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8/4/2012 4:28:40 PM EDT
http://img59.imageshack.us/img59/4783/costaobr01.jpg


Equipment:
- Costa OBR 5.56 Rifle - CE034 (Red color buffer spring)
- Aimpoint H1
- 30 rounds of Remington UMC .223 JHP, 45 Grain (Note: The closest range near me only allowed hollow points.)
- 2 new Magul PMags (Note:  The magazines came with the rifle.)


Condition of Events:
- The rifle was confirmed to be on the "unsurpressed" setting.
- I did not clean the rifle prior to taking it out to the range.  (Come on, its Larue and it came well oiled from the Factory.)
- Manually chambering a round will work and upon firing it, the spent casing will eject successfully.
- The rifle has been function checked and the bolt will lock back when an empty PMag is inserted.
- Both PMags were tested and loaded with 3 rounds each time for a total of 10 times.  Both magazines experienced all of the problems listed below.


Problems:
- The bolt will not lock back on the last round. (10 times)
- A new round will not chamber at all after a round is fired. (15 times)
- A new round that attempted to be chambered resulted in a failure to feed. (4 Times)

http://img217.imageshack.us/img217/4641/costaproblem01.jpg


Actions taken since my range visit:
- The rifle has been completely stripped down and all parts have been throughly cleaned and oiled using CLP, Hoppes No 9 and Royal Purple.
- The gas ring gaps have been confirmed staggered on the bolt.
- The buffer tube and spring have both been inspected with no problems found.  The buffer sping (Red color) has been relubricated.


My Thoughts:
I had such high hopes for my first experience with a Larue rifle, let alone it being a Costa OBR, that its really upsets me that it didn't go well at all today.    I am fairly certain the rifle is short stroking due to being under gassed.  I will attempt to visting a different range tomorrow in order to be able to use Ferderal XM193BK FMJ, 55 Grain.  I will be bringing multiple magazines by 6 differnet manaufactures along with the white color buffer spring.  If the same problem occurs, I will change out the red buffer spring for the white buffer spring and retest.  I really do hope this all works out and that I don't have a lemon.  Is that even possible from Larue Tactical?

8/4/2012 4:39:03 PM EDT
[#1]
Why didn't you start with the light spring when you were going to use .223 ammo?
 
8/4/2012 4:41:29 PM EDT
[#2]
This gonna be good
8/4/2012 4:42:23 PM EDT
[#3]
That is a very small bullet for a 1/8.  I think the m193 will def. clear this up.  Curious though....  Do you have a lighter buffer on hand to try?
8/4/2012 4:42:56 PM EDT
[#4]
PST in the right position?
8/4/2012 4:47:14 PM EDT
[#5]
It has been my experience that Remington .223 ammunition is frequently underpowered. I would not use it in any weight projectile.

Try a different ammo load (55 gr bullet or above) and you should see better results.

The "red" colored buffer spring? Did it come with the rifle?

8/4/2012 4:55:15 PM EDT
[#6]
DVCAPI:  I didn't really think about it and only had that .223 JHP on hand.

JohnTlag:  I didn't bring it with me but will have it with me tomorrow.

jdhill: Yes.

a308garand: Yes, the red color buffer is the default spring installed on the rifle.  I will be using XM193 tomorrow. (crosses fingers)
8/4/2012 4:57:57 PM EDT
[#7]
You used the wrong spring for that load. If you look it up many people have had issues using that ammo with std springs. To shoot that you need to swap to the white spring.
8/4/2012 4:58:21 PM EDT
[#8]
8/4/2012 5:02:28 PM EDT
[#9]
Changing out your buffer spring may help. The red one is very heavy and you are shooting light loads.
Good luck on your upcoming range trip.


