Hi Folks,
I normally don't even think of straying from mil-spec with any of the parts in my ARs (except for the LMT enhanced bolt, because, let's face it, it's made by LMT). However, I am the proud owner of a 1959-production Portuguese AR-10, and through my research contacts - I am the author of the recent Collector Grade Publications book on the AR-10 - I learned that the rifle I now own has a round count through it of roughly 40,000 rounds, many in full-auto mode, and never has had a part replaced (it cost me more than I are to admit to buy a spare extractor, extractor spring, gas rings, and charging handle as spares in case I need to replace parts in the future). This has given me a profound respect for the design of the parts on this rifle. This is what pushed me to make my carriers in all my AR-15s chrome-plated, and with the LMT Enhanced Bolt has relegated my previous BCG "A-Team" of Colt Carrier/firing pin/cam pin/retaining pin and ArmaLite Bolt to the backup role.
Aside from the chrome BCG, the other main difference in parts I saw on the Portuguese AR-10 that I actually could emulate in my AR-15s was the firing pin retainer. I am not overly displeased with the standard cotter pin type used today, although I have worn out and replaced 2 in the 25,000 rounds I have put through my modern AR-10. I did notice, however, that quite a few companies are offering this part in the original solid pin with split end, just like on the early AR-15s and my Portuguese AR-10. I know the ones from KNS have mixed reviews due to the split ends breaking from installation fit problems, but I have a source that makes stainless ones, and I am seriously considering giving those a try.
Does anyone have experience or engineering insight into these, and whether they might be more durable than the standard cotter pin? Also, is there any possible downside I am potentially overlooking, like them being too stiff or hard and putting too much pressure and wear on the firing pin or carrier, for example?
Thanks for your advice
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