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Best Bolt Carrier Group Coating

What is bolt carrier group coating? 🤔

It is a protective finish that prevents oxidation and wears on the BCG of your rifle or pistol. It helps to keep moving parts lubricated, thereby improving their performance and overall life span. There are several different types of coatings available, each with its specific benefits.

Bolt Carrier Group

Features 😉

Bolt carrier group (BCG) coatings are an essential part of any firearm, providing protection from the elements and ensuring optimal performance. The type of coating you choose for your BCG can have a significant impact on the durability and reliability of the firearm. There are a variety of features that need to be taken into: 

  • 🔶 The most important feature is corrosion protection, which helps protect the BCG from rust and other corrosive elements that can damage the firearm.
  • 🔶 Additionally, some coatings provide lubricity, which reduces friction between moving parts and minimizes wear and tear on your firearm.

➡️ Other features include:

  • 🔶 Hardness, which makes your firearm more durable;
  • 🔶 Adhesion strength, which ensures the coating remains firmly attached to the metal surface;
  • 🔶 Impact resistance, which prevents chipping or cracking;
  • 🔶 Abrasion resistance, which helps prevent scratches and scuffs;
  • 🔶 Chemical resistance for protection against cleaners and solvents;
  • 🔶 Heat resistance for protection against extreme temperatures and thermal conductivity for improved accuracy.
Our Top Pick
CMC Triggers Enhanced AR Bolt Carrier Group
This BCG is designed for shooters who expect nothing but the best performance in their weapons. Manufactured with the highest quality components, this improved bolt carrier assembly offers enhanced reliability and reduced friction to ensure maximum performance. Featuring a flared rear designed to prevent carrier tilt, case-hardened steel, hardened gas key and properly staked fasteners that won't back out, you'll have increased stability during recoil and smoother extraction when shooting short-barreled rifles or suppressed firearms.
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Benefits 🔥

  • ❇️ Bolt carrier group (BCG) coating is a form of protective coating applied to the BCG’s surface that offers superior protection against wear and tear.
  • ❇️ The coating also reduces friction and improves functioning, helping to ensure smooth and reliable operation with every shot.
  • ❇️ It can also help improve accuracy by reducing group-to-group variation in velocities and pressures when firing multiple rounds through different rifles and barrels.
  • ❇️ The added lubricity provided by coating can also reduce stress on other parts of your firearm as well as make them easier to clean.
  • ❇️ By reducing the amount of fouling that accumulates inside the firearm during shooting sessions, can increase overall performance and efficiency while decreasing cleaning time.

Bolt Carrier Group Coating

⚙️How does it work?⚙️

Bolt carrier groups (BCGs) are the core components of an AR-15, and they serve a critical role in maintaining proper functioning.

🛠️ A BCG is composed of several key parts: the bolt, the carrier, the gas rings, and the firing pin.

👍 When assembled correctly, these components work together to cycle rounds through your rifle, allowing it to fire accurately and reliably.

➡️ The most common type of BCG coating is phosphate, which is applied to steel parts using electrochemical processes like anodizing or chemical bath deposition. Phosphate creates a hard surface that helps resist rust and abrasion while providing some lubricity properties.

Top 12 🎯 Bolt Carrier Group Coating / Best Coating For Bolt Carrier Group

1# Lantac Enhanced Full Auto Style Bolt Carrier Group

Lantac Enhanced Full Auto Style Bolt Carrier Group

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Specification

Caliber: .223 Remington , 5.56x45mm NATO

Additional Features: 82-85RC Hardness, CP-R360 Domed Cam Pin, MPI Carpenter 158 Bolt, Shot Peened

Weight: 11.7 o

The Lantac Auto E-BCG is a high-quality, precision-machined bolt carrier group that offers increased mass and lock time for your favorite auto rifle. It is made from 8620 steel and coated with NiB electroless nickel boron with advanced UCT EXO for ultimate lubricity and smoother operation. This bolt carrier group has a unique shape with forward porting that allows the upper receiver to run with less pressurization and runs cooler and cleaner with a flatter energy pulse. It is 100% in spec and makes your suppressed gun a lot more pleasant to shoot.

Video review

Pros:
  • Forward porting allows the upper receiver to run with less pressurization
  • Runs cooler and cleaner with a flatter energy pulse
  • 100% in spec
  • Perfect for suppressed guns
Cons:
  • Quite expensive
  • Discoloration on some metal

 

2# Bootleg Mil Spec AR-15 Carrier

Bootleg Inc Mil Spec Carrier, AR 15, SBN Coating

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Specification

Color: Black
Finish: Nitride
Fabric/Material: 4140 Steel

Searching for a high-quality AR-15 MilSpec Carrier? Look at the Bootleg AR-15 MilSpec Carrier. This carrier is machined from 4140 and features a Mil-Spec configuration that uses all standard Mil-Spec parts. The gas key is staked, and the carrier includes a 5.56 phosphate complete bolt assembly. The nitride coating on the carrier and other parts provides superior durability and a clean look. This carrier is fully auto-rated, meaning it’s made of tough materials that can withstand rough use. Order your Bootleg AR-15 MilSpec Carrier today!

Video review

Pros:
  • Nitride coating
  • Mil-Spec configuration
  • Full auto rated
Cons:
  • Pricey

 

3# WMD Guns NiB-X Coating Bolt Carrier Group

WMD Guns NiB-X Coating Bolt Carrier Group Black Finish

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Specification

Finish: Black
Gun Model: M16, M4, AR-15

Introducing the WMD Guns NiB-X Coating Bolt Carrier Group! This top-of-the-line product features a nickel boron coating that is harder than melonite, nickel Teflon, and hard chrome. With a Rockwell hardness of 72, this product is built to last. The environment-resistant coating provides superior corrosion protection, while the lubricious coating reduces friction for a smoother operation. The bolt carrier group is also easier to clean and requires less maintenance overall. For the ultimate in performance and durability, trust the WMD Guns NiB-X Coating Bolt Carrier Group.

Video review

Pros:
  • Environmental corrosion protection
  • Very lubricious
  • Easier to clean
  • Less maintenance
  • Lifetime warranty from chipping, flaking, or wear
Cons:
  • Extraction failures reported

 

4# Next Level Armament Bolt Carrier Group

Next Level Armament Bolt Carrier Group

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Specification

Color: Dark Gray
Finish: DLC
Caliber: 5.56x45mm NATO
Gun Model: AR-15
Hand: Ambidextrous

Searching for an upgraded bolt carrier group for your AR-15 or M16? Next Level Armament has you covered with their Enhanced Bolt Carrier Group. This BCG is precision machined from 4140ph steel to aerospace tolerances for improved function and durability. It features an expanded rear diameter for smooth cycling in the buffer tube as well as machined extractors for reliable extraction. So if you need a top-quality bolt carrier group that will improve the performance of your rifle, look at the Next Level Armament Enhanced Bolt Carrier Group.

Video review

Pros:
  • Machined with aerospace tolerances
  • Reducing friction losses to a minimum
  • Shot peen and MPI inspector
Cons:
  • Pricey

 

5# Aero Precision AR15 6.5 Grendel Bolt Carrier Group

Aero Precision AR15 6.5 Grendel Bolt Carrier Group

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Specification

Color: Black
Finish: Nitride
Fabric/Material: 8620 Steel
Caliber: 6.5mm Grendel
Gun Model: AR-15

Are you want to upgrade the bolt in your AR platform rifle? If so, consider the Aero Precision 6.5 Grendel Bolt Carrier Group in black nitride. The 6.5 Grendel bolt is made from Carpenter tool steel, which is known for its durability and long-lasting performance. This bolt carrier group would be a great fit for several different types of users, including those who are building an AR from scratch or upgrading an existing rifle. Whether you’re searching for a high-quality replacement bolt carrier group or you’re trying to put together a precision AR-15 for competition shooting, the Aero Precision 6.5 Grendel Bolt Carrier Group in Black Nitride is an excellent choice.

