Colt Bolt/Carrier Interchangability

[Alexei]

Took my LEC to the range yesterday, figured I'd try the "Battle Sight Zero" concept Uncle Sammy taught me, and it went pretty well. I sure have forgotten how damn dirty AR's can get after just a few rounds. Now that I've convinced myself that I'm gonna keep this for awhile, I'm thinkin' I may eventually get a spare bolt and carrier. Since this seems to have the PC "New Colt Bolt", does the receiver configuration in anyway limit me ? Can I use a "regular" M-16 bolt w/o any adverse effects ( as one would trade AKM full and semi bolts/carriers ? ). Any advice would be helpful !

[walkindude]

The M16 bolt/carrier should work fine, however keep in mind that ATFE (the jerks) frown on using a M16 carrier or any other M16 fire control part in a semi only gun. HTH

[JE3146]

The M16 bolt/carrier should work fine, however keep in mind that ATFE (the jerks) frown on using a M16 carrier or any other M16 fire control part in a semi only gun. HTH

There have been many heated debates over this subject, and he's absolutely correct.

While it isn't "illegal" to use an M16 bolt carrier, it is frowned upon.

Don't even mess with anything else relating to the FCG of the M16. That's just asking for trouble.

If you live in a "blue" state with anal cops. I'd definately think twice about the bolt carrier.

Howevor, since it's just for a spare. I wouldn't be too concerned about it.

[Zoff12]

If yours is like my Govt. Carbine, an M16 bolt will not work. Mine has a little block that is pinned inside the receiver where the auto sear would be located. This block prevents the M16 bolt from being installed in the weapon...atleast in mine it does.

[Alexei]

Good advice guys. There is a bridge on the lower that is there to prevent an auto sear, I guess, but it never occurred to me it would restrict bolt usage. Too bad. I better just get the individual parts to replace, and assume the carrier will outlast me. A interesting subset though, the Colt "PC" receiver is probably stronger because to restrictive bridge just re-enforces everything. On the other hand, the open rear bolt is probably, proportionately weaker !

[Zoff12]

This is the block I'm talking about. I believe you are talking about the web that is in the same place on newer lowers that is part of the lower. This one is pinned in place.
http://www.gunsnet.net/album/data//500/1053CIMG1354-med.JPG
It sticks up and makes contact with the bottom of an M16 bolt carrier. It does not, however make contact with the AR-15 bolt carrier that has less material on the lower part of the carrier.

[JE3146]

AKA the Colt pussified half-circle carrier

[Zoff12]

A standard AR-15 carrier will also work in this but the M16 will not.

[Alexei]

Thanks for the clarification and the photo ! Since I have the "web", I assumed that's what you were referring to.