• Reading time:23 mins read
  • Post category:BCG
  • Post last modified:April 22, 2023
  • Post published:May 6, 2022

There are a lot of bolt carrier groups on the market these days. How do you know which one is the best for your needs? To help make your decision easier, we’ve compiled a list of the top-rated BCGs on the market. With so many options to choose from, hopefully, this will make your decision a little easier. Keep reading to learn more about the best bolt carrier groups available today.

Best Bolt Carrier Group

Best Bolt Carrier Group Reviews

#1 Aero Precision Bolt Carrier Group

Aero Precision Bolt Carrier Group

Specification
Fabric/Material: 8620 Steel
Caliber: 5.56x45mm NATO
Gun Model: AR-15

Introducing the Aero Precision 5.56 Complete Bolt Carrier Group. This is one of the highest-rated and most popular bolt carrier groups on the market, perfect for anyone looking to make easy modifications to their AR15. These BCGs are constructed from 8620 tool steel and 9310 steel for the bolt, making them extremely durable and long-lasting. They also feature military specifications, including the gas key and extractor spring, so you can trust that they meet all the standards you need.

Pros:
  • Quality construction from 8620 tool steel and 9310 steel.
  • Machined to military specifications.
  • Features forward assist serrations.
  • Available in a variety of finishes.
  • A polished finish makes cleaning easier.
Cons:
  • May be too expensive for some.

 

#2 Aero Precision Bolt Carrier Group

Aero Precision Bolt Carrier Group

Specification
Fabric/Material: 8620 Steel
Caliber: 5.56x45mm NATO
Gun Model: AR-15

The Aero Precision Bolt Carrier Group is a high-quality addition to your AR15 build. The carrier is machined from 8620 steel and features a forward assist serration. The gas key is properly staked and the firing pin channel is chrome lined. The bolt is machined from Carpenter 158 tool steel and is shot peened and HPT tested/MPI marked. This BCG also features a black o-ring insert on the extractor for improved function.

Pros:
  • Machined from 8620 steel.
  • Carrier has forward assist serrations.
  • Properly staked gas key.
  • 5.56 Bolt is machined from Carpenter 158 tool steel.
  • Shot peened.
  • HPT tested/MPI marked.
  • Black o-ring insert on the extractor.
Cons:
  • May be too expensive for some people.
  • Some people may not like that the carrier is machined from 8620 steel.

 

#3 Aero Precision Grendel Bolt Carrier Group

Aero Precision Grendel Bolt Carrier Group

Specification
Fabric/Material: 8620 Steel
Caliber: 6mm ARC, 6.5mm Grendel
Gun Model: AR-15

If you’re looking for a quality bolt carrier group (BCG) to upgrade the performance of your AR-platform rifle, consider the Aero Precision 6.5 Grendel BCG in Black Nitride. These BCGs are made from 8620 steel for superior strength and durability and feature an M16 cut design for compatibility with a wide range of AR-15 upper receivers. The black nitride finish provides increased wear resistance and reduced friction, meaning this BCG will require less cleaning and lubrication than untreated bolts. Get the most out of your AR-platform rifle with the Aero Precision 6.5 Grendel BCG.

Pros:
  • Superior strength and durability.
  • M16 cut design for compatibility with a wide range of AR-15 upper receivers.
  • A black nitride finish provides increased wear resistance and reduced friction.
Cons:
  • May not be compatible with certain upper receivers.

 

#4 Andro Corp Industries Bolt Carrier Group

Andro Corp Industries Bolt Carrier Group

Specification
Fabric/Material: 9310 Alloy, 8620 Alloy
Gun Make: AR Platform
Gun Model: M16, AR-15

Looking to upgrade your AR15 or M16 bolt carrier group? Look no further than the Andro Corp Industries Bolt Carrier Group. The Enhanced BCG is machined from 9310 alloy and 8620 alloys respectively and treated with a nitride coating for superior durability and corrosion resistance. The bolt and carrier are also HP/MPI tested to ensure quality and reliability. Plus, this enhanced beveling helps reduce friction on moving parts – so you can count on smooth, consistent operation every time.

Video review

Pros:
  • Superior quality and construction.
  • HP/MPI tested for reliability.
  • Nitride finish for durability.
  • Enhanced beveling reduces friction.
Cons:
  • It may be too pricey for some.
  • Not available in all colors.

 

#5 Brownells Bolt Carrier Groups

Brownells Bolt Carrier Groups

Specification
Cartridge: 308 Winchester
Make model: AR .308

The Brownells Bolt Carrier Groups are designed to provide outstanding performance and reliability in DPMS LR-308 pattern rifles. These BCGs are machined from high-quality 9310 steel and feature a heat-treated, shot-peened bolt that is designed for superior hardness. The carrier is fabricated from hardened 8620 steel, and the entire BCG is finished with a Mil-Spec black phosphate coating.

Video review

Pros:
  • Robust 9310 steel bolt.
  • Heat-treated and shot-peened for superb hardness.
  • Magnetic particles were inspected for hidden microscopic flaws.
  • The extractor is installed with a rubber insert and spring.
  • Made in the USA.
Cons:
  • It’s not compatible with Armalite rifles.

 

#6 Daniel Defense Bolt Carrier Group

Daniel Defense Bolt Carrier Group

Specification
Caliber: 22 Caliber (.223-.224)
Cartridge: 5.56 mm NATO
Make model: AR-15

The Daniel Defense Bolt Carrier Group is a complete, mil-spec assembly that’s ready to drop into the rifle or carbine upper of your choice. It features a shot-peened bolt for increased surface strength and durability, and an extractor booster to ensure reliable cycling during rapid semi-auto or full-auto fire. Each assembly is magnetic particle inspection tested to ensure it’s free from imperfections that can lead to premature failures. The properly staked gas key prevents gas leakage that can lead to short stroking, and the M16-style carrier on the black phosphate model has a full-length shroud for tripping auto sear.

Video review

Pros:
  • Shot-peened bolt for increased surface strength and durability.
  • Magnetic particle inspection tested for imperfections.
  • Properly staked gas key.
  • M16-style carrier with full-length shroud.
  • Made in the USA.
Cons:
  • May not be compatible with all rifles.
  • Extractor booster may not be necessary and could cause cycling issues.

 

#7 TRYBE Defense Mil-Spec Hybrid Complete Bolt Carrier Group

TRYBE Defense Mil-Spec Hybrid Complete Bolt Carrier Group

Specification
Fabric/Material: AISI 8620 Steel
Caliber: 9mm Caliber
Gun Model: AR-15
Additional Features: Rockwell Harness – 78-80 HRc

The TRYBE Defense Mil-Spec Hybrid Complete Bolt Carrier Group is perfect for anyone looking for the best possible bolt carrier group on the market. This BCG is made specifically for 9mm AR-15 Carbines and is machined from ultra-durable and corrosion-resistant 8620 steel, nitride QPQ-treated. Every Bolt is High Pressure Tested (HPT) and Magnetic Particle Inspected (MPI) before making its way to your firearm.

Pros:
  • The bolt is made from high-quality AISI 8620 steel.
  • The bolt carrier is made from high-quality AISI 8620 steel and treated with nitride QPQ.
  • Every bolt is high pressure tested and magnetic particle inspected.
  • Shot peened.
  • The gas key is staked to mil-spec standards.
  • Hard chrome-coated firing pin.
Cons:
  • Installation is difficult without a gunsmith.

 

#8 TRYBE Defense Mil-Spec Enhanced Complete Bolt Carrier Group

TRYBE Defense Mil-Spec Enhanced Complete Bolt Carrier Group

Specification
Fabric/Material: AISI 8620 Steel
Caliber: .223 Caliber, 5.56mm, .300 AAC Blackout
Gun Make: AR Platform
Additional Features: Rockwell Harness – 78-80 HRc

If you’re looking for a top-of-the-line bolt carrier group that will stand up to anything you throw at it, look no further than the TRYBE Defense Mil-Spec 5.56 Enhanced Complete Bolt Carrier Group. This top-of-the-line BCG is precision-machined from high-strength AISI 8620 steel and coated with nickel boron for superior durability and heat dissipation. It also features an improved gas key design for smoother operation and reduced wear and a one-piece firing pin for increased reliability.

Pros:
  • Superior durability.
  • Heat dissipation.
  • Reduced wear.
  • Improved gas key design.
  • Smoother operation.
  • Increased reliability.
Cons:
  • More expensive than some other bolt carrier groups.

 

#9 Tiger Rock AR-15 Bolt Carrier Group Assembly

Tiger Rock AR-15 Bolt Carrier Group Assembly

Specification
Fabric/Material: Heat Treated Steel
Caliber: 5.56x45mm NATO, .223 Remington
Gun Make: AR Platform
Gun Model: M16, AR-15

Looking for a top-quality bolt carrier group assembly for your AR-15? Look no further than the Tiger Rock AR-15 Bolt Carrier Group Assembly. Featuring full-auto capability, a shot-peened MPI Bolt, and an 8620 gas carrier, this assembly is perfect for those looking for a reliable, Mil-Spec option. The gas key is fastened with hardened Grade 8 fasteners, ensuring a secure fit. The entire assembly is precision machined for optimal performance.

Pros:
  • Precision Machined.
  • 8620 Gas Carrier.
  • Shot Peened MPI Bolt.
  • Hardened Grade 8 Fasteners.
Cons:
  • May not be compatible with some guns.
  • Installation is difficult without a gunsmith.

 

#10 FosTech Outdoors Complete Lite Bolt Carrier Group

FosTech Outdoors Complete Lite Bolt Carrier Group

Specification
Finish: Nickel Boron
Gun Model: AR-15

Looking for a top-quality bolt carrier group that won’t let you down? Look no further than the FosTech Outdoors Complete Lite Bolt Carrier Group. This BCG is designed for use with the Echo AR-II and the Echo Sport and is perfect for anyone looking for a reliable and durable option. The nickel boron finish ensures smooth operation and long life, while the M16 cut provides compatibility with a variety of AR-15 platforms.

Pros:
  • Durable construction.
  • Nickel boron finish for smooth operation.
  • M16 cut for compatibility with a variety of AR-15 platforms.
  • Compatible with Echo AR-II and Echo Sport.
Cons:
  • Nickel boron finish may wear over time.

 

#11 Foxtrot Mike Products Fm-9 Bolt Carrier Assembly

Foxtrot Mike Products Fm-9 Bolt Carrier Assembly

The Foxtrot Mike Products FM-9 Bolt Carrier Assembly is designed for use with 9MM AR-style pistols and carbines that use lowers designed for Glock style magazines only. The assembly is machined from a single piece of premium 8620H steel alloy and finished with a deep-penetration salt bath nitride that gives both lubricities and wears resistance. As an added benefit, the FM-9 Bolt Carrier is “ramped” to accommodate both standard GI and dedicated 9mm hammers.

Video review

Pros:
  • Superior quality.
  • One-piece design for superb reliability.
  • Machined from a single piece of premium 8620H steel alloy.
  • Manufactured in a state-of-the-art facility with ISO:9001 & AS:9100 quality certifications.
  • Comes complete, with a firing pin and extractor installed, and ready to go into your pistol caliber carbine build.
  • Finished with a deep-penetration salt bath nitride that gives both lubricities and wears resistance.
Cons:
  • May only fit pistols and carbines designed for Glock style magazines.

 

#12 Radical Firearms Melonite Bolt Carrier Group

Radical Firearms Melonite Bolt Carrier Group

Specification
Fabric/Material: Melonite

The Radical Firearms Melonite Bolt Carrier Group is a superb product for anyone looking for a high-quality, durable Bolt Carrier Group. Manufactured from long-lasting and efficient components, this Bolt Carrier Group is built to last. Featuring some of the most advanced materials and construction available, the Radical Firearms Melonite Bolt Carrier Group is a must-have for anyone in the market for a top-of-the-line Bolt Carrier Group.

Video review

Pros:
  • Made with high-quality and durable materials.
  • Long-lasting construction.
  • Crafted by experts with high-quality standards.
Cons:
  • May be too heavy for some.

 

#13 RISE Armament AR-15 Bolt Carrier Group

RISE Armament AR-15 Bolt Carrier Group

Specification
Fabric/Material: 9310 Steel, 8620 Steel
Caliber: 5.56x45mm NATO, .223 Remington
Gun Model: M16, AR-15

The RISE Armament Rifle Bolt-Carrier Group ensures the highest level of performance out of your favorite rifle. These Bolt Carrier Groups by RISE Armament reduce friction and increase the smoothness of each shot with high-quality steel parts, a heat-treated carrier, and a grade 8 hardened gas key. The RISE Armament AR-15/M-16 BCG is individually MPI tested for quality so you can be confident you’re getting the overall improved performance.

