New to the AR. Reliability upgrades?

[ColdDeadHand]

I am not a new shooter. I work on all my firearms which include a smattering of lots of platforms/actions/calibers.

My father got me a DPMS for Christmas. The lower says Cal. .223-5.56mm. Mod A-15.

Now, what I'm NOT looking for is a bunch of replies about how crappy the DPMS is. I read those threads, and thank you for the information. I have a DPMS and this will be my only AR until I get a better job, win the lottery, or until it flat-out dies.

What I AM looking for is information about upgrades/replacement parts that I could install which would enhance the reliability and perhaps the longevity of this weapon.

For example: I've read a bit of both sides of the KNS pins debate. Are DPMS pins known to be bad? Would KNS be a significant upgrade to the DPMS pins?

For another example: Are there trigger components on the DPMS that are known to have a tendency to fail? Would a new trigger group be a wise upgrade?

I guess the question is really this: If someone dropped you in a fox hole and said, "Here's a DPMS. It is the only weapon you are allowed to use. You can swap out anything except the upper, the lower or the barrel. Go fight the good fight." What would you change?

Thank you in advance,

Hal

[sammage]

First off, check the staking of the gas key and castle nut. KNS pins are snake oil, in my opinion.

[lethal dose]

Stake carrier key and castle nut, if necessary. Other then that, buy an extra bolt for backup and just shoot the gun. I wouldn't put lipstick on the pig. Save your dinero and before you know it, you can get yourself a nice tier one rifle.

[ColdDeadHand]

I'll start there guys.

[ColdDeadHand]

1) Am I correct in thinking that just about any standard bolt should fit this rifle?

2) What brand would you recommend? I would buy a complete bolt.

Thanks again,

Hal

[Iraqgunz]

Get a bolt that has been HP/MPI tested and inspected and has the correct extractor spring assembly. That will limit your choices to a few companies. I would consider replacing the LPK with a quality one from GandR or other source. I have used Stag and never had issues.

Ultimately ask yourself how much is your life worth and how important is your AR to you.

1) Am I correct in thinking that just about any standard bolt should fit this rifle?

2) What brand would you recommend? I would buy a complete bolt.

Thanks again,

Hal

[Whootsinator]

Believe it or not, Rob_s made a thread that answered EXACTLY what you're asking. Read it once or twice and then if you have any more questions, just ask here.

https://www.m4carbine.net/showthread.php?t=7376

[120mm]

I'd second reading the above thread. A free AR is a free AR. Things you can fix:

Stake the carrier key. I know folks who'd do it for cheap. Heck, if I were home I'd do it for free.

Get a better BCG (will run you between $125-$150).

buy ammo and shoot lots.

I don't see anything wrong with shooting lots of rounds through it and then replace stuff as needed.

[usmcvet]

Good advice above. Where are you located? If your in VT I could help stake your BCG. It might be GTG already. Stake your castle nut. I've had one and seen a few others twist and your gun will stop working. It is an easy fix.

I would just spend your money in ammo and shoot it.

Have fun.

http://m4carbine.net/showthread.php?t=6993

http://m4carbine.net/showthread.php?t=6994

[thermocafe]

I'll play a little Devil's Advocate, if I be permitted:

Only after proper foundational and ongoing repetitive refresher training, cultivating warrior mind-set, and ensuring weapon system reliability do you need to worry about ammunition selection. Most folks would be far better off practicing with what they have, rather than worrying about what is "best". As long as you know your what your weapon and ammo can realistically accomplish, it is all just a matter of training and shot placement. I would much rather go into battle with a guy who practices 15,000 rounds a year using generic 55 gr FMJ out of his old M16A1 than with some guy that has the latest state-of-the-art ammo and rifle, but only shoots 500 rounds a year.

-DocGKR

Please keep in mind that we have a Nation full of the latest-greatest, doohickey gizmos, and yet a vindictive homosexual committed an act of treason and in response we submit and repeal what he didn't like [DADT].

Please keep in mind that we have a Nation full of the latest-greatest, doohickey gizmos, and yet y'all cannot even say "Christmas" in many areas without attracting a vigorous response.

In the meantime, in the 1980's, Afghans with hundred-year-old Lee Enfields had the stones to stand up to the Reds - a world superpower at the time - and win.

Not intending to lecture, but seeing what is happening in the States makes me wish we would dedicate a little more time to "cultivating the warrior mindset" and not get too distracted with things that don't appear to be making a difference.

You got a DPMS? It seems that once you make the changes recommended in Rob_S' excellent post, it should be training and most importantly, rational thought, until you can get the better equipment.

If you have the stones to use that DPMS to save your life or defend your Rights, how do you suppose you'd compare to someone with a DD or other "tier one" rifle who meekly submits to an intrusion on his life, liberty or property?

Just some Devil's advocate...