Side Charging Upper: Common Questions and Concerns (Gen-1)

[@Bear_Creek_Arsenal]

We recently released our Gen-2 side charging handle which improves upon the Gen-1 design discussed in this video. See information about Gen-2 side chargers here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/m3-VdJh5mr2mm6s

[@vexinghiraeth8116]

Hello sir, I would like to know if a rear charging bolt, with the rear charging handle, will fit in the side charging upper? I ask because there is an affordable upper that I want to buy that is a side charger, but I found out it is a right side not left side. I still want it because it's MLOK (and I don't have the patience for installing a stand alone mlok on my AR) and I want to buy the devil dog concepts hard charger to convert it to left side charging. But that requires it to have a rear charging handle. What do you think? Thank you!

[@joshm3149]

I just got my ar10 upper in and it has issues charging its hitting the biffer tube stopping it from charging any ideas why it would do this?

[@didamnesia3575]

Yes it's a slightly less better design on a stupid idea. You know what's great about the AR15... a dust cover!

[@CastrosRestoration]

Okay 👍🏽

[@Joncenalol235]

Every time mine goes bang my interest in buying super priced AR15 parts drops. No failures yet multiple range sessions multiple different mags hot cold dirty clean wet dry. It just works. So maybe it's HEAVY.

[@donnie6286]

wish all gun man would have the balls to be this honest. i thank you for you for creating a product that keep us coming back for more. budget is the name of the game right now and you guys meet it by a mile. i wouldnt change anything...price will go up and lose the budget price.

[@devinwhite104]

Donnie Tuttle bingo, i found bear creek by looking for the cheapest complete upper possible. keep it budget bear creek

[@bisleyblackhawk1288]

@devin white...I’ve never had any issues with any BCA uppers I’ve purchased...dependable and accurate (my next one will be a side charger) 👍 he does use OK a lot but as a southerner it is common down here and as we are prone to say with a smile “bless his heart” 😊☺️😊☺️😊

[@CWfist]

I have an upper and I just received two barrels for other build,,, barrels look good and price was awesome

[@barneybrown7543]

I've bought 3 from them and I love them 7.62x39 side charging is my favorite now ammo is more available.

[@mossranchoutdoors7249]

Id rather the quality be better so I don't have to worry about dealing with their non existent customer service dept. Nothing worse than spending your hard earned money on defective products and getting zero support.

[@Bear_Creek_Arsenal]

Quick Note: We recommend Blue 242 Loctite for the side charging handle as it will still allow the handle to be removed for cleaning later. Make sure to clean the threads of any oil or lubricant and allow it to cure for at least 24 hours before use. We have tested this method ourselves and our customers have had great results following these steps

[@eddiefrayle]

Wish you guys would sell just the side charging upper reciever !

[@Bear_Creek_Arsenal]

@@eddiefrayle We will eventually. Working on manufacturing our most popular models right now due to high demand

[@travist3379]

@@Bear_Creek_Arsenal I'd agree. I have a 300blk BCA complete upper and have thought that I would like to swap my scoped rifle to side charger. Just need the upper, BCG, CH, and reciever plug. It would be awesome if the items were available as a set.

[@jesselopez1922]

@@Bear_Creek_Arsenal Has anyone tried a small lock washer for the charging handle?

[@keithav1]

rear charging handle is one of the reasons I dislike the AR. I would much prefer the AR with the side charger.

[@nidstang373]

I got your 7.62x39 upper a couple of weeks ago and I love the side handle. I'd take that over the rear handle any day. **Update** For anybody curious as to how well the 7.62 upper works on Russian steel cased ammo - I can now say it works flawlessly. I put a bunch of different brands through it yesterday including various Wolf and Tulamo cartridges and I didn't have a single light strike. In fact - the indention on the primer was every bit as deep as those produced from my AK. No need for an "enhanced" firing pin. I paired this upper with a standard Ruger AR 556 and I don't see needing to put back the 556 upper any time soon.

[@jksleava]

Where did you find the magazines ?

[@kenvanhaitsma5770]

I was never really interested in the AR concept. I need to have a scope for my poor eyesight , and the rear charger was always a pain to work around. I saw an ad for your side chargers and I was hooked . I now have uppers in .450BM, 223 wylde, 7.62x39, 6.5 Creedmore and .308. They are all side chargers or dual side chargers , and I love them. Great accuracy and good prices. I know the prices have gone up but hopefully they will come back down again. Thanks for bringing the side charging AR to "price conscious" customers

[@jeffhuntley2921]

Want to thank Bear Creek for the hospitable donations that you’ve done for the gun community! I have recommended your products to many of my friends and built many rifles with your parts

[@Bear_Creek_Arsenal]

Thank you for your support!

