M 16 Bolt carrier for semi-auto AR 15

[wendellgj]

I am wanting to build up an AR 15 semi-auto to my liking from parts kits. Is it legal to use the M 16 bolt carrier when all other parts are AR 15 civilian legal? I have been told that it is. I do not want to proceed with ordering parts if any potential to create a legal question. There is not a problem in my state but what about ATF regulations?

WGJ George Mosevelt American

[alpalwal]

Yup, you're good to go.

[Army]

Yes, the bolt and carrier are parts of the upper receiver, and not of the fire control group.

[unamused]

absolutely nothing wrong with an m16 bolt in an ar15 both legally and functionally... in fact many people would recommend getting it because its more robust since its made to handle F/A

[wendellgj]

Thank you for the information on the parts usage. One less thing to stress about in life. I am planning on milling an AR lower from billet or raw forged receiver starting this spring. If this works out I will attempt an upper. I have found some good sites with drawings and specs. Any suggestions for correct materials and good procedures/pit falls appreciated.

WGJ George Mosevelt American

[CHS]

Any suggestions for correct materials and good procedures/pit falls appreciated.

The correct material is 7075-T6 forged aluminum.

[Army]

absolutely nothing wrong with an m16 bolt in an ar15 both legally and functionally... in fact many people would recommend getting it because its more robust since its made to handle F/A

Same carriers, made the same time same place.

Only difference (I'm talking about Colt/Armalite original designs, not the dozens of new-to-the-market carriers for the civilian market) is the longer hammer relief cut on the AR carrier. The bolts are made on the same assembly line otherwise.

Same steel, same machinery....one extra machining step for AR's to remove the section that triggers the full-auto sear.

Some of us recommend the M16 carrier, due to the added weight for smoother recoil function.

[unamused]

Same carriers, made the same time same place.

Only difference (I'm talking about Colt/Armalite original designs, not the dozens of new-to-the-market carriers for the civilian market) is the longer hammer relief cut on the AR carrier. The bolts are made on the same assembly line otherwise.

Same steel, same machinery....one extra machining step for AR's to remove the section that triggers the full-auto sear.

Some of us recommend the M16 carrier, due to the added weight for smoother recoil function.

and some will argue the more material the stronger... but you made valid points!