Pros:
  • Carrier has forward assist serrations
  • Black nitride finish
  • Properly staked gas key
  • Carpenter tool steel
Cons:
  • Price

 

6# Stern Defense SD BU45 .45 ACP Bolt Carrier

Stern Defense SD BU45 .45 ACP Bolt Carrier

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Specification

Color: Black
Fabric/Material: Melonite
Caliber: .45 ACP
Additional Features: Compatible with the JP Silent capture spring(not recommended for 45acp), Compatible with the Echo trigger., Compatible with the Law Folding Tactical Stock, Compatible with single-stage short reset triggers, Custom 4140 billet extractor providing superior ejection., Constructed from 8620 AISI steel

The Stern Defense SD BU45 .45 ACP Bolt Carrier is a top-quality product that is made with 8620 AISI steel and boasts a Melonite finish. This bolt carrier fits into Mil-Spec and Glock-pattern upper receivers and is fully compatible with standard AR15/M16 charging handles. It comes with all sub-components installed, including the firing pin/spring/retaining pin, extractor, and extractor spring. Compatible with single-stage short reset triggers. Compatible with the Law Folding Tactical Stock.

Pros:
  • Superior ejection
  • Melonite finish
  • Compatible with the Law folding tactical stock
  • Compatible with single-stage short reset triggers
Cons:
  • Pricey compared to other BCG
  • May not be compatible with some triggers

 

7# Faxon Firearms Gunner Light Weight Bolt Carrier Group

Faxon Firearms  Gunner Light Weight Bolt Carrier Group

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Specification

Color: Black
Finish: Nitride
Caliber: 5.56x45mm NATO
Gun Model: AR-15
Weight: 8.5 oz

Looking to build a superior rifle for the range or hunting grounds? The Faxon Firearms 5.56/300BLK Gunner Light Weight Bolt Carrier Group is a high-quality choice that will elevate your rifle’s performance. These Bolt Carrier Groups from Faxon Firearms are constructed from the best materials available and are Superfinished for reduced friction and fouling. This results in smoother operation with every use. Get the edge you need on the competition by equipping your rifle with the Faxon Firearms 5.56/300BLK Gunner Light Weight Mil-Spec Bolt Carrier Group.

Video review

Pros:
  • Made from the best materials possible
  • Superfinished for reduced friction and fouling
  • Compatible with dust covers
  • Salt bath nitride finish enhances resistance to corrosion and wear
Cons:
  • May not be compatible with all firearms
  • The skeletonized structure could easily allow debris into the action

 

8# CMC Triggers Enhanced AR Bolt Carrier Group

CMC Triggers Enhanced AR Bolt Carrier Group

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Specification

Color: Black
Fabric/Material: Hardened 8620 Steel
Gun Make: AR Platform
Gun Model: M16, AR-15

This Enhanced AR Bolt Carrier Group is designed to reduce carrier tilt and increase reliability, making it the perfect choice for your next build or upgrade. Made from case-hardened steel, our bolt carrier group is built to withstand even the most intense shooting sessions. The three forward ports are enlarged to allow overpressure to escape, and the increased mass ensures proper gas pressures and extraction, even when shooting suppressed or short-barreled rifles. Don’t settle for anything less than the best – trust CMC Triggers for all of your firearms needs.

Video review

Pros:
  • Name brand
  • Reduced carrier tilt
  • Increased reliability
  • Overpressure ports
  • Increased mass
Cons:
  • Not the slickest finish out of the box

 

9# JP Enterprises Stainless LMOS carrier

JP Enterprises Stainless LMOS carrier

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Specification

Finish: Black
Caliber: .223 Remington
Additional Features: with QPQ

Looking for a top-notch bolt carrier group? Check out the JP Enterprises Stainless LMOS Carrier with QPQ! Machined from 416 stainless steel and finished with JP’s QPQ hard coating process, this BCG is built to last. Plus, it comes with a staked carrier key installed for added security. The black chrome finish is not only beautiful but also matches the JP bolts perfectly. Note that this BCG does not include serrations for a forward assist, but does include a dust cover notch. Get your hands on this high-quality BCG today and see the difference it makes at the range!

Pros:
  • Machined from 8620 steel
  • Nitride finish for added lubricity and protection
  • Carpenter 158 bolt
  • Shot peened bolt
  • Magnetic Particle Inspected (MPI)
Cons:
  • Gas key screws not staked

 

10# Forward Controls Design AR-15 Bolt Carrier Group

FORWARD CONTROLS DESIGN LLC - AR-15 BOLT CARRIER GROUP

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Specification

Cartridge: 5.56 mm NATO

Finish: Black

Welcome to our listing for the SBCG AR-15 Bolt Carrier Group. This bolt carrier group is a slight modification to the standard bolt carrier, designed for ergonomic compatibility with slick-side upper receivers and those without a forward assist. The carrier still has forward assist pawl notches, making it compatible with forward assist equipped uppers. The serrated surface machined into the concave area (forward of the gas vents of the carrier) facilitates silent bolt closing on upper receivers without a forward assist. If you need a top-quality, well-designed, and reliable bolt carrier group, the SBCG is an excellent choice.

Video review

Pros:
  • Lifetime warranty
  • NP3 coated
  • Silent bolt closing on receivers without a forward assist
Cons:
  • May not fit all forward control systems

 

11# Faxon Firearms AR-15 Full-Mass Bolt Carrier Group

FAXON FIREARMS - AR-15 9MM BOLT CARRIER

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Specification

Cartridge: 9 mm Luger

Finish: Black

This BCG is machined from a single billet of mil-spec carbon steel and features an integral gas key that is machined as part of the carrier – meaning there are no fasteners to worry about working loose. The Faxon 9mm BCG is also designed to be compatible with lower receivers that use Colt-style stick mags and those configured for Glock pistol mags. And because it has the correct shroud length to trip the auto sear on full-auto rifles, there’s no impact on function for semi-autos. So if you want a top-of-the-line bolt carrier group that will provide superb reliability and long service life, choosing the Faxon Firearms 9mm AR-15 Full-Mass Bolt/Carrier Group is a smart choice.

Pros:
  • Machined from a single billet of mil-spec carbon steel
  • Integral gas key machined as part of the carrier
  • Compatible with lot 9mm AR lower receivers
  • Compatibility with all buffer systems
Cons:
  • Pricey

 

12# Stern Defense, LLC – M16 9mm Bolt For Glock And Colt

STERN DEFENSE, LLC - M16 9MM BOLT FOR GLOCK AND COLT

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Specification

Cartridge: 9 mm Luger

Finish: Mag-Phosphate

The Stern Defense 9mm Bolt is the perfect choice for your next AR-15 build. This high-quality bolt is compatible with both Colt SMG and Glock magazines and is fully compatible with standard AR15/M16 charging handles. The Melonite or Nickel-Boron/Melonite hybrid finish provides a tough, durable finish that will stand up to even the most demanding applications. The Stern Defense 9mm Bolt also incorporates a design that caters to single-stage triggers with short resets, making it the perfect choice for competition or tactical use. Made in the USA.

Pros:
  • Melonite or Nickel-boron/Melonite hybrid finish
  • Compatible with Colt SMG, Glock magazines
  • Removable weight at the rear of the carrier
  • Made in the U.S.A
Cons:
  • Not compatible with some charging handles
  • Single-stage triggers with short resets only

 

💡What makes a great BCG?💡

The most important factor to consider when selecting a Bolt carrier group (BCG) coating is durability.

  • 🔍 Additionally, you want to ensure the coating isn’t prone to flaking or peeling off in high-wear areas.
  • 🔍 In addition to durability, it’s also important to note that some coatings are designed specifically for use with AR-15 rifles while others may not be as well suited.

🧐 When looking at different BCGs, consider the following factors:

  • 🔰 Type of coating. There are a variety of different coatings available such as black oxide, Cerakote, KG GunKote, and Nickel Boron.
  • 🔰 Cost. Consider your budget when selecting a coating and factor in any additional costs associated with installation or maintenance.
  • 🔰 Compatibility with ammunition types. Some BCGs may not work with certain types of ammunition due to their design or material composition.

FAQ 😎

What is the best finish for a bolt carrier group?
  • 💠 One of the most popular finishes for BCGs is black nitride. Black nitride is a low-friction finish that provides excellent wear resistance and corrosion protection.
  • 💠 Another popular finish is phosphate. Phosphate finishes are typically applied to Mil-Spec parts, and they provide good corrosion resistance and lubricity.
  • 💠 One of the newest finishes on the market is nickel boron (NiB). NiB is a high-performance finish that provides excellent wear resistance, corrosion protection, and lubricity.

😀 No matter which finishes you choose for your BCG, it’s important to keep it clean and well-lubricated.

How often do you replace BCG?

➡️ Most bolt carrier groups will last for tens of thousands of rounds without any issues. However, after a certain amount of use, parts will inevitably start to wear out and require replacement.

⏰ Depending on how often you shoot and how well you maintain your BCG, you may need to replace it every few years or so.

How to care coated BCG properly?

🟢 It is important to know how to care for your coated bolt carrier group properly to maintain its finish and prevent damage. Here are some tips:

  • 🫧 Avoid using harsh chemicals or cleaners on your coated BCG. This can strip the coating and leave the metal exposed to corrosion.
  • 🫧 If you must clean it, use a mild soap and water solution. Be sure to rinse thoroughly and dry completely before storing or using.
  • 🫧 Avoid getting any lubricants or other fluids on the coating. This can cause the coating to break down and flake off.
  • 🫧 Store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

More info in the video:

What is the strongest coating?

🟣 Different coatings offer different levels of protection and longevity, so it depends on your purpose. The most popular BCG coatings are hard chrome, titanium nitride (TiN), black nitride, nickel boron (NiB), and natural finish.

💡 Hard chrome is known for its durability and corrosion resistance, which makes it a great option for high-stress or wet environments. It has excellent lubricity due to its slick surface and is easy to clean.

What is the most important part of the bolt carrier group?

👍 The answer is simple, the coating.

🤠 A good quality coating on your bolt carrier group can have a major impact on its performance and longevity. It’s important to choose the right product that offers protection from corrosion, heat, and wear.

Conclusion 😊

When it comes to the best bolt carrier group coatings, there are a lot of options on the market. In this buyer’s guide, we’ve outlined some of the best-rated BCG coatings and what you need to look for when making your purchase. We’ve also included some tips on how to care for your new coating so that you can get the most out of your investment. Thanks for reading! 🥰❤️‍🔥

Tags: #best bolt carrier group coating / #best coating for bolt carrier group / #what is the best coating for ar-15 bolt carrier group / #which bolt carrier group coating is best / #best ar 15 bolt carrier group

Zack Buck

Gunsmith, Hunter, Gentleman Adventurer. Life is too short to shoot mass-produced guns. A once-in-a-lifetime hunt deserves a one-of-a-kind gun. Read about me.
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Manncrow
Manncrow
10 months ago

I’ve spent a lot of time researching the various finishes for BCGs, but it seems like everyone has a different opinion on what’s best. I’m drawn to the idea of a fully chromed BCG because it would be so easy to clean. However, the cost of that kind of finish might make me reconsider. I’m curious to hear your thoughts. Do you have a preferred finish for BCGs? Would you recommend going for a fully chromed BCG, or is that just a waste of money?