From the spring website:

"BUFFER ACTION SPRINGS

THE MOST COMPREHENSIVE SOLUTIONS IN THE INDUSTRY FOR OPTIMIZING THE PERFORMANCE OF YOUR CARBINE

STANDARD Power Buffer Spring,“WHITE Spring” Equivalent spring load to a “fresh” Mil-Spec M4 Carbine Spring. This spring will perform reliably in any properly configured and maintained 5.56 Carbine, if you wish to maintain the performance of a “fresh” Mil-Spec load spring without concern for replacement. This is the best choice for shooters and purists that wish to maintain the performance of most factory supplied Mil-Spec springs, but do not wish to be concerned with frequent replacement of same or do not have the time or inclination to seek enhanced performance options. The WHITE spring is recommended for 10.0"-11.0" SBR's with H2 Buffers, 1st Gen M&P's, most RRA's, most Colt 6920 LE's, 5.56 & 6.8 SPC 7.5"-8.5" BBL Piston Guns with H2 Buffers, and when training with SRTA and other low power and light charged “budget” rounds. Color Coded WHITE.


ENHANCED Power Buffer Spring, “BLUE Spring” Offers improved performance with most non-suppressed 12.5"-14.5" SBR's, 16" DI Mid-Length BBLS, and all mid-length uppers with adjustable gas blocks. Best performance is usually achieved using buffers ranging from ST-2T, H2, DPMS Extra Heavy . Will run in 18"+ Length BBL RRA'S with ST-T2 Buffers, and some Colt 6920 LE's. Use of heavier buffers may not be possible with the aforementioned as well as most uppers with light weight carrier groups (VTAC, etc.) Color Coded BLUE.


Extra Power Buffer Spring, “RED Spring” Best option for 16"+ barrels with carbine length gas system platforms with standard front sight towers and H buffers, 16" + BBL gas piston guns, *some* suppressed shorties, and 9mm. Color Coded RED. "
8/4/2012 5:07:27 PM EDT
[#10]
What kind of groups were you getting?

I've had 45 grainers vaporize at the muzzle when fired from a 1 in 7 twist.

I doubt the rifle is your problem.

8/4/2012 5:20:06 PM EDT
[#11]
Does not this rifle posses a device to regulate the flow of gas through it's system?  May chance you should adjust said device, until the time proves you have received favorable operation.  Also, consider casting heavier projectiles constructed by those of higher repute.
8/4/2012 5:22:24 PM EDT
[#12]
I would blame the problems on Remington UMC, no doubt in my mind.
8/4/2012 5:23:43 PM EDT
[#13]
Here is my target from my last few rounds.  As you can see, the Costa OBR is crazy accurate.  I was using an Aimpoint H1 with a Lucid Magnifier at 50 yards.  I was also sighting in my PS90 today so I at least had some fun out of this trip to the range.

http://img832.imageshack.us/img832/4742/costatarget01.jpg
8/4/2012 5:25:44 PM EDT
[#14]
...I got $5 on XM193 firing fine
8/4/2012 5:38:18 PM EDT
[#15]
Quoted:
http://img59.imageshack.us/img59/4783/costaobr01.jpg


Equipment:
- Costa OBR 5.56 Rifle - CE034 (Red color buffer spring)
- Aimpoint H1
- 30 rounds of Remington UMC .223 JHP, 45 Grain (Note: The closest range near me only allowed hollow points.)
- 2 new Magul PMags (Note:  The magazines came with the rifle.)


Condition of Events:
- The rifle was confirmed to be on the "unsurpressed" setting.
- I did not clean the rifle prior to taking it out to the range.  (Come on, its Larue and it came well oiled from the Factory.)
- Manually chambering a round will work and upon firing it, the spent casing will eject successfully.
- The rifle has been function checked and the bolt will lock back when an empty PMag is inserted.
- Both PMags were tested and loaded with 3 rounds each time for a total of 10 times.  Both magazines experienced all of the problems listed below.


Problems:
- The bolt will not lock back on the last round. (10 times)
- A new round will not chamber at all after a round is fired. (15 times)
- A new round that attempted to be chambered resulted in a failure to feed. (4 Times)

http://img217.imageshack.us/img217/4641/costaproblem01.jpg


Actions taken since my range visit:
- The rifle has been completely stripped down and all parts have been throughly cleaned and oiled using CLP, Hoppes No 9 and Royal Purple.
- The gas ring gaps have been confirmed staggered on the bolt.
- The buffer tube and spring have both been inspected with no problems found.  The buffer sping (Red color) has been relubricated.


