Battle Arms Development AR-15 Mil-Spec Carbine Buffer Review
As an avid shooter, I was excited to get my hands on the Battle Arms Development AR-15 Mil-Spec Carbine Buffer. The main goal of this buffer is to improve the overall shooting experience by reducing recoil and increasing accuracy. In this review, I’ll share my experience with this product, highlighting its pros and cons, and help you decide if it’s the right fit for your needs.
Initial Impressions
When I first received the buffer, I was impressed by its attention to detail and build quality. The buffer is made from high-quality 7075-T6 aluminum, which provides a durable and lightweight construction. The mil-spec coating gives it a rugged, battle-worn look that hints at its promise of reliability in harsh environments. Assembly was straightforward, with clear instructions and minimal parts required.
Shooter’s Experience
I installed the buffer on my trusty AR-15, and the first surprise was the dramatic reduction in recoil. Gone were the jarring, muzzle-blotting impacts, replaced by a smooth, controlled cycling of the action. Reduced recoil is a significant advantage, not just for new shooters but for experienced ones too, as it reduces the likelihood of flinching and improves overall accuracy. The buffer also reduced the noise level, making the shooting experience more comfortable and enjoyable.
Performance Tests
To put the buffer through its paces, I conducted a series of shooting sessions on various ranges, from 15 to 50 yards. Accuracy improved significantly with the new buffer, with tighter spreads and more consistent impacts. This was evident even at extended ranges, with the buffer’s ability to absorb and dissipate the energy of the cartridge’s propellant gases resulting in more precise grouping. Printouts from 15 yards showed a -0.5 MOA (minutes of angle) spread, while 50-yard shots only exhibited a 0.75 MOA spread. These results exceeded my expectations and demonstrated the buffer’s effectiveness.
Weight and Size
At 3.0 oz, the buffer is remarkably lightweight, making it an excellent option for those seeking to minimize parts count and reduce overall platform weight. The compact design allows for easy installation and minimal impact on the rifle’s overall profile.
Pros and Cons
Here are the key pros and cons I’ve identified during my review:
Pros:
- Reduced recoil: The buffer’s design and materials significantly decrease felt recoil, making the shooting experience more enjoyable and comfortable.
- Improved accuracy: The buffer’s ability to absorb and dissipate propellant gas energy results in tighter groupings and more consistent impact points.
- Lightweight and compact: The buffer’s 3.0 oz weight and compact design make it an excellent addition to any AR-15 platform.
- Easy installation: The buffer features a simple, straightforward installation process that requires minimal parts and no special tools.
Cons:
- Higher cost: Compared to more affordable buffer options, the Battle Arms Development AR-15 Mil-Spec Carbine Buffer comes with a higher price tag.
- Limited customization options: Due to its mil-spec design, the buffer might be less adaptable to unique shooting preferences or customization requests.
Conclusion
The Battle Arms Development AR-15 Mil-Spec Carbine Buffer has exceeded my expectations in every aspect. Reduced recoil, improved accuracy, and lightweight design make it an excellent addition to any AR-15 platform. Pros outweigh the cons, although the higher cost and limited customization options are notable drawbacks. For those seeking a reliable, high-performance buffer, the Battle Arms Development AR-15 Mil-Spec Carbine Buffer is an excellent choice.
