AR15 Bolt Carrier Group Coatings & Finishes - The Good & Bad

AR15 Bolt Carrier Group Coatings & Finishes - The Good & Bad
ETA:
For those asking for BCG recommendations, I stopped doing that a long time ago.
I used to make recommendations and inevitably, it almost always bit me in the rear. When I make suggestions and there are product issues, people blamed me instead of the manufacturer.
The only quality I can guarantee is a BCG that I put my hands on, which includes inspection, gauging, and testing.
The point of my videos are not to tell you who to buy from or what to buy,, the point is to teach you what to look at regardless of the manufacturer.
There are many shills on the internet pushing products because they are paid to do so. I'm not monetized and I don't take advertising for my content.
I appreciate my viewers, but if you are here to look for a product endorsement, you will always be disappointed.
The only things I will generally promote are tools and gauges. Again, I make no money from those endorsements.

[@SchooloftheAmericanRifle]

For those asking for BCG recommendations, I stopped doing that a long time ago. I used to make recommendations and inevitably, it almost always bit me in the rear. When I make suggestions and there are product issues, people blamed me instead of the manufacturer. The only quality I can guarantee is a BCG that I put my hands on, which includes inspection, gauging, and testing. The point of my videos are not to tell you who to buy from or what to buy,, the point is to teach you what to look at regardless of the manufacturer. There are many shills on the internet pushing products because they are paid to do so. I'm not monetized and I don't take advertising for my content. I appreciate my viewers, but if you are here to look for a product endorsement, you will always be disappointed. The only things I will generally promote are tools and gauges. Again, I make no money from those endorsements.

[@seanwhite304]

That's awesome that you actually do that . When you do show your actual Carbines you use . Very few people ca. Actually tell what parts are in there . I cant tell all of the parts but I can most of the parts

[@ThePatriotParadox]

It's best the way you JUST give your thoughts on different aspects, but I have missed these small informative videos for everyone to see!

[@LRRPFco52]

Some of the top name manufacturers have let crap parts out the door before. I agree 100% with the approach of not trusting anything until I get my hands on it, and have been saying that for years. It’s why I wish that other top tier companies would sell parts kits so you can QC what goes into the gun yourself. The hardest thing from a home build perspective though is press-fitting gas blocks. Most of the after-market gas blocks are meant for slip-fit DIY’ers, which is not good at all for gas system efficiency.

[@ThePatriotParadox]

@@LRRPFco52 what's the best way to go about it? A clamp style???? Do u have a link or anything, I got a cheaper gas block and it's just a headache

[@LRRPFco52]

@@ThePatriotParadox I like press-fitting mine, using an undersized gas block (.749” ID for .750” journals). You can use some heavier drill presses to do the job of seating the block with the mechanical power of the press, but you really have to have your dimensions down for alignment. You can send out to a shop if you don’t have tools. Clamp-on is one method. KAC has a really cool gas block attachment method with the SR-15 Mod 2 I think it was, but the gas block journal is threaded up front, and there’s an indexing notch at 12 o’clock for the block to clock into. You then install a lock ring that compresses against the face of the gas block as it threads onto the journal. Q copied that on the Honey Badger if you look at it. Maybe they licensed it, because it looks just like the KAC method. For DIY route, you can bed the gas block with high temp sealant, but I have still experienced leakage using that method.

[@hedgeearthridge6807]

I work in Quality at an engine factory. Take it for what it's worth, but I'd recommend for any BCG manufacturer, just stick to 1 thing and do it insanely well. You won't stand out in the extremely competitive market by offering every kind of coating, you will stand out by offering a product that's better than the competition; having a better reputation. Do like the Japanese: continuously improve your manufacturing process and focus on quality, and the costs will naturally go down, giving you a price and value advantage too. Before long your BCG will be better and cheaper than most of your competition, and that will sell hotter than those offering mediocre BCGs in every coating.

[@seanoneil277]

"Just stick to 1 thing and do it insanely well." Exactly. I have seen many different businesses ruin a lot of their original promise by trying to multi-task instead of focusing on core competency(ies). The history of many big American businesses from the 20th Century which are almost invisible today, it's full of companies who tried to be too many things in too many niches. It's similar with firearms. A guy can "collect" a bunch, but if he doesn't know how to use one with competence, he should consider himself a collector and not a shooter. Even though he has many firearms. He's a collector not a shooter, and any real shooter will see the fancy gun collection may be nice to look at but it doesn't shoot itself.

[@denmanfite3156]

But but but we need newfangled red and blue colored bullshit to sell to the cringe crowd! 🤣🤣

[@elitetrader5468]

Reminds me of Sig Sauer. Their product line is way too bloated. That's why their QC is shit.

[@abolishtheatfandrepealthenfa]

Sounds like describing microbest

[@gdaddy7351]

Kinda like the good folks at your local Chick-fil-A !!!

[@Dukenukem777]

What an excellent video. Before finding your channel, I was of the popular opinion that “an AR is an AR”. I now understand the art and some of the science in the elegance of the Stoner design. Thank you, Chad.

[@LRRPFco52]

Most AR-15 look-alikes are Vismod-15s, with not a single part compliant with the TDP.

[@BlakeCWong]

The BCG at 12:50 is a Geissele REBCG

[@rickyray4111]

Thanks.

[@illestdomer2005]

Very expensive for a reason!

[@stevev4057]

Very helpful Thank you.

[@9301robodoc]

I am a 35 year retired engineer and I find your videos very informative and accurate. Thank you for taking the time to share your extensive knowledge.

[@kylesprengeler5965]

This dude prob already forgot more info on this platform than i will ever know. Mad respect to this instructor!

[@preoer]

20,000 Rifles is a crazy number that puts your experience into perspective.

