I read on a Ruger board that Ruger says a 556 bolt needs to be factory fit and they wouldn't just sell one to you.

Now I know fitting a barrel to an upper requires head space measurements and it is dangerous if you don't do it right.
But I though the bolt, extractor, firing pin and related parts (not the piston carrier, obviously) were all industry standard drop in parts.

Is there any harm in ordering a chrome plated bolt from any reputable supplier and just swapping it out? (After removing gas rings)

I'm pretty sure the answer is not and Ruger is just in CYA mode, but wanted to check to be sure.

Thanks,
Andy

You "should" be able to swap in any standard AR15 bolt. But the safe and prudent thing is to check headspace afterwards. You'll probably be fine but it is still a good idea to check.

So what is wrong with the bolt that came in your rifle? Are you having problems with it?

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Thanks for the info.

Nothing wrong with it, just wanting to make it all chrome like my other 556 since it's shinier.

http://store.srcarms.com/product-p/reliabolt.htm

Maybe give one of these a try.

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I have found POF has a chrome bolt for $85 and Stag Arms has one for $55. I am having a hard time finding any others.