[@jimjester2048]

You guys are great, I run a side on my 10 inch heavy stainless ,goes and goes!!!

[@lilguilty]

The side handle is the forward assist

[@erickreynolds7314]

agreed...... If people need to be told that well,,,,,,, duh. Unfortunatly there are alot of people out there that have to read the tag on a hair dryer that tells them not to use while taking a shower.

[@peytonmacdonald6295]

I love how straight up you are about manufacturing. You guys make ridiculously well priced complete uppers and lowers, I don't know why people are shocked that they won't fit as tight as a competition grade upper where they would be paying 450$ to just get the reciever, 250 for the bcg and $150 for the handguard and at least that much for the barrel

[@ShogunAutoworks]

And if they don't fit it's because of new machining. If you throw the new upper on a used lower and vice versa you can run a mag or two through em and break em in and then put it back. That's what I did and it's flawless now. Precision machining = tight. That's not exactly something to complain about imo.

[@peytonmacdonald6295]

@ShogunAutoworks it doesn't necessarily have to be a used lower butninsee what you're saying. I like my receivers to have pretty much no wiggle room. I find the Aero lowers to be fantastic for solving problems like this with custom builds where you're not getting a milled receiver set but want a tight fit but this is a perfectly viable option. Only thing I'll say is BCA bolts are shit. I'd never run one with a factory bolt. Specifically the extractors are problematic. If they'd just switch to grendel type 1 extractors in their x39 uppers this wouldn't be a problem but they haven't so its irrelevent and an easy and cheap enough swap to donyourselfbshouldnyoubchoose an x39 upper. They're als usually off with the gassing but I like my guns to run a bit overgassed anyway. It's not a matter of machining there. It's assembly. Often the gas block is on slightly crooked or too far forward or backwards.

[@Joncenalol235]

And if you know where to put a couple small squares of electric tape you can take out all the slop.

[@peytonmacdonald6295]

@@Joncenalol235 they have those lil drop in pieces that are supposed to eliminate receiver slop. BCA has its place; but as someone who builds guns and doesn’t just slap on a complete upper they can be annoying. Their x39 bcg is a recipe for disaster; you have to swap out the bolt, firing pin, cam pin, etc if you don’t want a broken part within a couple hundred ends max. In fact pretty much all their bcgs are machined like shit with shit steel and should be completely replaced if possible. **My main issue with BCA is that the upper receivers being side charged is awesome; finding a good handguard that’s free floated that will fit in that receiver. Total bitch.** I hate the BCA forends and that’s kind of a deal breaker for me. I also don’t think it would be that hard to fix the timing on the threaded receiver plug one way or another so it fits tight, without destroying the O-ring. Like I get that prongs are cheap, but that’s not the point. They’re good for entry level ARs and getting into shooting something other than a handgun but they’re not meant for any serious sorts of use. I certainly wouldn’t bet my life on a full BCA rifle out the box….

[@andreww9513]

Gotta say, the openness and objectivity of this video were the deciding factor in me ordering an upper in 7.62x39 this weekend. Keep up the good work and stay safe!

[@semperfido119]

I have had a side charging 5.56 pistol from Bear Creek Arsenal for about 8 months now. I have put a 1000 rounds through it now without any malfunctions or issues. Love it.

[@3sotErik]

Take a drink every time he says, Okay.

[@HopsAndLead]

dead in 3 minutes

[@3sotErik]

@@HopsAndLead 😂

[@prestoncox585]

4 mins in and I'm shit faced. Send help

[@jdawg93]

RIP

[@knowledgeseeker9959]

Lol, I can't say to much. I say "you know " all the time.

[@douglasj2254]

It's great that you guys have set up this channel and continue to upload new and interesting videos to answer questions and expose folks to your product line. Keep up the good work! I just bought my first BCA upper and look forward to a test drive next week.

[@Bear_Creek_Arsenal]

Thanks for the support Douglas! Enjoy your new upper

[@justinhoward6135]

i took a brand new bca side charger and switched the handle to the left side , i milled out an area for it to move back and fourth , drilled out the bolt on the left side and welded in a nut with the threads to accept the charging handle , used polish and made the bolt shiny chrome looking . it ejects on the right and charges on the left , i like it . runs great . Love your affordable products , if your reading this wondering if bca is good or not , don't hesitate .

[@livefreeprintguns]

Thanks for explaining the receiver plug of the sidecharger. I just purchased a 10.5" BCA AR-9 upper and was unsure of how it should be orientated, so it was nice to confirm that I had positioned it correctly by threading it all the way in and then backing it out until the flat part was facing the bottom.

