Quick Tip: How To Use The Brownells Offset Buffer Retainer

Hi, I'm Caleb with Brownells, and today, I'm here to share a quick tip about using the Brownells offset buffer retainer. This little device is a game-changer for anyone dealing with AR-15 maintenance, especially when you encounter that frustrating issue of your buffer improperly contacting the retainer while the firearm is assembled.

So, why is this offset buffer retainer so crucial? Well, in my experience, there are mainly three scenarios where this becomes indispensable:

1. First, it's quite possible that the manufacturer of your lower receiver didn't get the hole for the retainer drilled in the correct spot. It's a tricky situation because you can't just move or adjust that hole. Your options are limited; you either opt for this offset buffer retainer or, unfortunately, have to consider ditching the lower receiver.

2. Then, there's the issue with the upper receiver. If the threaded portion where the barrel attaches is too long, you'll find yourself facing the same problem. It's a subtle difference but one that can cause significant headaches.

3. Lastly, the length of your bolt carrier group can also throw a wrench in the works. If it's too short, it fails to make proper contact with the buffer, leading to similar issues. And trust me, trying to "extend" your bolt carrier isn't a path you want to go down.

Now, installing the offset buffer retainer is a breeze. Let me walk you through it. You install it just like you would with a standard retainer, but thanks to its design, the buffer sits a bit more forward, eliminating any improper contact. It's a simple fix but one that saves you from a lot of potential damage and malfunctions.

I've seen firsthand the kind of wear and tear that can happen without this adjustment. Teeth and chatter marks on the buffer are a dead giveaway. And once that buffer starts burring, it's all downhill from there. It'll start damaging the inside of your buffer tube, leading to dragging and more malfunctions. Nobody wants that.

In essence, the offset buffer retainer is a straightforward solution to a not-so-obvious problem. While not every AR-15 will need it, for those that do, it's an invaluable tool. I'm not here to pitch you a sale; I'm here to help you solve a problem. But if you're experiencing these issues, this is definitely the way to go.

If you have any questions or want to dive deeper into this topic, feel free to give us a call on the Tech Line, we'll be happy to help you out.