Leo Green
Leo Green
Reply to  Manncrow
10 months ago

As an AR-15 owner, I have a standard Parkerized bolt carrier that’s chrome lined, and I’m pretty satisfied with it. Cleaning it isn’t too bad, although I know it would be even easier with a fully chromed bolt carrier. If the price difference between the two finishes is less than $30, then it might be worth going for the chromed option for the convenience of easier cleaning. However, if it’s more than that, I don’t think the extra cost is worth it unless you value the aesthetics of a fully chromed bolt carrier.

Gormaniel
Gormaniel
Reply to  Manncrow
10 months ago

In my opinion, a fully chromed bolt carrier is the best option for my budget and cleaning preferences. However, it’s worth considering that there may be additional quality differences between fancy coated options, such as shot peening, steel grade, key staking, tolerances, and Loctite.

Alexander Martin
Alexander Martin
Reply to  Manncrow
10 months ago

Based on my personal experience, I have found that a chromed BCG is significantly easier to clean compared to a standard one. This is especially true when I shoot suppressed. Therefore, I believe that the extra cost of a chromed BCG is worth it. However, I cannot speak to the merits of NiB or EXO coatings as I have no personal experience with them.

Kecuth
Kecuth
10 months ago

I’m new to the world of high-end AR-15s and looking for advice on the best bolt carrier group (BCG) to get. Which brands should I consider?

Morgan Richardson
Morgan Richardson
Reply to  Kecuth
10 months ago

I have a Lantac Enhanced Full Auto Style Bolt Carrier Group and I’m really happy with it. As for handguards, I recommend Durkin Tactical’s options. I’ve used them before and haven’t encountered any problems.

Tom
Tom
10 months ago

I’m having an issue where the bolt on my AR-15 doesn’t stay locked back, regardless of whether the magazine is empty or dropped out. I’ve tried using both PMags and USGI mags, but neither seems to work. I want to be able to use my bad lever, but it doesn’t seem to be the cause of the issue.

Pablo Riley
Pablo Riley
Reply to  Tom
10 months ago

It’s possible that the problem lies with my magazine or that my bolt catch is out of spec and needs to be replaced with a new or aftermarket one. Another possibility is that it could be a buffer problem unrelated to the bad lever. Before I take any further action, need to figure out if it’s a problem with the rifle’s function or if it’s related to the installation of the bad lever.

Thaeed
Thaeed
Reply to  Tom
10 months ago

Based on my personal experience, I had a similar issue with my rifle where the bolt wouldn’t lock back. However, I was able to fix it by applying some oil around the area where the bolt catch is located, including the crevices. This solved the problem for me and my rifle now locks back without any issues.

Nathanael Morris
Nathanael Morris
Reply to  Tom
10 months ago

If you’re having trouble with your bolt not staying locked back, try manually engaging the bolt catch by pulling back on the charging handle and pushing the bottom of the latch in. If it still doesn’t catch that way, you may have an out-of-spec bolt catch or receiver, or you may have installed the bolt catch incorrectly. On the other hand, if it does lock back manually, your gun is likely under-gassed.

Jachris
Jachris
Reply to  Tom
10 months ago

I’m experiencing the same issue with my AR-15. After some investigation, I believe the problem lies with the spring in the bolt release. I installed a B.A.D. lever and the added weight, along with a spring that is the wrong size, is preventing the bolt catch from being held up by the spring in the magazine on the last round. I’ve tested this with different magazines and ammo loads and it happens consistently. My rifle is chambered in 6.8 SPC. Fortunately, adjusting the bolt release isn’t too difficult, but it’s important to be careful when working with small parts like detents and springs to avoid losing them.