[@JohnnyJPatt]

I personally appreciate everything you guys do. If not for bear creek arsenal, there is no way I could afford these big bore guns at the value you all provide. I tell people just buy these and upgrade them later if you don’t like the parts

[@metallicsilver]

BCA baby! Gotta love 'em! I have a Ruger AR556 and bought a BCA complete upper in 7.62x39. The BCA upper is legit shooting 1MOA from the bench, everything measured, using Hornady ammo! Even shooting 1MOA with steel cased Monarch FMJ ammo! YES!!!

[@jmzthree]

Placed my order yesterday, can't wait to get it, did 3 day shipping to get it faster, come one boys make me happy!!

[@jmzthree]

The second one I orderd 4 days ago will be here today, the first one I ordered last Saturday I had to send back for a slight issue with the bcg so hopefully I'll have that back soon and can get to use both at the range! Really looking forward to it!

[@w.c.6678]

Very informative and Direct... NO BS. Also, he covered, many times, the multiple things that peeps call different parts. Thanks! This guy DESERVES a raise, if his Boss is Watching... my wife will Love this Explanation. It's better than I could ever do.

[@user-ev6kv7lf2v]

How about a tool-less charging handle. make the handle hollow with a captive coil spring. have a locking lug on the side of the handle. Push into hole in bolt carrier - compress spring and turn 1/4 turn to lock into carrier. maybe carrier isnt deep enough there though ?

[@jasonsanders7309]

that's a good idea

[@thesteelpatriot5034]

Using something like a QD button that is scaled down at the throat would do nicely.

[@jimFcooper]

There isn’t enough meat on the bolt carrier to accommodate either of these ideas.

[@nsmturbo5902]

Machine time ain't cheap. Less machine time is why there products are cheap. Simply drilling and tapping a hole is the easiest/cheapest solution for a cheap product...

[@crunch9876]

@@nsmturbo5902 they can transition towards higher quality. Kinda like psa did

[@thesaint1517]

Good explanation on difference between rear and side charging. Also, very helpful comments on rear plug and side charger handle coming loose. I've been toying with the idea of buying a 6.5 grendel upper side charge but I have seen your prices grow exponentially with your side chargers where there is really virtually no savings. Just checked the 16" for $329.99 from mid 200s a couple of months ago. I, personally will have to hold on buying it.

[@BlueSun2]

I have bought several of their barrels and uppers - quality products, but their prices have shot up dramatically in the recent months. The upper I bought at the first of the year, is over $100 higher right now.

[@danickert5459]

@@BlueSun2 Cost of materials is probably the main cause of their price increases. In my industry we used to have annual price increases the 1st of the year, now we see them every month or even several times a month.

[@lucasy8546]

Moving from the AK platform to AR platform, the side charger has been an easy adoption by me. The recommended drop of blue locktite has kept the handle in place on my 450 bushmaster upper. As an equipment mechanic, I see no problem at all with locktite, it's a daily fact of life for me anyways.

[@doylethorn9251]

My 350 legend is a left side charger. It is amazing, being right handed, I can charge and clear without taking my right hand off the lower. Great concept!

[@williammccaslin8527]

I bought 1 of your Ar's in 7.62x39, an truly like it, it do's what it was claimed to do, but every time I hit your site up for another upper you don't have them, now I know why, DIDNT know you were having problems getting parts, I wanted an M4 upper in the same caliber, will keep checking it, thx for the vid.

[@Bear_Creek_Arsenal]

Hope to get more products out to you all soon! Thanks for your support and patience :)

[@toyT100]

Good to have confirmation on being able to use my side charge BCG in a rear charge upper because I have a no assist/no dust cover slick side upper coming in and I'm planning to slap the side charge bolt into it 😁, then Im putting y'all slotted side charge upper to work by drilling and tapping a 9mm CMMG radial delay blow back bolt and 5" barrel mated to a New Frontier Armory C5 lower that accepts MP5 mags 🔥 also the upper and lower is polished chrome 😂🤪. This build is gonna be crazy and I'll be sure to share some pics with Bear Creek Arsenal, CMMG, and New Frontier Armory of the Frankenstein once it's alive 🤣

[@justinsandpoint]

Love the side charging uppers from BCA! I have 2 and want more. The rear gas screw is an issue however it doesn't change the way it shoots. Thank you for this informative video.

[@scottjackson1636]

blue lock tight will work on it as well, after it dries its like glue, it will hold it still thru some pretty serious recoil im sure.

[@lesthanrocketscience1828]

You can just wrap its threads with silicone tape every now and then and it will block all the gas, and index at any angle you want. This works better than the o rings which get squished and sheer in two if over tightened. Alternatively, you could screw in a headless allen screw with matching threads and not have to think about it

[@crazyerikz]

Just ordered my side charging 7.62x39 in 16 inch today. Can't wait for it to be delivered

[@howardanderton4525]

Be ready to mill down every magazine you have. Don't care. ASC.. Duramag.I forget the other one.... Still gonna have to do it. Only way it's going to work. I'd send a pic but KZbin won't let me..soo I'm sorry bout that. But I'd rather have the 30 cal. As opposed to the 22 cal.yes I did have to work on it a lill bit....but if you can't then by all means buy the 800$ rifle that still doesn't work.

