I can’t fit 2 quarters in the gap when the bcg is fully seated in the buffer tube with the spring and buffer installed I have a proprietary stock (q shorty stock) I can only fit a quarter and what looks to be another half. When I put a quarter in the buffer with a spring and buffer installed I can fit 2 quarters is this a viable solution? I have shot 500-600 rounds with 0 wear on the buffer tube or receiver (no quarter installed during this time) thoughts?
BCG to Buffer clearance can’t fit 2 quarters. Solutions?
- Thread starter URGILOVERR
- Start date
What? I’ve never heard of putting quarters in the buffer tube. There shouldn’t be a gap between the BCG and buffer to my knowledge, the BCG should seat against the buffer face to prevent the buffer retaining pin from shearing off (it’s not designed to bear the force of the buffer/spring). I mean, I could be wrong, but I’ve been taught to run ARs this way for decades, so… 
The gas key to buffer tube gap sorryWhat? I’ve never heard of putting quarters in the buffer tube. There shouldn’t be a gap between the BCG and buffer to my knowledge, the BCG should seat against the buffer face to prevent the buffer retaining pin from shearing off (it’s not designed to bear the force of the buffer/spring). I mean, I could be wrong, but I’ve been taught to run ARs this way for decades, so…
Ah. I’ve still never heard of this before though lol. Have any links to a reference so I can learn more? I’ll have to do some digging on my end as well, I suppose.
I would imagine that if you aren’t seeing any evidence of contact between the key and the buffer/receiver/extension, you’re probably good though.
Judgement call. It will depend on what the actual measurement is, whether or not you run suppressed, and if the firearm is over-gassed, to name a few variables. Buffer bumper composition and compression comes into play. You also need to consider the distance between the bolt catch and bolt at full rearward stroke when considering using spacers behind the buffer, which can affect last round bolt hold open (LRBHO) and other issues.
It's in reference to using 2 Quarters to measure spacing between the gas key and the lower receiver as it relates to BCG/Buffer stroke length and proper clearance to prevent damage to the lower receiver.
It's not an issue until the bumper on the shorty buffer (retained by the roll pin) deforms or fatigues from use. At what round count that ends up being, no clue. Best to measure the entire buffer now and keep track of any wear as you put more rounds through it. Same with the buffer spring. You can reduce the amount of load the buffer takes by ensuring that your system isn't over gassed.
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