My Thoughts:
I had such high hopes for my first experience with a Larue rifle, let alone it being a Costa OBR, that its really upsets me that it didn't go well at all today.    I am fairly certain the rifle is short stroking due to being under gassed.  I will attempt to visting a different range tomorrow in order to be able to use Ferderal XM193BK FMJ, 55 Grain.  I will be bringing multiple magazines by 6 differnet manaufactures along with the white color buffer spring.  If the same problem occurs, I will change out the red buffer spring for the white buffer spring and retest.  I really do hope this all works out and that I don't have a lemon.  Is that even possible from Larue Tactical?




Clearly the best thing to do was come here and blame LaRue.





Ps. Great looking rifle!
8/4/2012 5:43:24 PM EDT
[#16]
Sounds and looks like an ammo issue, try using a hotter round (556) like some M193 or PMC X-Tac ..
8/4/2012 6:26:14 PM EDT
[#17]
I can help you. I will buy the used Costa that won't run properly. Send it to me, I will gladly give you $500.
8/4/2012 6:30:17 PM EDT
[#18]
I'm in!
8/4/2012 6:47:04 PM EDT
[#19]
Better ammo and standard spring you will be GTG
8/4/2012 6:57:39 PM EDT
[#20]
This ^^
8/4/2012 7:10:59 PM EDT
[#21]



Quoted:


I can help you. I will buy the used Costa that won't run properly. Send it to me, I will gladly give you $500.


I'll triple that offer and give you $1500.00 for your defective Rifle.



 
8/4/2012 7:32:14 PM EDT
[#22]
theres nothing wrong with it. its the shit ammo you are using
8/4/2012 7:45:18 PM EDT
[#23]
Quoted:
Quoted:
http://img59.imageshack.us/img59/4783/costaobr01.jpg


Equipment:
- Costa OBR 5.56 Rifle - CE034 (Red color buffer spring)
- Aimpoint H1
- 30 rounds of Remington UMC .223 JHP, 45 Grain (Note: The closest range near me only allowed hollow points.)
- 2 new Magul PMags (Note:  The magazines came with the rifle.)


Condition of Events:
- The rifle was confirmed to be on the "unsurpressed" setting.
- I did not clean the rifle prior to taking it out to the range.  (Come on, its Larue and it came well oiled from the Factory.)
- Manually chambering a round will work and upon firing it, the spent casing will eject successfully.
- The rifle has been function checked and the bolt will lock back when an empty PMag is inserted.
- Both PMags were tested and loaded with 3 rounds each time for a total of 10 times.  Both magazines experienced all of the problems listed below.


Problems:
- The bolt will not lock back on the last round. (10 times)
- A new round will not chamber at all after a round is fired. (15 times)
- A new round that attempted to be chambered resulted in a failure to feed. (4 Times)

http://img217.imageshack.us/img217/4641/costaproblem01.jpg


Actions taken since my range visit:
- The rifle has been completely stripped down and all parts have been throughly cleaned and oiled using CLP, Hoppes No 9 and Royal Purple.
- The gas ring gaps have been confirmed staggered on the bolt.
- The buffer tube and spring have both been inspected with no problems found.  The buffer sping (Red color) has been relubricated.


My Thoughts:
I had such high hopes for my first experience with a Larue rifle, let alone it being a Costa OBR, that its really upsets me that it didn't go well at all today.    I am fairly certain the rifle is short stroking due to being under gassed.  I will attempt to visting a different range tomorrow in order to be able to use Ferderal XM193BK FMJ, 55 Grain.  I will be bringing multiple magazines by 6 differnet manaufactures along with the white color buffer spring.  If the same problem occurs, I will change out the red buffer spring for the white buffer spring and retest.  I really do hope this all works out and that I don't have a lemon.  Is that even possible from Larue Tactical?

Clearly the best thing to do was come here and blame LaRue.

Ps. Great looking rifle!
Did we read the same post? I didn't read anything that seemed accusatory toward LaRue. Seems like he had a bad experience without the full knowledge of his rifle's special components and asked here in the most likely place to reach others who own a Costa LaRue seeking a solution.
8/4/2012 7:58:57 PM EDT
[#24]
Quoted:
Why didn't you start with the light spring when you were going to use .223 ammo?  


8/4/2012 8:17:37 PM EDT
[#25]
Seeing that pic makes me wish I would have just bought one
8/4/2012 8:19:27 PM EDT
[#26]



Quoted:



Quoted:

Why didn't you start with the light spring when you were going to use .223 ammo?  




