Dented AR buffer, normal? (pics)

[ColdDayInHell]

I noticed my buffer is getting chiseled away by something but can't figure it out. My M&P bolt carrier has no marks on it and is entirely smooth. I have about 1000-1200 rds through the AR.

But I recently got the CMMG drop in .22 conversion and the back the carrier is welded and it isn't entirely smooth. Could that cause it to make these marks? I don't really think it would damage the buffer because the .22 kit doesn't even protrude into the buffer tube. Here is a pic:

I never switch the safety off, so leave your comments to yourself .

 

[TheRoland]

Not normal. Buffers will take a beating, but that looks like actual deformation.

 

[SJan]

Can you show us a pic of your 22 conversion bolt? That has got to be what is causing the problem. I would sand or file it down smooth

 

[ColdDayInHell]

You're right. I need to file that shit down. I can't believe CMMG quality control would pass this, but the kit has given me zero problems so I can't complain. The weld job is crap but they are a great company. I'll go take a picture now, I just got home.

 

[ColdDayInHell]

How would I sand this down? CMMG makes great products and I've ran 100's of Mini Mag's through it without a problem. Welding job sucks though.

 

[Almostelmo]

How would I sand this down? CMMG makes great products and I've ran 100's of Mini Mag's through it without a problem. Welding job sucks though.

Are those welds concave or convex (sticking in or out)? They look concave to me...

 

[ColdDayInHell]

They are concave. They have to be the problem because this started when I got my CMMG .22 kit.

 

[Colt Delta Elite]

You're right. I need to file that shit down. I can't believe CMMG quality control would pass this, but the kit has given me zero problems so I can't complain. The weld job is crap but they are a great company. I'll go take a picture now, I just got home.

CMMG is not well known for quality control. Proper Purchasing Prevents Piss Poor Performance.

Send it back its damaging your buffer.

 

[ColdDayInHell]

I emailed them about this issue and hopefully they rectify this problem. CMMG has been very good to me so I can't complain, but my buffer is being chewed up.

 

[mikem317]

No idea. Never seen that before, but I don't have a .22 LR conversion on mine.

(PS: I don't know anybody that actually toggles to Safe).

 

[Tralgar]

Is the recoil spring guide pin on the conversion unit loose? That could be what is impacting the buffer.

 

[TheRoland]

As covered, this isn't normal, but I'm also not sure it's a serious problem. Buffers cost less than 20$, and unless this one actually breaks, deformation on its face should not affect operation at all.

 

[Romokid]

You could also just take the buffer out when using the CMMG kit. The .22lr doesn't need the buffer. Just stick it and the spring in your range bag, then put it back when you take out the CMMG and you put your S&W BCG back in. That will save on any wear and tear on your buffer. Just my .02

 

[ColdDayInHell]

You could also just take the buffer out when using the CMMG kit. The .22lr doesn't need the buffer. Just stick it and the spring in your range bag, then put it back when you take out the CMMG and you put your S&W BCG back in. That will save on any wear and tear on your buffer. Just my .02

Never thought of doing that. What a dummy I am. The charging handle will be strong enough to hold the kit in place right?

 

[ColdDayInHell]

I just got an e-mail back from CMMG about my dented buffer:

If you send your buffer here along with the kit and we will replace both.

Thank You and God Bless
Josh Humphrey
Tech Support/Customer Service

CMMG customer service at its finest once again. I love this company and will be buying many other things from them. I hope this helps people who are on the fence about buying anything CMMG. They are top notch.

 

[Romokid]

CMMG definitely makes some nice stuff for .22lr ARs. I don't have a CMMG kit but a different one and I don't use my buffer in it as it is a dedicated .22 lr AR and I've never had a problem, accept spent .22 cases occasionally getting stuck in the underneath of the charging handle. I have about 5k rounds through mine with just Fed Bulk from Wally World. I would like to get the stainless kit from CMMG so I can run it a little drier cause running it well lubed and .22lr definitely needs cleaning pretty frequently.