M16 5.56 BOLT CARRIER GROUP CHROME MP Reviews & Ratings

Classic Retro Chrome M16 Bolt Carrier Groups match the finish of the bolt found on the earliest AR-15 & M16 rifles introduced.

The Brownells M16 Chrome 5.56 Complete Bolt Carrier Group included a bolt machined from 9310 steel, which is magnetic particle inspected & finished with a matte silver chrome finish. The carrier is fabricated from 8620 hardened steel and also receives the same, durable chrome application. In addition to the bolt and carrier, the extractor, gas key and cam pin also are chromed to ensure all moving parts are corrosion resistant. The Brownells M16 5.56 Chrome Complete Bolt Carrier Group is designed to work easily and reliably in any AR-15 or M16 rifle chambered in 5.56x45mm, 300 AAC Blackout or .223 Remington.

The perfect complement to a retro build, these BCGs are available with or without forward assist serrations. The model without serrations is similar to the original BCG found on early AR-15s, such as the Air Force 601. The model with serrations could be found on early XM16E1 models in the mid-1960s.

Durable, matte silver chrome
Magnetic-particle inspected, 9310 bolt
M16 8620 steel carrier (works with standard AR-15 rifles)
Extractor includes spring and rubber insert
Includes torqued and staked gas key
Functions with any cartridge based on the 5.56 NATO cartridge case

The Brownells M16 Chrome 5.56 Complete Bolt Carrier Group comes with a bolt, bolt carrier, gas key, firing pin, cam pin and a firing pin retaining pin.

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Reviews Summary

The M16 5.56 Bolt Carrier Group Chrome MP has received mixed reviews. Customers praise its quality, ease of cleaning, and attractive chrome finish, ideal for retro builds. However, issues with quality control, fit, and function are prevalent, leading to dissatisfaction. While some users report reliable performance, others experienced serious malfunctions, impacting their overall perception.

What Reviewers Are Saying

Product Quality

60%

The quality of the M16 5.56 Bolt Carrier Group varies significantly among users. Many commend the build quality and design, emphasizing the ease of cleaning and appealing appearance. However, a considerable number of reviews point out manufacturing defects, including poor machining and assembly issues that detract from the overall impression.

Functionality

50%

Reviews reflect contrasting experiences regarding the functionality of the bolt carrier group. While numerous users report smooth operation and reliability, others encounter significant issues such as gas leakage, jamming, and parts not fitting correctly, which raises concerns about quality control during production.

Ease of Cleaning

40%

Many reviewers highlight the bolt carrier group's ease of cleaning as a significant advantage, noting that the chrome finish helps reduce build-up and simplifies maintenance. This feature is especially appreciated by users who often shoot their rifles, making it a favorable choice for those prioritizing upkeep.

Aesthetic Appeal

35%

The visual appeal of the matte chrome finish is frequently mentioned, with customers expressing satisfaction with its retro look and quality. Users appreciate how well it integrates with their builds, contributing to a polished and authentic appearance, particularly for retro-themed firearms.

Customer Service and Support

25%

Several reviews touch on customer service experiences, with mixed outcomes. While some customers received prompt assistance regarding their concerns and returns, others noted delays or expressed disappointment in the quality of support provided. This inconsistency affects overall customer satisfaction.

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Good, with reservations

I bought this because I needed a slick side carrier for retro build. I SOTAR gauged the bolt and carrier, all three diameters on three bore (Internal Diameters) were on large end of tolerance. None were in reject range and runs fine paired with a Brownells 20" pencil. Good for range toys and retro builds, if you want a more serious Tiger McKee or What would Stoner do build build without forward assist this is not the carrier I'd recommend

by BEN P. on December 29, 2023

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Nice but not what I was expecting

This is the first Chrome BCG I've ever bought and it was bought for a WWSD build. I've used phosphate, nitride and nickle boron BCG's before and never ran into the issue I have with this one. I was expecting it to be slick like a nitride or NIB finish and it is not. It has texture similar to a phosphate finish, but actually a little harsher. I installed it into my my WWSD upper and attached a rifle length lower to function check. When trying to strip a round from a mag, it would not seat fully into battery. Only with my heaviest buffer and spring carbine setup would it strip and go fully into battery. I do think this is a "break in" issue and it will function reliably eventually. Overall I am happy with it, the look is spot on for a 601 retro build if that's what you are trying to do. Just lube the hell out of it and break it in.

A great product at a affordable price!

I decided to with the slick-side bcg since my build lacks the forward assist and also because I believe in trying to follow Stoners original design. Brownells has met my expectations as the chrome plating looks consistent on both the carrier and the bolt. However there were a few concerns though. The gas key has a little discoloration, the finish on the firing pin leaves more to be desired, and I question whether the firing pin or the extractor pin is of mil-spec. Overall though I do believe this is still a great product for the cost, but just understand that to get a affordable price there will be some sacrifices.