Pros:
  • Reduced friction.
  • Increased smoothness of each shot.
  • High-quality steel parts.
  • Heat-treated carrier.
  • Grade 8 hardened gas key.
Cons:
  • May be too stiff for some rifles.

 

#14 Griffin Armament Enhanced Mil Spec Bolt Carrier Group

Griffin Armament Enhanced Mil Spec Bolt Carrier Group

Specification
Fabric/Material: 4340 Alloy Steel, 9310 Steel, 8620 Alloy Steel
Caliber: 5.56x45mm NATO, .300 AAC Blackout
Gun Make: AR Platform

Griffin Armament Enhanced Mil-Spec Bolt Carrier Group assemblies are the perfect choice for your next build. Machined from premium 8620 carrier steel and 9310 bolts, these parts are heat-treated and shot-peened to mil-spec standards to ensure quality and durability.4340 cam pins and extractors are also included, ensuring that your bolt group will function flawlessly for years to come.

Pros:
  • Machined from premium 8620 carrier steel and 9310 bolts.
  • Heat treated and shot-peened to mil-spec standards.
  • 4340 cam pins and extractors included.
  • Melonite QPQ finish.
  • Made in the USA.
Cons:
  • I may be too pricey for some.
  • Only available in black.

 

#15 LANTAC Enhanced Bolt Carrier Group

LANTAC Enhanced Bolt Carrier Group

Specification
Caliber: .308 Caliber, 7.62mm Caliber
Reloading Caliber: .308 Caliber, 7.62mm Caliber

Looking to step up your AR10 game? With the LANTAC Enhanced Bolt Carrier Group, you can easily achieve a Full Auto style weapon for increased mass and lock time. This precision-machined BCG is made from 8620 Steel with a 9310 Precision Hard Ground Bolt – ensuring smooth cycling and reliability. The entire carrier assembly is then coated in an advanced UCT EXO process, which offers extreme lubricity and surface hardness. Plus, the QPQ Nitride coating provides an impressive black finish.

Video review

Pros:
  • Precision machined from 8620 Steel.
  • 9310 Precision Hard Ground Bolt.
  • NiB UCT EXO Coating.
  • QPQ Nitride coating.
  • The flared boss at the tail of the carrier enhances the BCG’s position within the buffer tube.
Cons:
  • It may be over-gassed in some rifles.
  • Black QPQ Nitride coating may not match all firearms.

 

#16 LANTAC M-SPEC Bolt Carrier Group

LANTAC M-SPEC Bolt Carrier Group

Specification
Fabric/Material: 17-4PH stainless steel, 8620 Steel
Gun Model: AR-15
Reloading Caliber: .308 Caliber

Keep your rifle shooting smoothly and reliably with the LANTAC M-SPEC Bolt Carrier Group. This BCG is precision machined to mil-spec dimensions and tolerances, ensuring a perfect fit and smooth operation in your AR-15 or AR-10. The carrier is full auto style with increased mass and is manufactured from 8620 steel with case hardening and QPQ Nitriding for superior corrosion resistance, durability, and performance. The bolt is machined from Carpenter 158 steel, shot-peened, and hard turned to military spec for unbeatable strength and reliability. Upgrade your rifle today with the LANTAC M-SPEC Bolt Carrier Group!

Pros:
  • Precision machined to mil-spec dimensions and tolerances.
  • Full auto-style with increased mass.
  • Manufactured from 8620 steel, case hardened and hard turned/ground.
  • QPQ Nitrided rather than Type M Phosphated to give increased corrosion resistance, durability, and performance.
Cons:
  • May be too heavy for some rifles.

 

#17 JP Enterprises EnhancedBolt Bolt Carrier Group Kit

JP Enterprises EnhancedBolt Bolt Carrier Group Kit

Specification
Fabric/Material: 416R Stainless Steel
Caliber: 9mm Luger

Looking for a top-quality, reliable and innovative 9mm AR bolt carrier group kit? Then check out the JP Enterprises EnhancedBolt Bolt Carrier Group Kit. This superb kit includes an enhanced 9mm AR bolt combined with a tough and durable Silent Captured Spring System. It also comes with last-round holt open compatibility with the line of short-stroke Silent Captured Springs – ensuring reliable last-round Lockback every time. This great kit is perfect for anyone looking for a top-quality, reliable and innovative 9mm AR bolt carrier group kit.