[@crazyerikz]

Howard Anderton Thanks for the heads up. I found this video that should help if i run across the same issue kzbin.info/www/bejne/kHrbcniYiNqAnsU

[@420Kyle1620]

People seem to like the Ross Unimags. (I don't own a 7.62, but I'm very interested in getting one to work)

[@crazyerikz]

I bought 3 ASC 30rd and 2 C Products 30rd magazines. C Products are higher quality and work flawlessly. Only 1 of the ASC mags works well. The other 2 are junk. I will only purchase C Products from now on for 7.62 AR

[@420Kyle1620]

@@crazyerikz Awesome, so you're happy with your 7.62 ar? Did you need to change anything else to get better function? I know a lot of people have to get a specific firing pin and buffer spring.

[@adamwatts14]

Just ordered a 300 blk 10.5" Cant wait to get it! This video answered every question I had! This video should be sent with every purchase!

[@Bear_Creek_Arsenal]

Glad to help!

[@tiredolfolk2662]

I have 3 side chargers... 1 left and 2 right. I'm right handed, but I can do quicker combat reloads with a left handed charger! But I love all of them. The lefty is on a BCA Wylde upper and BCA multi-cal lower... I love the flexibility in just changing uppers and mags with the multi-cal (fact: you must use special mags for the 7.62, ie 556 for All 7.62)

[@jimjester2048]

I shoot a sig 556 si and my bear creek side charger keeps my mind right ,also goes for my Beretta 9mm carbine!!!

[@Jnotmoney]

I’m looking to go with a side charging handle do you ever have brass hit you in the face with your left sided ones? I’m right handed as well and want a left sided one but have heard it ejects right into your face lol

[@AndrewSzekely]

I like the direction BCA is going....good quality and made in USA!

[@BoRdErBaCoN]

I use a small rubber o-ring on the rear plug - works awesome. #6 I think.

[@uralbob1]

BCA and Anderson Manufacturing! Great stuff!

[@granddad-mv5ef]

I purchased the 16" Stainless 5.56 in the side charger. For me, using a scope, it is just what the doctor ordered.

[@jordansundberg7762]

I bought a custom build with a 20” side charged BCA upper at a gun show out here in Arizona. Loved it so much that I just bought the 10.5”! Can not wait for it to come in. No issues at all on the 20” and I’ve dumped 500 plus rounds through it so far and not a single misfire

[@kurkruk70]

I bought a 7.62x39 side charging upper and I love it. I have shot both types of AR uppers, and I personally like the side charger much better.

[@jamesgravel7755]

I just used a thicker o ring to keep it snug on my gen 2. It came with a oring and I just used a thicker one to keep it tight when backed off. Love my Bear Creek Arsenal parts!!!!! Just ordered another just cause.

[@eberhartprotection4376]

I have the 7.5 side charging 7.62x39. It is a beast... I have a few videos about bear creek.. Thanks for being an asset to gun lovers and the 2A.

[@brianfloyd5925]

I love my 6.5 Grendal 20 inch side charger ! A fine piece of workmanship !

[@LoneGRoEnt]

Did not know you guys had a page. Love What you Guys Have Done for the community by the way.

[@islandwanderer1173]

Just picked up my first BCA upper yesterday!!! I cant wait till it arrives! doing my own build to celebrate the ban....

[@legitsavage9941]

I have two of the side chargers from you guys and on that rear screw I put rubber o-rings. Not vibrations or rattle that way.

[@tommyg2966]

I did the same thing

[@markramsey3785]

Love the video , and thank you for the quick no Bull tutorial . Not all of us are AR 10 experts .. .... Yet

[@achilliez5565]

I honestly prefer the side charging uppers now I fell in love with them! The only 2 issues I have ever with the 5 complete uppers I have bought were the side charging handle comes undone FAST the fix (loctite as you explained plus a small lock washer inside with the bolt I have done this and they have never came undone at all!!!) Now the other issue is the gas block bolts come undone as well and this is the one that i really hate lol just make sure to do it while new add some loctite and make sure to tighten to spec and your good to go.

[@narcissistinjurygiver2932]

what size bolt and lock washer should I buy? thanks

[@davidjay433racing]

I have a right side charger 16 “ in .223 Wylde and it’s solid. As a lefty I wish I had got a left side instead though. Rifle is accurate as can be.