[@paulthecpa2717]

That’s what I told my wife when she asked “who is this guy?” I said outside of Eugene Stoner, the most knowledgeable man on the AR15, that’s all. 😂

[@350volvo]

I run Colt or BCM BCG's in all my guns. I love this channel, learned alot over the years and have checked all of my AR platforms. Thanks for shareing this knowledge!

[@denniswerner1670]

Microbest Phosphate chrome lined BCGs are quickly becoming my favorite.

[@rolling60s45]

This man knows what he’s talking about

[@StandorFall13]

Yes Phosphate chrome lined is all you need and Microbest does it well. I run a phosphate SIONICS WEAPON SYSTEMS

[@mason69636]

@@StandorFall13SOLGW Phosphate/Chrome lined 🤌🏻

[@DeezBitsses]

Microbest has a proprietary tumbling operation that facilitates darn good Chrome Plating coverage. No heat treat scales, etc that disrupt Chrome adhesion/coverage.

[@nathanleonard2245]

Always my go to

[@balldip]

I haven’t watched the video yet but I just wanted to thank you for all of the videos you’ve created. I went from a newbie with no knowledge to someone that’s semi competent:)

[@aquablaster86]

I bought a Sionics patrol rifle zero back in 2016 and they use the NP3 coating on their bcgs. 7yrs and thousands of rounds later and never had a problem.

[@hiwayhighway9925]

And so much easier getting rid of carbon.

[@alpham777]

Been running a Aero nickel boron bolt for about 5 years now and about 10 or 11k rounds in so far so good. I don't over clean it though ( cleans up with a paper towel ) and usually lube it with a cold weather grease since I live in the arctic.

[@robsp32]

Yeh I mean, in reality any one of these coatings could be shit with the wrong manufacturer, including chrome. My brand new Ruger AR556 came with a BCG that isnt even staked right, right out of the box.

[@RickyJohnson-nt1km]

Used white lum grease little slick as he'll oil.burns off hot rounds

[@illestdomer2005]

Have the same in a build I made for a buddy before I learned that apparently NiB is the worst coating 😂 It has been running fine for him so far but well below your round count.

[@austinicholas]

Same here. Not a single issue. I run mine dry.

[@Quality_Guru]

Every time I visit your channel I feel as I'm pulling up a seat and listening to the professor impart his wisdom on those eager to learn. All that is missing is me taking notes for a test afterwards. I totally enjoy your videos. Thanks for sharing your knowledge with all of us. God bless you!

[@billpiech7564]

Awesome video. I'm a retired manufacturing engineer and can relate to all of your comments. Thank you.

[@CaptainCreampie69]

Its great to see you and Chris Bartocci come to the same conclusion on chrome BCG. Between you two, if you say something is a shitter, it most certainly is. Now all the chrome BCG are sold out. For real though, thanks for your opinion!

[@FliGuyRyan]

Sir, you've explained bolt carrier group (BCG) coatings and tolerances better than I've ever heard it explained. Also, I had no idea how the bolt actually functioned until you showed the cutaway and explained that. Thank you for an INCREDIBLE video! Now, I have to go cope with the fact that the Faxon Lightweight BCG is nitride coated 9310, and then cry myself to sleep...

[@lonesoldier2485]

2022 me: looks at PSA's Black Friday sale, sees a Tool Craft NiB BCG, buys one for new upper. 2023 me: has time to shoot rifle with new BCG, and then watches this video, and now bangs head against desk.

[@Gnolomweb]

Shot it yet? How's it going?

[@lonesoldier2485]

@@Gnolomweb haven’t shot it recently but worked like the old BCG it replaced.

[@Grim821]

The issues with NiB are with the application, not the coating itself. The only time I had issues with my NiB BCG were when it was brand new at freezing/below freezing temperatures. It had some extraction issues. NiB seems to be very unforgiving if the manufacturer is crap. Toolcraft did a good job so far.

[@ryanwalters9412]

Never an issue with my PSA nickel boron.. but I bought it 3-4? years ago and have only like 900-1k rounds over that stretch in my suppressed sbr.. I also keep it almost dripping after I clean it with remoil after every range/ranch trip. I did have to get a heavier buffer for the gun when I put the can on it (certainly not the bcg's fault). Light mags were black from the magwell up and had an occasional failure, but not one since I did the buffer swap about 500 booms back. Not supporting nickel boron, but sharing my experience with the one I bought to try out. Haven't noticed a difference from the 'standard' ones that come in PSA's kits

[@illestdomer2005]

@@ryanwalters9412opposed to an AGB? I feel like that is the much better solution over trying to address it further down the system.

[@rjinmi]

I am SO GLAD I found this channel! A wealth of knowledge clearly derived from years of hands on experience. Thank you for sharing it with us all!

[@nurse-dude]

Ultimate lesson here is the quality and QC of the manufacture makes all the difference If its a junk part with poor tolerances, no volume of phosphating/chroming can save it, and if its a good quality mfg who pays attention to QC, NiB can be just fine. phosphating is really hard to beat, they have been doing it forever so it's become well established process. Ive been experimenting and trying various coating as of late myself. Really seems like chroming is becoming a lost art in favor of the PVD stuff.

[@seanoneil277]

General chromium plating operations declined for two reasons in the 1970s. One was industrial -- Vietnam war demands stopped, and auto and motorcycle makers shifted from chrome bumpers, fenders, door handles, mirrors etc to non-chrome. These two industrial hits caused a lot of volume drops, which caused shops to close. EPA creation and related national enviro legislation etc put a big whack on chromium operations because they have a fair amount of toxics in both the process and the residue. Between industrial forces and enviro restrictions, chrome plating shrunk tremendously by the mid- to late 80s. I had to learn all this when I worked with a chromium plating outfit whose work had to be to a certain mfr spec, and how hard it was to find a chrome outfit that could do it. This was mid-90s and back then the chrome platers were mostly in Detroit with a secondary cluster in Chicago. Where they are today, who knows? Very few exist, and the craftsmen who worked in plating for decades all retired or passed away.

