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Posted: 4/14/2009 9:32:39 PM EDT
| i know this is a dumb question but i am wondering what a buffer does. is it just to balance the gun and reduce recoil or does it have another function. i know there are different buffers and just wondering what there use actually is? |
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In the simplest terms, the buffer stops the rearward travel of the bolt carrier group so it doesn't crash into the rear of the receiver extension or the aluminum receivers.
The mass of the buffer primarily controls the rate of the rearward travel of the bolt carrier group during recoil, which affects cyclic rate. The polymer bumper on the end absorbs the impact with the end of the receiver extension and prevents it from damaging the extension. The reciprocating weights inside seat the bolt with an extra "shove" after the spring returns the bolt carrier group to battery. |
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