[@CWfist]

They have one that can be ambidextrous

[@connormckay9429]

How does it hold up being suppressed? I like the idea of gasses venting out the side instead if coming back into your face.

[@stevenpickerd8985]

I'd like to see a dual charge system. One where a rear charging handle could be installed and used in place of that plug. That way if your charging handle goes flying off you could still charge the weapon. Yes this has happened.

[@mzjalaal3606]

What would happen if you installed a rear charging handle in place of the gas plug, onto this side charging receiver? Thanks

[@bonk2910]

@@mzjalaal3606 I think he mentioned there's not cut out for the rear charging handle to sit.

[@Boilerking76123]

They used to make one that was both but I don't know why they stopped

[@donnacatardi6455]

Thanks for your "shooting us straight" on the pros & cons of your product. You don't see that often at all. I was very weary of a BCA side charger. NOW Its my dedicated home defense gun. Your customer service is also awesome. AAA+++ Company & Product.... Its a 8.5" 300aac pistol.....

[@danielcorum6081]

Wary. -Grammar Nazi.

[@blindsquirrel3123]

I love the side charge. Just ordered another side charge yesterday in 350 Legend. Personally, I prefer the side charge. Great job BCA

[@jimrucker5726]

Good video answered my questions, you know. Just waiting on the right deal on a 6.5 Grendel, it will happen

[@chadkegley9458]

be carefull with the loc tite i ended up getting some inside by bcg and had a hell of a time cleaning it.

[@larryp1991]

Great video. It answered my question about the gas plug.

[@cfl5723]

Our customers are loving the side charger! Great product at great prices! Tactical Warriors approved!

[@Bear_Creek_Arsenal]

Thanks for the feedback Scott!

[@barndweller4573]

I like my side charger I picked up from them. Only drawback for me is I can not put a brass catcher on the rifle. I have had some problems with the charging handle coming loose so I put locktite on it. The side charging handle is a little messed up from coming loose but it still works. I will buy a couple spares when they finally have the upper in I have been waiting for. Please sell them separately! He is not kidding about the things going fast. I got a email and I checked it within a couple hours and the upper was gone already. I am glad they are doing that good of a business. I know they are not super high end uppers but they are inexpensive enough that I can play with a new caliber without putting huge amounts of money into it. I have had to finish the feed ramps on a couple of the ones that do not feed well (like the 350 Legend) now works just fine.

[@Bear_Creek_Arsenal]

We sell replacement handles on the site (SKU: SCHA-15). Thank you for your support :)

[@lowellwhite1603]

Thanks. I have two of your side charging uppers and this video cleared up a couple things I was wondering about.

[@TheFlatlander440]

I like the side charging concept so much I placed my order for it and it'll be delivered tomorrow. I'm excited to give this a whirl and compare usage and durability to my rear charging AR-15 .223/5.56. What sold me on the side charging handle was my SKS and love that rifle. Thanks for the vid.

[@hillbilly2141tn]

How do you like it mow that its been a couple months?

[@TheFlatlander440]

@@hillbilly2141tn I've put about 500 rounds through it to date with virtually no issues so far. The only issue is the side charging handle loosens after 300 rounds or so. I've used some blue lock tight and it does help. Other than that, I can almost compare it to my SKS for accuracy and durability. Would I purchase another in a different caliber? Yes, yes I would.

[@tjk177]

Just received my 12.7x42 (Beowulf) side charging upper. Love it and can't wait to run it. Only comment is about the rear charging handle plug. No issues with the concept, but the fit could have been tighter such that when you align the flat with the lower, it doesn't rotate or rattle so easily. You know us AR guys like stuff tight unlike AK guys. :) And, I'm not concerned about it coming loose in my safe, but more so being a little loose or coming off in the field when I break the action. Overall, a really quality product like so many have stated.

[@BryanSavage]

I was on the fence about side chargers till this. Gotta see if it helps the gas in the face suppressed

[@Oldguy1313]

It does

[@mr.sevensixtwo]

Pleaseeeee make a AR-74 type of upper chambered in 5.45x39, that would be sooo amazinggg as I have an AK-74 to run it with, by the way I have more then 6 of your uppers and I LOVE them ALL!!!

[@UncleDanBand64]

I have mixed emotions about the side charger. I built one in 7.62x39. Just make sure you keep your eye on the charging handle and I highly recommend that you at minimum carry a screw in the pistol grip that you can screw in by hand in the event your handle flys off. To me you guys should make a one-piece charging handle. Knurled so you can tighten it by hand but, also with either wrench flats are a machine 5/32 allen slot. As it stands now if it gets lose you are SOL without a tool👍🇺🇸

[@TexasTrained]

Exactly.The side charger us cool but a lot of Extra Trouble comes with that.Lost screws..carrying tools.And carrying more screws

[@UncleDanBand64]

@@TexasTrained I agree but if the charging handle was one-piece that would solve most of that. Even if they made it as an extra👍🇺🇸

[@Bear_Creek_Arsenal]

We hear you and we're working on a better design. :)

[@UncleDanBand64]

@@Bear_Creek_Arsenal The only thing I would do is make that handle one-piece and you are golden. I will buy 2! Props to you guys for selling spare bolt handles. I am a fan of your bolts and barrels and really appreciate the budget options.....because I am addicted to building uppers👍🇺🇸

[@lifeinastockwrangler]

Problem solved, buy a rear charger.