[@nurse-dude]

@@seanoneil277 Would make sense why the PVD coating and all are popular now. I do wonder if the lack of popularity of Ni-B is in partly due to the marketing and the resulting issues of failed claims

[@seanoneil277]

@@nurse-dude I would suspect that it's just opportunism. Many new firearms bought since 2020 began. Which means many new and naive folks easily swayed by cosmetics and marketing lists of "features." I swear 90% of internet discussion of firearms is about "features" in marketing materials, rather than how the doggone things actually work, in regular use & not just the annual trip to shoot a few rounds. If an opportunistic young(ish) person has plenty of $$ and a slick marketing approach, he can create a nifty new "must have" item that is only "must have" in the eyes of his profit-making expectations. And those expectations may not have anything at all to do with real world utility of the thing he's selling.

[@megaman010391]

I've had a Nib nitride BCG from AIM Surplus. Have 3500 rounds through it, definitely has some wear but nothing catastrophic. Still works and rings are good. I do keep it extra lubed. I'll see how it does when I reach 5000.

[@CarlPapa88]

​@@seanoneil277Your statement in your 2nd paragraph. That's why I'm here before I buy anything.

[@Will_ONeill]

Quite pricey he says holding the Sandcutter, I think rediculousky expensive is more like it.

[@brrrt7623]

100 bucks cheaper than Giessele and 50-75 more than a wilson or bcm. Alot more reasonable than alot of their stuff.

[@DDadams0]

@@brrrt7623 You can't get them at msrp. That's the problem. They sell for a thousand over msrp at minimum.

[@patrickbowman8841]

@@brrrt7623please show me where to get a sandcutter for 350 bucks.

[@aarondavis5632]

​@@patrickbowman8841centurian arms make a sandcutter hard chromed

[@thatcrazyfamilynextdoor2762]

😂😂😂 THATS EXACTLY WHAT I THOUGHT. Love his videos but if you know anything about parts you know what he is saying without saying

[@TRaider66]

One reason you’ve ranked phosphate high was because the lubricant lasts longer. I swapped mine out because it soaked up all the powder along with the lubricant. For Nickel boron/NP3 etc. The slicker the surface, the less dirty and less friction they cause which means they’ll require less lube? What I got from the video is IF the coatings/treatment thickness was accounted for in the final measurements, and they staked gas keys using the correct grade screws, ONLY THEN would they be superior to regular old phosphate.

[@TheRykoo]

One of the most informative videos on BCGs I've ever seen, thank you so much for all the information as I thought Nickle Boron was one of the very best for the price and performance. I haven't personally come across any issues with them yet but you've certainly convinced me that you've been around the block a time or two and you know what you're talking about. The future will hold some different mindsets when purchasing BCGs now.

[@m1garandman]

My understanding is they went to phosphate over chrome carrier coating because the chrome was so much harder than the phosphate finish that it caused excessive wear on uppers when they had grit and dirt in the mechanism.

[@crypto14]

I heard someone say NiB is bad before and didn’t want to believe it, it’s a shame. Thanks for the info!

[@N7mudkip]

I wish I had seen this before buying a PSA/Toolcraft NiB. Granted it’s worked great but I barely have 1000 rounds on it. Will be checking out traditional bolts now..

[@crypto14]

@@N7mudkip a NiB is still well good, it just isn’t the best. Don’t feel bad about it, just replace it when they wear out

[@Grim821]

​@crypto14 it's not the coating that's the issue. The only bad part of NiB itself is it's cosmetic tarnishing. The actual application of the coating and manufacture is the crucial factor. Too many manufacturers cheap out.

[@austinicholas]

Comes down to manufacturing. Got at least 6 cases through one, no lube, and zero wear. Never had an issue. One bad experience doesn't equate to bad.

[@platinumcontent9]

was literally scouring the internet for this information. Quite difficult to find something credible. Thank you for this knowledge.

[@johnw4999]

I appreciate your videos and tremendous effort in making them. As a retired combat Infantryman, I personally never had an issue w the military BCGs. Over the years, I’ve been skeptical of gimmicky BCGs. The only one I bought was a NP3 coated one to run in my old MK18 SBR with a M42000 silencer. Turned out to be an awesome BCG. The SBR and silencer is extremely overgassed and a extraordinarily heavy fouling gun, but ran reliably over 6 months and over 1k rds suppressed w no maintenance. I’ve since moved on to more efficient systems, lol. I’m trying the Super Duty BCGs in two of their firearms, and so far, so good w limited rds through them. Otherwise, yes, the phosphate and chrome BCG is the gold standard.

[@muddyhotdog4103]

Never had an issue with phosphate.. chrome is in the right spots and it holds on to lube better in the other areas in the outside phosphated areas.

[@hardcharger67]

I was thinking of those myself, I don't think the "Nanoweapon coating" was mentioned in the vid? I actually just picked one up myself, a complete SD upper that is with their NW BCG and am very much interested to see how it will preform, especially suppressed.

[@floorpizza8074]

@@hardcharger67 While it wasn't mentioned by name specifically in the video, the BCG at 12:50 is a Geissel REBCG that has their "Nanoweapon" coating. He is careful not to state the manufacturer, but does comment that it's "a very good BCG."

[@Ben-Wah]

TiN coatings... I remember when they came out, and the selling point was extreme wear resistance. Talking to the people who offered the coating service, they felt that the addition to the dimensions from that coating was so small that there didn't have to be any dimensional changes to the part being coated for general applications. (read: non-NIST stuff) I knew one now-deceased machinist who used to take low-cost imported HSS drill-bit sets, get them TiN coated, and put them into hard use. He was astounded at the life of those TiN coated sets. This was a guy who had no problem paying big-bucks for Starrett and Brown & Sharpe precision tools. Having said the above, is TiN suited to gas system temperatures? It definitely would be spectacular with wear resistance, but against the inside of an aluminum upper is it really called for? I'm thinking that Colt got it right the first time.