First reply and all that...........



pg2, too.





 
8/4/2012 8:56:35 PM EDT
[#27]
I had the exact same issues with that ammo on my 16" OBR.   Use a heavier grain ammo, and make sure you have a generous amount of lube on the carrier bolt, and bolt lugs.  (good reference info here: http://www.ar15.com/forums/t_3_7/548967_AR15_LUBE_POINTS.html)

All of your problem should clear up.   Mine did.  

8/4/2012 9:45:46 PM EDT
[#28]
Quoted:

Quoted:
I can help you. I will buy the used Costa that won't run properly. Send it to me, I will gladly give you $500.

I'll triple that offer and give you $1500.00 for your defective Rifle.
 


You guys please don't make light of the OP's original post!    

This is  a serious problem for him.  I'm in for $2,000.  

It's okay, I have ammo that will work.  

That Rem UMC 45gr JHP is basically bolt gun varmint loads.  Not really meant for tuned-up battle rifles. Kind of disappointing and in bad form to start this thread before trying the ammo that this type of gun likes to eat.

Dead serious about the $2,000. You can keep the sights , accessories, all I need is the nice FDE  stick with the guys gladiator academy logo on it.
8/4/2012 9:55:37 PM EDT
[#29]



Quoted:



Quoted:




Quoted:

I can help you. I will buy the used Costa that won't run properly. Send it to me, I will gladly give you $500.


I'll triple that offer and give you $1500.00 for your defective Rifle.

 




You guys please don't make light of the OP's original post!    



This is  a serious problem for him.  I'm in for $2,000.  



It's okay, I have ammo that will work.  



That Rem UMC 45gr JHP is basically bolt gun varmint loads.  Not really meant for tuned-up battle rifles. Kind of disappointing and in bad form to start this thread before trying the ammo that this type of gun likes to eat.



Dead serious about the $2,000. You can keep the sights , accessories, all I need is the nice FDE  stick with the guys gladiator academy logo on it.


$2087.87



 
8/4/2012 9:56:36 PM EDT
[#30]
You guys should go easy on him. He's only had 6 post geez
He just paid 3 grand for a rifle and its not working, for what ever reason.

I don't think he's BLAMING anyone, but just looking for answers.
I'm sure Mark put some info in the manual about ammo.. ? Take a look.

I wouldn't change anything on the rifle, just yet.
Get some different ammo. and forget about the Remington UMC. It hasn't run in auto I've tried.. even though it was cheaper.
The UMC might be great for a bolt, but not so much for a Auto.
I won't use Remington UMC in my 1911 45's for the same reason.

PMC XTAC, 55, 62gr,  Federal X193.' 855ball should all run quite well.
American Eagle.

Gets some rounds down range and loosened up a bit and then try some Match ammo.
I'm sure your groups will be amazing.
Then post the pics back here.

If I can help ya feel free to ask.
YMMV
8/4/2012 10:13:09 PM EDT
[#31]
Quoted:

PMC XTAC, 55, 62gr,  Federal X193.' 855ball should all run quite well.
American Eagle.

YMMV


DING-DING-DING , we have a WINNER!

8/5/2012 5:17:15 AM EDT
[#32]
For those of you who offered assistance and guidance, I want to thank you.

For those of you stating I was blaming Larue or wanting to sell my rifle, did you bother to even read my post?  To recap for you, I was merely sharing my experience and frustration on a matter that was related to this forum.  My remarks did touch upon me changing my ammo as a solution, which seems to be the overwhelming consensus shown by others as well.  Elitist attitudes such as yours is what keeps people away and prevents long time gun owners like myself from sharing their experience and/or knowledge.  I will post my results later today for the sake of closure on this matter and then go back to the shadows.
8/5/2012 5:24:52 AM EDT
[#33]
Quoted:

Quoted:
Quoted:

Quoted:
I can help you. I will buy the used Costa that won't run properly. Send it to me, I will gladly give you $500.

I'll triple that offer and give you $1500.00 for your defective Rifle.
 


You guys please don't make light of the OP's original post!    

This is  a serious problem for him.  I'm in for $2,000.  

It's okay, I have ammo that will work.  

