Introduction
The iconic silhouette of the AR-15 has become synonymous with modern firearms, a testament to its versatility and adaptability. From the hands of competitive shooters to the arsenals of military forces, the AR-15 continues to captivate enthusiasts. But behind its sleek lines and modular design lies a world of complexities, especially when venturing into the realm of full-auto functionality. This article aims to dissect one crucial component in this conversation: the AR Full Auto Bolt Carrier. We will explore its function, the often-complicated legal landscape surrounding it, and the factors one should consider before contemplating this advanced piece of equipment.
Understanding the AR-15 Bolt Carrier Group (BCG)
The AR-15, at its core, is a gas-operated, direct impingement rifle. Its operational cycle, the process of firing a round, ejecting the spent casing, chambering a fresh round, and cocking the hammer, is a carefully orchestrated dance of mechanical components. The engine driving this process is the bolt carrier group (BCG). Understanding the BCG is fundamental to comprehending the AR Full Auto Bolt Carrier and its role.
The bolt carrier group is the heart of the AR-15’s operation. It is, essentially, a self-contained unit housing the bolt, the firing pin, the extractor, and other crucial parts. This group moves back and forth within the upper receiver, propelled by expanding gases tapped from the fired round. The bolt itself, a rotating cylindrical piece, locks into the barrel extension, sealing the chamber for safe firing. The BCG is responsible for all the essential tasks: locking the bolt, unlocking it, extracting the spent casing, ejecting the spent casing, and chambering the next round. This whole system is key in understanding how an AR Full Auto Bolt Carrier works.
The Full Auto Bolt Carrier: How it Works
The AR Full Auto Bolt Carrier, while appearing nearly identical to its semi-automatic counterpart, holds subtle but critical differences. It is this seemingly insignificant change that unlocks the potential for fully automatic fire. The primary distinction lies in the design of the carrier itself and how it interacts with the trigger mechanism. While a semi-automatic carrier will trip the disconnector and prepare the rifle for the next semi-automatic shot, a full auto carrier permits continuous fire as long as the trigger is depressed and ammunition remains. The AR Full Auto Bolt Carrier is engineered to allow for continuous operation.
The core difference centers around the sear engagement area. A standard semi-auto BCG is designed to trip the disconnector, which holds the hammer back until the trigger is released and re-pulled, enabling only one shot per trigger pull. The AR Full Auto Bolt Carrier, on the other hand, typically has a full-length trip, allowing it to engage with an auto sear. When combined with a full-auto trigger group, the hammer can be held back by the auto sear. Upon each return stroke, the BCG will push the hammer forward, firing another round. This setup results in continuous firing as the bolt reciprocates.
Functionality and Performance
The impact of the AR Full Auto Bolt Carrier‘s increased mass is something that must be considered. The added weight of the full-auto carrier can affect the timing of the rifle’s cycling action. The increased mass can, in some cases, make the rifle more reliable in cycling ammunition under adverse conditions, as it has more inertia to overcome potential stoppages. However, this increased mass can also affect the speed of cycling and even change how the recoil is felt. The full-auto carrier can potentially produce a smoother or more consistent recoil impulse due to the increased mass, but it will not reduce the energy of the recoil, and the felt recoil will always be noticeable in a rifle chambered in 5.56mm.
Legality: The Complexities of Full-Auto AR-15s
The legal status of full-auto firearms in the United States is complex, a subject deeply interwoven with the National Firearms Act (NFA) of 1934. This legislation, born from the era of gangsters and prohibition, sought to regulate certain types of firearms, including machine guns. Under the NFA, a machine gun is defined as any firearm that can fire more than one shot, without manual reloading, by a single function of the trigger.
Owning a machine gun is not impossible, but it is heavily restricted. The primary hurdles include:
- Registration: Machine guns must be registered with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). This registration process is conducted through the NFA branch.
- Transferability: Prior to the Hughes Amendment of 1986, the supply of transferable machine guns was plentiful. Today, the sale and ownership of fully automatic firearms is restricted to those manufactured *before* the Hughes Amendment. This is known as a pre-86 machine gun, and they are incredibly valuable.