[@SlimSlashie]

I'm a materials science engineer. Fancy word for metallurgist... I was thinking the same thing buddy. If your bolt is bulletproof, no pun intended, then it puts ALL the wear on the receiver. The weaker metal always yields to the stronger one. Always. Though just typing that, I realize the conundrum of, well heck, every bolt is steel and every receiver is alum, so... I guess it's moot. Harder steel v softer steel, it's still steel on alum. The steel will always win. I suppose the only question left is, just how fast does this harder steel wear away the aluminum. It's be an interesting experiment to be honest. You got me thinking. Thanks.

[@paullevins5448]

Very instructional. You helped me make up my mind about going for one of those Nickel Boron bolt carriers. My original works well as it is. Goes back to the old saying " if it's not broke ,dont fix it. Saved me $200.00. Thank you.

[@Whitefeather83]

Great break down on finishes. Took me years to figure that out. I love my sionics np3 bcg. Mike from solgw's was a big help on that choice.

[@bhenry3550]

We created a coating for BCG's that ran 8000+ rounds w. no cleaning, no lubricants after initial installation and is only Nanometers thick so no dimensional allowance for coating is needed . It includes chromium in the coating alloys . It can be put on any component of the BCG ( or left off ) , applied over most other coatings and is cheaper than the " bling " coatings . The coating remained intact and functional after the 8000+ rounds & was put in other platforms and run some more . i.e. It works .

[@KyleKalevra]

Someone with a Twitter account should send this to the CEO of every manufacturer in the industry. Another great video. Thank you

[@anonymousdude6493]

This is the most unbiased video i have seen in quite some time. Please keep up the good work. Their is a shortage of good information out there. LMK if I can help.

[@jrossnjax7]

Wow! I'm shocked, I learned more from this video than any other video on KZbin! Nice video, nice explanation and side-cut demonstration. I recognize many of those and I'm shocked.

[@merdith6]

I usually get the toolcraft nitride bcg no issues so far. I have one nickel boron bolt carrier and it discolors a lot but works fine. I would have never guessed that the phosphate ones are typically better thank you for the information

[@rsilvers129]

Your primary argument against Nickel Boron was that it adds too much to the dimensions and makes for out of spec parts. I was Director of R&D at AAC / Remington and specified the design of the MPW rifle bolt carrier groups. All of the parts were manufactured to custom dimensions to account for the coating thickness, then all of the CMM and gauging tests were done on the final parts. This was all accounted for. Remington Military Products Division test fired 10 of the rifles to 50,000 rounds with zero malfunctions. But yes, most, and maybe even all other companies were just coating off the shelf parts and adding thickness. We wouldn’t have ever done that. It’s flat out unacceptable.

[@RickyJohnson-nt1km]

Mines a supper slick Risa nickel boron bolt from brokeing arrow Oklahoma is us a good to go bolt I lk white grease on um thank you sir

[@angeldesigns1385]

I have a couple of nickel boron’s from walker defense research and they have been great but this did persuade me to gauge it compared to my Daniel Defense (phosphate) and a bushmaster phosphate and no difference in diameter. I’m not sure how long manufacturers have been applying NB, but it very well may have been an issue in the past before finding and correcting the issues. but that’s just a random guess because once again I really don’t know.

[@smpinkerman]

This is the first video of yours I’ve watched. Can’t wait to get into more!!! Thanks for taking the time to educate us!!

[@HelenKellerDenier]

Sharps Rifle Co. XPG in DLC is my go to. Have one with over 6000 rounds through (not a ton but not nothin) and it's just as reliable as the day I bought it. It almost seems to be smoother over time.

[@crypto1300]

Aloha from Hawaii's 2A community 🤙🏾

[@SchooloftheAmericanRifle]

Keep up the good fight there.

[@GlassWolfLH]

TiN, ZrN, and DLC are all PVD coatings. I think what you are getting at, is something I've been telling people for a while. The BCG needs to be machined and finished specifically for the coating it uses, based on the thickness of that coating on the substrate. Something like a Chrome lining is going to be thicker than a PVD coating, which is only about 2 microns thick. That coating thickness makes a big difference in mechanical efficiency and tolerances. There are other serious issues with NiB coatings, by the way, like hydrogen embrittlement in the coating process. NiB really is garbage.

[@SchooloftheAmericanRifle]

I segregated them because the black DLC type finishes tend to be more consistent and better finished than the more "bling" examples (polished, and gold).

[@absolutelynonameslef]

Hydrogen embrittlement is not an issue, as long as the plater performs the relief bake at the right temp and time.

[@seanoneil277]

@@absolutelynonameslef With "as long as" being the crucial phrase there. Consumers mostly are left assuming that relief bake was done properly.

[@Georgewilliamherbert]

@@seanoneil277 Unless you have a Rockwell C Scale hardness tester and Charpy notch impact tester lying around your house. But when the question about quality becomes “just trust us” and you need a metallurgist shop to tell for sure, is it a good choice?

[@absolutelynonameslef]

@@seanoneil277 correct. Embrittlement is the biggest concern when the steel is in tension, which a BCG is not. Impact strength is probably the most important consideration for a BCG. I'm not really sure how HE affects impact strength but should look into it.

[@ScottWaa]

Thank you so much for these videos! I appreciate that you stay away from brand names, talk facts and speak from experience.

[@caseymacpherson821]

Thank you for taking the time to make these videos. It definitely helps me understand what’s important. It’s an expensive series since getting the tools is a cost, but it’s piece of mind!

[@thelastlatchkeykid8466]

I watch these videos over and over. Love this channel.

[@starxlord9856]

I do wish you would have included company names but I understand why you didn’t bc people do take edits and words out of context. I would love to see a lineup of your favorite companies or some that you stand behind the most for us average joes to help us buy solid units from reputable companies!

