Help me understand buffers

[Bama Tactical]

I am putting together my first build (16" carbine). I read about buffers, H buffers, etc.... But I do not understand the difference or how to know which to use.

Thanks in advance.

[markm]

I've never heard of anyone recommending the Standard Carbine buffer. For a 16 inch carbine, and H buffer would be perfect.

[Robb Jensen]

16" midlength = CAR buffer
16" carbine length = H buffer

[Dave L.]

16" midlength = CAR buffer
16" carbine length = H buffer

Using a FA carrier correct?

[Robb Jensen]

Using a FA carrier correct?

You should run a M16 carrier whenever possible.

[R1pper]

Perfect timing for this thread to come up. Is a FA carrier considered a part that would make a weapon FA (I know I would need a different LPK to make it select fire). I ask this b/c the People Republic of Massachussetts is really strict on what you can and cant have , im pretty sure you can not have any componet that would mek the weapon selct fire without a MG lisence. Also what are the advantages of having a FA carrier?

[RD62]

16" midlength = CAR buffer
16" carbine length = H buffer

GotM4,

I am running the H2 buffer that came in my kit to convert my ban telestock to a post ban that I bought from ADCO when the ban sunset. It's in my RRA middy and thus far hasn't given me any problems with WWB, American Eagle, Federal XM193, Black Hills, etc. I'm of the opinion that if it ain't broke don't fix it, but do you feel I'd gain anything by using the CAR buffer in my Middy as you suggest above, or feel I am loosing anything by running the H2? I'm curious to see what you have to say.

-RD62

[Robb Jensen]

GotM4,

I am running the H2 buffer that came in my kit to convert my ban telestock to a post ban that I bought from ADCO when the ban sunset. It's in my RRA middy and thus far hasn't given me any problems with WWB, American Eagle, Federal XM193, Black Hills, etc. I'm of the opinion that if it ain't broke don't fix it, but do you feel I'd gain anything by using the CAR buffer in my Middy as you suggest above, or feel I am loosing anything by running the H2? I'm curious to see what you have to say.

-RD62

A H2 buffer on a midlength won't hurt anything but could make it short stroke (sounds like yours is running fine) it may get a little sluggish when dirty or dry or with weak ammo. Ideally you should run a CAR buffer as the 2" longer gas system doesn't need the reduced bolt velocity that the H2 provides. If it runs leave it in there and keep it well oiled. You also won't need a Crane 0-ring on the extractor spring.

[Mark/MO]

I'm sure this is going to be a stupid question but how do you determine what buffer you have? I don't notice any markings on mine. Are different ones marked somehow or is it strictly a weight thing?

[Robb Jensen]

I'm sure this is going to be a stupid question but how do you determine what buffer you have? I don't notice any markings on mine. Are different ones marked somehow or is it strictly a weight thing?

CAR aren't marked and weigh 2.9oz
H have a 'H' stamped into them on the face of the buffer and weigh 3.8oz
H2 have 'H2' stamped into them on the face of the buffer and weigh 4.57oz
H3 have 'H' and some are unmarked and weigh 5.6oz