Upgrading your AR-15's extractor spring is a relatively simple yet impactful modification that can significantly improve the reliability of your firearm. The Bravo Company Manufacturing (BCM) extractor spring upgrade kit is a popular choice among shooters, known for its quality and effectiveness. This guide will delve into the details of this kit, its benefits, installation, and considerations.
Why Upgrade Your Extractor Spring?
Before jumping into the specifics of the BCM kit, let's understand why upgrading your extractor spring is beneficial. The extractor spring is a crucial component in your AR-15's functioning, responsible for extracting spent casings from the chamber after firing. A weak or worn-out spring can lead to several issues, including:
- Failure to Extract (FTE): A common malfunction where the spent casing remains stuck in the chamber.
- Failure to Eject (FTE): The spent casing is extracted but fails to be ejected from the weapon.
- Double Feeds: A malfunction where a new round is fed into the chamber while a spent casing is still present.
These malfunctions can significantly disrupt your shooting experience and, in critical situations, compromise your ability to defend yourself. An upgraded, stronger spring helps mitigate these problems by providing more consistent and reliable extraction.
The Bravo Company Extractor Spring Upgrade Kit: What Makes it Stand Out?
BCM is renowned for its high-quality AR-15 parts, and their extractor spring kit is no exception. While specifics might vary slightly between revisions, the kit generally includes:
- A heavier-gauge extractor spring: This spring is designed to provide superior strength and consistent performance compared to standard factory springs. The increased tension ensures reliable extraction even under adverse conditions such as heavy use or harsh environments.
- (Sometimes included) A new extractor: Some BCM kits include a replacement extractor, offering a complete upgrade. This ensures optimal compatibility and performance with the new spring. Always check the kit's contents before starting installation.
The key advantage of the BCM kit lies in its reliability and consistent performance. It's built using high-quality materials, ensuring longevity and durability.
Installing the Bravo Company Extractor Spring Upgrade Kit
Installing the BCM extractor spring kit is generally straightforward, but it does require some familiarity with AR-15 disassembly and reassembly. Always prioritize safety and consult a qualified gunsmith if you are unsure about any step.
The general process involves:
- Disassembly: Carefully disassemble your bolt carrier group (BCG). This requires removing the bolt from the carrier and often involves removing the firing pin retaining pin. Refer to your firearm's manual for detailed instructions.
- Spring Replacement: Carefully remove the old extractor spring and replace it with the new BCM spring. Pay attention to the orientation of the spring to ensure correct installation.
- Reassembly: Reassemble the BCG, ensuring all parts are properly seated and aligned. Double-check your work before reassembling the upper receiver.
- Testing: After reassembly, thoroughly test fire your AR-15 to verify the functionality of the upgraded spring. Ensure reliable extraction and ejection under various conditions.
Considerations Before Upgrading
While upgrading your extractor spring is often beneficial, there are a few things to consider:
- Compatibility: Ensure the BCM kit is compatible with your specific AR-15 model. Using an incompatible kit can lead to malfunctions.
- Over-Springing: Using an excessively strong spring can potentially cause damage to your BCG. Stick to the manufacturer's recommendations.
- Professional Help: If you're not comfortable disassembling and reassembling your firearm, seek help from a qualified gunsmith.
Conclusion
The Bravo Company Extractor Spring Upgrade Kit represents a simple yet effective way to enhance the reliability of your AR-15. By addressing potential failure points associated with a weak or worn-out spring, this upgrade can improve overall performance and ensure your firearm functions consistently and reliably. Remember always to prioritize safety and follow proper procedures during installation.