[@seanoneil277]

So many people continue asking for this despite Chad repeatedly saying he doesn't and won't do it. If you have critical thinking skills you can use Chad's SOTAR videos to determine which parts are worth assembling. There's no need for him to give you a "favorites" list. Honestly such requests seem like they come from children who want to brag online that they own one of Chad's "favorites."

[@billanderson3192]

I sure learned a lot. I always thought nickel was great! You live and learn! Thanks for the video.

[@terryboone3333]

The first thing that i changed when i bought my first ar was the bolt carrier group. One of the most important parts in the firearm ,in my opinion next to the barrel.

[@muddyhotdog4103]

Tbh, if you bought a quality ar15 then it more than likely came with a quality bcg.. There was probably no reason to change it out. Otherwise you just stuck a nice bcg in a poor quality rifle?

[@seanoneil277]

@@muddyhotdog4103 Yeah I would say if the original BCG ran the rifle properly, save the "better" one for later in the same rifle, or as a 1st piece in a 2d rifle. While the BCG is important, that doesn't mean an OEM spec'd BCG is trash. If I was going to spend pirate booty on my just-bought AR, I'd be improving the trigger or barrel first. Not the BCG. Not unless the BCG has failed in some way.

[@Sryofcrv1]

This kinda blew my mind, I used to be a big advocate for NiBo due to their ease to clean. Someone recently talked me out of using them due to some kind of issues with the coating cracking/chipping or something of that sort. I went back to chrome lined Phosphate bolts for the time being. Really good video man, I appreciate you educating all of us.

[@SlickSlack4pac]

The 2 bolt carriers that he praised are from Sionics Weapons Systems. Great BCGs at a great price.

[@austinicholas]

All comes down to manufacturing. Been running one for about 10 years. Never an issue.

[@C_oprator89]

So good SOTAR Is back baby!!

[@jacobdelgado7343]

Always learning something new when i watch one of your videos

[@richardbarber4380]

Thanks for your videos. The 1st time I watched one I realized I knew jack nothing about what I thought I did. Been subscribed ever since.

[@rybaneightsix5085]

Reconfirming the hell out of my URGI black Friday purchase. Thank you for all of this great information you put out, showing us exactly why some companies aren't worth giving your money to.

[@dororo3118]

Oh how iv missed videos like this.

[@dancarter7009]

Was looking forward to this video since you announced it, not disappointed! Thank you again for all the information! Keep up the great work brother & look forward to the next one!

[@bigmacfullerton7870]

The reason I bought a Windham Weaponry rifle is because it came with a phosphate coated, chrome lined BCG, chrome lined and properly staked gas key and a chrome lined barrel for under $800. I was very sad to see that WW just went out of business. They made good stuff at a fair price

[@robertmaybeth3434]

...no doubt, when I shopped for my M4gery if it didn't have the chrome lined bore it was out of the running. That is the bare minimum an AR rifle needs to have to be seriously considered. A lot of people know that the first M-16's sent to the army in Vietnam DID NOT have a chrome bore, or even a chrome chamber and they proceeded to jam, in the field, like nobody's business. Lack of a nail", or in this case, chrome bore, cost many US soldiers and Marines their lives. This happened because A) stoner said the army never specified chromed bores and B) at the time (early 1960's) nobody had tried to chrome bores that small before, so nobody knew how to do it, (not even the "experts" at Colt) so the M-16's didn't get that until years later when they should have had it from the get-go!

Didn't know they went under. That sucks.

[@DeezBitsses]

Happy to report that Windham Weaponry is back

[@adamg574]

Thanks for the in-depth knowledge transfer, helped me decide to get another BCM phosphate BCG instead of a toolcraft DLC coated BCG I was looking at.

[@ylismsa]

This was very educational as usual. Paid a close attention to the bolt carrier of my new rifle while watching. Not knowing much anything from before as it is my first actual rifle caliber weapon, the others mostly being 9 mm. The bolt carrier appears to be phosphate chrome version and the gas key looks to be well staked. I haven't had any problems so far. It wasn't the cheapest, but neither unbearably expensive, though there was a premium from overseas import. Good to know it's probably not a complete crap purchase!

[@liggerstuxin1]

20:54 that nickel boron carrier with the phosphate coat is LWRCI. Seems like a good balance for the bolt and the carrier keys.

[@Daniel7.62]

You just answered so many questions I’ve had by comparing all the different types. Thanks

[@NormanPOlt]

Never having an issue with any of my BCGs, I do appreciate the fine direction to actually USE lubrication for any NIB BCGs! Never could figure out exactly why one of the obvious benefits of MOST of the coatings (providing a surface that was more carbon-resistent & easier to clean) would lead the manufacturers to claim there was, therefore, a good reason to run them dry...? After watching your video on lubrication (1st thing I did was whip up a batch!) and seeing your technique my mind was immediately made up. With 20K's worth of ARs under your belt, you are the one to refer & defer to! P.S. Perhaps it didn't make the mess that the video of an AR being lifted from a tub of synthetic oil and immediately fired, but your video definitely made a believer out of me. Thanks for the great work!

[@hiwayhighway9925]

Just keep off firing pin area.

[@RickyJohnson-nt1km]

Yes true got a Risa nickel boron from brokeing arrow Oklahoma 10000 plus rounds no problems at all he s wrong bro do not believe all.he see here most doubt no jack

[@DZ4295DBW]

I have a Radian EBCG. Did all the measurements and tests on it, and it passed. Wasn't the most efficient but it was still in the efficient category. ^_^

[@DPaulk87]

This video just saved me from purchasing a nitride BCG for my first blank slate build. Thank you so much!