That Rem UMC 45gr JHP is basically bolt gun varmint loads.  Not really meant for tuned-up battle rifles. Kind of disappointing and in bad form to start this thread before trying the ammo that this type of gun likes to eat.

Dead serious about the $2,000. You can keep the sights , accessories, all I need is the nice FDE  stick with the guys gladiator academy logo on it.

$2087.87
 



$2089.69 .....final offer
8/5/2012 5:26:59 AM EDT
[#34]
Quoted:
Quoted:

Quoted:
Quoted:

Quoted:
I can help you. I will buy the used Costa that won't run properly. Send it to me, I will gladly give you $500.

I'll triple that offer and give you $1500.00 for your defective Rifle.
 


You guys please don't make light of the OP's original post!    

This is  a serious problem for him.  I'm in for $2,000.  

It's okay, I have ammo that will work.  

That Rem UMC 45gr JHP is basically bolt gun varmint loads.  Not really meant for tuned-up battle rifles. Kind of disappointing and in bad form to start this thread before trying the ammo that this type of gun likes to eat.

Dead serious about the $2,000. You can keep the sights , accessories, all I need is the nice FDE  stick with the guys gladiator academy logo on it.

$2087.87
 



$2089.69 .....final offer


What about $2300?
8/5/2012 5:32:41 AM EDT
[#35]
Problems:
- The bolt will not lock back on the last round. (10 times)


I had the same problem the bolt not locking back due to the Larue RISR.  
Your stock needs to be more extended back or ditch the Larue RISR.
8/5/2012 5:48:21 AM EDT
[#36]
Holy Buckets
8/5/2012 5:52:33 AM EDT
[#37]



Quoted:


Problems:

- The bolt will not lock back on the last round. (10 times)




I had the same problem the bolt not locking back due to the Larue RISR.  

Your stock needs to be more extended back or ditch the Larue RISR.



I'm seriously curious how the RISR affects any of the moving parts inside the gun.

 
8/5/2012 6:31:43 AM EDT
[#38]
Quoted:

Quoted:
Problems:
- The bolt will not lock back on the last round. (10 times)


I had the same problem the bolt not locking back due to the Larue RISR.  
Your stock needs to be more extended back or ditch the Larue RISR.

I'm seriously curious how the RISR affects any of the moving parts inside the gun.  


Unless someone installed it with the wrong buffer screw, and it is too long.  Sometimes the buffer can impact the screw on its way back causing short stroking, or even get itself impaled on the screw.
8/5/2012 6:39:31 AM EDT
[#39]



Quoted:


For those of you who offered assistance and guidance, I want to thank you.



For those of you stating I was blaming Larue or wanting to sell my rifle, did you bother to even read my post?  To recap for you, I was merely sharing my experience and frustration on a matter that was related to this forum.  My remarks did touch upon me changing my ammo as a solution, which seems to be the overwhelming consensus shown by others as well.  Elitist attitudes such as yours is what keeps people away and prevents long time gun owners like myself from sharing their experience and/or knowledge.  I will post my results later today for the sake of closure on this matter and then go back to the shadows.
One, If you had installed the right spring, included with the Rifle, I bet it would have functioned with that ammo...... Two, the offers were a joke. "That's a Joke Son, a Joke." You may need to thicken up your skin, if you want to play on the internet.





 
8/5/2012 7:05:06 AM EDT
[#40]
Quoted:
Quoted:

Quoted:
Problems:
- The bolt will not lock back on the last round. (10 times)


I had the same problem the bolt not locking back due to the Larue RISR.  
Your stock needs to be more extended back or ditch the Larue RISR.

I'm seriously curious how the RISR affects any of the moving parts inside the gun.  


Unless someone installed it with the wrong buffer screw, and it is too long.  Sometimes the buffer can impact the screw on its way back causing short stroking, or even get itself impaled on the screw.


Nothing of the RISR or it's installation project in to the buffer tube... it should in no way impact the function of the bolt, or hold open...The RISR attaches to the stock, not the buffer tube.   The only issue I have ever seen where a RISR caused difficulty in activating the bolt catch was when manually employing it, and not pulling the CH far enough back against the resistance of the RISR.  

ETA:  What is this screw you are referring to?  On a collapsable buffer tube, there is no screw that goes in to the end of if.

