I hear mixed things about the H buffer, but basically from what I gather, the H buffer isn't necessary in a 16" barrel M4gery with collapsible stock, but doesn't hinder reliability or performance either. Do you think it's a good idea or cheap insurance to go ahead and run the 3.8 oz. "H-buffer"? Even with .223 and no rapid fire at the range?

The reason that the "H" buffer was added with the M4 carbine was to slow the rate of fire slightly and make the weapon a little more reliable on full auto.  I have done ROF tests with different length barrels and different buffers, and what I have found is that generally the M4 "H" buffer slows the ROF on full auto by only about 25 - 30 RPM.  On semi-auto, you do not need the "H" buffer even with the shorter barrels like 11.5 or 14.5.  With a 16 inch barrel, you definitely do not need the "H" buffer.  On semi-auto, you would not notice any difference over the standard buffer.

Charles Tatum
Alamo Professional Arms

You're the man, thanks for sharing.

Thank God someone who finally agrees you don't need a 9mm buffer or H buffer in a collapsing stock carbine.  

In semiauto, a heavier buffer slows down the cycle rate also and may give you the feel of lighter recoil, less muzzle flip and faster follow up shots.  Some see the need for this, most don't.  I'm experimenting with the concept.  I see some result, but not sure if it's beneficial to me at this point.

Quoted: In semiauto, a heavier buffer slows down the cycle rate also and may give you the feel of lighter recoil, less muzzle flip and faster follow up shots.  Some see the need for this, most don't.  I'm experimenting with the concept.  I see some result, but not sure if it's beneficial to me at this point.

Ahh  results are so close as to be indeterminate.

Quoted: Quoted: In semiauto, a heavier buffer slows down the cycle rate also and may give you the feel of lighter recoil, less muzzle flip and faster follow up shots.  Some see the need for this, most don't.  I'm experimenting with the concept.  I see some result, but not sure if it's beneficial to me at this point. Ahh  results are so close as to be indeterminate.

Yep, some rave on the result, I'm not sure it is enough to worry about.

Would it be in good practice to just replace the spring with a "heavier" one or...???