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 Reviews
#1 Aero Precision Bolt Carrier Group
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.
#2 Aero Precision Bolt Carrier Group
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.
#3 Aero Precision Grendel Bolt Carrier Group
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.
#4 Andro Corp Industries Bolt Carrier Group
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.
#5 Brownells Bolt Carrier Groups
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.
#6 Daniel Defense Bolt Carrier Group
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.
#7 TRYBE Defense Mil-Spec Hybrid Complete Bolt Carrier Group
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.
#8 TRYBE Defense Mil-Spec Enhanced Complete Bolt Carrier Group
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.
#9 Tiger Rock AR-15 Bolt Carrier Group Assembly
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.
#10 FosTech Outdoors Complete Lite Bolt Carrier Group
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.
#11 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.
#12 Radical Firearms Melonite Bolt Carrier Group
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.
#13 RISE Armament AR-15 Bolt Carrier Group
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.
#14 Griffin Armament Enhanced Mil Spec Bolt Carrier Group
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.
#15 LANTAC Enhanced Bolt Carrier Group
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.
#16 LANTAC M-SPEC Bolt Carrier Group
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!
#17 JP Enterprises EnhancedBolt Bolt Carrier Group Kit
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.
#18 JP Enterprises Complete JPBC Bolt Carrier Group
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.
#19 Daniel Defense Bolt Carrier Group
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.
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.
Affiliate Disclosure: Rotorm.com sometimes gets paid for listings, through sponsors or affiliate programs like Amazon, Optics Planet, Lucky Gunner, Brownells, Cabelas, Rainier Arms, 5.11 Tactical, Bass Pro Shop, etс. Clicking a link helps keep Rotorm.com free, at no extra cost to you!
About the author: Each article on our site is written by experts in survival and tactical equipment, gun enthusiasts, extreme travelers, military, law enforcement and desperate professionals, read about the author at the bottom of the article or visit "About Us" page.
Note: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency.