or using the kit. The components are drop-in replacements for the corresponding mil-spec parts.
Durability & Maintenance
The use of 4340 alloy steel and a durable nickel finish suggests that the Obsidian Arms Enhanced AR-15 Bolt Carrier Pin Kit will provide a long service life. After 500 rounds, there are no signs of significant wear or damage. The nickel finish makes cleaning the bolt carrier group easier, as carbon fouling and other debris do not adhere as readily to the smooth surface.
Maintenance is straightforward. Regular cleaning and lubrication of the bolt carrier group, as with any AR-15, will help to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Obsidian Arms Enhanced AR-15 Bolt Carrier Pin Kit is a standalone upgrade and does not require any additional accessories for proper function. It is compatible with most standard AR-15 bolt carrier groups and can be used in conjunction with other aftermarket upgrades, such as enhanced bolts or gas rings.
The kit does not offer extensive customization options, as it is designed to be a drop-in replacement for existing components. However, users may choose to combine it with other enhanced bolt carrier group parts to further improve the performance and reliability of their AR-15.
Pros and Cons of Obsidian Arms Enhanced AR-15 Bolt Carrier Pin Kit
Pros
- Improved reliability, particularly with steel-cased ammunition.
- Durable 4340 alloy steel construction.
- Slick nickel finish for smoother operation and easier cleaning.
- Drop-in replacement for standard AR-15 parts.
- Excellent value for the price.
Cons
- The cotter pin (retainer pin) can be a bit fussy to install.
- Does not offer significant performance gains over a properly functioning mil-spec kit in optimal conditions.
Who Should Buy Obsidian Arms Enhanced AR-15 Bolt Carrier Pin Kit?
This kit is perfect for AR-15 owners looking to improve the reliability of their rifles, particularly those who frequently shoot steel-cased or surplus ammunition. It is also a good choice for builders seeking to enhance the performance and durability of their bolt carrier groups. This would be ideal for budget conscious builders.
Individuals who should skip this product are those who have a properly functioning mil-spec bolt carrier group and are not experiencing any reliability issues. While the Obsidian Arms Enhanced AR-15 Bolt Carrier Pin Kit offers some benefits, the improvement may not be significant enough to justify the cost for those with already well-performing rifles.
A must-have modification to consider would be a enhanced extractor spring to maximize extraction in conjunction with the firing pin.
Conclusion on Obsidian Arms Enhanced AR-15 Bolt Carrier Pin Kit
The Obsidian Arms Enhanced AR-15 Bolt Carrier Pin Kit is a worthwhile upgrade for AR-15 owners seeking to improve the reliability and performance of their rifles. The enhanced firing pin, durable materials, and smooth nickel finish combine to deliver a tangible improvement over standard mil-spec components, especially when using less-than-ideal ammunition. The price is very affordable compared to some BCGs.
The value proposition is excellent. For around $20, you can significantly enhance the reliability of your AR-15, making it a worthwhile investment for any serious shooter.
I would personally recommend the Obsidian Arms Enhanced AR-15 Bolt Carrier Pin Kit to anyone looking to upgrade their AR-15 bolt carrier group. It’s an affordable, effective, and easy-to-install upgrade that can provide a noticeable improvement in reliability and performance. Upgrade your AR-15 today and experience the difference!