[@AAAA-qr9xk]

Ive had luck with WMDs line of Ni-B parts so far, but I also build out my carrier vs a fully coated one. I think my ultimate combo would be a Phos carrier w/ chrome lining, chrome bolt and gas key,

[@adamhearts9195]

I run a wmd beast with the nib x bcg,,, I was wondering how much of an upgrade to a np3 be? or even worth it. my current bcg nib x has about 300 rounds through it,,, I kind of assume it'll be a pointless upgrade at this point,,, maybe I should wait for it to break or something... maybe go for an upgraded buffer tube spring and weight 1st.? edit. sheshh,, nib x. is all the way at the bottom of the list. I might be feel for the nib x gimmick... or is he hating? 🤔😅😂. hows WMDs quality control 👀

[@AAAA-qr9xk]

​@@adamhearts9195 I have not had good luck with NP3 personally, I had 2 NP3 bolts flake and the 3 camp pins I have coated with it had the finish wear off instantly so I cant say as I am impressed so far

[@adamhearts9195]

@@AAAA-qr9xk and your wmd bolt has held up just fine? Maybe there's a big disparity between different manufacturers of the nickel boron bolts,, I went to a few different videos and a lot of people that have the wmd bolt say great things about it

[@AAAA-qr9xk]

@@adamhearts9195 so far I have had no issues and they are very responsive with any questions you may have too

[@adamhearts9195]

@@AAAA-qr9xk yeah I live in the same city that they're based out of so I got mine from in the store actually and they answered all my questions,,, I do notice they pick up the phone quickly to whenever you call

[@jamesnapier107]

Awesome vid SOTAR. I prefer to run a phosphate coated bcg. I run BCM and have never had any issues with them.

[@Wonderkidd863]

Fantastic video…been waiting on this one! Really great stuff Chad. I’ve seen a lot of these, so let’s see how many I know. Chrome: One of those is a DD and/or Microbest (I think) 🤔 Phosphate: 1 is Sionics (OCKS), 1 is LMT EBCG (although I’ve seen variants of that with phosphate extractor) In The Bag: KAC (Sandcutter) All the Things 😁 NP3: Sionics (I have one and the inside looks the same…NP3 coating is thin so it can show more tooling marks) Nano: Geissele REBCG Nitride: The one with off center staking looks like the CMC Suppressor Optimized BCG 😱 NiB: 1 is Lantac Enhanced, the last one is LWRC. I agree with you on design of carrier key…if they offered it in phosphate/chrome, I’d grab one. 👍

[@blazeharding574]

We had nickel boron bolts in our H&K 416s. We shot 2,000 rounds a month for 5 years and never really had problems with the bolts. I loved how easy they were to clean compared to any M4 I ever had. I have heard other people in the industry mention their opposition to NiB bolts, but we ran the hell out of them and rarely had any malfunctions. I know not all bolts are made the same, but man was it nice not having to spend an hour scraping carbon after every range day.

[@RickyJohnson-nt1km]

Yes there gtg he's wrong mines a Risa from brokeing arrow Oklahoma it's so slick running on white grease ha no problems at all 10000 rds plus. He doubt no what he's taking about as u will see tons different remarks on here do the math your self not all company s fi same texting

[@RickyJohnson-nt1km]

True there gtg bro

[@bjolly8924]

This is good news. I just received brand new toolcraft NiB 7.62x39 BCG. I'd still like to have a set of those gauges he uses in another video to check all the specs.

[@kenibnanak5554]

Interesting. I will recheck my gun with a Nickel Boron bolt. Haven't had any issues yet, but maybe there is one I hadn't noticed with light use.

[@abolishtheatfandrepealthenfa]

Watched this at work and again at home since I couldn't pay full attention while working. Great video

[@JeezUriah]

Very educational. Very well worth watching if you want to learn more about the gas management in this direct impingement system of the AR

[@luckeypolishing]

I think the piston BCGs are less effected by finish’s mainly because no gas pressure passes through the bolt, so any finish of your choice with proper tolerances stays reliable and tends to stay cleaner too .

[@GetMeThere1]

Have you made a video discussing how to get an idea of how well your BCG is running based on observable PERFORMANCE, instead of measurements and gauges? Using, for example, ejection angles, etc.? I'd really be interested in such a discussion from you.

[@bidenisatraitor7633]

Gauges don't lie!

[@GetMeThere1]

@@bidenisatraitor7633 Unfortunately, I don't HAVE gauges; but I CAN observe performance.

[@waynedewey5521]

OUCH! Lesson learned. I thought NiBor was good stuff. Thanks for educating us.

[@Mikolt1911]

The early LWRC was NP3 coated. Now they use nickel boron coated. I have an early bolt carrier. Runs great. New one tends not to run as well.

[@ralphday4842]

Much respect for this guy for concealing manufacturers and not dumping on anyone. 👍

[@seanoneil277]

I'm pretty sure if you go through the back catalog of SOTAR videos you will see that he never dumps on anyone. He only tells what he knows from experience sorting out problems customers had, or which he had himself. You can learn a crazy amount about AR function and what role various critical parts play, just by spending time watching old SOTAR videos. I've assembled several thanks to the wisdom I've learned from Chad & SOTAR videos, and each has run like a good Swiss watch thanks to paying attention to crucial featues in the various SOTAR videos I've watched. A true internet treasure.

[@slipknnnot]

You can tell he was shitting in the sharps, and lantac lmao

[@uzomad]

Absolutely not. Without naming names and models this video is useless for 90% of people.

[@bgilton79]

I’m so happy I found your channel. I’ve learned so much in just a few videos. I’m wanting to build an AR. I’ve owned several but have never built one so I’m trying to learn everything I can before I start ordering parts

[@robsdeviceunknown]

I know it makes more sense for you to do things the way you do. But for beginners like myself who is forced to learn this stuff because of bad experiences, sometimes just want to know what to get. I really have no desire to be a armorer. I just want to know your view on what gun parts I should be getting from which manufacturers. I have no desier to go out and buy 4 or 5 to see which one i like the best, nor the skill to even know. But that's just me. I understand why you do not name names. So I will search by chrome/chrome lined BCG's and hope for the best.

