Nicely done, baitdragger. Thanks for taking the time to add to the summary.

I seem to remember Pat mentioning something about some sort of super whizz-bang extractor that can be used in lieu of the standard one that comes with a typical bolt.

I've looked on a couple of separate occasions but haven't been able to find that post.

Anyone recall that being mentioned here?

D-Ring or something?

I'd be interested in finding out if there was a particular extractor that Pat had recc. using. Anyone at all recall what this was? I'm in the process of buying some spare parts based on this thread, and am particularly interested in mention of a high quality extractor. Anybody remember what it may be??

Here's my spare parts list I want to assemble, based on the results of this thread (with note to self of the ones I already have):

High quality BCG
Disconnector
Ejector spring
Firing pin retainer pin
Extractor
Buffer retainer pin
Bolt cam pin
Charging handle (got it)
Trigger spring (got it)
Bolt rings (got it)
Buffer spring (got it)
Extractor spring (got it)

BCM and Rainer websites were mentioned for buying spare parts. Also Colt and LMT parts from Borwnells. Which of these three choices has the best quality at the best price?? So far, I've accumulated the spares I have (as opposed to intentionally buying them).

I don't see top shelf manufacturers guns breaking at classes I've been at.

Maybe some frankenstein guns and home builds using no name parts?

Since you are the topic author, you should edit the title to read that "Thread summaries are on pages 48-49."

Either that or make a definitive list of all of the items mentioned in the summaries and edit the first post.

That would be cool.

and thanks for starting a great thread!

Good Idea, I did it.

Thanks to all who have added so much information.





Bill

I think something may have gotten goofed up.

I don't see the edited / updated info.

Have you double checked your post ... ?

Sorry, but there's nothing there.

I really like this thread. I have built Frank-parts M4 using all Top-Shelf Parts using BCM FA-BCG,Colt barrel, BCM unmarked upper Rec. What are Top Shelf lower parts kits? I have used DPMS and Double Star LPK . I am not sure if the DPMS will hold-up for the long haul.

I have never used one of these "AR Receiver Rugs", but they supposedly work, and they are inexpensive.

My buddy's rifle went tits up during a carbine class because of a popped primer.
His trigger group was locked up tight.

This simple item would have prevented that.

http://www.midwayusa.com/product/970550/dpms-molded-receiver-rug-ar-15-mil-spec-trigger-rubber-red

I think I'm gonna buy one and try it for awhile in my 3-gun rifle.

High failure parts in a carbine course are high failure parts whenever, they just come to the fore much quicker when you start wringing the piece out.

Replacement parts to have (near as I can tell, though I'm no instructor)

I'm refing JSE Surplus for no particular reason other than that I know they have (or at least list) all of the parts and are okay folks to work with.

Spare bolt http://www.jsesurplus.com/jpboltcarriercompletionkit.aspx

Bolt Component Kit http://www.jsesurplus.com/dpmsar15boltcomponentkit.aspx

Lower spring kit http://www.jsesurplus.com/jselowerpartsessentialspringkit.aspx

Bolt Carrier Group, if you're spooked http://www.jsesurplus.com/ar15boltandcarrierassy-rra-2-1.aspx

Buffer Spring. http://www.jsesurplus.com/ar15a2bufferspring.aspx

Whole thing will fit in a cargo pocket or medium GP pouch. And you don't really need the carrier most times so long as you have one that's of decent quality.

Buffers and buffer retention pins/springs do fail, but so rarely (somebody correct me if I'm wrong) it's borderline paranoia to carry them around. Still, they don't weigh much, so if you feel unlucky, go for it.