[@davidanderson9588]

Very informative. Thank you. I just purchased my gen 2 side charge upper and wasn't sure what the plug was for in the rear. I can't wait to take it to the range.

[@mrcrawlingstv]

Just got 2 of these and absolutely love the different look and function.

[@ocean374]

I love the side charging handle I have a 350 legend and 300 blackout I enjoy them and I will get more uppers in the same design I’m lefty so it’s easier to manipulate I use a brass catcher so the brass never hits me in the face 😁👍 great job great product thanks 🇺🇸

[@Bear_Creek_Arsenal]

Thanks for the support!

[@BrandonBalthrop]

@@Bear_Creek_Arsenal can I put a silencer on your 350 legend barrel???

[@pitbullbite5835]

Thanks... Just recieved my 18" upper... Now I know how to tighten the gas plug...

[@flintmcrock636]

Great video just putting together my new side charger and wondering about the loose gas plug. Thank you !

[@therealgriffthemyth]

Love the side charger keep up the good work BCA 👍

[@MrWhatdoyouthinkof]

I love my BCA ambi- side charger . I run the cocking paw on the left side so that I can use a brass catcher on the right . Two notes with this set up . One make a little outward bend on the split pin that holds in the firing pin . This is to keep it in place . It can walk out due the side charger slot . Second be careful how you position your left arm with a left side charger cocking paw , It can and will smack your left arm .

[@joelfernandez2333]

Awesome and I already bought your 5.56 side charging upper and will definitely buy more in different calibers. Very satisfied will the product.

[@anthonyorsini4762]

Thanks for sharing this information 1 question will the receiver plug for a AR 15 fit a AR 10

[@Fragniac]

I threw some locktite down into the charging handle and Allan screw and it seems to work great to me

[@thesaint1517]

The problem is that you'll have to deal with trying to unscrew it every time you clean the rifle and how long will that head screw will hold. I think this is one of the biggest problem with the side charger handle unless you never clean it.

[@mattstarr2674]

Use pink or purple loctite no need for red let it cure for 48 hours

[@MuirclanforJesus]

I bought an upper awhile back, all light primer strikes. Replaced with their newer bolt and enhanced firing pin, nothing. Replaced hammer spring with Wolf extra power, about 50/50 light strikes no matter what kind of Soviet ammo. Installed an h2 buffer and red Sprinco buffer spring, no change.. Bought a whole different upper from BCA and put all my innards in it (to keep it scientific), works great. That means the first upper was out of spec in the chamber causing the round to sit too far forward, preventing the pin from reaching the primer enough much of the time... Doesn't take much. Wonder if they'll let me return or replace the out of spec upper?

[@chrissewell1608]

I think that a small plastic Crush Washer (flat O-ring style), may solve 2 problems. It would allow timing of the gas plug, and also keep the Side charging handle from easily coming loose. I'd prefer a Nickel Boron coated, or better, BCG, over the standard black phosphate. But, I am eager to try building a side charging upper (because I just like to build um'!)

[@davidjay433racing]

Good point. I’ll be trying this.

[@Chris-ru9cq]

I've been using Gasket Maker on this area for years and it does a great job. Just need to cut it with a razor when you're done.

[@proteus371]

I have 3 BCA side chargers with no problems, I do wish the plug was more accurate threading so it bottomed out at proper spot , but a flex washer cures that. All else is very good quality machining , no sharp edges and all perform excellent and very accurate 100yrds (farthest i've used so far)

[@landonjones8819]

I’ve heard so many issues out of these things. Just hearing this guy talk solidified that I’ll never own a BCA product. Just stick with PSA for your budget builds guys.

[@markportillo4914]

Love your products! My 458 socom upper is a beast, I love the simplicity of the design.

[@willbyrd3445]

I've got 3 side charge from BCA and love them

[@ravenblack1776]

I love my side charging BCA uppers. Thank you.

[@kumiealt5697]

I put an O-ring on the rear charging plug, works great...

[@Bear_Creek_Arsenal]

We ship our side chargers with O-rings now 👍

[@charliedee9276]

@@Bear_Creek_Arsenal I was going to comment, the one I ordered a few days ago showed up today with an o-ring on the plug.

