First Impressions of Sons of Liberty Gun Works Intermediate Buffer System Kit
The Sons of Liberty Gun Works Intermediate Buffer System Kit promises to be a significant upgrade for any AR-15 platform. Sons of Liberty Gun Works (SOLGW) has a solid reputation for producing high-quality, battle-proven components. This kit, designed to optimize recoil impulse and improve overall rifle performance, immediately caught my attention.
I was looking for a buffer system that could soften the recoil of my 5.56 AR-15 and enhance reliability, especially when running a variety of ammunition types. I wanted to tame the sometimes-harsh recoil and improve my follow-up shot speed.
Upon unboxing the Sons of Liberty Gun Works Intermediate Buffer System Kit, I was impressed by the robust feel of each component. The finish on the buffer tube was flawless, and the buffer itself felt solid and well-weighted. Compared to a standard carbine buffer system, the A5 length and heavier buffer felt like a definite step up in quality. I had considered using a heavier carbine buffer but the A5 system seemed like a more complete solution. My initial excitement stemmed from the reputation of Sons of Liberty Gun Works and the promise of a smoother, more reliable rifle.
Real-World Testing: Putting Sons of Liberty Gun Works Intermediate Buffer System Kit to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Sons of Liberty Gun Works Intermediate Buffer System Kit at my local outdoor range. The conditions were fairly standard: sunny, with a slight breeze. Installation was straightforward; swapping out my existing carbine buffer tube for the A5 length tube was simple. I used a standard AR-15 armorer’s wrench and followed the manufacturer’s instructions, resulting in a hassle-free installation.
Immediately, I noticed a difference in the recoil impulse. The “snap” of the carbine system was replaced with a smoother, more manageable push. The rifle felt more stable during rapid fire, allowing for quicker follow-up shots. There were no immediate issues or malfunctions during the first range session, which was a promising start.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months and hundreds of rounds fired, the Sons of Liberty Gun Works Intermediate Buffer System Kit has proven to be a reliable and worthwhile upgrade. There are no signs of significant wear and tear on any of the components. The Type III Class 2 Hard-Coat Anodized finish has held up extremely well against scratches and abrasion.
Maintaining the system is simple; I clean and lubricate the buffer tube and buffer during my regular rifle maintenance. Compared to my previous carbine system, the A5 system offers a noticeable improvement in recoil management and overall rifle control. It has exceeded my expectations in terms of both performance and durability.
Breaking Down the Features of Sons of Liberty Gun Works Intermediate Buffer System Kit
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Sons of Liberty Gun Works.
- Finish: Type III Class 2 Hard-Coat Anodized. This finish is extremely durable and corrosion-resistant, ensuring long-term reliability.
- Fabric/Material: 7076-T6 aluminum. This high-strength aluminum alloy is lightweight yet incredibly strong, providing an optimal balance of weight and durability.
- Weight: 0.1 lb. The slight increase in weight compared to a standard carbine buffer system is negligible but contributes to the system’s improved recoil management.
Performance & Functionality
The Sons of Liberty Gun Works Intermediate Buffer System Kit excels at smoothing out the recoil impulse of an AR-15. By using a longer buffer tube and a heavier buffer, the system slows down the cycling rate, reducing felt recoil and improving muzzle control. This translates to faster follow-up shots and increased accuracy, especially during rapid fire.
The system’s primary strength lies in its ability to improve the overall shooting experience. The only potential weakness is that some users might find the slightly heavier buffer less desirable on very lightweight builds. It meets and exceeds expectations for recoil management and reliability.
Design & Ergonomics
The Sons of Liberty Gun Works Intermediate Buffer System Kit is designed for optimal performance and durability. The 7076-T6 aluminum construction ensures that the buffer tube and buffer can withstand the rigors of heavy use. The Type III Class 2 Hard-Coat Anodized finish provides excellent resistance to wear, corrosion, and abrasion.
The system is generally user-friendly, with a straightforward installation process. There is no significant learning curve involved.
Durability & Maintenance
The Sons of Liberty Gun Works Intermediate Buffer System Kit is built to last. The high-quality materials and robust construction ensure that the system can withstand the demands of heavy use. Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Sons of Liberty Gun Works Intermediate Buffer System Kit includes everything you need to upgrade your lower receiver to the A5 buffer system. While the kit itself is comprehensive, it’s compatible with a wide range of AR-15 components. There are no included accessories beyond the essential parts of the kit.
The A5 buffer tube allows for the use of standard AR-15 stocks. There are no proprietary parts that limit compatibility with other brands.
Pros and Cons of Sons of Liberty Gun Works Intermediate Buffer System Kit
Pros
- Improved Recoil Management: The A5 system noticeably reduces felt recoil, making the rifle more comfortable to shoot.
- Enhanced Reliability: The smoother cycling rate contributes to increased reliability, especially with different ammunition types.
- High-Quality Construction: The 7076-T6 aluminum and Type III Class 2 Hard-Coat Anodized finish ensure long-term durability.
- Easy Installation: The system is straightforward to install with basic AR-15 armorer’s tools.
- Increased Accuracy: Better recoil control leads to improved accuracy, especially during rapid fire.
Cons
- Price: The Sons of Liberty Gun Works Intermediate Buffer System Kit is more expensive than a standard carbine buffer system.
- Slightly Heavier: The heavier buffer may not be ideal for ultra-lightweight AR-15 builds.
Who Should Buy Sons of Liberty Gun Works Intermediate Buffer System Kit?
The Sons of Liberty Gun Works Intermediate Buffer System Kit is perfect for AR-15 enthusiasts looking to upgrade their rifle’s performance and reliability. It is particularly beneficial for:
- Competitive Shooters: The improved recoil management and faster follow-up shots can provide a competitive edge.
- Tactical Shooters: The increased reliability and smoother cycling are crucial in high-stress situations.
- Home Defense Users: The enhanced control and reduced recoil make the rifle more manageable for home defense scenarios.
Those who prioritize ultra-lightweight builds or are on a very tight budget might want to explore other options.
A high-quality AR-15 stock that fits the A5 buffer tube would be a must-have addition. Also, a quality bolt carrier group to ensure proper function is advisable if the existing one is questionable.
Conclusion on Sons of Liberty Gun Works Intermediate Buffer System Kit
The Sons of Liberty Gun Works Intermediate Buffer System Kit is a worthwhile investment for anyone serious about improving their AR-15’s performance and reliability. While it is more expensive than a standard carbine buffer system, the benefits of reduced recoil, smoother cycling, and increased accuracy justify the price. The solid construction and durable finish ensure that the system will provide years of reliable service.
The value proposition is excellent for those seeking a tangible upgrade. I would highly recommend the Sons of Liberty Gun Works Intermediate Buffer System Kit to anyone looking to enhance their AR-15 shooting experience. Upgrade your rifle today and experience the difference!