[@alexdrockhound9497]

Thats pretty fair feedback. I think since he's used to teaching armorer classes he can overlook this a lot.

[@texas0bserver729]

The point is to take this advice into consideration, and you can then go to other reputable sources to research what brand/model you want to buy. You don't have to guess or hope. Gather info from as many sources as your brain can handle.

[@badluck1365]

Microbest/Daniel Defense chrome, Sionics NP3.

[@stevef4930]

I’m not an expert but I believe BCM is a decent place to start when it comes to bolt carrier groups. At least the “internet” will lead you in that direction as a gold standard of sorts.

[@bidenisatraitor7633]

Buy a colt bcg. End of story

[@revvyishonisd5027]

I thought the un-shrouded firing pin was an extra step by colt in ensuring their civilian rifles were incompatible with m16 parts. The rear cut was to make it incompatible with the auto sear and the firing pin shroud cut was to make it incompatible with the auto hammer. If I remember correctly.

[@robbywoolums9071]

I’ve always wondered why so many high end companies will do what they do with regards to the BCG surface finsih. Sometimes it seems counterintuitive with what companies do. This has been a super informative video and is really helpful to me as I’m studying to be an engineer.

[@seanoneil277]

After seeing some BCG inspection/failure videos and noticing the trends in cosmetics, I started thinking -- it doesn't take much besides cojones and a little cash to create a company that markets BCGs it buys from a major toolmaker, and then hires a coating facility (or buys the coating gear) and has them coated & given a fancy logo. QC and QA don't have to be on the radar if the only goal is taking people's cash and saying SEE YA!. Apparently the surge of firearms buying in the lockdown era triggered a lot of cash-grabs by people who wanted to take cash and say SEE YA! And new firearms owners mostly are a naive bunch, they will fall for the cosmetic bull-pucky. I'm exaggerating on the SEE YA!, a wee bit. But it's the same attitude if you are selling BCGs where you care more about cosmetics than function and durability/reliability.

[@123asap6]

Late comment but Robar allows you to send in bolt carriers from other manufacturers and you can have them refinish it for you in NP3+ (And they do a excellent job of it BTW), which is even better than regular NP3. So that last bolt carrier in theory, you can send to Robar to refinish it for you. I'm pretty sure there is also another company out there who does chrome refinishes, but I forgot their name. Hopefully this is useful information for some of you out there.

[@johnhughes2043]

This is another example of Chads knowledge and complete understanding of the AR system. It also shows his desire to share and educate those of us that appreciate the system while not beating anyone up. Just like Sgt. Joe Friday “the facts mam - just the facts”

[@pplebite8844]

The first change I made with my Lantac EBCG was swap out the bolt for an LMT bolt. I just happened to have an epiphany at that moment, after playing around with it. No regrets so far. That other bolt is currently hanging out with the Fail Zero BCG in a baggy in my closet...

[@____MC____]

Why the bolt? I personaly swaped the donut out extractor for a softer one cause it was having trouble chambering all the way when hand charging.

[@envisibleward2422]

PVD is physical vapor deposition. Many different coatings are applied via PVD. TiN and TiAlN coatings are extremely wear resistant. Nickel boron plating can also perform extremely well. All of your comments are related to manufacturing precision or design issues and not the coatings themselves. You are showing you have very little coating knowledge but extensive bolt carrier manufacturing and design knowledge.

[@warrenharrison9490]

Happened to grab an NIB bolt, had put it in my go to gun. Now I'm rethinking that choice and will move it to the plinker.

[@oldscratch3535]

There's nothing wrong with nitride. If the bcg works in your gun it's perfectly fine. You aren't going to die just bc it's not chrome or phosphate.

[@k.a.wilson]

I need a go no go gauge set!

[@warrenharrison9490]

I've shopped around, but seen customer reviews that make me question if the ones I'm looking at are good or not. I asked if there's a preference for him in manufacturer. Hope to get a reply.

[@dancarter7009]

Forster seems to be the only one I’ve found that has a “true Colt” 5.56 “go” gauge ( 1.4646) Other companies I’ve seen advertise a 5.56 gauge are using the .223 1.4636 spec. It can be confusing but go back through Chads videos & also look for the “Carry Trainer” video here on YT where he’s at the Criterion shop & they mention the 1.4646 “go” spec as well for their barrels. I’m no expert but hope that helps.

[@dancarter7009]

Just checked & the “CarryTrainer” video I’m referring to is called “AR15 Science”

[@Daninbristolbay]

wonderfully paced and very clear speaking!! Thank you. I'm just beginning to learn about ARs. Up to now I was thinking NiB was the best stuff. Now I have to look at my 1 AR and compare to this. Thank you.

[@hockeyplayya2]

Just sold my nitride toolcraft and bought a chrome BCG because of this video!

[@MrScary67]

been waiting for this video for a few years...ever since Chad told me about a coating he did not like. I trusted his advice then...watching this now.

[@Titan_Moss37]

You’d really run those “Gucci” BCGs over the NiB Lwrci bcg? Why is that? Seems like lwrci avoid the inherent problems with NiB you mentioned by using a different finish on the bolt and having the carrier key machined with the bcg itself? Would love to hear an answer to this. Thanks for making these videos

[@josh48315]

I agree you never hear about LWRC NiB BCGs failing or flaking. LWRC makes everything in house and has strict standards. Other budget companies that use NiB are just lipstick on a pig. I think that has scared Chad away from the LWRC even though he said he loves the design and would put them in all of his guns if they switched to chrome or NP3.

[@Sun-Warrior1911]

@@josh48315 Damn son, I know you want to drive your point across but how many times are you going to repeat this? Step outta of your room & get some fresh outdoor air son!

[@SchooloftheAmericanRifle]

I have seen LWRCI NiB fail. NiB sucks for the AR and there's nothing positive about it. LWRCI used to NiB their Bolts as well and they stopped. There's a reason.