[@superiormwc]

@@Bear_Creek_Arsenal What size?

[@Threewolfs-]

Thanks, always wanted a side charger forever. One the short list. 🤙🏼❤️🇺🇸🤠

[@jimlittle6640]

thank you for this video....answered all my questions about how to remove the bolt.......thanks again

[@Bear_Creek_Arsenal]

Glad to help! Let us know if there are any other questions that we could answer in a video for you all

[@tommygunguy]

Great video. BCA simplifying the AR platform with the side charger reminds me of how during WW2 the U.S. simplified the submachine gun. Going from the top charging M1928A1 Thompson, to the side charging M1A1 Thompson, to the side charging M3 Grease Gun, to the M3A1 Grease Gun with the knurling on the bolt for your finger to charge it. Anything to save a dollar I suppose. Same with the Brits and their Sten SMG. I recently ordered a BCA 7.62x39 complete upper (rear charger). Looking forward to getting it.

[@shulermilton1]

A QD type attachment to the bolt would work.

[@eastwood4006]

"Mr. Macky makes excuses for AR uppers" - Mm'kay Somewhat kidding, just got my BCA 556 side charging upper finished.... Happy with the product vs price overall. Havnt shot it yet but it mated very well with my lower 👌

[@trampasslarson9426]

It would be nice to know this when you receive when you get your complete upper barrel when its shipped to the person

[@RoninInk78]

I got a 300 blackout pistol upper side charging. I absolutely love it. I plan to buy more side chargers from BCA.

[@RoninInk78]

Is there any plans to sell just the side charging upper and bolt set?

[@Bear_Creek_Arsenal]

Eventually, we're focusing on building complete uppers right now due to high demand

[@jorgergonzalezvisualartist8925]

@joeymullins good to hear your feed back, I just placed my order today for the same.

[@panheadpastor453]

You could use a bolt that has a small screw in the center of it that spreads the end that has cross cut in it to wedge the treads out in the bolt to lock the side charge handle bolt in. Also I'd like to know if you make a upper for the DPMS LR-G2 and if so what if any fitment issues are there and what modifications are needed?

[@MrBoo1963]

As a right hand shooter, I still want my charging handle on the left side and the case eject on the right.

[@crunch9876]

They really should make an ambi one

[@disninja8285]

Devil dog concepts have a pic rail side chargers for ar’s if you’re interested there 140-180$

[@AP-wz6fb]

Where to buy the Side charging Bcg? I don't see it for sale in BCA. Thanks

[@phillyboy1813]

I wanted a 7.62x39 to go along with my .223 and .410 uppers. Saw BCA add for the 7.62x39 and for the price, pulled the trigger in a heartbeat. Fits my Ruger AR-556 perfectly. Taking it out to the range next week to see if it will eat the Russian ammo.

[@knightnight0237]

How did it run

[@phillyboy1813]

@@knightnight0237 ...packing it up right now for the range today...

[@knightnight0237]

@@phillyboy1813 did she eat ammo like nothing?

[@phillyboy1813]

@@knightnight0237 ...I ran 100 rounds through it, no issues so far. would like to get more range time but the cost of ammo!!!!

[@jayfizzle9670]

I'm not feeling the side chargers but I get it....well done sir !

[@MrBoo1963]

What I'd like to have is a left side charging button and a reject opening on the right side. I shoot right handed, and in a fast moving area, I want my charger to be on the left for smoother operation.

[@XER239]

Coming back out with lefties anytime soon? Own a few of your side chargers, love them.

[@Bear_Creek_Arsenal]

Working on manufacturing our most popular options due to high demand right now. Eventually I'm sure we'll get some in though

[@filmer50]

The gas plug on the upper I got wasn't timed either. You can't tell me one little extra step to make sure the timed plug isn't achievable. I just purchased a different bolt and timed to the upper.

[@djmcdonald5508]

None of my 3 are timed either, sorta aggravating but doesn't hurt anything

[@righteousone8454]

I think it's an awesome design with several caveats: 1. Side charging handle will now act like AK47. It will jump back and forth upon every round, as the bolt carrier moves all the way back upon firing round, and forward to put next round in. Creating a distinct "wang-wang-wang-wang" as it flies back and forth, hitting the metal on the front, and on the back of the upper. Could be annoying. AKs are notorious in that. They create extra metal noises based on design. 2. Upper is actually much thicker, more weight. It is more rugged in comparison to regular upper. As much as 4.2 pounds in just the upper. It is so to keep the upper from bending from side charging, and perhaps the fact that metal is not fully covering the action within, so metal integrity needs to be more rugged, and you have a side charging handle flying back and forth, banging against the sides. 3. Replacement capability. Parts are not interchangeable. I wish more companies held that design, so you could switch around, but if Bear Creek does not have the parts, then you are SOL. This is the reason I stayed away from hybrid AK-AR variants. Where you are limited by 1 company to provide the necessary parts.