8/5/2012 7:08:00 AM EDT
[#41]
i had this same problem when i was using the red color spring switched to a blue one.... problem solved.
8/5/2012 7:21:34 AM EDT
[#42]
Friends don't let friends shoot crappy ammo



You used the cream of the crap for ammo
8/5/2012 7:55:37 AM EDT
[#43]
Quoted:
Quoted:
Quoted:

Quoted:
Problems:
- The bolt will not lock back on the last round. (10 times)


I had the same problem the bolt not locking back due to the Larue RISR.  
Your stock needs to be more extended back or ditch the Larue RISR.

I'm seriously curious how the RISR affects any of the moving parts inside the gun.  


Unless someone installed it with the wrong buffer screw, and it is too long.  Sometimes the buffer can impact the screw on its way back causing short stroking, or even get itself impaled on the screw.


Nothing of the RISR or it's installation project in to the buffer tube... it should in no way impact the function of the bolt, or hold open...The RISR attaches to the stock, not the buffer tube.   The only issue I have ever seen where a RISR caused difficulty in activating the bolt catch was when manually employing it, and not pulling the CH far enough back against the resistance of the RISR.  

ETA:  What is this screw you are referring to?  On a collapsable buffer tube, there is no screw that goes in to the end of if.



I too am a bit confused. Buffer screw on a collapsible? maybe an A2 screw with an A1 fixed stock would have these results, but...
8/5/2012 9:14:20 AM EDT
[#44]
There are too many "experts" on this thread.

The ones that suggested a change of ammo to 5.56, I wholeheartedly agree with you guys.

The ones who suggested changing the buffer spring to the standard white, I believe that this is also a very viable option.

To the ones that say the RISR could be contributing to or causing the malfunction, I suggest you look hard at the RISR (if you even have one) and see how it installs and if even any part of it projects inside the buffer tube.

To the ones who say there's a screw inside a carbine buffer tube, what the hell are you smoking?
8/5/2012 12:38:15 PM EDT
[#45]

8/5/2012 1:55:50 PM EDT
[#46]
Great looking rifle, and you will most likely have great results as has been posted with the correct spring and decent ammo.

Wish I had more "disposable" income

Please do report back when you have done what what recommended, I'm sure you'll be happy.

Again, really nice looking bang stick!! Enjoy it.
8/5/2012 2:36:29 PM EDT
[#47]
I am back from my 2nd range trip with my Costa OBR and have some results to report.  The Federal XM193 rounds still had some feed problems and could not lock the bolt back using the red buffer spring.  Keep in mind that I did try numerous magazines with no change to these results.  I proceeded to replace the red buffer spring with the white buffer spring and retested.  I’m happy to report that the Federal XM193 rounds fed normally and also locked the bolt back using the white buffer spring.   I proceeded to shoot over 100 rounds of the XM193 through the Costa OBR and confirmed it ran without any further problems.  Just out of curiosity, I did try the Remington UMC again (I still have a lot of this stuff) with the white buffer spring and noted the rounds did feed normally but could not lock the bolt back.  Looks like I’ll just shoot the rest of my Remington ammo using my other rifles that have had no problems with it.
8/5/2012 2:41:53 PM EDT
[#48]
Is there a reason you were using a heavier buffer spring in the first place?

8/5/2012 3:02:56 PM EDT
[#49]


Thank you for sharing your experience OP. Glad to hear you got it squared away!
8/5/2012 4:47:58 PM EDT
[#50]
Quoted:
I am back from my 2nd range trip with my Costa OBR and have some results to report. The Federal XM193 rounds still had some feed problems and could not lock the bolt back using the red buffer spring.  Keep in mind that I did try numerous magazines with no change to these results.  I proceeded to replace the red buffer spring with the white buffer spring and retested.  I’m happy to report that the Federal XM193 rounds fed normally and also locked the bolt back using the white buffer spring.   I proceeded to shoot over 100 rounds of the XM193 through the Costa OBR and confirmed it ran without any further problems.  Just out of curiosity, I did try the Remington UMC again (I still have a lot of this stuff) with the white buffer spring and noted the rounds did feed normally but could not lock the bolt back.  Looks like I’ll just shoot the rest of my Remington ammo using my other rifles that have had no problems with it.


Are you kidding me?

Really worth $2900
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