- Background Checks: Prospective owners must undergo thorough background checks by the ATF.
- Taxation: A federal tax (currently $200) is levied on each transfer of a registered machine gun.
- State Laws: Even if a machine gun is federally registered, state and local laws can further restrict or even prohibit their ownership.
The AR Full Auto Bolt Carrier itself is *not* a regulated item under the NFA. However, the intent of its use is critically important. If this carrier is used in a rifle that is also configured to fire in full-auto mode – for example, by installing a full-auto trigger group and an auto sear – then the entire configuration is legally considered a machine gun and is subject to all the above-mentioned regulations. Simply having a full auto bolt carrier by itself, in a semi-automatic AR-15, is generally legal at the federal level, provided there is no other configuration to convert the rifle to full-auto fire. However, the legality of this configuration may vary depending on local and state laws. It’s worth repeating: If you are unsure, you should always consult with an attorney.
Considerations for Choosing a Bolt Carrier
Considering the potential legal pitfalls, the factors influencing the selection of a bolt carrier are quite nuanced. Most civilian AR-15 owners are not interested in the complex and expensive process of acquiring and maintaining a registered machine gun. Therefore, a standard semi-auto bolt carrier is entirely appropriate for most applications.
The advantages of a full-auto carrier generally appear in very niche situations. They primarily apply to those who are building machine guns, or those who need to improve the function of a rifle in extremely abusive scenarios. In the realm of competitive shooting, where rapid, accurate follow-up shots are critical, and where rifles might be subjected to heavy firing schedules, some shooters might choose a full auto bolt carrier to help smooth out the cycle of the rifle.
When selecting a bolt carrier, factors to consider include:
- Material: Bolt carriers are typically made from steel or have been manufactured with different types of steel (like 8620 steel). This ensures long-lasting performance and resistance to wear and tear.
- Coating: The surface treatment can influence performance and durability. Some carriers are chrome-lined for easier cleaning and corrosion resistance, while others use proprietary coatings designed to reduce friction and wear.
- Brand Reputation: Reputable manufacturers often employ more stringent quality control measures and use higher-quality materials.
- Compatibility: Ensure the bolt carrier is compatible with your other AR-15 components (e.g., barrel, trigger group, buffer system).
The most critical factor is always understanding the legal implications of your configuration. If you are in any doubt, consult with a legal professional familiar with firearms laws in your jurisdiction.
Safety Precautions
Safety must always be the foremost consideration when working with firearms, including any AR-15 platform. Ensure that you have checked local regulations concerning your configuration. Before you attempt any modifications or alterations, read your instructions thoroughly and follow all the safety protocols. Always ensure the firearm is unloaded, and the magazine is removed before handling. When you alter or change any part of the gun, always ensure the gun is unloaded. When testing any alterations, especially those of the firing mechanism, it is best to do so at a gun range.
Conclusion
The AR Full Auto Bolt Carrier is a fascinating piece of engineering that plays a pivotal role in the function of a machine gun. Its unique design allows for the rapid and continuous firing that distinguishes this class of firearm. However, the legal landscape surrounding full-auto firearms demands respect, caution, and a thorough understanding of applicable laws.
In conclusion, the AR Full Auto Bolt Carrier represents a significant advancement in the AR-15’s capability. However, the significant legal restrictions and practical considerations associated with full-auto operation mean that it is not something most shooters will need. Understanding the intricacies of the BCG, the legal ramifications, and the functionality is crucial to anyone who wants to explore this aspect of the AR-15 platform. Responsible gun ownership always demands knowledge, respect for the law, and an unwavering commitment to safe handling practices. This is especially important to those who choose to venture into this niche part of the world. Always seek guidance from legal professionals or qualified gunsmiths for any modifications or questions that you may have.
Additional Resources
If you want to learn more, visit the ATF website or consult resources from the firearms industry. Remember, your safety and the safety of others depend on your understanding of these complex topics.