[@Bear_Creek_Arsenal]

Hey Timur, a few things to note: the ejection port opening is wide enough that the handle will not hit it when the BCG goes into full battery. It could possibly touch on the back when firing, however, in my experience I have not seen this to be the case and it certainly doesn't make any noticeable noise. The upper receiver is a bit more bulky for added strength and heat dissipation. Finally, the only parts that are proprietary on our side chargers are the handle and BCG and because we have a lifetime warranty, it won't be an issue to replace if you ever need to. Hope that helps clear some stuff up 👍

[@woohoo2you966]

Great video, sounds like all the 'complaints' people have are not being experienced enough with firearms or machining. You'd hope that using Loctite or knowing that all screws do not need to sit flush to be functional would be general, common sense stuff for a person taking apart a firearm...but guess not. BTW, I like how you mentioned how your SC BCG can be used in a standard AR, never tried that but good to know if I ever needed a backup BCG for some reason. Loss of the dust over or forward assist are not deal breakers if you need a spare part.

[@arnoldjoers5538]

Side chargers are standard on many semi-auto rifles! Check out non AR type rifles and shotguns!

[@joeltipton6038]

In regards to the side charging handles they are absolutely amazing i own 6 of them and never had one come loose. I’m not sure how to contact the engineers at Bear Creek but i would like to suggest is a Bear Creek side charger chambered in 5.7x28. There are thousands of gun lovers that own handguns in this caliber including myself. But we all long for a rifle chambered in 5.7x28 I guarantee they would sell like hot cakes.

[@douglasp930]

I love these. Wish we could go back to just buying upper and bcg instead of complete upper. My buddy and I predator hunt, chose side charger as it removes rattles over standard upper and easy to charge with very little movement while shooting prone. This is especially beneficial when wolf hunting. Only complaint, small one, my over size bolt releases wouldn't fit for our winter gun build. It's minor. Have 1st gen, loctite did the trick...

[@70bluesville]

I ordered a 350 Legend 20"SS barrel BCA . The day after I bought it our flat-screen TV shit the bed?? Momma says we'll wait on the gun and get a new TV.. so I ordered 60 rounds and two magazines. I'll take a butt chewing anytime to get out of hearing Sister wives midget home builders any day of the week! Thanks for a great firearm, can't wait for it to get here.

[@Eccentric5B]

I'm happy with my 7.62x39 side charger upper. Blue loctite and periodic 'snugness checks' have kept the charging handle from departing. There is still room for improvement there. As a LH shooter, The right side charging handle works better for me. I also have an ambi side charging (slots on both sides) AR308 upper. At least at the time I purchased that upper, a single side (right side only) AR308 series upper was not available from BCA. If it was, I'd have bought that instead. I have no need for a LH side charging handle option, and would prefer not having that big open slot on the left side of the upper receiver. Will you please produce right-side-only uppers in the AR308 platform as you do in the AR15 platform?

[@Bear_Creek_Arsenal]

We have one 308 side-charging upper available on the website currently (SKU: 288-UASC308RHB24110SSSFUT15MSR) and are building up inventory in the other options

[@Eccentric5B]

@@Bear_Creek_Arsenal That's great to hear. I'll likely pick one up in 6.5cr when you have them in stock. Are you going to sell the side charging uppers (AR15 and AR308) separately (either stripped or complete)? That'd open up a lot of options regarding our choices of chamberings, barrel profiles/lengths/etc, and handguards for those of us that are picky and can assemble our own uppers. I'd buy several of each platform....

[@moushunter]

I am an ambidextrous shooter. I prefer to shoot from a bench right handed but due to a shoulder injury I cannot always hold my left arm out to support a rifle shooting off hand. I was wondering about 2 things with the side charging upper. Can a brass catcher work on one? I usually wrap a boonie hat from the mag well over the top of my ARs to catch brass. It is more reliable and easier to empty than the commercial options. Will this work with a side charger? My other question, what is the ejection angle like using a right side charging handle while shooting left handed? I don't want to take hot empty brass in mt face. My rear charge ARs have a block that ejects the brass forward enough not to hit me. My rifles have rather short stocks.

[@ThomasShue]

"if you let this upper sit in the safe, the plug won't fall out" lol

[@mikebeddingfield2144]

O the plug won't fall out of the upper unless a idiot installed it. Your's didn't fall out did it?

[@kennethbeard881]

Definitely thinking of getting the side charging upper. I would like the 20 inch but was interested to hear if since it's full size and a slightly different gas cycle if any performance is gained or lost. Thanks