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Thread: Extractor spring / insert / ring - what is the latest wisdom?

  1. #1
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    Extractor spring / insert / ring - what is the latest wisdom?

    I have read through several of the huge posts on this topic. I purchased the extractor upgrade kit (crane o-ring, HD extractor spring, black insert).

    I found it impossible install all these simultaneously in my bolt. So, I tried just using the HD spring and black insert. It was still difficult to get the bolt reassembled without tools. My bolt had problems closing on rounds sometime. I was told that it would be fine after it was broken in. I want something that works from the beginning so I finally went to just the standard spring and black insert.

    What is the current wisdom on what works best for 16" carbines (some of the threads are old)?

    Should I be looking at adding a d-fender instead?

    You can read all the posts and still come away pretty confused on what is the best approach.

  2. #2
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    If your gun has the carbine gas system use all 3. To get it installed easier use a small hose clamp and tighten it until it lines up.
    Im Shihan of Shihan Gear.

  3. #3
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    Quote Originally Posted by Shihan View Post
    If your gun has the carbine gas system use all 3. To get it installed easier use a small hose clamp and tighten it until it lines up.

    Is it possible to get too much tension on the extractor????

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    Quote Originally Posted by AllAmerican View Post
    Is it possible to get too much tension on the extractor????
    Yes,
    on guns that don't need extra extractor tension it can effect feeding. It can also cause the extractor to overpower the ejector and thus not allow the empty to come off of the bolt.

    The bolt should really be treated as a system. When upgrading the extractor/spring/insert/0-ring also check the ejector and spring. If they feel and/or look worn....replace them.

    Basically mid-length and rifle length gas system ARs don't need the O-rings/D-fenders. 5 coil springs and black inserts will work.
    Chief Armorer for Elite Shooting Sports in Manassas VA
    Chief Armorer for Corp Arms (FFL 07-08/SOT 02)

  5. #5
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    Quote Originally Posted by gotm4 View Post
    Yes,
    on guns that don't need extra extractor tension it can effect feeding. It can also cause the extractor to overpower the ejector and thus not allow the empty to come off of the bolt.

    The bolt should really be treated as a system. When upgrading the extractor/spring/insert/0-ring also check the ejector and spring. If they feel and/or look worn....replace them.

    Basically mid-length and rifle length gas system ARs don't need the O-rings/D-fenders. 5 coil springs and black inserts will work.
    Thank you Sir,
    That is kind of what I was thinking. I have the LMT bolt with spring and black o-ring, and I am guessing they know what they are doing and I don't need to add anything to the extractor. Maybe should keep a spring and o-ring for a quick backup.
    One more thing, do you think any of this can affect the headspacing????
    Last edited by AllAmerican; 06-05-08 at 07:53. Reason: Question of headspacing

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    Is a 16" barrel considered mid length?

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    Quote Originally Posted by gjj View Post
    Is a 16" barrel considered mid length?
    16" barrels can be had with CAR or midlength gas systems. Easiest way to tell is if you have plastic handguards that are 7" it's CAR, if 9" it's midlength.
    Chief Armorer for Elite Shooting Sports in Manassas VA
    Chief Armorer for Corp Arms (FFL 07-08/SOT 02)

  8. #8
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    I run 4 different carbean gas systems. Two 11.5s, a 14.5, and a 16 incher. I've never needed the O-ring or any other plumbing supplies in any of them.

    If you need a damned tool to get your extractor back in the bolt, that's too much in my opinion. Even BCM admits that the stupid O-ring isn't needed, but customers want them, so they include them.
    "You people have too much time on your hands." - scottryan

  9. #9
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    I am not a gun expert. But, I am an engineer. The thought of needing a tool to compress the spring and O ring just so I can assemble my bolt does not sit well with me.

    Under this much tension, my suspicion would be that stress would be transfered to other areas in the extractor and extractor retaining pin that could cause these parts to fail.

  10. #10
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    I personally follow the "Carbine, O-Ring, CS spring, and black Insert", "Midlength, CS spring and black insert" rule myself and so far have had no issues.

    But to be honest, I didn't have any issues before upgrading the carbine bolt, either.

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