[@Sun-Warrior1911]

@@SchooloftheAmericanRifle I was gonna ask for any testing to verify any claims of flaking, stains, etc. Centurion Arms chrome Carrier is out, in stock & checks off all the boxes for a possible upgrade besides the one piece design that LWRCI has.

[@toddm9501]

Glad I bought my S&W Sport II. 4 years ago. Changed some things. Asthetics, function. Never have had an issue. That can be said about alot of AR's. But, the guts are what counts.

[@BobbyB910]

I have been a AK guy for 13yrs just now getting into ARs. What is the BCG with the springs on them? Why? And How? Thank you

[@dancarter7009]

Law Tactical has come out with bcg’s with the springs so that the ar platform can be fired while the buffer tube/stock are folded. Maybe some other companies do it too but that is the most recent reason I’ve seen for doing a setup like that.

[@messinger123]

It seems your criticism isn’t with the performance of the treatments/coatings, but with the quality of manufacturing. Rough surfaces, bad staking, bad dimensional tolerances… none of these are related to the chemistry of the surface treatment. But I get your point. Certain surface treatments/coatings are coming from manufacturers that don’t do the best work.

[@bobbertbobberson6725]

What's your opinion on nitride vs chrome as far as wear goes, not just efficiency? (Yes I know this applies more to barrels than bcg's but while you're on the topic of finishes...)

[@Quality_Guru]

Wouldn't you know it, I have a Nickel Boron Coated Complete BCG from Spikes Tactical. Never really had an issue, then again it has less than 500 rounds on it. Lucky for me I clean the BCG with CLR and oil it afterwards. Looks like I now need to start looking at head space going forward after each cleaning.

[@ryanhadfield5306]

I have to rifles with NiB coated BCGs, each with over 3000 rounds. Not a single problem em with either.

[@Quality_Guru]

@@ryanhadfield5306 Good to hear. Do you clean them after each range session and how many rounds per session?.

[@ryanhadfield5306]

@@Quality_Guru I typically clean once a month (4 range days) after 300-400 rounds per day. LWRC IC-A2 and Aero Precision, both nickel boron coated BCGs, never had a malfunction with the LWRC and only a few problems with the Aero but not caused the BCG.

[@Quality_Guru]

@@ryanhadfield5306 Thanks for the intel. I tend to clean mine after each range trip so likewise I'm not seeing any issues. I also don't get the rifle very dirty as I currently only shoot one box per trip (ammo preservation mode).

[@InkwellFoto]

I don't know the details or as in depth as you, but I found what you said to be spot on in my weapon systems. I started with that Lantac Nickel Boron and also the TiN, bit eventually switched to SRC and Sionics in NP3. I do still have the other two in older guns that I started out with but future purchases I will stick with Scionics BCG in NP3. Anyone know who that company is with built in gas key? Edit: Looks like it is LWRC

[@MyLonewolf25]

I feel like this is more of a more companies that generally do ____ pay more attention to QC than anything. A lot of your complaints and comparison wasn’t about coatings but the cut of the bolt itself, and the company’s tolerances in them. Like for example TiN titanium nitride gets put on a lot of crap because of its color but TiN is an objectively good coating as well as good friction reducing property’s. IMO phosphate is not the best coating for a BCG id rate DLC over it. If anything I’d rate NP3 over it equal to chrome. NP3 is an amazing and durable coating. For a modern coating it’s my favorite and just behind it PVD coatings

[@ronerb7616]

Great video about a sore-spot situation for me. I got a NIB bcg from a company (FZ) because they claimed extreme lubricity, easy cleaning, and quality. Lubricity is there, but the NIB coating stains badly after shooting and doesn't come clean. The firing pin is extremely stained (chrome pins are 100% better). I called them and sent it back. Received it back, stating the coating had no imperfections. This company's NIB is terrible! The bcg functions, but I paid a lot for an inferior coating...

[@seanoneil277]

No problem, though, for folks who don't shoot and merely take pictures of their builds for reddit and arfcom posturing. 😂

[@oldscratch3535]

A stain isn't going to make your gun malfunction.

[@josh48315]

FailZero is more like FailOften

[@1804Defender]

BCM & LWRC bcg’s is what I rock with. They have never failed me. No hiccups whatsoever!

[@LaymensLameMan]

Is one of the nickel boron bcg that of LWRC in this video?

[@charlieghague]

Great video as always, Chad! I've learned more watching your channel than I ever thought there was to know. You really do a great job making these videos easy to understand and very enjoyable. Kudos! I'd love to see you do a video like this about cleaners and other chemical products that you use or avoid. I'm sure it'd be a long video but I've seen you use stuff that I've never even heard of before. I think it'd be incredibly helpful.

[@Mr_Clean]

He has a video about lubricants that don't get along together

[@ichewtoast111]

Balistoll is awesome and non-toxic

[@19stump65]

Just stopped by for a second look, thanks again done well. I love the moral patch . It looks great , a bit above the rest on the board actually

[@dragonusmc0311]

It takes less than a minute to properly stake the gas key I don't understand why manufactures constantly screw this up.

[@noneyabidness196]

Good to hear i recently made a good purchase for a new build on going with the sionics NP3

[@clint2211]

Chad, I can't thank you enough for all your reviews you have done on BCGs. I now only use the phosphate versions in my ARs from Sons Of Liberty Gun Works (I trust Mike wholeheartedly) and the Palmetto State Armory Custom "Fathers of Freedom" BCG made by Microbest which is great quality at a nice price.

[@Mr_Clean]

Psst buy regular microbest bcg's and put sprinco extractor and ejector springs in for 1/2 the cost 💪

[@chuckfinley3152]

I thought bcm and sol were microbests already

[@Mr_Clean]

​@@chuckfinley3152SOL is idk about bcm though.

[@Czechmate88]

@@chuckfinley3152 They are

[@jstud999]

@@Mr_Clean where are you getting a micro best bcg for less than $50. Your talking out of your azz