Pros:
  • Reduced stroke length for faster firing impulse.
  • Designed for optimal function with JP Silent Captured Springs for a heavier operating system that reduces bolt bounce while improving reliability and accuracy.
  • Tighter firing pin channel to reduce pin wear.
  • The high-energy tumble process offers a finer cosmetic finish.
Cons:
  • May be too heavy for some shooters.

 

#18 JP Enterprises Complete JPBC Bolt Carrier Group

JP Enterprises Complete JPBC Bolt Carrier Group

Specification
Caliber: .223 Remington
Gun Model: AR-15
Gun Frame Size: Small
Hand: Right

The JP Enterprises Complete JPBC Bolt Carrier Group is the perfect choice for your next 9mm builds. This high-quality BCG is machined to the same exacting tolerances as JP’s bolt carriers and features a new design that eliminates the need for a central mass (slug). This makes it the ideal choice for use with JP’s Silent Captured Spring, as it greatly reduces bolt bounce while improving accuracy.

Pros:
  • Reduced stroke length for faster firing impulse when used with JPSCS-9MM.
  • Designed for optimal function with JPSCS-9MM for a heavier operating system that reduces bolt bounce while improving reliability and accuracy.
  • Tighter firing pin channel to reduce pin wear.
  • The high-energy tumble process offers a finer cosmetic finish.
Cons:
  • Some users have reported problems with the firing pin.
  • Heavier than other bolt carrier groups.

 

#19 Daniel Defense Bolt Carrier Group

Daniel Defense Bolt Carrier Group

Specification
Fabric/Material: Steel
Caliber: 5.56x45mm NATO

Looking for a top-of-the-line bolt carrier group for your AR-15? Look no further than the Daniel Defense Bolt Carrier Group. This complete assembly is compatible with both 5.56 NATO and .223 Remington cartridges and is fully-auto rated for maximum reliability. Made from high-quality steel, the Daniel Defense Bolt Carrier Group is built to withstand the rigors of intense use. It’s also been designed for optimal weight reduction, coming in at just 11 ounces. Whether you’re a competitive shooter or recreational plinker, this bolt carrier group has what you need to take your AR to the next level.

Video review

Pros:
  • Made from high-quality steel for durability.
  • Compatible with 5.56 NATO and .223 Remington rounds.
  • Full-auto rated for maximum reliability.
  • Lightweight design for optimum performance.
Cons:
  • Steel construction may not be as durable as aluminum.
  • Not compatible with all calibers.

 

FAQ

Are lower receivers interchangeable?

Lower receivers are not interchangeable. Each lower receiver is designed to be used with a specific upper receiver and bolt carrier group.

Do you need a background check for an 80 lower receiver?

There is no federal requirement for a background check when purchasing an 80 lower receiver. However, some states may have their own requirements. It is always best to contact your local law enforcement agency to find out what the laws are in your area.

Are 80% lowers traceable?

There is no definitive answer as to whether 80% lowers are traceable or not. It depends on the specific lower and what features it has. Some 80% lowers may be considered more difficult to trace than others, but it is ultimately up to the discretion of the individual agencies tasked with enforcing gun laws.

Do all AR-15 lowers fit all uppers?

No, AR-15 lowers do not fit all uppers. While there are some similarities between the two, they are not interchangeable. Each upper and lower is designed to work with specific parts to ensure proper function. There are many different types of uppers and lowers available on the market, so it’s important to research and find the combination that works

Can you put a 458 Socom upper on a 556 lower?

Yes, you can put a 458 Socom upper on a 556 lower. The two calibers use the same bolt carrier group, and so will work with each other. However, you may need to adjust the gas system on the 458 Socom upper to account for the larger cartridge.

Do strip lowers have serial numbers?

Yes, all firearms manufactured in the United States are required to have a unique serial number assigned to them by the ATF. This number must be engraved or stamped on the firearm itself, as well as the receiver, which is the component that houses the bolt carrier group.

Can you buy a complete lower receiver?

Yes, you can buy a completely lower receiver. You can also buy a stripped lower receiver, which is the lower half of the firearm without the upper receiver.

Conclusion

In this article, we’ve outlined the best bolt carrier groups on the market and what you need to look for when purchasing one. We’ve also included some tips on how to maintain your BCG so that it functions properly and lasts long. By following our advice, you can be sure to find the perfect Best Bolt Carrier Group for your needs.

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