I have been playing with different buffers to try and get the cyclic rate down to more desirable speed on my Shrike.
What I have noticed thus far is that the only buffers I can run that I don't have bolt bounce issues (hammer down light primer strike) are either an H3 and Colt X. The thing these two buffer have in common is three reciprocating tungsten weights, which I assume is helping to keep the action closed.
Even if I switch to a buffer with an overall total weight "in between" an X and H3 (such as a Colt B) which overall weighs more than an H3, but has less reciprocating mass with 2 tungsten and 1 Steel weights (vs 3 tungsten in an H3) I still end up with bolt bounce symptoms.
This situation has lead to a two part dilemma that I was hoping you could provide some guidance on.
The Colt X buffer has a better/slower ROF than the H3 for obvious reasons as it overall weighs much more with a heavy steel body vs. an aluminum bodied H3.
The concern I have running a Colt X buffer is that this heavier buffer is most likely putting more stress on the bolt carrier "key" as it has to move more mass with each strike of the op rod. The positive is that with the Colt X's reduced ROF it should translate to reduced overall parts speed, which is generally overall a good thing in a mechanical system. i.e. Less strain on the feed system parts, extractors, slower carrier speed slamming into the barrel extension, etc.
I guess at the end of the day my first question is... in your professional experience does a "heavy" buffer like a Colt X which weighs close to 8 ounces pose a material risk for damage and/or greatly shorten the lifespan of the Shrike carrier? (as they are not cheap).
The second part of my question surrounds the OEM buffer spring setup , which appears to be roughly 2X the strength of a normal M4 carbine spring. From experience I have found that stronger springs generally equal higher ROFs, so out of curiousity I put a standard M4 carbine spring back my lower to see what would happen as a test on a couple small 10 rd belts.
I expected the sytem to not be able to strip rounds, but to my suprise it appears that an M4 Carbine spring functions with a Shrike without issue. A regular M4 carbine spring paired with either an H3 or Colt X buffer also produces a lower and more desirable ROF than the same buffer with the Ares OEM Spring. I presume the strong OEM spring is there to provide greater link stripping ability, especially with tight or dirty links.
Which bring me to the second question.
Short of potential link stripping reliability.... Does running a standard M4 carbine spring pose any damage risk to the Shrike weapon system?
Overall my best combination for the most desirable ROF is a factory Colt M4 Carbine Spring and a Colt X buffer, but I also dont want to break or prematurely wear out anything either.
Thanks in advance for your time or thoughts on these questions.
James